Lead Pressman

Duties: Start presses and pull proofs to check for ink coverage and density, alignment, and registration. Examine job orders to determine quantities to be printed, stock specifications, colors, or special printing instructions. Adjust ink fountain flow rates. Verify that paper and ink meet the specifications for a given job. Collect and inspect random samples during print runs to identify any necessary adjustments. Feed paper through the press cylinders and adjust the feed and tension controls. Monitor automated press operation systems and respond to fault, error, or alert messages. Load presses with paper and make necessary adjustments according to paper size. Secure printing plates to printing units and adjust tolerances. Clean ink fountains, plates, or printing unit cylinders when press runs are completed. Change press plates, blankets, or cylinders, as required. Obtain or mix inks and fill ink fountains. Input production job settings into workstation terminals that control automated printing systems. Clean or oil presses or make minor repairs, using hand tools. Maintain time or production records. Monitor materials used during press operations. Monitor environmental factors, such as humidity and temperature, that may impact equipment performance, and make necessary adjustments. Input and adjust press settings using press control systems. Direct or monitor the work of press crews. Download completed jobs to archive media so that questions can be answered or jobs replicated. Control workflow scheduling or job tracking, using computer database software. Set up or operate auxiliary equipment, such as cutting, folding, plate making, drilling, or laminating machines. Operate and maintain multi-unit web offset presses and sheet-fed offset presses used in commercial printing operations. Set up presses for production runs, including loading plates, adjusting registration, ink and dampening systems, and configuring press settings based on job specifications. Monitor print quality, color consistency, alignment, and output throughout production, making mechanical and manual adjustments as needed to meet quality standards and production schedules. Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and minor mechanical repairs on presses to minimize downtime. Review job tickets and production instructions to ensure accurate execution of print runs and coordinate press operations with prepress and finishing staffto ensure smooth workflow. Provide day to day guidance to two assistant pressmen during press setup, operation, and cleanup, assigning tasks related to press operation and ensuring safe and efficient work practices (no authority to hire, fire, discipline, or set compensation). Follow workplace safety procedures and quality control standards applicable to commercial printing operations. Requirements: High School Diploma or GED; Two (2) years of experience as a Printing Press Operator, Pressman, Web Press Operator, Commercial Press Operator, or similar position.