Heat Press Operator

Heat Press Machine Operator / Production Specialist

• Location: Cedar Knolls, NJ
• Position Type: Temp-to-Hire (TTH)
• Pay Rate: $17.00 / hour
• Schedule: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Job Summary PrideStaff is seeking a reliable, detail-oriented Heat Press Production Specialist on behalf of our client, a premier apparel decorating and custom production facility in Cedar Knolls, NJ. In this role, you will operate commercial heat press equipment to apply Direct-to-Film (DTF) transfers onto a wide variety of custom garments, ensuring high product quality and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

1. Heat Press Production

• Operate commercial dual-platen pneumatic heat press machines safely and efficiently.
• Apply Direct-to-Film (DTF) transfers to T-shirts, sweatshirts, polos, jackets, and other apparel items.
• Adhere strictly to temperature, pressure, and time settings tailored to specific garment fabrics and transfer types.
• Align and position logos accurately according to customer-approved mockups and placement guides.
• Inspect transfers to ensure proper adhesion, crisp alignment, and high-quality visual appearance.
• Maintain consistent daily production output to meet target goals without sacrificing quality.

2. Work Order & Order Accuracy

• Thoroughly review production work orders and garment specifications prior to starting each job.
• Verify garment style, color, size, total quantity, and placement specs.
• Confirm that correct DTF transfers match assigned orders.
• Flag missing garments, incorrect artwork, or ambiguous instructions before pressing.
• Ensure individual customer orders remain organized, separated, and clearly labeled.

3. Quality Control

• Perform pre-production inspections to identify defects, stains, or damaged blanks.
• Inspect finished products for peeling, scorching, wrinkles, or misaligned graphics.
• Report any quality defects or equipment issues immediately to leadership.
• Separate non-conforming items for rework or manager review in accordance with quality guidelines.

4. Production Workflow & Efficiency

• Follow assigned schedule priorities to support fast turnaround times.
• Maintain an organized, ergonomic workstation with transfers, garments, and tools easily accessible.
• Keep machine downtime to a minimum between pressing cycles.
• Track and log completed quantities accurately.
• Stage finished goods in designated Quality Control / Packing zones.

5. Equipment Maintenance & Safety

• Perform daily visual checks and routine maintenance on heat press platens and pneumatic systems.
• Keep heated platens and surrounding areas clean and free of adhesive buildup.
• Comply with all company safety standards for heat and pneumatic machinery.
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and maintain a clean, organized work area.
• Follow standard end-of-shift power-down and shutdown procedures.

6. Teamwork & Communication

• Coordinate seamlessly with cross-functional teams, including Staging, DTF, Embroidery, QC, and Packing.
• Communicate job delays, material shortages, or machinery issues promptly.
• Assist team members during rush periods to ensure deadlines are met.
• Demonstrate punctuality, strong work ethic, and a collaborative team attitude.

Qualifications & Physical Requirements

• Experience: Previous experience in heat press operation, apparel embellishment, garment screen printing, or light manufacturing preferred (DTF experience is a major plus).
• Attention to Detail: Excellent eye for visual detail, alignment, color matching, and quality checks.
• Physical Demands: Ability to stand for the duration of an 8-hour shift, perform repetitive hand/arm movements, and lift up to 30–40 lbs as needed.
• Work Ethic: Punctual, reliable, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.

Why Apply Through PrideStaff?

• Temp-to-Hire Opportunity: Potential for permanent placement with a growing apparel production company.
• Consistent Hours: Full-time schedule with steady weekday hours (No weekends!).
• Supportive Partner: Dedicated recruiting team to guide you through hiring and placement.

Ready to apply? Submit your resume today or contact your local PrideStaff office to get started! Compensation / Pay Rate (Up to): $17.00 - $17.00 Per Hour