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If you’ve Googled “press operator job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over again:
bullet points, recycled sentences, and a job post so dry you could print it on cardboard.
The problem?
Those cookie-cutter descriptions don’t attract the kind of operators you actually want on your team. They don’t speak to the pride, precision, and problem-solving that the best press operators bring to the job.
Before we get into templates, here’s the truth: a good press operator job description isn’t just a checklist of duties. It’s your chance to show skilled candidates why your shop, your machines, and your team are worth their time.
If you want to skip the “post and pray” approach and actually connect with high-quality talent, I recommend reading our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ . In that guide, we break down why generic job posts fail — and how to write one that makes the right people say “I want to work there.”
In this article, we’ll apply that same approach specifically to the press operator role, so you can hire with confidence — and not just fill a seat.
Smart Hiring Starts Here
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
What a Press Operator Actually Does - Their Roles
A press operator runs and maintains printing or manufacturing presses — the heavy-duty machines that produce newspapers, packaging, labels, metal parts, or other products depending on the industry.
But the role isn’t just about pushing buttons. A skilled press operator understands how to:
- Set up and calibrate machinery for different production runs
- Monitor quality during operation to catch issues before they become costly mistakes
- Perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot problems quickly to keep production on schedule
- Follow safety procedures to protect themselves, co-workers, and the equipment
In many ways, a press operator is part machine technician, part quality inspector, and part production problem-solver.
And here’s something employers sometimes overlook: great press operators bring patience, attention to detail, and pride in their craft. They know the job is about consistency and precision — because one small error can mean wasted materials, production delays, and unhappy customers.
If you want to attract top talent, your job description needs to show that you value these skills just as much as technical know-how.
Two Great Press Operator Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Version 1: Job Description For Experienced Flexographic Press Operator
Job Title: Flexographic Press Operator — Jetstream Packaging
Location: Kansas City, MO
Job Type: Full-Time | 2nd Shift (Mon–Fri, 3:00 PM–11:30 PM)
Compensation: $24–$30/hour (DOE) + Shift Differential + Quarterly Performance Bonus
🎥 A quick word from our hiring manager — why this role matters and what success looks like (Insert Loom/YouTube link)
Who We Are
Jetstream Packaging manufactures high-volume, custom printed flexible packaging for food and consumer brands across the Midwest. Our plant runs state-of-the-art 8–10 color flexo presses (Mark Andy & Bobst) and a tight production schedule where quality and uptime matter. We’re a 120-person, family-owned manufacturer known for fast turns, clean color, and zero-drama teamwork.
What You’ll Do
- Set up, operate, and monitor multi-color flexographic presses to daily run specs
- Dial in color, tension, and registration across substrates (BOPP, PET, PE)
- Perform ink viscosity checks, plate changes, and anilox maintenance
- Inspect output against quality standards (densitometry, color targets, defects)
- Troubleshoot mechanical issues and minimize scrap/waste
- Complete run logs, material usage, and downtime reporting
- Own safety, lockout/tagout, and housekeeping for your line
What We’re Looking For
- 2+ years running flexo presses in packaging or labels (Mark Andy/Bobst a plus)
- Strong mechanical aptitude; calm under pressure during changeovers
- Solid color control and quality mindset (you notice what others miss)
- Comfortable lifting 50 lbs and being on your feet most of the shift
- Team-first communicator; reliable and safety-conscious
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision (starts Day 1)
- 401(k) with 4% company match
- 12 days PTO + 8 paid holidays
- Paid uniforms + steel-toe boot stipend
- Tuition reimbursement (technical courses, press certifications)
- Shift differential + quarterly performance bonus
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You’ll run modern flexo equipment with a crew that takes pride in speed and
- Real ownership: your setups, your color, your line.
- Growth path to Lead Operator/Press Supervisor within 12–24 months for top performers.
- Zero corporate politics—family-owned, fast decisions, and plenty of support on the floor.
How to Apply
We respect your time. We use WorkScreen to evaluate based on real skills, not just résumés.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
✅ Version 2: Job Description For Entry-Level Press Operator (Training Provided) —
Job Title: Entry-Level Press Operator (Training Provided) — IronBend Metal Stamping
Location: Fort Wayne, IN
Job Type: Full-Time | 1st Shift (Mon–Fri, 6:00 AM–2:30 PM)
Compensation: $18–$22/hour (DOE) + Monthly Attendance Bonus
🎥 Meet your future supervisor — shop tour + what your first 90 days include (Insert Loom/YouTube link)
Who We Are
IronBend Metal Stamping produces precision-stamped steel and aluminum components for Tier-2 automotive and industrial customers. We run a clean, organized facility with coil-fed mechanical presses (60–300 ton), in-die sensors, and strict quality standards. We promote from within—many of our leads started as entry-level operators.
What You’ll Do
- Learn to set up and run coil-fed stamping presses under a Lead Operator
- Load coils, thread material, and monitor sensors/safety light curtains
- Perform basic quality checks (dimensions, burrs, flatness) using gauges
- Record part counts, reject tags, and downtime in our production system
- Keep your station clean and follow 5S + safety best practices
What We’re Looking For
- Mechanical curiosity and willingness to learn (no experience required)
- Able to stand for long periods and lift 40–50 lbs safely
- Follows instructions, asks good questions, shows up on time
- Comfortable using basic measurement tools (we’ll train you)
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision after 30 days
- 401(k) with company match
- 10 days PTO in Year 1 + 8 paid holidays
- $600/year tool & PPE stipend
- Paid training + cross-training into set-up/quality
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- We train you—get a marketable trade without student debt.
- Clear progression: Operator → Set-Up Tech → Lead within 18–24 months for strong performers.
- Stable work with consistent hours; no surprise layoffs or rotating chaos.
- Tight-knit team that watches out for each other and celebrates wins.
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen so great people don’t get overlooked. Complete a short, fair evaluation to get started:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Breakdown of Why These Press Operator Job Posts Work
1. They Use Clear, Specific Job Titles
Instead of “Press Operator,” we have:
- “Flexographic Press Operator — Jetstream Packaging (Kansas City, MO)”
- “Entry-Level Press Operator (Training Provided) — IronBend Metal Stamping (Fort Wayne, IN)”
These titles instantly communicate the type of press, the company, and the location. The entry-level listing even highlights that training is provided, which attracts a broader candidate pool.
2. They Include a Video Element for Trust
Both posts include a Loom or YouTube link right after the job header.
- In Jetstream’s post, the hiring manager explains the role’s importance.
- In IronBend’s post, a supervisor gives a quick shop tour.
This creates an immediate human connection, gives applicants a sense of the work environment, and differentiates your post from every generic text-only listing online.
3. The “Who We Are” Section Is Company-Specific
These aren’t placeholders—they describe:
- What the company makes
- Who they serve
- What kind of facility and equipment they run
- The work culture
A candidate reading this gets a clear picture of the company’s identity and standards.
4. Perks & Benefits Are Separated from “Why This Role Is a Great Fit”
- Perks & Benefits list tangible rewards: pay, PTO, healthcare, bonuses, stipends.
- Why This Role Is a Great Fit speaks to intangibles: career growth, stability, team culture, equipment quality.
This separation makes it easy for applicants to scan and process both practical incentives and emotional motivators.
5. Responsibilities Show Impact, Not Just Tasks
Instead of “operate presses” or “check quality,” the descriptions explain why the task matters—keeping production on target, reducing waste, maintaining client trust.
6. Qualifications Speak to the Right Person
- The experienced role asks for proven skills on specific press types.
- The entry-level role focuses on traits like reliability, mechanical curiosity, and willingness to learn—inviting more applicants without lowering standards.
7. The Hiring Process Is Respectful and Modern
Both posts clearly state:
- WorkScreen will be used for fair evaluation
- The process values skills over résumés
- Applicants won’t be left wondering what’s next
This reduces candidate anxiety and builds trust before they even apply.
Bad Press Operator Job Post Example (And Why It Fails)
Job Title: Press Operator
Location: Springfield, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
We are seeking a press operator to run machinery and meet production goals.
Responsibilities
- Operate press machines
- Perform routine maintenance
- Follow safety procedures
Requirements
- High school diploma
- 2 years of experience
- Ability to lift 50 lbs
How to Apply
Email résumé to hr@company.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Why This Job Post Fails
- The Job Title Is Too Generic
“Press Operator” could mean anything — flexo, offset, stamping, injection molding. Without specifics, it attracts the wrong applicants and fails to hook the right ones. - No Company Personality or Mission
There’s no information about the company, what they produce, or why the role exists. Skilled operators want to know what kind of work they’ll be doing before applying. - No Salary or Benefits Mentioned
Omitting compensation feels outdated and uncompetitive. Today’s applicants expect transparency, and a lack of it can signal low pay or poor conditions. - Responsibilities Are Too Vague
“Operate press machines” says nothing about the type of press, production standards, or scope of the role. There’s no sense of the work environment or the skills required. - Requirements Narrow the Pool Without Inspiring
Listing “2 years of experience” without explaining alternatives (like willingness to train) excludes potentially great candidates without adding motivation for experienced ones. - Hiring Process Feels Cold and Dismissive
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is a red flag for applicants — it signals minimal communication and a poor candidate experience.
CTA Is Lifeless
Simply telling people to “Email résumé” gives no energy, no personal touch, and no sense of urgency to apply.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Press Operator Job Post Stand Out
Even with a strong structure, there are a few extra touches that can make your post not just good — but unforgettable to the right candidates. These are the small details that most employers skip, but that top-tier operators notice and appreciate.
1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Skilled candidates are cautious about where they send personal details. Adding a short notice builds trust instantly.
Example:
“We take the security and privacy of all job applicants seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information at any stage of the hiring process.”
2. Mention Leave or Flex Time
Even experienced press operators value downtime to recharge. Mentioning it shows you respect work-life balance.
Example:
“Enjoy 12 days of PTO in your first year plus 8 paid holidays — so you can take time off without worrying about lost pay.”
3. Highlight Training & Career Growth
For experienced operators, this could mean moving into lead or supervisor roles. For entry-level hires, it’s about learning a skilled trade.
Example:
“We invest in our people — offering paid press certifications, cross-training, and clear promotion pathways to lead roles.”
4. Add a Loom or YouTube Video
Video creates a human connection. Show the press in action, a brief facility tour, or a quick message from the hiring manager.
Example:
- Jetstream Packaging could showcase a run changeover process to show tech level.
- IronBend Metal Stamping could film team members talking about how they advanced from entry-level to lead in under two years.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Show How You Treat Candidates
Top operators often have options — your candidate experience can set you apart.
Example:
“We reply to every application within 10 business days and keep you updated at each stage of the process.”
AI Caution: Why Using AI Blindly Can Hurt Your Job Post
These days, it’s tempting to type “Write me a press operator job description” into an AI tool and copy-paste whatever comes out. It feels quick — but for most companies, that shortcut comes with a cost.
Why Blindly Using AI Is a Problem
- It sounds generic. Without specific details about your company, culture, and equipment, AI produces the same lifeless wording thousands of other employers are using.
- It attracts the wrong candidates. A vague post brings in high volumes of low-quality applicants — people applying to “anything” rather than those who match your environment and standards.
- It weakens your brand. For many operators, your job post is their first impression of your company. If it reads like every other listing, they won’t see a reason to choose you.
The Smarter Way to Use AI
AI can be a fantastic polishing tool — but only if you feed it real substance first.
Here’s the process:
- Write down your raw notes:
- What kind of press you run (flexo, offset, stamping, etc.)
- What products you make
- Your company culture and values
- Key duties unique to your shop
- Perks and benefits you actually offer
- Why someone would want this job
- Give AI a specific prompt, such as:
“Help me write a job post for a Flexographic Press Operator at Jetstream Packaging in Kansas City, MO. We produce custom printed flexible packaging using Mark Andy and Bobst presses. Our culture is collaborative, quality-driven, and safety-focused. The role involves set-up, color control, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance. Benefits include health insurance from Day 1, 401(k) match, PTO, and quarterly bonuses. We promote from within and offer press certification training. Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes]. Make the tone friendly, professional, and aimed at experienced operators.”
- Review and customize:
- Replace filler phrases with your own shop’s voice.
- Make sure it matches your real expectations.
- Add personal touches like a hiring manager video link.
By using AI this way, you’re not letting it do the thinking for you — you’re letting it help package your own insights into a polished, easy-to-read job post.
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Copy-Paste Job Description Templates for Quick Use
We get it — sometimes you just need a job description you can post now.
If you’ve read this guide, you already know how to make a role sound compelling. But here are two ready-to-use Press Operator job posts you can copy, paste, and tailor to your shop.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Press Operator Job Description
Job Title: [Type of Press] Press Operator — [Company Name] ([Location])
Pay: [$X–$Y/hour or $X–$Y/year] + [bonus/differential, if any]
Shift: [Shift & Hours] | Job Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
🎥 Hear from our hiring manager about the role and team: [Insert Loom/YouTube Link]
Who We Are
We’re [Company Name], and we produce [what you make—e.g., custom-printed packaging/precision-stamped components/labels] for [your customers/industries]. Our shop runs [equipment/press models or tonnage, if relevant], and our standards are [quality/safety/uptime]. We’re looking for a [Type of Press] Press Operator who takes pride in accuracy, consistency, and teamwork.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Set up and run [type of press] for daily production
- Control [color/tension/registration or stroke/feeds/sensors—adapt to your press]
- Perform in-process quality checks and keep accurate run records
- Troubleshoot minor issues to reduce downtime and waste
- Maintain safety, cleanliness, and basic preventive maintenance
Perks & Benefits
- [Medical], [Dental], [Vision] starting [when]
- [401(k)] with [match %]
- [X] days PTO + [Y] paid holidays
- [Stipends—uniforms, PPE, tools]
- [Bonuses—shift differential, performance bonus]
- [Training—press certifications, cross-training, tuition reimbursement]
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You’ll work with [modern equipment/organized processes/supportive crew]
- Real ownership of your line and results
- Clear growth path to [Lead Operator/Set-Up/Shift Supervisor]
- [Family-owned/fast-moving/no politics/strong safety culture]
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to evaluate skills, not just résumés. Complete a short, fair assessment to get started:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format
Job Title: Entry-Level Press Operator (Training Provided) — [Company Name] ([Location])
Pay: [$X–$Y/hour] + [bonus if any]
Shift: [Shift & Hours] | Job Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
Job Brief
[Company Name] produces [what you make] for [industries/customers]. We’re hiring an Entry-Level Press Operator and providing paid training. You’ll learn to [set up/run your press type], perform quality checks, and keep production moving safely and efficiently.
Responsibilities
- Assist with [setup/changeovers] and run [type of press]
- [Load/Feed/Thread] material and monitor [sensors/safety devices]
- Inspect parts/products using [gauges/visual checks/densitometer]
- Record [production counts/downtime/material usage]
- Maintain a clean, safe work area ([5S/safety standards])
Requirements
- Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn
- Ability to stand for [X] hours and lift [X] lbs
- Good attendance, teamwork, and communication
- [High school diploma or equivalent preferred]
Perks & Benefits
- [Medical], [Dental], [Vision] after [X days]
- [401(k)] with [match %]
- [X] days PTO + [Y] paid holidays
- [Tool/PPE stipend amount]
- Paid [training/cross-training into set-up or quality]
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen so great people don’t get overlooked. Complete a short evaluation to apply:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step of Hiring
Once your job post attracts the right candidates, the real challenge begins — figuring out who can actually do the work.
That’s where WorkScreen comes in.
With WorkScreen, you can:
- Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
- Easily run one-click skill tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
- Eliminate low-effort applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
If you’re serious about hiring skilled operators without wasting weeks on guesswork, let WorkScreen do the heavy lifting. Start hiring faster, smarter, and with more confidence
Press Operator Job Description – FAQs
A great press operator combines technical skills with soft skills. Key abilities include:
- Mechanical aptitude – understanding how presses work and how to troubleshoot them
- Attention to detail – spotting defects before they cause large-scale waste
- Quality control mindset – following specifications and maintaining consistency
- Problem-solving skills – quickly addressing issues that cause downtime
- Time management – keeping production on schedule
- Communication skills – working effectively with other operators, supervisors, and maintenance teams
Safety awareness – following lockout/tagout and other safety protocols without shortcuts
Salary can vary by industry, location, and experience level:
- Entry-level press operators (with little or no experience) often earn $16–$20 per hour.
- Experienced press operators with specific expertise (e.g., flexo, offset, metal stamping) typically earn $22–$30 per hour, with some specialized operators making more.
Overtime, shift differentials, and performance bonuses can significantly increase annual earnings.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics & industry pay surveys (2025 estimates).
Press operators may specialize in one or more types, including:
- Flexographic presses – common in label and packaging production
- Offset presses – used in high-volume printing like newspapers and books
- Digital presses – for short-run, on-demand printing
- Mechanical stamping presses – in metal fabrication and automotive parts production
Hydraulic presses – for forming, molding, or shaping materials
