Printing Machine Operator

Responsibilities:

• Set up and operate printing machines according to job specifications and production requirements.
• Review printing instructions, artwork, measurements, colours, materials, and production quantities before starting jobs.
• Load and position paper, labels, packaging materials, fabrics, or other printing substrates correctly.
• Adjust machine settings such as ink flow, pressure, speed, alignment, registration, and temperature where applicable.
• Monitor printing operations to ensure consistent quality and smooth machine performance.
• Inspect printed materials for colour accuracy, alignment, clarity, defects, and overall quality.
• Identify and correct printing errors, machine faults, paper jams, and other production issues.
• Conduct test prints and make necessary adjustments before commencing full production.
• Maintain accurate records of production quantities, materials used, machine downtime, and rejected or defective products.
• Perform routine cleaning, lubrication, and basic preventive maintenance on printing machines.
• Report major mechanical or technical faults to the maintenance team or supervisor.
• Ensure proper handling and storage of inks, solvents, printing materials, and finished products.
• Minimize material waste and ensure efficient use of inks, paper, and other production materials.
• Follow production schedules and meet daily or weekly output targets.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Follow company quality-control procedures and workplace health and safety standards.
• Assist with machine changeovers, plate or screen changes, and preparation for different printing jobs where required.
• Work closely with the production, design, and quality-control teams to ensure customer specifications are met.
• Perform other production-related duties assigned by the supervisor or management.

Requirements:

• Minimum of SSCE/WAEC, or equivalent in Printing Technology, Engineering, Production, or a related field.
• Proven years of experience operating printing machines in a commercial or industrial printing environment.
• Practical knowledge of printing machine operation, setup, adjustment, and troubleshooting.
• Experience with offset, flexographic, digital, screen, gravure, or other printing machines is an advantage, depending on the production environment.
• Good understanding of inks, printing substrates, colour consistency, and print quality.
• Ability to read and follow job specifications and production instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and quality consciousness.
• Good mechanical and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to operate machinery safely and responsibly.
• Physically fit and able to work for extended periods in a production environment.
• Good teamwork, communication, and time-management skills.
• Ability to work shifts, weekends, or overtime when required.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to different printing technologies and equipment.