Press Operator

Novolex is a prominent manufacturer specializing in food, beverage, and specialty packaging solutions. The company supports a variety of industries including foodservice, restaurant delivery, carryout, food processing, grocery, retail, and industrial sectors. With a broad expertise in manufacturing and sourcing that spans multiple substrates such as resin, paper, molded fiber, and aluminum, Novolex offers customers an extensive array of stock and customized packaging products. The company boasts 120 product categories, 250 brands, and over 39,000 SKUs, making it a versatile and reliable partner for businesses with diverse packaging needs.

Novolex is deeply committed to sustainability, which is evident through its three fundamental pillars: products, operations, and people. This sustainable vision drives their business decisions and initiatives, ensuring that the company grows responsibly while reducing environmental impact. The company's sustainability goals shape its culture and operations, positioning Novolex as a leader not only in innovation but also in ethical business practices.

The current opportunity is for the role of a Press Operator based in Chicago. This is an immediate hiring position, focused on operating a flexographic printing press. The Press Operator is responsible for setting up and running the press to print designs or lettering on rolls of paper used for various food service wrappers such as butter, candy, and confectionery packaging. This role requires a hands-on professional with a deep understanding of press operations, print plate mounting, ink handling, pressure adjustments, and quality inspections.

In this position, the operator will work with a team and utilize technical equipment such as video web scanners, amp-meters, and air pressure gauges to maintain precise print quality. Additionally, the operator will coordinate with coworkers, including Waxer Operators, to ensure smooth press operations involving wax coating applications. Attention to detail is paramount as the role requires inspecting prints for imperfections and ensuring compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Safe Quality Food (SQF) standards to maintain food safety and quality.

The role also features responsibilities related to equipment maintenance such as cleaning photopolymer plates, lubricating machinery, and adjusting drying unit temperatures. The Press Operator must keep accurate records including time, production, and material usage logs, and enter data into the company’s ERP system to track production metrics comprehensively.

Novolex offers a work environment that prioritizes safety and employee well-being. The company supports ongoing professional development through extensive training and educational programs, including tuition reimbursement and a learning management system tailored to enhance skill levels and career growth. Employees are encouraged to participate in community engagement initiatives focused on sustainability and addressing food and hunger needs.

For those considering a career with Novolex, this is a chance to join an innovative packaging company that values quality, safety, sustainability, and continuous improvement. The Press Operator role provides a stable employment opportunity in a dynamic industry with a company deeply invested in both its people and its community.