Press Operator

Novolex is a prominent manufacturer specializing in food, beverage, and specialty packaging solutions. Supporting a wide array of industries such as foodservice, restaurant delivery, carryout, food processing, grocery, retail, and industrial sectors, Novolex has established itself as a leader in the packaging industry. The company’s manufacturing and sourcing expertise covers a diverse range of substrates, including resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum, and more. With an extensive catalog of 120 product categories, 250 brands, and over 39,000 SKUs, Novolex provides customers both with stock options and customized packaging solutions tailored to meet unique requirements.

Novolex is deeply committed to sustainability, a commitment which is anchored in three main pillars: the products they manufacture, their operational processes, and their people. This sustainability vision not only guides day-to-day business operations but also propels the future growth and innovation of the company. Through a company-wide array of initiatives focused on improving environmental impact and sustaining long-term business success, Novolex strives to lead the industry in responsible manufacturing and packaging practices. This dedication earns the company a reputation as both an innovative and conscientious employer.

The role of Press Operator at Novolex is a critical position responsible for operating flexographic printing presses used to print designs or lettering on rolls of paper. These printed materials are integral to making wrappers for butter, candy, confectionery, and food service products. Based in Chicago, this position is currently hiring immediately and offers an hourly pay rate ranging from $19 to $33, depending on experience.

The Press Operator’s primary function is to set up and operate flexographic printing presses, ensuring high-quality printing outputs while maintaining efficient workflow on the production floor. This involves reading job orders, mounting specified print plates, applying inks through a chambered doctor blade system, and adjusting press settings such as speed, tension, and alignment. A thorough inspection of printed samples is necessary to detect imperfections such as blurring or misalignment. The role also requires cleaning and maintenance of the press equipment to uphold operational standards and reduce downtime.

Safety and quality compliance are paramount, with responsibilities including upholding Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and Safe Quality Food (SQF) procedures to ensure products are safe for direct food contact. The Press Operator will work closely with a team, often coordinating with the Waxer Operator on presses equipped with waxer machines. The ability to recognize and report any product quality or food safety issues to the Quality Assurance Manager or management team is essential.

To succeed in this role, candidates should possess a strong mechanical aptitude, physical ability to lift at least 50 pounds, basic computer skills, and good color acuity. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and a minimum of two years experience as a flexographic press helper or operator, with a total of five or more years of hands-on experience operating web-fed printing presses or converting machines.

Novolex offers a comprehensive benefits package emphasizing safety and employee well-being. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with a variety of wellness resources addressing mental, physical, and financial health. The company invests in community engagement through support of sustainability initiatives and food hunger relief programs. Continuous training and development opportunities are available to employees via MyLearning, which includes company and industry-specific training, tuition reimbursement for non-union employees, and a robust learning management system that fosters personal and professional growth.

Novolex maintains a strong commitment to equal employment opportunity, promoting inclusive hiring practices without regard to age, race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other protected classifications. Accommodations for applicants with disabilities are supported to ensure fair accessibility in the hiring process.

In summary, the Press Operator role at Novolex offers a chance to join a leading packaging manufacturer with a focus on sustainability, quality, and employee development. This position provides a competitive wage, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to work with innovative packaging technologies in a supportive and inclusive environment.