Print Assistant

Print Assistant / No. 2 Print Press Operator - Hybrid Litho/Digital

Location: Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire

Salary: DOE

Company: Global leading organisation serving indoor, outdoor and online markets.

Role:

Our client is seeking a skilled Litho No. 2 Press Operator to join there print production team. This is a unique hybrid role: while the printing engine uses advanced digital inkjet technology, the line utilises standard lithographic feeding, sheet-handling, dynamic registration, and delivery stacking systems.

As the No. 2, you will be responsible for set-up, sheet feeding, ink monitoring (where applicable), paper handling, and maintaining continuous production throughput. Because this press operates digitally, plate changing and traditional dampening control are not required, allowing you to focus on high-speed sheet feeding, colour consistency, media handling, and inline/offline press maintenance.

• Feeder & Stacker Operations: Set up, adjust, and monitor the litho-style continuous feeder and stacker, ensuring smooth sheet travel for varying paper stocks, weights, and formats.
• Stock Preparation: Stage, inspect, and prepare paper substrates, ensuring correct grain direction, size, and conditioning before loading into the feeder.
• In-Flight Monitoring: Monitor sheet registration, double-sheet detection, suction/blower controls, and stack alignment during high-speed production runs.
• Colour & Registration Checks: Assist the Lead Operator in monitoring digital print output for registration, colour accuracy, surface defects, and substrate consistency.
• Troubleshooting: Address sheet jam, misfeed, or registration issues promptly to minimize press downtime.

Maintenance & Housekeeping

• Preventative Maintenance: Clean and maintain feeder rollers, air nozzles, side guides, sheet transport belts, suction wheels.
• General Upkeep: Ensure the press area is organized, clean, and stocked with necessary paper.
• Safety Adherence: Maintain strict compliance with safety guidelines.

Requirements:

• 2+ years of experience as a No. 2 / Assistant Press Operator on sheetfed litho or high-speed hybrid presses.
• Large format production experience – up to 62x42”
• Strong understanding of sheetfed paper handling, suckers, blowers, side guides, double-sheet detectors, and pile delivery mechanisms.
• Hands-on ability to adjust mechanical feeding/stacking controls for diverse stock weights (from light text paper to heavy board).
• Attention to Detail: Eye for detail regarding sheet alignment, surface scratches, and colour uniformity.

Preferred:

• Experience with hybrid litho-digital presses or digital web/sheet units with traditional offset finishing lines.
• Basic understanding of digital press.

Apply:

Please email your full CV details to us. All applications are strictly confidential, and your details will not be shared without your consent.

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