Press Operator Career Path

 What does a press operator do? You’ve come to the right place to figure that out! Here at NCW we strive to provide you with the most accurate information on a multitude of jobs. Today, we’re going to give you a press operator job description and an example path to become a press operator.

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Here Is A Short Forklift Operator Skills List, Let’s See If You Check The Boxes:

Attention to detail

Having mechanical and technical skills in this position is essential to your production and success. As a forklift operator you must be able to operate heavy machinery but also have knowledge of how to safely and properly use the equipment.

Computer skills

When operating heavy machinery, like a forklift, you must be very precise with your movements. In some warehouses you could be lifting boxes, equipment, or tools that weigh hundreds or even thousands of pounds that must be very carefully transported around the warehouse.

safety First mindset

Not only could you be lifting thousand-pound boxes, you might have to keep your head on a swivel as warehouses can also be very active with forklifts and machines quickly moving in every direction. Keeping an eye out for other operators and using proper signaling when traveling throughout is a necessity.

Staffed Welder on the Job
Staffed Welder on the Job

Press Operator Job Overview

We Think You Have What It Takes To Be A Press Operator… Do You?

Amidst the whirring of motors, clanking of gears, and buzz of parts, press operators ensure that all machines are spitting out impeccable products. Those who know the intricacies within the manufacturing industry know the importance of the press operator. This is no mundane position; it is a crucial job inside the manufacturing industry. 

Key responsibilities to be a great press operator:

Keep an eye out for changes – every job posting is different, and every employer has their own preferences for their press operator. Press operator roles and responsibilities in every job description include:

Preparation

The press operator must ensure that the machine is in tip-top shape and ready for action. After a thorough check of all parts and tangibles, it is now time to load up any necessary materials needed for the day’s work.

Examination

The press operator carefully inspects all products to confirm all output meets the high standards set forth by the factory. If they find any flaws, inconsistencies, or errors in the final products, they take quick action to correct them.

Operation

The operator takes their position at the helm of the machine and sets it in motion. As the press operator intently oversees all production, the machine whirs and hums, churning out product after product.

Calibration

After preparation is completed, it is time for the calibration of the machine. This involves inputting any specifications needed and adjusting any knobs or settings that need to be tweaked for the day.

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  • Getting Started

    Education and Training

    When looking to get into a role as a press operator, your education shouldn’t hold you back. There is no required level of education to become a press operator. However, there will be quite a bit of training, especially if you are just getting started in the industry.
  • First Starting Out

    Jumping In

    Training can vary from a couple of days to a couple of months depending on the company you work for. Once you’ve completed your training, you start your everyday work as a press operator. You will have long days working the machinery that will quickly become your best friend.

  • Ramping Up

    Experience Rules

    Once you know the ins and outs of the equipment and can successfully operate everything smoothly, your industry opportunities will multiply. Experience is key for job growth and opens the chance of a raise in your salary.

  • The Future

    Progressing Your Career

    Your career in the manufacturing industry is what you make of it. You could continue working as a press operator, or you can work your way up the ranks. Through experience and tenure, your current position can evolve into a production manager role, overseeing the press operators.

Here Are Some Trends We’ve Noticed In The Manufacturing Industry:

It’s important to keep up to date with trends relating to press operators and the manufacturing industry to best understand the outlook for your potential career. So, we did the digging and fact checking for you.

01

Press Operator Trends

With a shift toward automation in the industry, press operators that know the ins–and–outs of the machinery will be in high demand for machines that break or need repairs.

02

Trends In Manufacturing Industry

Retail sales are shifting to e-commerce, which has created a higher demand for hands-on labor to fulfill the ever-increasing orders.

03

Related Jobs

Job titles often associated with production manager: cnc machinist, machine operator, material handler, production associate, and quality engineer. 

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So, How Much Can You Earn?

Press Operator Salary

A press operator’s salary can range between $27,000 and $42,000 based on factors like economic conditions, company, geographic location, and experience. Here’s the break down:

Entry level avg. salary: $27,000

Mid-level avg. salary: $34,568

Senior level avg. salary: $42,000

These five states have the highest average salaries for press operators: 

  • 1. New Hampshire
  • 2. Rhode Island 
  • 3. Vermont
  • 4. Massachusetts
  • 5. Connecticut
Manufacturing Worker
Manufacturing Worker

Unsure Of Next Steps To Become An Press Operator?

We’re Here to Help!

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Let Us Show You Why NCW Should Be A Part Of Your Journey To Becoming A Manufacturing Hire:

We specialize in helping manufacturing professionals find their dream role. Do you have experience in the manufacturing industry, heavy machinery, or working on an assembly line? If so, we are here to help you find your next job as a press operator. Have another specialty? Don’t worry, we do more than hire for press operator jobs, so let us know how we can help you.

Our recruiters have years of experience working with top talent, just like you. Our goal is to get to know you, understand your aspirations, chat through your experience, and connect you with a position that aligns with your wants and needs. 

Connect To Opportunitiy

Our team puts your resume directly in front of hiring managers’ eyes.

Expanded Network

NCW expands your network to uncover opportunities that may not have been available otherwise.

By Your Side

Our recruiters prep you for the interview process and guide you through every step of the way.

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