Print Finishing Machine Operator

Orphans Press has a reputation for quality and responsive turnarounds and this extends to finishing the vast majority of jobs in-house. We have invested heavily in digitally controlled machines to make sure we can finish what we print, whether that means folding, cutting, binding, collating and more besides. This is a hands-on role. Our machines are very clever with what they do, and digital controls make setup and accuracy so much easier. However, behind the screens they are machines which require human hands and understanding to get the most out of them. Experience in printing would be useful of course, but more so we are looking for someone with practical aptitude, an inquisitive interest in how things work and an inclination to use digital controls to the full. We have a variety of machines to help with the diverse options in print finishing. The common denominator is handling papers of different types and weights. We will provide full training on each machine, and you will be part of a team ready to share their wealth of experience in print, materials and finishes.

Your Responsibilities & Skills

• You will be responsible for the safe, accurate, and efficient finishing of jobs, ensuring they meet customer specifications and internal quality standards.
• This role plays a key part in maintaining production delivery as well as supporting the wider press and finishing teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Reporting to our Print Manager and liaising closely with production and administration colleagues.
• Operation and maintenance of our various finishing machines, principally a 16 station booklet maker, digital folding machines, guillotine, perfect binder and laminator.
• Minimising wastage and reporting on issues impacting on efficiency.
• Working with production colleagues to meet job deadlines.
• Ensuring accurate times recorded for each job (to make sure our quotes reflect reality).
• Flexibility to move from job to job or machine to machine as work dictates.
• Follow job specifications precisely, ensuring all customer requirements are met.
• Work closely with press and finishing colleagues to maintain workflow and resolve issues quickly.
• Maintain a clean, safe working environment, adhering to company health and safety procedures at all times.
• Support continuous improvement by identifying opportunities to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and enhance quality.

Skills & Experience

• Ideally, experience operating equipment in a print or packaging environment (preferred but not essential).
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to spot defects and maintain high quality standards.
• Good mechanical aptitude and confidence with machine adjustments.
• Ability to read and follow job specifications, production paperwork, and quality standards.
• Comfortable working to deadlines and productivity expectations.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
• Basic IT or data-entry skills for recording production information.

Personal Attributes

• Reliable, punctual, and committed to consistent performance.
• Proactive approach to problem-solving and quality control.
• Positive attitude with a willingness to learn and develop.
• Pride in producing high-quality work.
• Safety-conscious and disciplined in following procedures.

Working Conditions

• Very light, bright and clean, fast-paced production environment.
• Standing and moving around for long periods.
• 37.5 hours a week broadly 8 til 4 with 30 minute lunch break. You may be asked to work overtime if the work dictates. This will be paid at time and a half.
• £26k to £28k depending on experience.