The Make Ready Assistant supports efficient and accurate job changeovers on Vistaflex and Miraflex flexographic printing machines. This role is critical to reducing downtime and ensuring all components meet job specifications before and during setup. The Assistant works closely with the press operator and prepress teams to verify materials, install components, and prepare the press for the next print run.
Key Responsibilities:
Stage 1: Pre-Changeover Inspection & Verification
- Plate Inspection:
- Visually inspect all printing plates to ensure they match job specifications and are free of defects. Notify Make Ready Lead or Press Team Lead immediately.
- Stickyback Tape Check:
- Confirm the correct type and placement of stickyback tape on each plate, verifying against the job pack request, if not, please notify Make Ready Lead and Press Team Lead immediately.
- Anilox Roll Inspection:
- Verify the installed anilox rolls match the job pack request. If not, notify Make Ready Lead and Press Team Lea immediately.
- Inspect Anilox rolls for scorelines, hits, or other damage and report any issues immediately with Make Ready Lead and Press Team Lead.
Stage 2: Component Changeover
- Plate Removal & Installation:
- Install plates for the upcoming job as per job pack instructions using Vistaport.
- Safely remove all plates from the previous job using Vistaport.
- Anilox Changeover:
- Remove anilox rolls used in the previous job and install the new ones specified for the next print run.
- Anilox Cleaning:
- Send used anilox rolls to the wash station or designated cleaning area following proper handling procedures.
- Sump Movement Support:
- Assist the Press Assistant with the movement, removal, or replacement of ink sumps during changeovers, when required.
- Ensure safe handling and avoid contamination between jobs.
Note: While not a primary responsibility, the Make Ready Assistant may be asked to assist with the ink changing sumps.
Qualifications & Skills:
- Prior experience in a print production or manufacturing environment (flexographic printing preferred).
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in verifying job specs.
- Basic mechanical aptitude and familiarity with machine components (e.g., anilox rolls, plates).
- Ability to follow SOPs and safety protocols.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds regularly.
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, and operating equipment.
- Tolerance for working in varying environmental conditions (e.g., hot, cold, noisy
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Mandatory use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
Skills Required
- Prior experience in a print production or manufacturing environment
- Experience with flexographic printing
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in verifying job specifications
- Basic mechanical aptitude and familiarity with machine components (anilox rolls, plates)
- Ability to follow SOPs and safety protocols
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds regularly
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, and operating equipment
- Mandatory use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
What We Do
Five Star is a fully integrated flexible packaging manufacturer serving a diverse base of leading consumer-focused brands in the pet food & animal nutrition, food & beverage, household and other recession-resistant categories. The company operates through five business units with expert capabilities in film extrusion, printing, lamination, and converting operations.
