Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

Chief Printing Press Operator (#20001657)

General Statement

Under general supervision, directs and participates in the work of the reproduction unit using offset presses and related equipment.

Essential Job Functions

Essential job functions are fundamental, core functions common to positions in a classification.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class.  Since class specifications are designed to be descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents may complete one or all of the job duties listed or tasks of similar kind not specifically listed here.
  • Assigns, supervises and reviews work of reproduction unit; takes necessary action or makes recommendations relating to work performance or employment status.
  • Establishes production schedules and makes work assignments; supervises the printing and binding of a variety of documents to meet production deadlines and production standards; provides technical direction to users regarding best methods and techniques.
  • Sets up, adjusts, and operates offset press and other machines used in the reproduction and collation of printed materials.
  • Inspects mechanical equipment and repairs or arranges for repairs as required; oversees the preventative maintenance and cleaning of presses.
  • Maintains computer records of job assignments, inventories and expenditures; maintains a daily log of completed jobs.

Other Job Functions

  • Maintains inventory of all printing and binding supplies and places supply orders; maintains file of reusable printing plates and artwork for reprinting; maintains supply of pre-printed forms and standard contract pages.
  • Oversees the safety of print shop environment including proper storage and disposal of hazardous materials, planning of a safe shop layout, enforcement of proper work procedures and maintenance of material safety data sheets.
  • Prepares purchasing contract specifications for services and supplies.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Environmental Conditions

Typical office environment.  May use standard office equipment and computer terminals. Work may be conducted in proximity to mechanical equipment and loud noises.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Considerable knowledge of the processes, techniques and equipment utilized in offset printing. 
  • Knowledge of the uses, adaptabilities and operating characteristics of other equipment used in reproduction activities such as plate makers, folding machines and collators.
  • Skill in operating and maintaining offset presses and auxiliary equipment.
  • Ability to prioritize, organize, assign, schedule and carry out work.
  • Ability to plan and supervise the work of others in a manner conducive to highly effective performance and high morale.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Graduation from a standard senior high school or the equivalent and four years of experience in offset lithography, including two years of experience in the operation of high speed xerographic equipment.

Substitution

Additional experience in the operation of multilith offset presses and auxiliary equipment may be substituted for the high school education on a year-for-year basis. Technical training beyond high school in offset printing may be substituted for the required experience on a year-for-year basis to a maximum of two years.

Promotional Requirement

  • One year of service with the District as a Printing Press Operator.
  • Civil service status as a Printing Press Operator.
CLASS: 20001657; EST: 1/1/2013;