Minimum Qualifications:

Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate with formal technical training in the graphic arts field and considerable and progressively responsible experience in the operation of lithographic offset press equipment, to include some experience in multicolor press operations; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Medical Group:

Satisfactorily complete the medical examination for this position, if required. The incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of this position either with or without reasonable accommodations.

Job Summary/Duties:

This is highly skilled work involving the preparation of graphic arts and the operation of a large and sophisticated multicolor offset printing press. Sets up, adjusts, operates and maintains a two or more color printing press. Serves as the lead press operator and is responsible for the operation and production output of the press and for providing guidance to the second press operator and assistants assigned to aid in press operations. Has latitude for independent judgment and actions within established guidelines. Completed work is reviewed for overall acceptability and fidelity to original materials. Is supervised by the Supervisor, Graphic Communications.

Performs graphic preparatory tasks as assigned to include operating lithographic offset press equipment. Prints two, three, four, or more colors (including four-color process materials) to include line work, large solids, screen tints, halftones and duotones. These materials must be produced with the highest dot-to-dot registration possible.

Determines the press setups according to the imposition of the run, size, and the paper materials to be printed. Determines the sequence of colors to be printed. Assembles press materials, paper, plates and other materials for printing. Advises the Graphic's Supervisor of the labor necessary for task completion. Instructs second press operator and assistants in production operations of press to ensure maximum production. Ensures timely production of materials through operational efficiency in accordance with specification for printing and production.

Processes all offset plates, checking for imperfections, and ensures all plates necessary to print the project are correctly positioned on press for production. Mixes fountain solution for each color unit to obtain proper p.H.; and to maintain proper percentage of alcohol levels in each fountain. Measures materials, blankets, plates, and paper to ensure proper backing and plate tension are maintained. Installs printing plates on each color unit and adjusts each plate's tension to each cylinder. Loads paper materials in press feeder and makes all necessary adjustments in feeder, between each color cylinder, and in delivery mechanism for press operations. Sets dampener rollers on each color unit to ensure proper level of fountain solution is at each color unit to maintain proper ink and fountain solution control.

Sets computer operated press controls to pull set-up sheets to inspect for registration, uniformity impression, ink color fidelity, and all other elements of quality. Makes all necessary machinery and material adjustments to ensure quality specifications of the production run are met.

Cleans, lubricates, and maintains the press and all integral operating parts and accessories. Makes minor repairs and adjustments and replaces worn and broken parts as required. Performs periodic maintenance and recommended adjustments as noted by the manufacturer.

Maintains production statistics regarding time and supplies used to complete projects.

May work variable hours.

Performs related duties as required.

Evaluation Criteria:

Consideration will be given to applicants whose resumes demonstrate the required education and experience. Applicants should include all relevant education and work experience.

Evaluation criteria may include one or more of the following:

• Personal Interview
• Skills Assessments
• Verification of education and experience
• Criminal Background Check
• Credit history report for positions with fiduciary responsibilities
• Successful completion of a medical examination including a drug and alcohol screening
• Review of a current Motor Vehicle Report

Closing:

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, a Federal contractor, is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by applicable federal law, except where a bona fide occupational qualification exists. Our hiring process is designed to be accessible and free from discrimination.

This posting is an announcement of a vacant position under recruitment. It is not intended to replace the official job description. Job Descriptions are available upon confirmation of an interview.