Job Summary The Heat Press Operator is responsible for operating heat press equipment to apply names, numbers, logos, and other decorations onto sports apparel with speed, precision, and consistency. This role performs the same precise tasks repeatedly, high volume after high volume, while never letting attention to detail slip — every garment that leaves the press should be correctly placed, properly adhered, and ready for the customer. The ideal candidate takes pride in doing repetitive, detail-heavy work exceptionally well and serves as one of the last quality checkpoints before product ships. This position begins as part-time/temporary and transitions to full-time/permanent status after a 30-day trial period, contingent on performance. Key Responsibilities Set up and operate heat press machine(s), adjusting temperature, pressure, and dwell time according to garment fabric and transfer specifications. Accurately position and align transfers, letters, numbers, and logos using placement guides, templates, or measurements before each press cycle. Perform the same precise pressing motion repeatedly and consistently across high volumes of garments per shift without sacrificing accuracy or speed. Read and follow production tickets/work orders exactly, confirming garment style, size, color, and decoration details before pressing. Maintain accurate production counts and complete required production and quality-tracking logs for each batch or run. Sort, fold, and stage completed garments for the next production step (packing, embroidery, or shipping) per standard procedure. Keep the heat press and workstation clean and in good working order; report equipment issues or maintenance needs promptly. Restock and organize transfers, garments, and supplies at the workstation, following FIFO and organizational procedures. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in compliance with all safety protocols. Quality Control Quality control isn't a separate step for this role — it happens at every press. Inspect each garment before and after pressing for defects: fabric flaws, misprints, scorching, discoloration, bubbling, cracking, edge lifting, or incomplete transfer. Verify spelling, numbering, color, and sizing against the work order before pressing — catching an error here is far cheaper than catching it after shipping. Confirm placement and alignment meet company and customer specifications, including placement tolerances for specific accounts. Perform adhesion checks (e.g., peel test) to confirm the transfer is properly bonded to the garment. Pull and flag defective units immediately rather than letting them continue through production. Report recurring quality issues (e.g., a transfer batch with poor adhesion) to the supervisor or production lead so the root cause can be addressed. Required Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent. Strong attention to detail with the ability to quickly spot small inconsistencies in spelling, spacing, or alignment. Ability to perform repetitive, precise tasks accurately and consistently for extended periods. Basic math skills for counting, measuring, and reading production tickets. Reliable, punctual, and able to work efficiently in a fast-paced production environment. Comfortable working around heat-generating equipment for a full shift. Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25-40 lbs. Preferred Qualifications Prior experience operating a heat press or similar equipment (screen printing, embroidery, or garment decoration a plus). Experience in a wholesale apparel, custom uniform, or team sports decoration environment. Physical Requirements & Work Environment This role requires standing on your feet for the majority of each shift (up to 8 hours), with minimal opportunities to sit. Repetitive hand and arm motion throughout the shift. Regular exposure to heat from press equipment and moderate warehouse noise levels. Manual dexterity required for precise, repeated garment and transfer placement. Fast-paced production-floor environment with defined daily/weekly output goals. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role. Candidates who need accommodation to perform these functions should contact [HR contact] to discuss options.

Pay:

$15.50 - $16.00 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

Paid time off

Work Location:

In person