Heat Press Operator

Heat Press Operator Specialist

Job Title: Heat Press Operator Specialist

Location: 8900 N Armenia Ave Suite 312 Tampa, Fl 3604

Employment Type: Full‑Time

Summary

The Press Operator is responsible for operating high‑heat presses and sublimation equipment to apply materials, glitter flex, vinyl, rhinestones, and sublimated designs onto ribbons, bows, scrunchies, cuffs, and other cheer accessories. This role requires precision, consistency, and the ability to work in front of a heat press throughout the day. The Press Operator ensures every item is pressed correctly, aligned accurately, and meets quality standards before moving to the next stage of production.

Key Responsibilities

Operate high‑heat presses throughout the day, following all safety and production guidelines

Sublimate hair bows, scrunchies, or any accessory, ensuring correct temperature, pressure, and alignment for clean, vibrant prints 

Apply material strips onto pre‑starched or non‑starched ribbon, using glue that activates and adheres when pressed

Peel plastic carriers from glued material and lay material cleanly and accurately onto ribbon

Press glitter flex and vinyl designs onto ribbon, bows, and other products with precise alignment

Press rhinestone transfers using correct pressure, heat, and timing to ensure full adhesion

Ensure every hair bow, scrunchie, cuff, or accessory is perfectly pressed with clean edges, proper placement, and no lifting

Use measurements to place words, designs, and graphics on bows with exact accuracy

Review each order with the Production Director to confirm correct execution before moving forward

Minimize mistakes by working carefully and taking the necessary time to complete each order correctly

Press large quantities of material onto ribbon for stock when needed

Clean excess material from ribbons after pressing to ensure a polished finish

Cut V‑shapes on bows when required to complete the finishing process

Maintain a clean, organized workstation and follow all heat‑press safety procedures

Qualifications

Experience with heat presses, sublimation, HTV, glitter flex, vinyl, or rhinestone transfers preferred

Ability to work in front of a heat press for extended periods

Strong attention to detail and ability to follow precise measurements

Comfortable working with high heat, pressure, and repetitive tasks

Ability to maintain accuracy while working at a steady pace

Good communication skills for coordinating with the Production Director

Strong time‑management skills and ability to meet daily production goals

Preferred Skills

Experience in cheer bow production, apparel decoration, or craft‑based manufacturing

Familiarity with sublimation materials, ribbon types, HTV, glitter vinyl, and rhinestone transfers

Ability to troubleshoot minor pressing or sublimation issues

Strong visual alignment and layout skills