Print Production Specialist

The Printing Assistant is responsible for the setup, operation, and routine maintenance of digital printing, wide-format, finishing, and cutting equipment used to produce a variety of printed materials. The position primarily operates digital direct-to-substrate UV flatbed and roll-to-roll wide-format printers, CNC digital cutters, and other digital production and finishing equipment.

Responsibilities

Operate and maintain digital UV flatbed and roll-to-roll wide-format printers, high-speed digital presses, CNC digital cutters, and other finishing equipment; Produce graphics on rigid and flexible substrates including metals, plastics, boards, synthetics, vinyl, banners, canvas, and specialty materials; Prepare, inspect, and troubleshoot production files ensuring jobs meet job ticket specifications and brand guidelines; Operate and troubleshoot RIP and digital printing software and maintain printer settings, production profiles, and color management standards; Perform color calibration to maintain consistent color reproduction; Perform graphics installations, including site surveys, surface preparation, and installation method selection; Remove existing vinyl and graphics and prepare surfaces prior to installation; Inspect printed materials and completed installations for quality and accuracy; Prioritize daily workloads and adjust production as deadlines and priorities change; Perform routine cleaning, maintenance, and care of equipment and follow safety procedures; Work collaboratively with production staff and provide backup coverage across print production; Maintain security and confidentiality of client materials and ensure property and finished work are handled and delivered undamaged; Provide professional service to internal and external customers; Schedule, set up, operate, and maintain machinery for printed material production; Provide information to clients on style, format, ink, type selection, and layout; Determine methods and materials for production; Monitor jobs for accuracy, completeness, quality, and timeliness; Ensure finished product complies with job request specifications; Oversee and instruct printing support staff; Maintain and repair equipment and identify and repair malfunctions; Make service calls and assist in resolving major malfunctions; Order supplies and equipment and maintain inventory of supplies

Requirements

Must be able to operate complex equipment including digital print production equipment with minimal direction or instruction; Demonstrated multitasking ability and able to work in a fast-paced environment under deadline pressure while maintaining attention to detail and quality; References must indicate reliable attendance and punctuality; Vinyl graphic installation skills for preparation and application; Skills to identify vinyl material for the determined application; Knowledge of printing and mounting substrate materials; Mechanical skills and experience troubleshooting complex issues and using tools at an advanced level; Advanced computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop); Must understand and have experience in RIP workflows, color management, color calibration, ICC profiles, nesting, scaling, tiling, and print/cut setup; Ability to lift and carry 75 lbs; Must be able to stand for extended periods; Ability to read, write, and follow written and oral instructions; Ability to work from ladders, lifts, and other elevated work platforms when properly trained and authorized; Six years of related work experience, four of them in the same job family at the next lower level, and high school level education; or four years of related work experience and an Associate's degree; or little or no work experience and a Bachelor's degree in a related field; or an equivalent combination of experience and education

Nice to have

Experience operating digital presses, flatbed printers, roll to roll wide format printers, vinyl cutters, and CNC digital cutters