Printing & Finishing Operator

Position Summary

The Printing & Finishing Operator is responsible for producing high-quality printed and finished products using screen printing, pad printing, hot stamping, and painting processes. This position operates and performs basic setup of production equipment, prepares materials and inks, follows customer specifications and production documentation, and inspects finished products to ensure they meet established quality standards.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, dependable, mechanically inclined, and comfortable working in a hands-on manufacturing environment. This position requires the ability to work efficiently while maintaining consistent quality and following safety procedures.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate screen printing, pad printing, hot stamping, painting, and related production equipment.
• Set up equipment, fixtures, screens, pads, dies, and other tooling according to job specifications.
• Prepare and mix inks, paints, coatings, and other materials as required for production.
• Load, position, and secure products or components for printing and finishing.
• Adjust equipment settings to achieve proper alignment, registration, coverage, color, and print quality.
• Perform color matching and make appropriate adjustments to inks or paints to meet specifications.
• Operate hot stamping equipment to apply foils, lettering, graphics, or other decorative finishes.
• Operate pad printing equipment to apply detailed images, text, or graphics to various products and surfaces.
• Perform spray gun painting and other finishing processes according to established specifications.
• Inspect products throughout the production process to identify defects, inconsistencies, or quality issues.
• Make adjustments to equipment, materials, or processes as necessary to maintain quality.
• Follow work orders, production drawings, samples, specifications, and other job documentation.
• Maintain accurate production counts and complete required production records.
• Perform routine cleaning, maintenance, and housekeeping of equipment and work areas.
• Clean screens, tools, fixtures, and equipment between jobs and as required.
• Properly handle, label, store, and dispose of inks, paints, solvents, and other production materials in accordance with company procedures and safety requirements.
• Follow all company safety policies, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Communicate production, quality, equipment, and material issues to the supervisor or appropriate personnel.
• Assist with other production and finishing duties as needed.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Previous manufacturing, printing, spray gun painting, or production experience preferred but not required.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
• Ability to work with measurements, production specifications, and basic mathematical calculations.
• Ability to identify differences in colors, print quality, alignment, and finished appearance.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks while maintaining consistent quality and productivity.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Reliable attendance and dependable work habits.
• Ability to safely operate production equipment after training.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous screen printing experience.
• Experience with pad printing, hot stamping, small scale industrial spray gun painting, or other finishing processes.
• Experience mixing or matching inks, paints, or coatings.
• Experience setting up or adjusting printing or production equipment.
• Experience working with different substrates, materials, or surface finishes.
• Manufacturing or production experience in a quality-focused environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and move throughout the production area for extended periods.
• Ability to frequently use hands and fingers to operate equipment, handle materials, and perform detailed production work.
• Ability to lift and move materials and finished products as required, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to perform repetitive movements and maintain attention to detail throughout the workday.
• Ability to bend, reach, stoop, and occasionally climb or work in various positions.
• Ability to wear required PPE, including gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, respirators, or other protective equipment when required.
• Work Environment
• Work is performed in a manufacturing/production environment.
• Regular exposure to inks, paints, solvents, coatings, and other production materials.
• May be exposed to production equipment, machinery noise, odors, and airborne particulates.
• Appropriate PPE and safety procedures must be followed at all times.
• Work may involve repetitive production activities and varying levels of manual dexterity.

Pay: $19.00 - $23.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person