Screen Print Press Operator

We are looking for an experienced Screen Printer / Press Operator to join our production team. Compensation will be based on experience, efficiency and skill level.

In this role, you will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining screen printing machinery (both manual and automatic presses) to produce high-quality custom apparel and goods. The ideal candidate has strong attention to detail, a solid understanding of ink mixing and color matching, and a passion for delivering sharp, accurate prints efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

• Press Setup & Operation: Set up, align, and operate manual and/or automatic screen printing presses (e.g., M&R, Roq) efficiently to maintain production schedules.
• Screen Preparation: Inspect, burn, register, and tape screens according to job order specifications.
• Ink & Color Matching: Mix custom pantone colors (PMS), adjust ink viscosity, and apply correct mesh counts and squeegee pressure for various garment fabrics.
• Quality Control: Continuously monitor prints during runs for register, ink opacity, smudging, and proper curing (flash dryer and tunnel dryer temperatures).
• Equipment Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance on presses, dryers, exposure units, and reclamation stations. Keep work area clean and organized.
• Workflow & Teardown: Breakdown and clean screens, squeegees, and flood bars post-run; properly dispose of chemical wash and ink waste.
• Job Tracking: Read and interpret job orders, track garment counts, and record production numbers or material spoilage.

Qualifications & Skills

• Speak, read, write English proficiently - legally able to live/work in the US
• Experience: 1–3+ years of hands-on experience operating manual or automatic screen printing presses in a commercial print shop environment.
• Technical Knowledge: Understanding of different ink types (Plastisol, Water-based, Discharge, High-Density), mesh counts, and curing temperatures.
• Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and work in a warm shop environment.
• Attention to Detail: Keen eye for detail, color accuracy, registration alignment, and garment quality.
• Efficiency: Ability to work independently in a fast-paced setting while adhering to tight deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with screen reclamation (reclaiming, degreasing, coating screens with emulsion).
• Familiarity with vector design software (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop) or film output.
• Experience with graphic placement across varied garments (t-shirts, hoodies, hats, tote bags).

Benefits & Compensation

• Pay Rate: Competitive hourly wage (commensurate with experience)
• Perks: Paid time off (PTO), holiday pay, employee discounts on custom gear, and opportunities for growth within the shop.

Duties Include:

• Receives product and verifies product information
• Assists in press setup in preparation for printing
• Load and unload printing substrate (shirt, hoodie, tote, etc)
• Identifies and replaces misprinted or unacceptable garments
• Assists in mixing inks, creating screens
• Keeps screens and pallets clean
• Must be able to detect color variations to ensure print integrity
• Performs general housekeeping duties for products and assigned areas
• Basic math, reading and writing required
• Experience in a production environment preferred
• High degree of accuracy in counting and comparing information
• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills
• Must be able to effectively communicate with the team
• Must be able to walk, stand, bend, and perform repetitive movements
• Must be able to physically lift/move/push/pull items up to 50lbs.
• Stand and move throughout the shift
• The nature of this work can be demanding and fast-paced
• Able to work overtime, if needed, based on production needs

Printing is done on a new ROQ auto and manual presses. If you have a strong work ethic, are honest, work well with others, willing to learn and grow with the company, then hit that apply button!

If you have other printing experience as well (signs, banners, vinyl, stickers, etc) definitely hit the apply button.

If you are looking for stability and growth into a training / managerial position, again, hit that apply button.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Paid time off

Language:

• English (Required)

Work Location: In person