Print Production & Equipment TechnicianJob Overview
We are seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented Print Production & Equipment Technician to join our team. This position requires someone who is equally comfortable working on a computer and working with their hands. The ideal candidate has strong experience with design and production software, especially Adobe Illustrator, and possesses excellent mechanical troubleshooting skills to maintain and repair large-format printing equipment.
This is not simply a button-pushing print operator position. You'll be responsible for preparing artwork, producing high-quality prints, diagnosing equipment issues, replacing machine components, performing preventative maintenance, and ensuring production stays on schedule.
Responsibilities
- Operate, calibrate, and maintain large-format digital printers and finishing equipment.
- Prepare customer artwork for production using Adobe Illustrator and other Adobe Creative Cloud applications.
- Review files for proper sizing, resolution, color accuracy, bleed, and print readiness.
- Troubleshoot printer errors and mechanical issues to minimize downtime.
- Replace printheads, dampers, capping stations, pumps, belts, rollers, and other printer components as needed.
- Perform routine preventative maintenance and cleaning on all production equipment.
- Diagnose print quality issues and make adjustments to achieve optimal results.
- Monitor ink levels, media inventory, and production supplies.
- Maintain consistent color quality and production standards.
- Operate laminators, cutters, and other finishing equipment.
- Prioritize production schedules to meet customer deadlines.
- Keep detailed maintenance records and production notes.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe production environment.
- Assist with loading, unloading, packaging, and shipping finished products when necessary.
- Continuously learn new equipment, software, and production techniques.
Qualifications
- Experience operating large-format printers or commercial printing equipment preferred.
- Strong proficiency with Adobe Illustrator (required).
- Experience with Adobe Photoshop and Acrobat preferred.
- Ability to troubleshoot artwork and prepare files for production.
- Strong mechanical aptitude with experience using hand tools and performing equipment repairs.
- Comfortable diagnosing electrical, mechanical, and software-related printer issues.
- Ability to learn maintenance procedures for industrial printing equipment.
- Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to work independently while also collaborating with a team.
- Good communication and customer service skills.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.
Preferred Experience
- Large-format printing (HP, Epson, Roland, Mimaki, Mutoh, Canon, etc.)
- UV, solvent, eco-solvent, latex, or dye-sublimation printing
- RIP software (Onyx, VersaWorks, Flexi, Caldera, Wasatch, or similar)
- Color management and ICC profiling
- Vinyl graphics, banners, signs, decals, wraps, or promotional products
- CNC cutting, laminating, or finishing equipment
- Basic networking or computer troubleshooting
What We're Looking For
The ideal candidate is someone who enjoys solving problems and isn't intimidated by technology. One minute you'll be editing artwork in Illustrator, and the next you'll be replacing a printer part, calibrating equipment, or diagnosing a production issue. We value initiative, mechanical ability, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn.
If you enjoy working with both computers and machinery and take pride in producing high-quality work, we'd love to have you on our team.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $15.00 - $17.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
- Profit sharing
- Retirement plan
Ability to Commute:
- Joplin, MO 64801 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Joplin, MO 64801: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
