About Chillybears
Chillybears is a leading custom apparel decorator serving customers nationwide through screen printing, embroidery, Direct-to-Film (DTF), and fulfillment services. For decades, we have built our reputation on quality craftsmanship, exceptional customer service, and a commitment to delivering products that exceed expectations.
As our industry continues to evolve, Chillybears is investing in new decoration technologies and production efficiencies to better serve our customers. We are seeking an experienced Screen Print & DTF Production Manager to lead our production team, optimize operations, and help shape the future of our apparel decoration business.
Position Summary
The Production Manager – Screen Print & DTF Operationswill oversee all aspects of apparel decoration production, including traditional screen printing and Direct-to-Film (DTF) operations. This hands-on leadership role is responsible for ensuring production runs efficiently, profitably, and to the highest quality standards while helping guide the company's continued growth and adoption of emerging decoration technologies.
The ideal candidate will possess strong screen printing expertise, practical DTF experience, and the ability to evaluate incoming jobs and determine the most effective decoration method based on customer needs, artwork requirements, garment types, production timelines, and profitability.
This role requires a leader who can manage people, improve processes, maintain production equipment, and build a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
Key ResponsibilitiesProduction Leadership
- Manage day-to-day operations of the screen printing and DTF departments.
- Create and manage production schedules to ensure on-time delivery.
- Lead, coach, and develop production staff.
- Monitor workflow and proactively address bottlenecks.
- Ensure efficient utilization of labor, equipment, and materials.
- Maintain a safe, organized, and productive work environment.
Screen Printing Operations
- Oversee setup, registration, and operation of automatic screen printing presses.
- Troubleshoot production and print-quality issues.
- Ensure accurate color matching and adherence to customer specifications.
- Maintain high standards of print consistency and quality control.
- Monitor production metrics and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.
DTF Production Management
- Oversee Direct-to-Film production workflows and output quality.
- Ensure proper maintenance and operation of DTF equipment.
- Troubleshoot technical and production issues related to DTF printing.
- Develop efficient workflows that maximize DTF productivity and profitability.
- Train team members on DTF production processes and best practices.
Decoration Strategy & Process Improvement
- Evaluate incoming jobs and determine the most effective decoration method, including Screen Printing or DTF.
- Help guide the company's long-term transition toward increased DTF capabilities where appropriate.
- Identify opportunities to improve production efficiency, reduce waste, and increase profitability.
- Stay informed on emerging decoration technologies, equipment, and industry trends.
- Partner with ownership to recommend process improvements and operational enhancements.
Team Leadership
- Hire, train, and mentor production staff.
- Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing coaching.
- Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
- Promote workplace safety and adherence to company policies and procedures.
Inventory & Equipment Management
- Manage inventory levels for inks, films, screens, chemicals, garments, and production supplies.
- Coordinate preventative maintenance and equipment repairs.
- Work with vendors and suppliers as necessary.
- Ensure all production equipment is operating efficiently and reliably.
Quality Control & Customer Satisfaction
- Implement and maintain quality control procedures throughout production.
- Review completed jobs for accuracy and consistency.
- Collaborate with customer service and sales teams to ensure successful project execution.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives that enhance customer satisfaction and operational performance.
Qualifications Required
- 5+ years of apparel decoration production experience.
- 2+ years of production leadership or supervisory experience.
- Strong experience operating and managing automatic screen printing presses.
- Working knowledge of Direct-to-Film (DTF) production processes.
- Ability to determine the most effective decoration method based on order requirements.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent organizational and communication abilities.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced production environment.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
Preferred
- Experience managing both screen printing and DTF operations.
- Bilingual English and Portuguese communication skills.
- Experience in custom apparel decoration, embroidery, or fulfillment operations.
- Lean manufacturing, process improvement, or continuous improvement experience.
- Familiarity with production management software and workflow systems.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary of $75,000–$90,000+ annually based on experience.
- Health insurance.
- 401(k) plan.
- Company 401(k) match.
- Paid time off (PTO).
- Paid holidays.
- Professional development and training opportunities.
- Stable year-round employment.
- Opportunity to play a key leadership role in a growing company.
- Collaborative and supportive team environment.
Why Join Chillybears?
This is an opportunity to lead a respected New Hampshire apparel decoration company while helping shape its next phase of growth. You'll have the ability to make a direct impact on production operations, team development, technology adoption, and overall company success.
If you're passionate about apparel decoration, operational excellence, leadership, and continuous improvement, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and help lead the future of production at Chillybears.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $75,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Application Question(s):
- Do you have hands-on experience operating automatic screen printing presses?
Education:
Experience:
- screen printing production: 5 years (Preferred)
- supervising: 2 years (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
