Print Specialist

OverviewServes as the primary technical subject matter expert for industrial digital printing operations, specializing in the setup, color calibration, operation, and advanced troubleshooting of Durst digital printing presses. Ensures optimal machine performance, strict color/print quality standards, minimal scrap rates, and high-volume daily manufacturing output.

Description

About the Role: Print Specialists are the technical anchors of our Louisville manufacturing facility's print department. Working directly on the plant floor, you will be responsible for leading specialized print operations on Durst industrial digital inkjet presses, managing RIP software and ICC color profiles, executing preventive maintenance (PM/OIM) protocols, and resolving complex print defects. You will also mentor and assist Print Machine Operators on standard operating procedures and machine best practices to maximize uptime and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

Required Qualifications & Technical Experience:

• Direct Experience: Minimum 3–5 years of hands-on digital printing experience, with specialized expertise operating and maintaining Durst industrial digital presses.
• Software & Systems: Proficient with digital print RIP software (e.g., Caldera, Ergosoft, or Durst Workflow Suite) and color management/ICC profile tools.
• Technical Skills: Strong mechanical aptitude, background in print head maintenance, ink chemistry awareness, and proven technical problem-solving capabilities in a manufacturing environment.

Essential Job Functions & Duty Disclosure:

Physical Demands: Constant standing, walking, bending, stooping, and repetitive hand/wrist movements throughout an 8- to 12-hour shift. Must be able to regularly lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 lbs.

Work Environment: Active manufacturing environment with exposure to industrial print machinery, UV inks, cleaning solvents, moving mechanical components, and moderate noise. Required PPE includes safety glasses and non-slip, closed-toe shoes.

Duties Disclaimer:

This job description outlines primary duties and responsibilities but is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice to support manufacturing demands.

• Durst Machine Operations: Set up, calibrate, and operate Durst industrial digital presses (and auxiliary print equipment) to execute high-volume daily production runs according to schedule and specifications.
• Technical Quality & Color Management: Manage RIP software, print files, color registration, and ICC profiles to ensure precise color matching, sharp image resolution, and defect-free finishes across all metal substrates.
• Troubleshooting & Maintenance: Diagnose and resolve complex printing issues, including nozzle clogs, banding, ink delivery failures, and print head alignments; perform routine OIM/PM inspection plans to maximize equipment longevity.
• Waste & Reprint Reduction: Monitor ink consumption, print media usage, and output quality to actively reduce scrap, minimize reprints, and report technical KPIs to department leadership.
• Operator Mentorship & 5S: Assist in onboarding, training, and guiding Print Machine Operators on machine safety, standard operating procedures, and maintaining clean, organized workstations using 5S/6S and Kaizen principles.