Job Description

Position Description

• The Silkscreen Technician is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining screen printing equipment to produce high quality printed graphics on a variety of substrates (metal, fiberglass, carbon fiber, etc.).
• The role blends technical skill, attention to detail, and an eye for color and registration to ensure each run meets customer specifications, quality standards, and production schedules.

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Production & Setup

• Review job orders, artwork files, and client specifications (colors, size, placement, substrate).

• Prepare screens: coat with emulsion, expose using UV light, wash out images, and inspect for pinholes.

• Select and stretch appropriate mesh count for each job.

• Register screens accurately using registration marks or alignment tools. Ink & Material Management

• Mix custom inks to match client-specified colors, maintaining consistent viscosity.

• Store inks, solvents, and cleaning chemicals safely and label them per OSHA/site standards.

• Track inventory of screens, squeegees, substrates, and consumables; request re-orders as needed. Printing Operations

• Load substrates onto the press (manual).

• Adjust squeegee pressure, angle, and speed for optimal ink transfer.

• Perform multi-color prints, ensuring precise registration for each pass.

• Conduct test prints, make adjustments, and obtain approval before full run. Quality Control

• Inspect prints for color fidelity, registration, ink density, and defects (smudges, streaks, ghosting). Post-Production

• Cure or dry prints using ovens or air-dry methods as required.

• Clean screens, squeegees, and press components after each job. Safety & Housekeeping

• Follow all safety protocols (PPE, ventilation, proper chemical handling).

• Maintain a clean, organized work area; dispose of waste according to environmental regulations.

Skills Required Technical Skills

• Proficient in screen preparation (emulsion coating, exposure, washing).

• Ability to mix and match epoxy inks (solvent-based).

• Knowledge of color theory and registration techniques.

• 1–3?years of hands-on screen-printing experience (commercial, apparel, or fine-art).

• Familiarity with manual screen-printing presses is preferred.

Experience Required

• 1–3?years of hands-on screen-printing experience (commercial, apparel, or fine-art).

• Familiarity with manual screen-printing presses is preferred.

Technical Skills

• Proficient in screen preparation (emulsion coating, exposure, washing).

• Ability to mix and match epoxy inks (solvent-based).

• Knowledge of color theory and registration techniques. Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 50?lb, and perform repetitive motions.

• Good hand-eye coordination and visual acuity for detailed inspection.

• No known sensitivity or allergy to thinners, solvents, or epoxy-ink fumes. Software

• Basic proficiency with graphic-design file formats (AI, EPS, PDF) and RIP software is advantageous.

• Basic proficiency with MS office suite (Outlook, Word, Excel) is required. Safety Awareness

• Understanding of OSHA regulations, MSDS, and proper PPE usage.

Education Required

• High school diploma or GED required.

• Associate’s degree or certification in graphic arts, printing technology, or related field is a plus.

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