Decal Production Specialist

The Decal Production Specialist is responsible for the end-to-end operation of the HP 830 wide-format inkjet printer to produce high-quality vinyl decals for Apple Industries' Face Place photo booth products. This role requires precision, attention to color accuracy, and a thorough understanding of print production workflows to ensure all decals meet the company's quality and brand standards before they reach the assembly floor or customers.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Printer Operation & Setup

• Operate the HP 830 inkjet printer on a daily basis, including powering on/off, loading media, and configuring job settings.
• Perform pre-print setup: load and align vinyl media rolls, verify ink levels, and execute nozzle check and print-head alignment routines.
• Configure printer driver and RIP software settings (resolution, color profile, cut marks) to match each job specification.
• Monitor print jobs in progress, intervening promptly to correct feeding issues, misalignment, or ink delivery problems.

Quality Control & Color Management

• Inspect finished decals against approved proofs and brand color standards; reject and reprint any output that does not meet tolerance.
• Conduct daily color calibration checks and maintain ICC profiles to ensure consistent, accurate output across production runs.
• Document defects, waste rates, and rework events; escalate recurring quality issues to the Production Manager.

Finishing & Material Handling

• Perform post-print finishing operations including lamination, contour cutting, and weeding as required for each decal design.
• Package finished decals according to job traveler instructions; label and stage completed orders for fulfillment or assembly.
• Handle all substrates with care to prevent scratches, contamination, or damage to the print surface.

Maintenance & Inventory

• Perform scheduled preventive maintenance on the HP 830 (head cleaning, capping station cleaning, belt and rail inspection) per manufacturer guidelines.
• Identify and report equipment malfunctions; coordinate with the maintenance team or HP service technician as needed.
• Monitor and track ink cartridge and media inventory; submit replenishment requests before stock reaches minimum levels.
• Maintain a clean, organized print station and dispose of waste materials in accordance with company and environmental policies.

File Preparation & Communication

• Review incoming art files for print-readiness (resolution, bleed, color mode) and perform basic preflight corrections using Adobe Illustrator or equivalent software.
• Communicate with the design and sales teams regarding file issues, lead times, or job-specific printing requirements.
• Maintain accurate production logs, recording job numbers, media usage, print times, and completion status.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED equivalent; technical or vocational training in printing, graphics, or a related field is a plus.
• Minimum 1–2 years of experience operating wide-format inkjet or digital printing equipment in a production environment.
• Working knowledge of print media types including vinyl, adhesive-backed substrates, and laminate films.
• Basic proficiency with RIP software and printer driver settings; experience with HP printing systems preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret job tickets, production schedules, and brand color specifications.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing defect-free output.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift media rolls up to 50 lbs.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience specifically with the HP 830 or similar HP Latex/Inkjet wide-format printer series.
• Familiarity with Adobe Illustrator for basic file preflight and minor artwork corrections.
• Background in decal, signage, vehicle wrap, or photo booth / amusement industry production.
• Experience operating a vinyl cutter or contour cutting system (e.g., Graphtec, Roland).