What are the responsibilities and job description for the Screen Print Operator position at Spacecraft Product Lab LLC?
Overview
The Screen Print Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining automatic and manual screen printing presses while consistently producing high-quality decorated apparel. This position plays a critical role in ensuring every order meets customer specifications for print quality, color accuracy, registration, and production deadlines.
Description
The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, mechanically inclined, and thrives in a fast-paced production environment where quality and efficiency are equally important.
Key Responsibilities
Screen Printing Operations
- Set up and operate automatic and manual screen printing presses.
- Review work orders and verify garment styles, ink colors, artwork, and print placement before production.
- Achieve accurate registration and maintain print consistency throughout production runs.
- Monitor print quality continuously and make adjustments as needed.
- Produce work that meets SPL quality standards while maintaining production goals.
- Minimize waste through careful setup and efficient production practices.
Equipment & Maintenance
- Perform daily startup and shutdown procedures.
- Clean and maintain presses, squeegees, flood bars, platens, and related equipment.
- Assist with preventative maintenance and identify equipment issues before they impact production.
- Report maintenance needs promptly.
Quality Control
- Inspect garments throughout each production run.
- Verify color consistency, registration, curing, and overall print quality.
- Remove defective garments before they move to the next production stage.
- Maintain accurate production counts and documentation.
Production Support
- Work closely with Prepress, Ink Mixing, Embroidery, Sewing, and Shipping departments to keep production flowing efficiently.
- Help prioritize rush orders and schedule changes.
- Assist with loading, unloading, and staging garments when necessary.
- Cross-train in other production areas as business needs require.
Safety & Organization
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
- Follow all safety procedures regarding machinery, chemicals, and inks.
- Wear required PPE when appropriate.
- Help maintain an organized production floor following 5S and Lean Manufacturing principles.
Qualifications Required
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- 2 years operating automatic or manual screen printing presses.
- Experience printing plastisol and/or water-based inks.
- Strong understanding of screen registration, ink deposits, curing, and garment handling.
- Ability to identify and troubleshoot common print quality issues.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and work in a production environment.
Preferred
- Experience with M&R automatic presses (Sportsman, Challenger, etc.).
- Experience with automatic dryers and flash units.
- Basic screen reclaim and setup knowledge.
- Experience working in high-volume contract decorating.
- Familiarity with production tracking systems and Lean Manufacturing practices. Similar high-volume apparel decorators emphasize operators who can maintain quality while meeting production targets and collaborating across departments.
Core Competencies
- Attention to Detail
- Mechanical Aptitude
- Quality Focus
- Time Management
- Teamwork
- Problem Solving
- Reliability
- Adaptability
- Accountability
- Continuous Improvement Mindset
Physical Requirements
- Stand and walk for extended periods.
- Frequently lift and move garments, screens, and supplies up to 50 lbs.
- Perform repetitive motions throughout the workday.
- Work in a manufacturing environment with heat, noise, inks, and production equipment.
Pay: $20.00 - $26.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
Salary : $20 - $26