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Dtf Printer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Production Working Lead

Shelbyville, TN · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

The Working Lead Hand plays a critical role in overseeing and actively participating in daily production operations across multiple printing and decoration processes including Inkjet, Drinkware, DTF ...

Production Working Lead

Shelbyville, TN · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

The Working Lead Hand plays a critical role in overseeing and actively participating in daily production operations across multiple printing and decoration processes including Inkjet, Drinkware, DTF ...

Dtf Printer information

What is a DTF printer?

A DTF (Direct-to-Film) Printer job involves operating specialized printing equipment to transfer designs onto fabrics and other materials. Responsibilities include preparing artwork, maintaining and troubleshooting printers, applying adhesive powder, and heat pressing designs onto various surfaces. This role requires attention to detail, familiarity with printing software, and knowledge of color management. DTF printing is commonly used for creating custom apparel, promotional products, and textile branding.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a DTF printer?

As a DTF Printer, your day-to-day tasks often include preparing digital artwork, operating DTF printing machines, performing routine maintenance, and inspecting finished products for quality assurance. You'll also manage print media and supplies, troubleshoot any print errors, and coordinate closely with designers and production staff to meet order specifications and deadlines. Accuracy and consistency are critical, as you'll frequently handle multiple custom jobs for clients. This role provides hands-on experience with emerging print technology and offers valuable opportunities to develop both technical and collaborative skills within a fast-paced production environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the DTF printer position, and why are they important?

Excelling as a DTF Printer requires solid knowledge of direct-to-film printing processes, attention to detail, and familiarity with digital design software such as Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. Technical proficiency with DTF printers and heat press machines, along with any relevant certifications in graphic production or printing technology, are highly valuable. Strong problem-solving skills, reliability, and effective time management distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring high-quality print output, minimizing errors, and efficiently completing custom orders as part of a production team.

How much can I make with a Dtf printer?

A DTF (Direct to Film) printer operator can earn between $25,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and whether they work freelance or for a company. Skilled operators with knowledge of design software and printing techniques may earn higher wages, especially with additional certifications or specialized skills.

How to get into Dtf printing?

To get into DTF printing as a profession, gain knowledge of digital printing technology and familiarize yourself with DTF printers, inks, and films. Developing skills in graphic design and understanding color management can also be beneficial. Entry often involves hands-on training or technical courses related to digital printing equipment.

Is owning a Dtf Printer worth it?

A DTF (Direct-to-Film) printer is a specialized tool used in textile printing, often by print shop operators or entrepreneurs. Owning one can be cost-effective for small businesses with high-volume printing needs, but it requires technical skills for maintenance and operation. The decision depends on the scale of production and the ability to manage the equipment efficiently.

What can you make with a Dtf printer?

A DTF (Direct to Film) printer is used to create custom printed designs on transfer films, which can then be applied to fabrics such as t-shirts, hoodies, and other apparel. It allows for high-quality, full-color, durable prints suitable for clothing, accessories, and promotional items. Skills in digital printing and familiarity with heat transfer processes are important for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Dtf Printer jobs in Tennessee?

For Dtf Printer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Dtf Printer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Dtf Printer job openings:

Infographic showing various Dtf Printer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Production Working Lead

pens.com

Shelbyville, TN • On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Production Working Lead Location: Shelbyville, Tennessee 

Overview of Role:  

The Working Lead Hand plays a critical role in overseeing and actively participating in daily production operations across multiple printing and decoration processes including Inkjet, Drinkware, DTF, Silkscreen, Pad Print, and Laser Printing. This hands-on leadership position ensures production targets are met while maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and efficiency. The Lead Hand is accountable for production turnaround time (TAT), quality metrics, and scrap management within their area. They will guide and support production staff, troubleshoot equipment and process issues, and coordinate workflow to consistently meet deadlines and performance expectations.

What you will do:

  • Lead, motivate, and support a team of production operators across various printing processes.
  • Take ownership for delivering on production TAT, quality performance, and scrap reduction targets for your area.
  • Assign tasks and monitor team performance to ensure production schedules and customer deadlines are met.
  • Provide hands-on training, coaching, and mentorship to new and existing team members.
  • Act as the first point of contact for operational issues, ensuring quick resolution or escalation when necessary.
  • Operate and oversee equipment within your designated area.
  • Ensure proper setup, calibration, and preventative maintenance of machinery.
  • Monitor production output for quality, consistency, and efficiency.
  • Conduct in-process and final inspections to ensure product quality meets specifications.
  • Record, track, and report production performance, quality metrics, downtime, and scrap.
  • Ensure compliance with health, safety, and company policies at all times.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives, contributing ideas and supporting process enhancements.
  • Coordinate material usage and availability to prevent delays.
  • Assist with inventory counts, material handling, and ensure correct labelling/storage of inks, films, substrates, and consumables.
  •  

What we need from you:

  • Previous experience desirable in a manufacturing or printing environment. 
  • Hands-on experience with at least two of the following: Inkjet, DTF, Silkscreen, Pad Print, Laser, or Drinkware decoration. 
  • Strong leadership and communication skills. 
  • Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.

Work Environment:This job works in a manufacturing environment, using various manufacturing equipment. 

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform the essential functions of this job. 

While performing the duties of this job the employee is required to stand for the entire shift, as well as the ability to bend, twist, push, pull, grasp, The employee is regularly required to speak or hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 

About National Pen

With 60 years of experience and serving 22 countries worldwide, National Pen brands offer more value and simplicity to customers and distributor partners. National Pen's flagship direct-to-business brand is Pens.com, and the company operates via a network of more than 10 facilities across North America, Europe, Africa, Australia and Asia. 

To learn more, visit: www.PENS.com 

National Pen is a Cimpress brand (Nasdaq: CMPR).

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