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Dtf Printing 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 Printing information

How to get into Dtf printing?

To get into DTF (Direct to Film) printing, gain knowledge of digital printing technology and familiarize yourself with DTF equipment and software. Developing skills in graphic design, understanding color management, and practicing with DTF printers can improve your proficiency and job prospects in this field.

What is the difference between Dtf Printing vs Screen Printing?

AspectDtf PrintingScreen Printing
Required CredentialsMinimal; basic training or certification often sufficientMore specialized; often requires training in screen preparation
Work EnvironmentIndoor, controlled environment; suitable for small to medium runsIndoor or outdoor; ideal for large volume production
Industry UsageUsed for custom, full-color designs on various fabricsCommon for bulk printing on textiles like t-shirts and posters

Both Dtf Printing and Screen Printing are popular methods in the textile industry. Dtf Printing is versatile for small to medium runs with vibrant, full-color designs, requiring minimal credentials. Screen Printing is more suitable for large-volume orders, with a focus on durability and cost-efficiency. Understanding these differences helps choose the right method for your printing needs.

What are some common challenges faced by DTF printing technicians, and how can they be addressed on the job?

DTF Printing technicians often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent print quality, managing printer maintenance, and troubleshooting ink flow or film feeding issues. Staying organized with regular cleaning schedules and monitoring environmental conditions like humidity can help prevent equipment problems. Collaborating closely with team members in pre-press and finishing departments also ensures that prints meet client specifications and deadlines. Proactively learning about new materials and printer updates can help technicians stay ahead in this fast-evolving field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DTF printing technician?

To thrive as a DTF Printing Technician, you need a solid understanding of printing processes, attention to detail, and experience with graphic design or digital imaging software. Familiarity with DTF printers, heat presses, RIP software, and routine maintenance or troubleshooting is essential, along with any manufacturer certifications. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to work efficiently under deadlines are important soft skills. These abilities ensure high-quality print output, minimize equipment downtime, and maintain client satisfaction in a competitive custom apparel market.

What is DTF printing?

DTF printing, or Direct to Film printing, is a textile printing method where designs are printed onto a special film and then transferred onto fabric using heat and pressure. This process allows for vibrant, full-color prints on a wide range of materials, including cotton, polyester, and blends. DTF printing is popular for its durability, flexibility, and ability to handle complex designs, including gradients and fine details. It's often used for custom apparel, like t-shirts and hoodies, and is favored for both small runs and bulk orders.
What are popular job titles related to Dtf Printing jobs in Tennessee? For Dtf Printing jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dtf Printing jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Dtf Printing jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Dtf Printing jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Dtf Printing job openings:
Infographic showing various Dtf Printing job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Production Working Lead

pens.com

Shelbyville, TN • On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 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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