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Ink Lab Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maintain color control program in the ink lab and on pressroom floor. * Check schedule and print ... Work with Supervisor/Manager to define and resolve problems, as well as recommend improvement ...

Maintain color control program in the ink lab and on pressroom floor. * Check schedule and print ... Work with Supervisor/Manager to define and resolve problems, as well as recommend improvement ...

Hubergroup USA INC ., Chino, CA , A leading global supplier of printing inks, coatings, and related products, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lab Manager, from the printing ink industry.

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Ink Lab Manager information

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$32.5K

$92K

$149K

How much do ink lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for ink lab manager in the United States is $91,960.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an ink lab manager do?

An Ink Lab Manager oversees the daily operations of an ink laboratory, ensuring the consistent quality and formulation of inks used in printing or manufacturing. They manage a team of technicians, coordinate research and development of new ink products, and maintain compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Additionally, Ink Lab Managers work closely with production and quality control departments to resolve technical issues and optimize processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ink lab manager?

To thrive as an Ink Lab Manager, you need a solid background in chemistry or chemical engineering, experience with ink formulation, and a relevant degree or certifications in the field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, color matching software, quality control systems, and safety protocols is essential. Strong leadership, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing teams and collaborating with production and R&D departments. Mastery of these skills ensures consistent ink quality, regulatory compliance, and efficient lab operations in a competitive manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by ink lab managers, and how can they be addressed?

Ink Lab Managers often encounter challenges such as ensuring consistent ink quality across batches, managing tight production deadlines, and troubleshooting formulation issues. To address these, it's important to implement robust quality control procedures, maintain up-to-date documentation, and foster strong communication with production and R&D teams. Staying proactive about equipment maintenance and investing in ongoing staff training can also help reduce errors and improve efficiency in the lab environment.

What is the difference between Ink Lab Manager vs Ink Technician?

AspectInk Lab ManagerInk Technician
CredentialsRelevant certifications in printing or chemistry, management experienceTechnical training or certification in printing or ink formulation
Work EnvironmentLaboratory or production facility overseeing operationsProduction floor or laboratory performing ink mixing and testing
Employer & IndustryPrinting companies, ink manufacturers, labsPrinting shops, ink production facilities

The Ink Lab Manager typically oversees the entire ink development process, managing staff and ensuring quality standards, while the Ink Technician focuses on preparing, testing, and analyzing ink samples. Both roles require technical knowledge, but the manager has broader responsibilities including supervision and process oversight.

Is ink lab manager a stressful job?

The ink lab manager role can be stressful due to responsibilities such as overseeing production quality, managing staff, and meeting deadlines. The level of stress often depends on workload, team dynamics, and the complexity of projects involved. Strong organizational and communication skills can help mitigate stress in this position.

What are popular job titles related to Ink Lab Manager jobs?

For Ink Lab Manager jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Ink Lab Manager job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,960 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Technician - Ink Room (2nd Shift)

Huntley, IL โ€ข On-site

Ampac Holdings, LLC
1 - 5K employees

$22 - $28/hr

Other

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

The Ink Technician is responsible for mixing and staging inks, performing color match and tracking inks in inventory. On site training will be provided.

2nd Shift Monday-Thursday 3:00 pm - 1:00 am & Friday 1:00 pm - 9:00 pm
$22-$28 per hour based on experience

These are intended only as illustration of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Primary tasks and responsibilities:

  • Upholds all ethical standards associated with safety, quality and food safety policies and procedures within the facility
  • Complies with all the standards that are followed in the Huntley plant, including, but not limited to-Health, Safety, Wellness (HSW), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Safe Quality Food (SQF), Continuous Improvement (CI) and any other processes established within the Huntley plant.
  • Responsible for reporting all safety, quality, and food safety problems to personnel with authority to initiate action.
  • Performs other duties as requested or assigned.

Specific Duties:

  • Maintain color control program in the ink lab and on pressroom floor. 
  • Check schedule and print jobs to make/stage the required inks for specific jobs.  Moves ink into and out of inventory storage via physical lifting and/or utilizing lift assist devices and forklift operation. 
  • Tests samples of the printed film for color matches.  
  • Makes additions to inks as needed to adjust the color.
  • Keeps track of color match data, work off ink data and press return data in appropriate log. 
  •  Formulate pantone/custom colors.
  • Clean/wash and empty 5-gallon buckets of ink.
  • Follow safety guidelines, wear designated Personal Protective Equipment, and meet OSHA safety requirements.

Expectations:

  • Performs responsibilities to expected outcomes.
  • Communicates openly, truthfully, and compassionately with respect for individual differences.
  • Identify issues and problems within manufacturing and quality processes. Work with Supervisor/Manager to define and resolve problems, as well as recommend improvement processes.
  • Maintains a neat and orderly work area.

Working Conditions:

  • This job operates in a professional office and manufacturing environment.
  • While performing duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, and occasionally lift office products up to 50 pounds.
  • This position may have minimal exposure to hazards such as dust, high noise levels, solvent fumes and medium heat on the production floor.
  • Able to lift up to 50 pounds with no assistance.
  • Able to stand for shift in safety shoes.
  • Able to grip with one or both hands.
  • Flexibility in working hours.

Education / professional background

  • High School Diploma or equivalent

Professional competencies

  • Basic Math Skills. 
  • Prior experience in printing industry a plus.
  • Ability to use Microsoft Excel and other tracking software. 
  • Ability to read and write in English. 
  • Ability to pass color test. 
  • Ability to work around strong odors as the ink is water based. 
  • Motivated and self-directed with good teamwork skills.