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Lead Print Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Print Operator

Naugatuck, CT

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

Consult the Print Operator Lead before committing specialty or limited stock material to a run * Apply lean manufacturing principles (5S, waste reduction, efficient workflow) to daily production ...

Print Operator

Naugatuck, CT · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Consult the Print Operator Lead before committing specialty or limited stock material to a run * Apply lean manufacturing principles (5S, waste reduction, efficient workflow) to daily production ...

Print Operator

Naugatuck, CT · On-site

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

Consult the Print Operator Lead before committing specialty or limited stock material to a run * Apply lean manufacturing principles (5S, waste reduction, efficient workflow) to daily production ...

DIGITAL PRINT OPERATOR

Mc Cordsville, IN

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Strong understanding of print production and print-and-cut workflows * Experience operating vinyl ... Previous leadership or team lead experience What We Offer * Competitive pay based on experience

Print Operator - Part-time

Mattoon, IL

$16 - $19.25/hr

Demonstrated experience operating large format/industrial printing equipment, finishing tools and ... Excellent communication and leadership skills; ability to train, motivate, and lead others.

Print Operator - Part-time

Mattoon, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Demonstrated experience operating large format/industrial printing equipment, finishing tools and ... Excellent communication and leadership skills; ability to train, motivate, and lead others.

Print Operator - Part-time

Mattoon, IL · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Demonstrated experience operating large format/industrial printing equipment, finishing tools and ... Excellent communication and leadership skills; ability to train, motivate, and lead others.

Digital Print Operator

Lewis Center, OH · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Use our ERP system to log materials and troubleshoot equipment abnormalities before they lead to ... print. * Physical Agility: Comfortable standing for your shift and lifting up to 50 lbs.

Digital Print Operator

Lewis Center, OH

$16.25 - $21/hr

Use our ERP system to log materials and troubleshoot equipment abnormalities before they lead to ... print. * Physical Agility: Comfortable standing for your shift and lifting up to 50 lbs.

Digital Print Operator

Lewis Center, OH · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Use our ERP system to log materials and troubleshoot equipment abnormalities before they lead to ... print. * Physical Agility: Comfortable standing for your shift and lifting up to 50 lbs.

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Lead Print Operator information

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$15

$24

$35

How much do lead print operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead print operator in the United States is $24.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Lead Print Operators face when managing high-volume print jobs, and how are they typically addressed?

Lead Print Operators often encounter challenges such as machine malfunctions, tight deadlines, and ensuring consistent print quality during high-volume jobs. To address these, they must be skilled in troubleshooting equipment issues quickly, efficiently coordinating with their team, and implementing quality control checks throughout the process. Proactive maintenance, clear communication with production staff, and effective workflow management are key strategies for overcoming these hurdles and maintaining smooth operations.

What is the difference between Lead Print Operator vs Print Operator?

AspectLead Print OperatorPrint Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; experience in printing; sometimes certifications in printing technologyHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic training in printing equipment
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or print shop; supervises team; operates advanced printing machineryPrint shop or manufacturing; operates printing presses under supervision
ResponsibilitiesOversees printing processes, maintains equipment, trains staff, quality controlOperates printing presses, loads materials, performs routine maintenance

The Lead Print Operator typically has more experience, supervisory duties, and technical knowledge compared to a Print Operator. While both roles work in printing environments and require similar credentials, the Lead Print Operator manages workflows and staff, ensuring quality and efficiency, whereas the Print Operator focuses on operating printing equipment. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job listing.

What are the main responsibilities of a Lead Print Operator?

A Lead Print Operator oversees print production operations in a printing facility. They are responsible for setting up and operating printing machines, ensuring print jobs meet quality standards, and troubleshooting equipment issues. Additionally, they supervise and train print staff, manage workflow schedules, and ensure safety and maintenance protocols are followed. Their role is crucial for efficient and high-quality print production.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

In media, high-paying roles such as senior media executives, creative directors, or specialized technical roles like broadcast engineers can earn $150,000 or more annually. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes certifications, and they typically involve leadership or technical expertise in large organizations or production environments.

What does a print operator do?

A print operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining printing equipment to produce high-quality printed materials. They monitor the printing process, troubleshoot issues, and ensure that prints meet specifications, often using specialized software and tools. Attention to detail and knowledge of safety procedures are essential in this role.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

Lead print operators and other specialized machine operators in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, or pharmaceuticals tend to have higher salaries due to their technical skills and experience. Advanced certifications, familiarity with complex machinery, and working in high-demand sectors can also increase earning potential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Print Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Print Operator, you need expertise in print production processes, color management, and quality control, often supported by prior experience or vocational training in printing technology. Familiarity with digital and offset printing presses, finishing equipment, and workflow management software is typically required. Strong leadership, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills help ensure smooth operations and team coordination. These abilities are crucial for maintaining high print quality, meeting production deadlines, and optimizing efficiency in a printing environment.

How much does a print press operator make?

A print press operator typically earns between $35,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the printing equipment used. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in large-scale or specialized printing may earn higher wages.
More about Lead Print Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Lead Print Operator jobs? Cities with the most Lead Print Operator job openings:
What job categories do people searching Lead Print Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Print Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Lead Print Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,047 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Print Operator

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Who We Are


TWENTY2 is a female-led, high end private label wallpaper and textiles production company. We are a full service wallpaper and textiles partner, our design driven team provides development and manufacturing expertise for private label collections and custom projects. We put our knowledge to work for our partners; when they succeed, so do we.


We are hiring for a full-time, on site Print Operator to join our growing team.


Position Overview

The Print Operator is responsible for the hands-on production of wallpaper and textile orders, working independently to meet daily deadlines while maintaining TWENTY2's standard for print clarity, color accuracy, and craftsmanship. Beyond running the printers, the Operator owns the lean, efficient use of materials once they reach the floor, and the routine calibration and preventive care that keeps equipment running well between service visits. Print Operators are cross-trained across both wallpaper and textile lines, growing proficiency over time following the training curriculum.


Key Responsibilities Include:


Production Execution

  • Independently produce assigned orders across wallpaper and/or textile printers as trained, meeting deadlines
  • Set up printers for daily orders: correct material selection/preparation, ink loading and switching each morning
  • Prepare and accurately send production jobs to assigned printers using RIP software - settings, quantities, production notes, tape, core size, paperwork, and job status tracking
  • Remove completed orders and deliver to quality inspection, marking job status accurately and in real time within production software (e.g., ERP) to keep job visibility current for the company.


Quality & Consistency Awareness

  • Send and verify color match swatches; flag missing swatches to color matchers
  • Continuously inspect active print runs for clarity, color consistency, banding, fabric skewing, and ink coverage; immediately flag defects to the Lead.


Materials & Lean Efficiency

  • Own ink inventory management for assigned printers - predicting and monitoring usage, tracking levels, and triggering reorders before running low
  • Own strategic, lean use of ground material once pulled for production - efficient nesting, cutting, and job sequencing to minimize waste
  • Consult the Print Operator Lead before committing specialty or limited stock material to a run
  • Apply lean manufacturing principles (5S, waste reduction, efficient workflow) to daily production practices


Printer Calibration & Routine Preventive Maintenance

  • Perform routine printer calibration to maintain print and color accuracy
  • Perform basic preventive maintenance (e.g., carriage rod lubrication) as part of regular printer care
  • Monitor printer function throughout the day; flag any issue beyond routine care to the Printer Maintenance Specialist


Team Collaboration & Facility Care

  • Assist fellow operators with loading/unloading printers and end-of-day preparation across both lines
  • Maintain a clean, organized studio environment
  • Work overtime as needed; respond promptly to production-related requests
  • Assist peers with heavy roll loading/unloading, cross-train on new equipment, support broader team production goals, and provide backup support to the Finishing department (e.g., roll cutting, memo sample prep) as needed

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Wide format printing experience preferred
  • Experience with RIP software (e.g., Print Factory, Caldera, or similar) preferred
  • Experience with basic printer calibration and preventive maintenance
  • Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles (5S or similar)
  • Proficiency with Adobe Photoshop/Creative Suite a plus
  • Ability to lift 70 lbs with aid; able to use ladders and small equipment
  • Ability to learn proprietary software; strong organizational and prioritization skills
  • Comfortable in a deadline-driven, fast-paced environment; self-starting mentality
  • Able to work independently and as part of a team


Studies have shown that marginalized communities, such as women, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC, are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. Don't meet all the requirements listed? Please apply anyway if this role excites you and you are eager to learn. At TWENTY2, passion, dedication, and curiosity are the most important factors for success. Please ask about on-the-job training opportunities when applying.

At TWENTY2, our culture is grounded in collaboration, curiosity, and purpose. We value open communication, cross-functional teamwork, and a commitment to continuous innovation. Our team is united by a dedication to reliability, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility, with a shared focus on making a meaningful impact for our partners and our community.


TWENTY2 revolves around creativity, so we value engaging employees who enhance our company culture. If you would like to identify your creative type check out the Adobe quiz at mycreativetype.com. We would love to hear about your results!


Website: https://twenty2.net/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twenty2wallpaper/


BENEFITS:

Eligible for 17 days of paid time off

Paid holiday program

Medical/Dental/Vision benefits

401k