Print Production Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Graphics Department Manager leads Tractor Vision's graphics production operation from job intake through final installation. This role owns the full production lifecycle — material specification, print production, quality control, crew coordination, and on-site installation — while managing department budgets, timelines, and staff. The Graphics Department Manager works closely with Project Managers and Management to ensure every job meets client expectations, brand standards, and profit margin targets, and serves as the technical authority translating design intent into producible, installable work.

Key Responsibilities:

Production & Technical Oversight

• Produce and manage print proofs, and support Project Managers in securing client sign-off on all produced proofs.
• Specify appropriate materials for each requested print or install, and source specialty materials and supplies as jobs require.
• Consult with Project Managers on the best materials and methods to achieve the desired final look and durability.
• Read and translate technical designs and specs into clear, actionable production instructions for the crew.
• Demonstrate detailed quality control and oversight across all projects to meet or exceed client expectations.

Project & Timeline Management

• Determine and/or assist Management in developing project timelines, and clearly communicate deliverables to clients and internal teams.
• Oversee and coordinate installation through to completion of each project — including strike, reconciliation, final invoicing, and post-mortem review with Management.
• Keep clients and crew updated on job progress; over-communicate and document all changes from initial job confirmation through completion.
• Maintain tight control over approved change orders, ensuring client approval is documented and changes are communicated to all internal and external parties.

Budget & Department Management

• Manage and maintain strict cost control on all project budgets to hit target profit margins.
• Organize and maintain project information and documentation in accordance with company protocol.
• Supervise, coach, and schedule graphics production staff to ensure adequate coverage and consistent output quality.
• Ensure high-quality output that aligns with project specs and timelines
• Ensure all machines are running safely, efficiently, and on schedule
• Maintain and enforce shop safety protocols and best practices
• Coordinate department workloads and prioritize tasks across multiple projects
• Work to prevent burnout and coordinate off days during slow periods

Communication & Professionalism

• Utilize company communication tools for internal and external coordination.
• Read, process, and respond to inbound communication from prospective and current clients, routing correspondence to the appropriate recipient.
• Respect the confidentiality of client, vendor, and employee relationships. Conduct inconsistent with the Company Mission will not be tolerated.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Workflow & Scheduling

• Attend Fab and PM meetings to understand upcoming logistics and schedule needs
• Collaborate with Operations and Project Managers to plan and manage job schedules
• Review cut files and technical drawings for accuracy and compatibility
• Track project progress and troubleshoot any delays or technical challenges
• Optimize workflow for machine time, material use, and labor efficiency
• Produce proofs and send to client or Project Manager for approval before prints
• Print samples when relevant

Maintenance & Technical Oversight

• Manage maintenance schedules for all graphic equipment
• Order replacement parts, materials, and consumables
• Oversee troubleshooting, repair, and calibration of tools as needed
• Ensure that all files and machine outputs follow standard naming and formatting conventions
• Train new hires and apprentices in technical tools and workflows
• Provide guidance and feedback to team members to foster growth and accountability
• Maintain a positive, proactive, and collaborative team culture

Support for Fabrication Teams

• Work with shop leads to identify and resolve facility issues that impact workflow
• Help manage shared equipment usage and scheduling

Safety Compliance

• Uphold and enforce strict safety standards and OSHA regulations on all projects.
• Ensure all team members are using proper PPE and following safe work practices.

Cross-Disciplinary Support

• Step in where needed to assist other teams or departments when asked by Foreman, Managers or Lead. This would be asked when necessary to ensure the job is completed on-time and/or to clients satisfaction.
• Other duties may be assigned that include, but are not limited to: sanding, painting, moving props, loading trucks, etc.
• Represent Tractor Vision’s quality standards and creative intent in every phase of the build
• Participate in on-site installations, ensuring that all fabricated elements are installed properly and securely.
• Collaborate with team members to adapt to site conditions and solve unforeseen challenges quickly and effectively.
• Travel when necessary.
• Support other teams as needed / as directed by Project Manager and Project Lead. Always keeping in mind the Make-It-Happen attitude.

• 5+ years of experience in graphics, print, or sign production, with prior experience leading or managing a team.
• Strong working knowledge of print materials, substrates, and specialty supplies used in wide-format, vehicle, or environmental graphics.
• Ability to read and interpret technical design files and specs, and translate them into production-ready instructions.
• Proven track record managing project timelines and budgets while maintaining profit margin targets.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to manage client relationships and expectations under deadline pressure.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with experience maintaining documentation per company protocol.
• Proficiency with Google Suite, Slack, and time/project management tools.
• Willingness and ability to oversee on-site installations, including some travel and non-standard hours as project timelines require.
• Ability to visit production floors and job sites, including standing, walking, and occasional lifting (up to 50 lbs).
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with preventative maintenance and machine troubleshooting
• Experience in event production, scenic fabrication, or themed environments
• Spanish-speaking

Experience:

• management: 3 years (Preferred)
• vinyl application: 5 years (Preferred)
• plotter maintenance : 5 years (Preferred)

We consider our employees to be our most valued asset. We offer a casual and creative environment, competitive compensation and benefits. Benefits include company sponsored Medical, Dental and Vision options, PTO, Paid Holidays, Sick Pay and 401K*.

*All benefits are in accordance with company policy and minimums in length of employment.