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Printing Ink Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Kelly Services is now hiring Machine Operator Associates for a leading printing ink manufacturer in Carol Stream, IL. In this role, you'll support Mill Operators by helping process raw materials ...

Art Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$124K - $130K/yr

About Campus Ink: Rooted in education, Campus Ink is a leading collegiate apparel company ... Preferred in screen printing, embroidery and digital decoration technique. * 5+ years of experience ...

Art Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$124K - $130K/yr

About Campus Ink: Rooted in education, Campus Ink is a leading collegiate apparel company ... Preferred in screen printing, embroidery and digital decoration technique. * 5+ years of experience ...

Art Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$124K - $130K/yr

About Campus Ink: Rooted in education, Campus Ink is a leading collegiate apparel company ... Preferred in screen printing, embroidery and digital decoration technique. * 5+ years of experience ...

Showing results 21-40

Printing Ink information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do printing ink jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for printing ink in Chicago, IL is $17.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are printing inks?

Printing inks are colored liquids or pastes used in various printing processes to transfer images, text, or designs onto surfaces such as paper, fabric, plastic, or metal. They are composed of pigments or dyes, binders, solvents, and additives, each serving a specific purpose in achieving the desired print quality and durability. Different types of printing, such as offset, flexography, gravure, and digital printing, require specific ink formulations to ensure compatibility and optimal results. The choice of ink depends on factors like substrate, print method, and end-use requirements. Printing inks play a critical role in industries ranging from publishing and packaging to textiles and product labeling.

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

To thrive as a Printing Ink Technician, you need a solid understanding of ink formulation, color matching, and chemical handling, typically supported by a high school diploma or relevant technical training. Experience with ink mixing machinery, spectrophotometers, and quality control systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong communication skills help technicians effectively collaborate with press operators and maintain product quality. These skills ensure consistent ink performance, minimize production errors, and support efficient printing operations.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in printing ink production or formulation roles?

Professionals in printing ink production often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent ink quality across batches, adapting formulations to meet specific client or substrate requirements, and troubleshooting issues like color variation or drying times. Additionally, staying updated on regulatory standards for safety and environmental compliance is crucial. Collaborating closely with R&D, quality control, and manufacturing teams is common, requiring strong communication and problem-solving skills.

What is the difference between Printing Ink vs Printing Press Operator?

AspectPrinting InkPrinting Press Operator
Primary RoleManufacturing and formulation of inks used in printing processesOperating and maintaining printing presses to produce printed materials
Required SkillsChemical knowledge, formulation skills, quality controlMachine operation, troubleshooting, precision printing
Work EnvironmentFactories, laboratoriesPrint shops, manufacturing plants
Industry UsagePrinting, packaging, publishingCommercial printing, newspapers, packaging

Printing Ink professionals focus on creating and testing inks, while Printing Press Operators handle the operation of printing machinery. Both roles are essential in the printing industry but differ in responsibilities and skill sets.

What are popular job titles related to Printing Ink jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Printing Ink jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Printing Ink job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,239 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Mill Operator (1st Shift)

INX International Ink Co.

West Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Company Description

In a world of vibrant color, INX stands out by blending art, science, and sustainability into every drop of ink we make.  We’re globally recognized for our innovation, and we’re A Great Place to Work-Certified™ company!

INX International is the third largest producer of inks in North America with full-service subsidiaries in Europe and South America. We offer a complete line of ink and coating solutions technology for commercial, packaging and digital applications. We expertly blend pioneering technology with a deep commitment to the environment. Dedicated to coloring a safe and sustainable future one print at a time, you can see our color chemistry on beverage cans, food and household packaging, clothing, banners, billboards and more. 

Investing in and protecting our employees is the key to our success.  Our average employee has been with us 12 years, and we recognize the significant experience and the continuous dedication of our team members. 

We’re actively seeking new talent with new ideas as we continue to provide sustainable products, service and innovation to the printing and packaging markets.

Join us in coloring a safe and sustainable future!

Job Description

This role offers a range of $21.00 to $24.00 per hour. Actual compensation will be based on qualifications such as experience, education, certifications, and skills, as well as geographic considerations.

INX-West Chicago is seeking to fill an opening for “Ink Technician - Mill Operators” to manufacture high-quality printing ink. This a first shift position with working hours from 6:00am-2:30pmWe will train the right candidate in the safe operation of all necessary equipment as well as how to engage in TPM activities. As a Mill Operator you will be responsible for:

  • Demonstrating safe and effective operation of milling equipment

  • Handling production support equipment: press out units, pump filter equipment, and forklifts

  • Handling packaging and labeling of product into various containers

  • Cleaning and maintain equipment to TPM Standards

  • Getting involved in active project and work with team in TPM activities

Qualifications

To perform your job as expected, you will be required to:

  • Work with R&D and Production Managers and use quantitative and qualitative research skills to assess new product success outcome and make recommendations for process improvements
  • Have a High school diploma or (GED) desired; or 1-3 months related experience
  • Possess good math and basic computer skills
  • Have attention to detail
  • Be reliable to work assigned shift
  • Be flexible to work overtime as required
  • Work side-by-side with the scheduling team, Quality Coordinator, and Preventative Maintenance team. Able to ensure that all products and services contribute to sustainability and greater good of the company
  • Demonstrate exceptional attendance
  • Be able to lift up to 50 lbs. as required

In addition to these qualifications, we will consider as a plus if you have:

  • Previous experience within the Ink Industry
  • Mill, and Pump filter industry background
  • Two or more years of related manufacturing experience
  • A strong Autonomous Maintenance (AM) background
  • Forklift experience

Additional Information

We offer a competitive salary with excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, pet insurance, HSA and FSA, 401(k), and more. Through our programs, which now include Paid Volunteer Time Off and Paid Parental Leave, we support the needs of our employees, their dependents, and their communities by providing a benefit package that is easy to understand, easy to access, and affordable for all our employees.

Don’t just choose a job; choose a career that emphasizes employee growth in a safe, environmentally conscious culture.   Embark on your Colorful Career with us!

We require post-offer, pre-employment drug screens, physicals, and background checks.

Equal Opportunity Employer: disability/veteran.