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Printmaking Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Print Operations Supervisor will work closely with production department leadership teams to ensure production schedules are met. He/she will also be expected to build and execute technical ...

The Print Operations Supervisor will work closely with production department leadership teams to ensure production schedules are met. He/she will also be expected to build and execute technical ...

Print Production Associate

Naperville, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

The Print Production Associate operates the Center's print center for both graphic design and production. He or she will work with customers to create, schedule, and produce their print products. The ...

Whether you're an experienced screen print operator or looking to start a new career in manufacturing, we provide the training and support to help you succeed. Position Summary: Club Colors is ...

Whether you're an experienced screen print operator or looking to start a new career in manufacturing, we provide the training and support to help you succeed. Position Summary: Club Colors is ...

Whether you're an experienced screen print operator or looking to start a new career in manufacturing, we provide the training and support to help you succeed. Position Summary: Club Colors is ...

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Print Production Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Leading full service printing and converting plant in central FL is searching to hire an experienced Printing Production Manager. Responsibilities include: * Lead, guide, and direct employees to meet ...

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Printmaking information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do printmaking jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for printmaking in Chicago, IL is $16.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $17.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is printmaking?

Printmaking is an artistic process that involves transferring images from a matrix, such as a woodblock, metal plate, or screen, onto another surface, usually paper or fabric. The process allows artists to create multiple originals of a single image, known as prints, each considered an original work of art. There are various printmaking techniques, including relief, intaglio, lithography, and screen printing, each offering unique possibilities for artistic expression. Printmakers often experiment with color, texture, and layering to achieve diverse effects in their work.

What are printmaking jobs?

Printmaking jobs focus on working to create prints using a variety of techniques that transpose an image onto a surface. As a printmaker, you may work with woodblock prints, silk screening, digital printmaking programs, lithography, etching, or engraving. Your duties could focus on creating fine art prints, commercial art, t-shirts, or other types of art and media. You can find most jobs in a printing studio, but once you have experience, you can also teach a printmaking class as part of an art program at a college or university.

What are some common challenges printmakers face when working on collaborative projects?

Printmakers often collaborate with artists, designers, and other creatives, which can present challenges such as aligning on artistic vision, managing shared studio resources, and coordinating production timelines. Effective communication is key to ensuring everyone’s ideas are respected and integrated into the final piece. Additionally, printmakers must be adaptable in their techniques to accommodate various styles and materials, making collaboration both rewarding and complex.

What is the difference between Printmaking vs Graphic Designer?

AspectPrintmakingGraphic Designer
CredentialsArt or Fine Arts degree, specialized printmaking certificationsDesign or Visual Arts degree, graphic design certifications
Work EnvironmentArt studios, print shops, galleriesOffices, advertising agencies, digital studios
Industry UsageFine arts, limited commercial useAdvertising, branding, digital media

Printmaking involves creating artworks through various print techniques, often in art-focused environments. Graphic designers focus on visual communication for commercial purposes, working primarily in digital and print media. While both require artistic skills, printmaking emphasizes traditional craft, whereas graphic design centers on digital tools and branding.

Are printmaking jobs in demand?

Printmaking jobs are generally considered niche within the arts and design industries, with demand influenced by the popularity of traditional and fine art printing. Opportunities may be limited compared to other creative fields, but skilled printmakers with technical expertise and knowledge of printing techniques can find roles in galleries, studios, and educational institutions. Job growth is steady but competitive, often requiring a strong portfolio and specialized skills.

Do printmakers make money?

Printmakers can earn income through selling their artwork, commissions, teaching, or licensing their prints. Earnings vary widely based on experience, skill level, reputation, and market demand, with some earning a full-time income and others supplementing income through part-time work or side projects.

What do printmakers make?

Printmakers create artworks by transferring ink from a prepared surface to paper or other materials using techniques such as relief, intaglio, lithography, or screen printing. They produce prints, editions, and original artworks, often working with specialized tools and inks in studios or workshops.

What qualifications do you need to be a printmaker?

Printmakers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or a degree in fine arts, printmaking, or a related field. Skills in drawing, design, and familiarity with printmaking techniques and tools are essential, and some positions may require a portfolio demonstrating previous work.

What are the most commonly searched types of Printmaking jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Printmaking jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Printmaking jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Printmaking jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Printmaking job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $34,516 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Print Operations Supervisor

PlanetArt

Woodridge, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Company and Vision  

PlanetArt's vision is to be the leading seller of personalized and make-on-demand products worldwide. We provide consumers with unmatched tools and content and an unparalleled end-to-end customer experience that result in high-quality, meaningful finished products and memorable celebrations of live events.
The company's brands include the popular FreePrints and FreePrints Photobooks apps and the industry leading SimplytoImpress card and stationery site, as well as Personal Creations, CafePress and ISeeMe! Visit www.planetart.com to learn more about our brands.
We have more than 500 team members across multiple offices, primarily in Calabasas CA, San Diego CA, Woodridge IL, Minneapolis, MN and Pleasanton, CA. We also have team members in two company-owned offices in China, as well as in Europe.

Job Overview
 
As a member of the PlanetArt team, reporting directly to the Director of Print Operations, the Print Operations Supervisor will be responsible for optimizing workflow, meeting print deadlines, technical training, and supporting the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of multiple professional printing technologies. This is a hands-on position that requires the ability to adjust print schedules on the fly as well as trouble-shoot and repair equipment issues.  The Print Operations Supervisor will work closely with production department leadership teams to ensure production schedules are met.  He/she will also be expected to build and execute technical training programs for the print equipment under your care.  

Schedule:

Full-time, Monday through Friday 3:00 am - 11:30 am. Mandatory 10- and 12-hour days, including weekend hours, during all peak periods. Transfer to 2nd shift may be required during peak periods.

What You'll Do
Key Responsibilities
 

  • Responsible for assisting the Director of Print Operations with the management of production, quality, personnel, and departmental issues in your area
  • Work with the Director to plan production capacity and staffing levels; help schedule personnel and other resources appropriately to efficiently execute the production plan
  • Develop a functional cross-trained team for the departments under your supervision
  • Ensure departmental goals in Safety, Quality, Cost, Inventory accuracy and people development are met
  • Analyze workflow and recommend improvement to maximize the efficiency of the operation
  • Multitask between multiple wide format printer platforms
  • Think critically and solve mechanical or software problems with equipment that may be malfunctioning
  • Operate and troubleshoot printing equipment, with remote assistance from manufacturer or service manager if needed
  • Perform daily cleaning and maintenance of equipment and maintain regular scheduled maintenance
  • Work closely with department managers to ensure appropriate equipment settings are established and maintained
  • Develop technical training materials, including manuals, quick reference guides, visual aids, etc. to help support day-to-day operations
  • Train department operators about equipment use, maintenance and care
  • Work with print technicians and department managers to ensure production equipment is running properly
  • Support first level triage for print operator questions and/or concerns related to equipment
  • Maintain a safe and clean work environment by keeping the work area neat and complying with safety procedures, rules, and regulations
  • Perform ongoing visual inspection of final production prints to maintain quality assurance
  • Troubleshoot print quality issues called out by production or customer service
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

What You Should Have
Skills, Qualifications, and Requirements
 

  • High school or vocational/technical school diploma or certificate
  • Minimum of 3-5 years of hands-on wide-format print production experience, with at least 1-3 years in a leadership or shift supervisor role
  • Serves as the sole point of accountability for all machine maintenance, repairs, and preventative upkeep, coordinating activities with external service vendors as required.
  • Experience running dye sublimation, solvent, latex, and DTF print jobs
  • 3 years of Adobe Creative experience is preferred
  • An understanding of print head technology
  • Thorough understanding of large format substrates, printing processes, materials, etc.
  • Possess knowledge of Photoshop and Illustrator (further Adobe CC a plus), and RIP software a plus
  • The ability to manage time and workflow efficiently and be an exceptional communicator
  • Ability to work with a variety of internal departments including, but not limited to: IT, Quality Control, Human Resources, Merchandising and Marketing
  • Demonstrates strong leadership to build and maintain an effective team.
  • Can distinguish colors and inspect materials
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Extreme attention to detail
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and multi-task quickly and effectively
  • Must genuinely enjoy organizing, planning, and thinking quickly in a fast paced, demanding environment
  • Thorough knowledge of Microsoft Office
  • Must have the ability to work weekends, holidays, extended hours and 2nd shift as needed
  • Bi-lingual Spanish/English preferred but not required

What You Can Expect
Working Conditions 

  • Work is performed in a warehouse environment with exposure to the following: heavy machinery, dust, noise.
  • Position requires frequent and sustained walking and/or standing for prolonged periods of time.
  • Position requires regular lifting of up to 60 pounds and repetitive activities including but not limited to pulling, pushing grabbing and hand motions.

Benefits

The compensation range for this position is $22 - $28 hourly rate.

PlanetArt offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:  

  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance 
  • 401(k) with matching 
  • Pet Insurance 
  • Mental Health Benefits
  • Comprehensive Time Off Program, including Vacation, Sick Days, Paid Holidays, and Floating Holidays 
  • Employee Product Discounts