Ink Technician - Ariel Premium Supply

Ariel Premium Supply, Inc. is a leading supplier in the promotional products industry, committed to delivering high-quality, customized items that help our clients' brands stand out. We are currently seeking an experienced Ink Technician to join our Production Department, Prepress Prep Team, specializing in ink preparation, mainly for both pad printing and screen printing processes.

Job Summary:

The Ink Technician will be responsible for preparing and matching inks according to specific customer requirements and production needs, ensuring proper adhesion and maintaining the highest standards of color accuracy and consistency. This role is crucial in ensuring the quality and consistency of prints by accurately mixing ink colors, including PMS matches, and preparing adhesives method for use in the production of various promotional products. The ideal candidate will have a thorough understanding of color theory, experience in a similar role, and a meticulous approach to their work.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ink Mixing and Color Matching: Accurately mix and prepare inks based on specific Pantone Matching System (PMS) codes or client-provided specifications. Ensure that colors meet quality standards and production requirements.

• Adhesive Preparation: Prepare and adjust adhesives used in the printing processes to ensure optimal adherence and quality of the final printed products. Adjust the ink formula as needed to achieve optimal results.

• Quality Control: Perform regular checks to maintain ink quality and consistency throughout the printing process; conduct tests on ink viscosity, color match, drying times, and adhesion to ensure that all inks and adhesives meet the required standards before sending them to production. Address any issues related to ink behavior, such as color fidelity, drying time, and viscosity.

• Maintenance and Calibration: Maintain and calibrate color mix machines, inkjet printers, and other related equipment to ensure they are in good working order and capable of producing high-quality results.

• Inventory Management: Manage inventory of inks, pigments, and other supplies. Place orders and restock items as needed to avoid production delays.

• Record Keeping: Keep track of ink supplies, reorder materials as needed, and maintain a clean and organized work area to ensure efficiency and safety.

• Documentation: Maintain detailed records of ink formulas, adjustments made, and test results for future reference and continuous improvement. Ensure repeatability and consistency in future batches.

• Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with the prepress and printing teams to ensure that the ink preparations meet the technical requirements of the projects. Provide expert advice on ink options and troubleshooting.

• Compliance and Safety: Adhere to all company policies, health & safety standards, and environmental regulations to maintain a safe and clean work environment. Handle all materials according to their safety data sheets.

Qualifications:

• Education: High school diploma required; a degree or certification in Print Technology, Chemistry, or related field is preferred.

• Experience: Minimum of 1 year experience in ink mixing and color matching, preferably in the promotional products or printing industry.

• Skills:

• Strong understanding of color theory and experience in Pantone Matching System (PMS) and other color standard systems.

• Proficiency in using tools and equipment for mixing inks and preparing adhesives.

• Attention to detail and precision in color formulation and mixing.

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

• Excellent organizational and record-keeping skills.

• Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team.

• Certifications: Certification from a recognized printing or color management program is a plus.

• Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and safely handle chemicals and inks.

Ariel Premium Supply, Inc. is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages all qualified individuals to apply. We are an equal opportunity employer and value each person’s unique background, diversity, and experiences.