Screenprint Operator (Tshirt Printer)

The JOY FM; North Augusta (SC); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

The JOY FM is seeking a dependable Screen Print Press Operator / Production Assistant to join our production team in South Augusta. This hands-on role involves operating screen-printing equipment as well as supporting prepress, setup, and cleanup to keep jobs moving efficiently.

You will load screens, inks, and garments, monitor print quality, adjust color and placement, and help with routine maintenance. We value reliability, mechanical ability, and a team attitude to meet production goals.

Qualifications

• Previous screen-printing experience preferred, especially operating an automatic press.
• Strong mechanical ability and production experience.
• Willing to learn multiple areas of the screen-print process.
• Good organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 40–50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate automatic and/or manual screen-printing presses.
• Review work orders and job specifications before production.
• Load screens, inks, squeegees, flood bars, and garments per job.
• Register multicolor designs accurately and adjust as needed.
• Monitor print quality and adjust for color, placement, and ink coverage.
• Understand flash and dryer settings for different garments.
• Troubleshoot common printing and press-related issues.
• Maintain production speed and ensure quality standards.
• Perform routine cleaning and basic maintenance of presses.

Skills

Mechanical ability

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Dependable

Willing to learn

Job description

Description

Screen Print Press Operator / Production Assistant. We are looking for a dependable, detail-oriented Screen Print Press Operator / Production Assistant to join our production team. This is a hands‑on position responsible for operating screen‑printing equipment while also assisting with all aspects of screen‑print prepress, production setup, and cleanup. The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, works well in a fast‑paced production environment, and is willing to jump in wherever needed to keep jobs moving efficiently and accurately.

Primary Responsibilities

• Screen Printing & Press Operation: Set up and operate automatic and/or manual screen‑printing presses.
• Review work orders and job specifications before beginning production.
• Properly load screens, inks, squeegees, flood bars, and garments for each job.
• Register multicolor designs accurately and make adjustments as necessary.
• Monitor print quality throughout production and make adjustments to maintain consistent color, placement, and ink coverage.
• Understand proper flash and dryer settings for different garments and ink applications.
• Identify and troubleshoot common printing and press‑related problems.
• Maintain production speed while ensuring finished products meet company quality standards.
• Perform routine cleaning and basic maintenance of presses and production equipment.

Prepress & Screen Department

• Preparing and coating screens with emulsion.
• Burning/exposing screens.
• Washing out and developing screens.
• Taping and preparing screens for production.
• Checking screens for pinholes, image quality, and other issues before they reach the press.
• Reclaiming used screens, including ink removal, emulsion removal, and degreasing.
• Organizing and maintaining screens for upcoming and completed jobs.
• Mixing and preparing inks as needed.
• Helping stage screens, inks, garments, and supplies for upcoming production.
• Maintaining a clean and organized screen room and prepress area.

General Production Support

• Assist with unloading garments from the dryer and checking finished prints.
• Count and verify garments during production.
• Help organize jobs before and after printing.
• Assist with folding, packaging, and preparing completed orders when needed.
• Maintain accurate production counts and report shortages, damaged garments, or printing issues.
• Keep work areas, presses, tools, and equipment clean and organized.
• Assist other production departments as workload requires.
• Follow all company safety procedures and proper chemical‑handling practices.

Qualifications

Previous screen‑printing experience is preferred, particularly experience operating an automatic screen‑printing press. However, we will consider candidates with strong mechanical ability, production experience, and a willingness to learn.

• Be mechanically inclined and comfortable working with production equipment.
• Have strong attention to detail and quality.
• Be able to distinguish colors and identify printing inconsistencies.
• Be dependable and able to work efficiently with limited supervision.
• Be comfortable working in a fast‑paced production environment.
• Be willing to learn multiple areas of the screen‑printing process.
• Have good organizational and problem‑solving skills.
• Be able to follow work orders and production instructions accurately.
• Work well as part of a team and be willing to help wherever needed.
• This is an active production position. Employees must be able to Stand and work on their feet for extended periods and: Frequently bend, reach, lift, and move throughout the production area. Lift and carry boxes, screens, ink containers, and other production materials. Safely lift approximately 40–50 pounds when necessary. Work around printing presses, conveyor dryers, inks, cleaning chemicals, and other normal screen‑print production equipment.

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for someone who takes pride in producing quality work and understands that successful screen printing requires teamwork. The right person will not view their responsibility as simply "running the press." They will be willing to help prepare screens, set up jobs, solve production problems, clean and reclaim screens, organize materials, and do whatever is necessary to keep the production department running smoothly. Experience is valuable, but dependability, mechanical ability, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic are equally important.