Print Operator / Print Specialist Durban

Jobs 4 All; Durban; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading printing company in Durban seeks an experienced Print Operator / Print Specialist to provide technical expertise and support across various printing machines. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in the printing industry, particularly with wide web printing operations, and should have strong problem-solving skills. This role involves troubleshooting, setting up and running machines efficiently, and sharing knowledge with team members to enhance operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• Extensive printing industry experience, preferably with exposure to leading companies.
• Hands-on expertise in wide web printing operations.
• Proven ability in plate mounting and reel handling.

Responsibilities

• Provide troubleshooting and technical expertise for printing machines.
• Assist in designing and standardizing print set-up procedures.
• Set up and run printing machines efficiently.

Skills

Extensive printing industry experience

Hands-on expertise in wide web printing operations

Strong problem-solving skills related to printing machines

Ability to handle quick machine changeovers

Strong communication skills

Job description

Overview

Print Operator / Print Specialist – Durban

Job Purpose: We are seeking an experienced Print Operator / Print Specialist with extensive knowledge of the printing industry to provide technical expertise, process improvement, and support across a wide range of printing machines. Candidates with backgrounds in leading printing and packaging companies (e.g., Nampak, Taurus, etc.) are strongly preferred.

Our operation includes approximately 20 different printers across various machines, and we require a hands-on expert to drive problem-solving, optimize set-ups, and assist in the development of best practices.

Responsibilities

• Technical Support & Problem-Solving: Provide troubleshooting and technical expertise for bag machines with integrated printers (Flat Bag and SO Bag machines) and printing machines across multiple setups.
• Print Set-Up & Procedure Design: Assist in designing and standardizing print set-up procedures; develop practical and detailed input to create operational manuals and SOPs.
• Printing Operations: Set up and run printing machines efficiently; perform plate mounting, reel changes, and ink management; ensure accurate colour matching and tension control of substrates (paper/film); optimize print/ink sequences for quality and efficiency; advise on appropriate anilox choices based on ink coverage, image, and paper requirements; apply effective problem-solving to challenges involving printing processes, inks, and substrates.
• Knowledge Transfer & Training: Share expertise with team members to build internal capacity and technical know-how; support the training of operators and supervisors on print best practices.
• Operational Efficiency: Manage and execute quick changeovers with minimal downtime; ensure smooth operations on wide web printing systems; enhance performance through practical improvements and technical innovation.

Requirements

• Extensive printing industry experience, preferably with exposure to leading companies (e.g., Nampak, Taurus, etc.).
• Hands-on expertise in wide web printing operations.
• Proven ability in plate mounting and reel handling; colour matching and ink management; paper tension control; anilox roller selection and maintenance.
• Strong problem-solving skills related to printing machines, inks, and substrates.
• Experience with bag machines (Flat Bag and SO Bag) and integrated printers.
• Ability to handle quick machine changeovers.
• Knowledge of water-based printing on paper (advantageous).
• Strong communication skills with the ability to transfer knowledge and train teams.