Print Development Technician

The Print Development Technician is a critical hands-on lab role responsible for executing print proofs, developing and adjusting ink and color formulations, and supporting new design development with speed, accuracy, and ownership. This role sits at the intersection of design, technical execution, and production readiness.

This is a deadline-driven position that requires reliability, technical rigor, and disciplined problem solving. The technician is expected to recommend solutions and execute them with excellence, while working within established systems, formulas, and best practices. This is not a creative lead role. It is a technical execution role with growth potential for those who consistently deliver results.

Key Responsibilities:

Proofing and Execution -

• Operate and run the proofing machine to produce accurate, repeatable print proofs

• Follow the proofing schedule with strong ownership of deadlines and priorities

• Move cylinders to and from racks and the proofing machine as part of normal workflow

• Perform cylinder inspection before and after proofing cylinders

• Document formulations, adjustments, and outcomes clearly and accurately

• Operate cylinder inspection equipment properly and maintain data log as specified

Ink and Color Formulation -

• Develop, adjust, and execute ink and color formulations to match approved paper printouts

• Optimize formulations by leveraging existing inks and color systems rather than creating new formulas unnecessarily

• Ensure color accuracy, consistency, and repeatability across proofs

• Document formulations, adjustments, and outcomes clearly and accurately

• Maintain and update the ink folder contents as continuous improvement

• Perform incoming ink inspections and document the findings accurately

Design and Technical Collaboration -

• Receive new designs from Technical Designers and execute proofs to specification

• Work closely with the Design Manager and Technical Director to refine proofs and resolve technical challenges

• Execute approved direction efficiently and accurately once alignment is reached

• Escalate issues early when deadlines, accuracy, or feasibility are at risk

Efficiency and Continuous Improvement -

• Optimize proofing workflows for speed, accuracy, and material efficiency

• Reduce waste by maximizing the use of existing inks, colors, and processes

• Maintain and report consumables needed for the job

• Identify repeatable solutions and standardize where possible

• Balance methodical development work with urgency during peak deadlines

• Report equipment issues, safety issues and downtime with details

Reliability and Ownership -

• Show up consistently and on time

• Take full ownership of assigned proofs from start to finish

• Meets deadlines

• Always follow safety procedures

Qualifications and Experience:

Required -

• Experience in ink formulation, ink development, print proofing, or a related lab or printing environment

• Strong understanding of inks, color matching, and printing fundamentals

• Computer proficiency – MS Office and ability to learn new software programs on job; photoshop knowledge a plus, but not required

• Comfort working in a hands-on, physical role that includes moving cylinders and standing for extended periods

• High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy

• Ability to follow direction precisely and execute consistently

• Proven reliability and strong work ethic

Preferred -

• Prior printing, coating, or lab-based production experience

• Experience working with established color systems and formulations

• Exposure to deadline-driven manufacturing or design support environments

What Success Looks Like:

• Proofs are accurate, on time, and consistent

• Existing formulas are reused and optimized rather than reinvented

• Designers and technical leadership trust your execution

• Deadlines are met – every time

• The proofing process becomes smoother and more efficient because of your work

About i2M

i2M operates as an elite, high-performance team. We value direct communication, accountability, speed, and excellence. We move quickly, expect ownership, and reward results.