Digital Print Operator
Location: Belfast (On-site)
Company Overview
Kaizen operates across two complementary areas of the business – a fast-paced creative agency and a high-quality print production service. We are looking for an organised, proactive and team focused Digital Printer Operator/ Small Format Digital Print Operator to join our Production team in Belfast.
The Small Format Digital Print Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining digital printing presses to produce high-quality commercial print materials. This role requires excellent attention to detail, a strong understanding of colour management, and the ability to manage multiple jobs efficiently in a fast-paced production environment. The operator will report to the production manager, and communicate any issues pertaining to production schedules/quality control.
Key Responsibilities
1. Print Production & Machine Operation
- Set up and operate mid-to-high volume small format digital presses (e.g., Xerox).
- Manage the digital print queue effectively to meet daily production deadlines and dispatch schedules.
- Select correct paper stocks, weights, and finishes according to specific job tickets.
- Monitor print quality continuously throughout runs, checking for colour accuracy, registration, alignment, and defects.
2. File Preparation
- Review incoming artwork files to ensure proper format that reflects the job specification sheet. With an understanding of resolution, bleed, and crop marks.
- Impose artwork files efficiently to maximise sheet yield and minimise paper waste.
3. Finishing Coordination & Quality Control
- Ensure printed sheets are correctly prepared for the finishing department (cutting, creasing, folding, binding, or laminating).
- Perform basic off-line finishing tasks when required.
- Conduct thorough quality checks against the original proof and job specification before passing work to dispatch
4. Maintenance & Troubleshooting
- Perform routine daily and weekly maintenance on digital presses (calibrations, cleaning, and minor parts replacement).
- Troubleshoot mechanical issues and file errors independently, escalating to manufacturer engineers when necessary.
- Monitor and maintain inventory levels for consumables like toner, ink, drums, and spare parts.
Required Skills & Qualifications
· Experience: 2+ years of hands-on experience operating and maintaining production-level digital printing presses.
· Technical Knowledge: Strong familiarity with RIP software, particularly EFI Fiery.
· Print Knowledge: Deep understanding of paper substrates, weights (gsm), finishes, and how they behave on press. Being able to identify press issues and rectify internally or escalation when required.
Key Competencies
· Attention to Detail: The ability to spot a microscopic registration shift or a slight colour variance is critical to maintaining brand standards.
· Time Management: Highly organised with the ability to prioritise and shifting workload under tight deadlines. Being able to maintain a flexible print schedule
· Problem Solving: A methodical approach to troubleshooting both file issues and mechanical press glitches.
· Communication: To be able to communicate clearly and effectively with line manager and the wider team.
· Team work: This role involves working as part of a growing team, and working together to meet tight deadlines
Working Conditions
- Based in a busy, deadline-driven production environment.
- May involve overtime during peak production seasons or holiday cover
Desirable Criteria
- Experience in Small format/large format finishing
- Experience in art working
Work Location: In person
