Print Operator

1. Purpose of the Role

The Print Operator is responsible for the setup, operation, and maintenance of large-format/wide-format digital printers used to produce signage, vehicle wraps, banners, decals, and other branded print output. The role ensures that all print jobs are produced accurately, on time, and to DCS quality standards, while maintaining equipment, minimising material wastage, and working safely within the production environment.

2. Key ResponsibilitiesPrint Production

• Set up and operate large-format solvent/eco-solvent, UV, or latex printers as applicable.
• Load and calibrate media (vinyl, banner, correx, board, film, etc.) correctly for each job.
• Select correct print profiles, resolution, and colour settings for the substrate and application.
• Run job files from the RIP/production queue, checking layout, scale, bleed, and colour accuracy before printing.
• Monitor print runs for quality issues (banding, colour shift, misfeeds, ink starvation) and intervene promptly.
• Cut, trim, and prepare printed output for laminating, mounting, or dispatch as required.

Quality Control

• Check completed prints against the job card / artwork proof for accuracy in size, colour, and content.
• Flag and report any discrepancies between artwork and BOQ/job specification before printing large runs.
• Maintain colour consistency across repeat jobs and multi-panel prints.

Equipment Maintenance

• Perform daily start-up and shut-down checks on printers (nozzle checks, head cleaning, ink levels).
• Carry out routine and preventative maintenance per manufacturer schedules.
• Report equipment faults or performance issues to the Factory Manager immediately.
• Keep the print room clean, organised, and free of hazards.

Materials & Stock

• Monitor consumables (ink, media rolls, laminate) and flag reorder requirements in good time.
• Minimise material wastage through accurate nesting/layout and correct machine settings.
• Maintain accurate records of material usage per job where required.

Health & Safety

• Follow all DCS SOPs relating to machine operation, chemical/ink handling, and PPE use.
• Report incidents, near-misses, or injuries in line with the Incident & Injury Reporting SOP.
• Keep work area compliant with health and safety standards at all times.

3. RequirementsQualifications

• Grade 12 / Matric or equivalent (essential).
• Formal training or certification in large-format/digital printing (advantageous).

Experience

• Minimum 1–2 years' experience operating large-format digital printers in a signage, print, or branding environment (essential).
• Experience with solvent, eco-solvent, UV, or latex print technology (advantageous).
• Experience working from a job card / production schedule in a fast-paced factory environment.

Skills & Competencies

• Sound understanding of colour, resolution, and file setup for print (RIP software experience advantageous).
• Strong attention to detail and quality control mindset.
• Basic mechanical aptitude for machine maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Ability to work under pressure to meet production deadlines.
• Good communication skills — able to flag issues to the Factory Manager and production team promptly.
• Reliable, punctual, and safety-conscious.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift/move media rolls and printed panels.
• Comfortable working in a factory/production environment with machinery, inks, and solvents.

4. Key Performance Indicators

• On-time completion of scheduled print jobs.
• Print quality — minimal reprints/rejects due to operator error.
• Material wastage kept within target percentage.
• Machine uptime — maintenance schedules followed, faults reported promptly.
• Zero or minimal health & safety incidents.

5. Working Relationships

• Reports to: Factory Manager
• Works closely with: Design/Pre-press team, Production/Installation team, other Print Room staff

This job specification is a guide to the role's key responsibilities and requirements and is not exhaustive. Duties may be adjusted from time to time in line with business needs.

Pay: R4 004,20 - R13 512,05 per month

Work Location: In person