DTF Printer Operator - Experience Required

Job Overview

Ardens Print is seeking an experienced DTF Printer Operator with recent, hands-on commercial DTF printing experience.

This is not an entry-level position. The selected candidate will be responsible for managing the complete DTF production workflow, including preparing artwork, operating DTF printers and RIP software, performing routine maintenance, troubleshooting equipment, monitoring print quality, cutting transfers, and matching completed prints with customer orders.

The ideal candidate can work independently, maintain consistent print quality, meet daily production deadlines, and take ownership of the DTF printing department.

Responsibilities

• Operate commercial DTF printers and RIP software.
• Print customer orders accurately and efficiently.
• Prepare and edit production-ready artwork using Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
• Check artwork sizing, resolution, transparency, color accuracy, and layout before printing.
• Perform daily, weekly, and preventive maintenance on printers.
• Troubleshoot common printing, ink-flow, printhead, alignment, and equipment issues.
• Monitor color consistency, print quality, registration, and overall output.
• Cut completed DTF transfers and match them with the correct order paperwork.
• Perform quality-control inspections before orders move to the next stage of production.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work area.
• Keep basic production and maintenance records.

Required Experience

• Minimum one year of recent hands-on experience operating commercial DTF printers.
• Strong knowledge of DTF printing, maintenance, troubleshooting, and production workflows.
• Excellent working knowledge of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
• Experience preparing artwork for professional print production.
• Experience using RIP software and managing gang sheets.
• Strong understanding of resolution, transparency, vector files, color correction, and print sizing.
• Excellent attention to detail, organization, reliability, and time management.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced production environment.

Important

Please apply only if you have recent experience with a commercial DTF printer and strong professional graphic design skills. Applicants with only heat-press, screen-printing, sublimation, warehouse, or hobby-printer experience will not be considered.

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program

Experience:

• Commercial DTF Printer: 1 year (Required)
• Adobe Illustrator: 1 year (Required)
• DTF Printer Maintenance: 1 year (Required)
• Prepress / Print File Preparation: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Ardens Print is a growing custom apparel and promotional products printing facility specializing in DTF, digital, and heat transfer printing, as well as custom merchandise. We manage production in-house with a strong focus on quality, efficiency, and fast turnaround. Our team works in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, and we are looking for reliable, experienced, and detail-oriented professionals who want steady work and long-term growth opportunities with our company.