DTFX Printer & Heat Press Operator

Lakeshirts•Detroit Lakes, MN

About The Position

Lakeshirts is seeking a skilled and motivated Direct to Film (DTFx) and Heat Press Operator to support its printing operation. The operator backs up the DTFx Lead with printing DTFx and spot sublimation designs, operates various heat press machines, and coordinates with adjacent departments to help ensure timely production of high-quality designs on garments and hats. The role involves preparing and operating production equipment, managing digital art and job setups, performing quality checks and light printer maintenance, and helping resolve production or workflow problems. The position offers either a Monday–Thursday 4 p.m.–2 a.m. night schedule or a Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–4 p.m. day schedule, at $16–$18 per hour. The role requires the ability to perform repetitive tasks, manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, and be on one’s feet for 8–10 hours per day. The posting also states an ability to lift 30–50 pounds continuously, though its physical-demands table separately lists lifting 25–50 pounds as never required. Lakeshirts describes a collaborative, creative workplace focused on teamwork, continuous improvement, community, and customer service. Benefits and perks described include insurance options, paid time off, profit sharing, a 401(k), an employee merchandise discount, and—in Detroit Lakes at the company headquarters—a subsidized cafeteria and dogs at work. The company also says daily pay is an option.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Previous experience in machine operation, training, or a related field is preferred.
Proficiency using Excel for data management and Adobe Illustrator for art files.
Strong organizational skills for managing art files and production setups.
Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to address issues promptly and effectively.
Detail-oriented, meticulous, and thorough, with an eye for quality.
Ability to work independently or as part of a team and remain self-motivated and self-directed in a dynamic environment.
Mechanical aptitude for light machine maintenance.
Positive attitude and willingness to contribute to a collaborative team environment.
Ability to think on one’s feet and respond to problems.
Effective communication skills for collaborating with team members.
Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and production needs.
Reliable, responsible, and receptive to feedback and direction.
Ability to perform repetitive tasks for several hours.
Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced working environment and adapt to changing priorities.
Ability to be on one’s feet for 8–10 hours per day.
Ability to lift 30–50 pounds continuously, as stated in the job functions.

Nice To Haves

Additional training or certification.

Responsibilities

Operate the DTFx printer and heat press machines, including applying spot sublimation designs.
Set appropriate temperature, pressure, and timing to ensure precise application for each technique.
Convert and set up inks for the machine using a computer and ensure they are ready for production.
Send approved art to the DTFx machine and oversee its operation.
Operate the DTFx machine efficiently to produce high-quality designs on garments.
Perform quality-control checks on garments.
Conduct light maintenance on the DTFx printer to support continuous operation.
Use Excel and Adobe Illustrator to manage art files and design setups.
Move jobs through the company’s valuestream using the Zion computer program to support timely delivery to the next department.
Resolve problems during machine operation or workflow to minimize disruptions and maintain efficiency.
Maintain Lakeshirts’ quality standards.
Follow safety practices and identify and address safety issues in accordance with OSHA standards.
Work with others in the department and company to achieve positive results.
Help in other areas as workflow allows and perform other duties or special projects assigned by the DTFx Lead.

Benefits

Option to be paid daily.
Health and life insurance.
Voluntary dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, and critical illness and accident coverage; benefits begin on the first of the month following 60 days of full-time employment.
Up to 22 paid days off during the first year.
Profit sharing.
401(k) program.
At the Detroit Lakes headquarters, hot breakfast, lunch, and snacks from a subsidized cafeteria.
Dogs allowed at work.
Employee merchandise discount.
Flexible work schedules, including full-time and part-time options.