DTFX Printer & Heat Press Operator

Lakeshirts•Detroit Lakes, MN

3d•$16 - $18

About The Position

Lakeshirts is seeking a skilled and motivated Direct to Film (DTFx) & Heat Press Operator to support the growth of its DTFx operation. The operator backs up the DTFx Lead by printing DTFx and spot sublimation designs, operating heat press machines, and coordinating with adjacent departments to help ensure timely production of high-quality designs on garments and hats. The role includes preparing and running DTFx printing and heat press equipment, setting up inks and artwork through computer applications, checking product quality, performing light printer maintenance, and moving jobs through the production workflow using the Zion program. The operator also helps resolve machine and workflow issues, follows safety practices and OSHA standards, collaborates with coworkers, and assists in other areas as workflow allows. 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. Pay is $16–$18 per hour. The work requires repetitive tasks, prolonged standing as described in the qualifications, and handling production demands in a fast-paced environment.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Proficiency in 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 a strong eye for quality.
Ability to work independently or as part of a team and remain self-motivated in a dynamic environment.
Mechanical aptitude for light machine maintenance.
Positive attitude and willingness to contribute to a collaborative team environment.
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 and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to be on your feet for 8–10 hours per day.
Ability to lift 30–50 lbs. continuously, as stated in the job functions.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in machine operation, training, or a related field.
Additional training or certification beyond a high school diploma or equivalent.

Responsibilities

Operate DTFx printers and heat press machines, including applying spot sublimation designs.
Set appropriate temperature, pressure, and timing for each application technique.
Convert and set up inks for the machine using a computer and prepare them for production.
Send approved art to the DTFx machine and oversee its operation.
Operate the DTFx machine efficiently to produce high-quality garment designs.
Perform quality-control checks on garments and maintain Lakeshirts’ quality standards.
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 value stream using the Zion computer program so they reach the next department on time.
Troubleshoot machine-operation and workflow problems to minimize disruptions and maintain efficiency.
Follow safety practices, identify safety issues, and work to resolve them in accordance with OSHA standards.
Work with others in the department and company to achieve positive results.
Assist in other areas as workflow allows and perform other duties or special projects assigned by the DTFx Lead.

Benefits

Health insurance, life insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage, and critical illness and accident coverage; benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days of full-time employment.
Up to 22 paid days off during the first year.
Profit sharing when the company is profitable.
401(k) retirement program.
Option to be paid daily.
Subsidized cafeteria offering hot breakfast, lunch, and snacks at the Detroit Lakes headquarters.
Dogs allowed at work.
Employee merchandise discount.
Flexible work schedules.
Relaxed dress code.