Wide Format Print Operator

Shepard Exposition Services•Las Vegas, NV

About The Position

The Wide Format Print Operator operates Shepard’s EFI VUTEK printers, ZUND CNC routers, and, where available, EFI FabriVu fabric printers to produce graphics for trade shows, exhibitions, and corporate events. The role ensures graphics meet Shepard’s quality standards, are produced on schedule, and align with client specifications. The operator prepares and processes production files, prints and inspects graphics, operates cutting and finishing equipment, and packages and labels completed work. The position also includes equipment checks and routine maintenance, production and material tracking, inventory handling, and communication with the Supervisor, Account Executives, and Design. The operator prioritizes work to meet show deadlines, follows company procedures and safety regulations, and maintains a clean, organized production environment. Employees are expected to demonstrate Shepard’s values of Caring, Commitment, Integrity, Spirit, Responsiveness, Inclusivity, and Teamwork; make decisions as responsible ESOP owners that benefit clients and the company; and treat customers courteously and respectfully. Duties may change, and additional tasks may be assigned as business needs evolve.

Requirements

At least 1 year of experience operating wide-format printing equipment, preferably in the trade show industry or an equivalent environment.
Ability to operate specialized graphics production systems for large-format printing, CNC routing, and laminating, including EFI VUTEK, EFI FabriVu, and ZUND equipment.
Working knowledge of rigid substrates and vinyl and how they behave in printing, cutting, and finishing.
Experience preparing graphics for installation through weeding, masking, trimming, and labeling.
Strong attention to detail and a consistent eye for color and print quality.
Ability to read job tickets and specifications, with basic math skills for scaling and material calculations.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, such as Outlook, Word, and Excel.
Ability to meet physical demands that include frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching, and lifting and moving up to 50 pounds.
High school diploma or equivalent; related experience may be substituted for formal education.
Ability to demonstrate Shepard’s Core Values of Caring, Commitment, Integrity, Spirit, Responsiveness, Inclusivity, and Teamwork.

Nice To Haves

Experience in the trade show industry or an equivalent environment.
Familiarity with Salesforce.

Responsibilities

Set up, operate, and monitor EFI VUTEK wide-format printers, up to 126 inches in print width, to produce graphics on rigid substrates and vinyl, including foamcore, PVC, acrylic, banners, wall and floor graphics, and decals.
Operate ZUND CNC routers to cut and route printed graphics within machine limits, including loading materials and selecting tool paths.
Where FabriVu equipment is available, operate fabric printers and complete fabric cutting and finishing.
Prepare and RIP files for production, verifying size, scale, bleed, and substrate settings against job tickets and client specifications.
Run test prints and adjust print quality and color accuracy, following the Graphics Sample Process for Show Look, client print samples, and color matching.
Inspect output for color accuracy, defects, and dimensional accuracy; reprint or escalate work that does not meet standards.
Finish, package, and label graphics through processes such as weeding, masking, trimming, mounting, laminating, and hemming.
Handle and store rolls, boards, and specialty materials according to Shepard’s national substrate standards, and assist with labeling and storing graphics inventory.
Track and document production status and material usage in Salesforce, and report waste and reprints.
Perform daily equipment checks and routine maintenance, and promptly report mechanical issues to the Supervisor.
Prioritize work to meet show deadlines, including rush orders and show-site support during peak periods.
Implement and follow Shepard’s Standard Operating Procedures and best practices.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe production environment and comply with safety regulations.
Communicate professionally with the Supervisor, Account Executives, and Design regarding file issues, material questions, and schedule changes.
Demonstrate company values, make responsible ESOP-owner decisions that benefit clients and the company, and treat internal and external customers with courtesy and respect.