Ink Room Technician chez J L CLARK INC

Description

At J.L. Clark, we don’t just make packaging, we help build iconic brands. Since 1904, we've blended craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to deliver packaging solutions that stand out on shelves and stand the test of time. With more than 120 years of experience behind us, our passion for quality, service, and innovation is stronger than ever.

As we grow, so does our investment in the future. From our new 6-color printing press and injection molding presses to advanced rapid prototyping and high-speed fabrication systems, we’re committed to staying at the forefront of packaging technology.

Sustainability is more than a goal, it’s part of who we are. As the first North American metal lithographer to earn SGP Certification, and a multiple-time recipient of the Illinois Governor’s Sustainability Award, we take pride in building a better tomorrow.

Come be part of a company where tradition meets transformation, and where your work truly makes an impact.

POSITION Summary:

The Ink Room Technician is responsible for managing all aspects of ink operations within the metal lithography production process. This role ensures color accuracy, consistency, and availability of inks and related supplies to support efficient production. The technician will serve as the primary liaison between production teams, sales, art, and ink suppliers to ensure smooth communication, accurate color management, and timely troubleshooting. This position requires a strong understanding of ink systems, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

PRIMARY DUTIES:

• Manage and maintain all ink-related activities, including inventory control, formulation, storage, and distribution.

• Oversee ASOs (Art Service Orders) and ensure inks are properly mixed, labeled, and staged for production.
• Lead color management efforts, including maintaining color standards, targets, and drawdowns.
• Conduct cycle counts of inks, coatings, and related supplies to maintain accurate inventory records.
• Serve as the primary contact for ink suppliers — facilitating communication, coordinating trials, resolving technical issues, and managing ink qualifications.
• Troubleshoot ink and color issues in collaboration with press operators, production leads, and vendor technical representatives.
• Coordinate and lead all ink trials, tests, and process improvement initiatives related to inks and coatings.
• Support sales, art, and customer service teams on color-related questions, pre-production samples, and customer standards.
• Assist with tin stores and lithography operations as needed to ensure workflow continuity.
• Maintain accurate documentation and reports related to ink performance, usage, and color control.
• Serve as a backup for purchase requisition processing for ink and related materials.
• Serve as a backup for plate making in the Art Department.
• Uphold all safety, quality, and environmental standards in accordance with company policies and industry regulations.

Education, Training & Experience, and other skills:

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or technical degree in Printing Technology, Color Science, or a related field preferred.

Experience: Minimum 5–7 years of experience in ink management, color control, or a similar role within a metal lithography, printing, or packaging environment.

Technical Skills:

• Strong understanding of ink formulation, mixing, viscosity, and color management systems.
• Experience with spectrophotometers, color matching software, and related quality tools.
• Working knowledge of lithographic printing equipment and processes.
• Proficiency with inventory and ERP systems.

Soft Skills:

• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills; able to interact effectively with internal teams and external vendors.
• Positive attitude, dependable, and adaptable to changing priorities.
• Ability to take direction well and work both independently and as part of a team.
• High attention to detail and organizational skills.

Relationships:

The Ink Room Technician works closely with a variety of internal and external partners to ensure color consistency, ink performance, and production efficiency.

Internal Relationships:

• Press Operators & Lithography Team: Collaborates daily to ensure inks meet production requirements, troubleshoot issues, and maintain consistent color standards.
• Production Leads & Supervisors: Communicates on scheduling, ink needs, and workflow coordination.
• Quality Assurance: Partners on color standards, approvals, and corrective actions when ink-related defects occur.
• Sales & Customer Service: Provides technical input on color expectations, customer standards, and product requirements.
• Art Department / Prepress: Coordinates on color targets, proofs, and print-ready specifications.  Also serves as backup for plate making.
• Tin Stores / Material Handling: Works together to ensure timely availability and accurate storage of ink materials and supplies.
• Purchasing & Supply Chain: Collaborates on ordering, inventory management, and supplier performance.
• Maintenance & Engineering: Partners when equipment issues impact ink systems or printing performance.
• Plant Leadership / Management: Provides updates on trials, performance, and continuous improvement activities.

External Relationships:

• Ink and Coating Vendors: Serves as the primary point of contact for technical support, trials, and product performance issues.
• Customers (as needed): Supports customer color approvals or technical discussions related to inks and coatings.

Supervises:

N/A

SuperviSed By:

Lithography/Printing Manager or Supervisor

Qualifications