Ink Technician

Position Title: Ink Technician
Location: San Leandro, California, United States
Seniority Level: Associate
We are seeking an Ink Technician to join our manufacturing operations team in Cleveland, TN. This is a hands-on, in-plant position responsible for blending, matching, and preparing water-based inks that meet customer specifications. The ideal candidate will have prior experience in ink formulation, color matching, and flexographic printing , with a strong commitment to safety, quality, and precision.
Note: This is not a Graphic Design position.
Shift: Candidates must be open to day, night, weekend, and rotating shifts.
Benefits: Competitive compensation + Full benefits available from Day 1.
Key Responsibilities

• Weigh, blend, and deliver press-ready inks to production equipment while maintaining quality standards.
• Perform accurate color formulation and color matching to meet customer specifications.
• Maintain documentation of color matches, ink adjustments, consignment returns, and customer feedback.
• Evaluate returned inks for re-use or recycling.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized workspace, complying with all PPE and safety protocols.
• Collaborate with production staff to ensure inks meet schedule and performance targets.
• Support continuous improvement in ink quality and production efficiency.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Decision-Making Responsibilities

• Verify that inks meet color and quality standards prior to production.
• Select appropriate raw materials for ink formulation.
• Determine the suitability of recycled or returned inks for reuse.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of hands-on experience with water-based ink mixing and color matching (must be reflected in the resume).
• High School Diploma or equivalent (some college or chemistry coursework preferred).
• Experience with press toning, flexographic printing, color formulation, and color matching.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Excellent communication skills and teamwork ability.
• Willingness to work in a 12-hour rotating shift environment.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• Willingness to undergo drug screening, physical, and background check if offered employment.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in a manufacturing or production setting.
• Knowledge of ink blending equipment and basic chemical handling.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently after training.
• Strong work ethic and goal-oriented mindset - opportunities for career growth and promotion available.

Skills and Certifications


Experience Toning Inks
Flexo printing experience
Color formulation and matching experience
Experience working with water-based inks