Senior Lead, Print Operator

Senior Lead, Print OperatorUnder the direction of the Manager, Print Services, the Senior Lead, Print Operator is responsible for overseeing the daily operation of printing, copying, binding, and finishing equipment to support the instructional and administrative needs of the school district. This role ensures high-quality and timely production of printed materials while maintaining equipment and supplies in a safe and efficient environment.Minimum QualificationsA combination of education and experience may be considered.Education:Possession of a High School diploma or GED.Experience:Five years of experience in operating business reproduction and printing equipment.Preferred QualificationsThe ideal candidate for this role will also possess a combination of the additional qualifications below. If you don't meet every one of the preferred qualifications, we still encourage you to apply, as we welcome applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences.7 years or more experience operating digital production printing equipment (e.g., Canon Titan, Varioprint, imagePRESS production copier).7 years or more experience operating production finishing equipment (e.g., Duplo, Hydraulic paper cutter, envelope inserter, 3-hole punch, and various other bindery equipment).Print workflow automation and optimization experience.Variable-data printing (VDP) experience.Print management software experience (e.g., Web-to-Print and Management Information System (MIS) software, Adobe).Experience implementing quality control measures to ensure high-quality reproductions (e.g., color management, job preflight experience).Essential Position ResponsibilitiesThe below list is a summary of the functions of the job, not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks, and duties.Operate digital printing equipment to produce various materials. Perform finishing tasks, packaging and shipping.Review print requests for accuracy and consult with HCPSS staff to ensure all printed materials meet district quality standards.Support special printing projects such as graduation, signage and large-scale events.Oversee team of equipment operators to ensure the timely production of printed materials. Schedule and prioritize print jobs to meet deadlines and minimize turnaround times.Keep accurate records of jobs completed, materials use and time spent for reporting and billing purposes.Employee SafetyThe employee is responsible for the use of safety devices and protective equipment in order to minimize the frequency and severity of work-related accidents. The employee is responsible for using safe practices and methods in the operation and supplies related to their job.Essential Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesThe below list is a summary of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for success in this position, not an exhaustive or comprehensive list.KnowledgeDigital Print Technology: Deep understanding of high-volume digital printers, including color calibration, file formats (PDF, TIFF, EPS), and print-queue management software.Production Finishing Processes: Comprehensive knowledge of finishing techniques such as binding, laminating, folding, cutting, and collating.Inventory & Logistics: Familiarity with inventory control methods for paper stock and toner, as well as shipping standards (UPS, FedEx, or internal courier systems).Quality Control Standards: Understanding of graphic design basics, typography, and layout to ensure printed materials align with district branding and professional standards.Safety Protocols: Knowledge of OSHA and general safety standards for operating heavy machinery and handling chemicals/toners.SkillsTechnical Troubleshooting: Ability to perform basic maintenance and clear complex errors on digital printing and finishing equipment.Workflow Optimization: Expert-level skill in scheduling and prioritizing high volumes of diverse print jobs to maximize machine uptime and meet tight deadlines.Project Management: Proficiency in managing specialized, high-stakes projects like graduation programs or large-format signage from inception to delivery.Administrative Accuracy: High proficiency in record-keeping, data entry, and using print management software for billing and reporting.Consultative Communication: Strong interpersonal skills used to advise staff on print specifications, cost-effective options, and quality requirements.AbilitiesLeadership & Supervision: Ability to lead, motivate, and direct a team of operators, ensuring equitable workload distribution and adherence to production schedules.Time Management under Pressure: Ability to remain organized and productive in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities and "rush" orders.Attention to Detail: Ability to spot minor errors in proofs (typos, color shifts, or alignment issues) before mass production.Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for long periods, move heavy paper stock (often up to 50 lbs), and perform repetitive tasks in a production environment.Collaborative Problem-Solving: Ability to work cross-functionally with district staff to troubleshoot file issues or design constraints for special events.Additional RequirementsWorking HoursThe duty day for this position is 8.5 hours including a one-hour duty-free lunch.This position will require occasional evening or weekend hours during peak production periods.Application RequirementsComplete applications must be submitted, and once your application has been submitted, you will not be able to add documentation or make any changes. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application. Supplemental Application QuestionsThis position requires applicants to provide responses to the below supplemental application questions to determine whether you meet the minimum and preferred qualifications. Please upload your responses in a separate file to the supplemental application questions section of the application.Please describe your experience operating digital production printing equipment in a commercial or other setting. Include your experience operating production finishing equipment (e.g., Duplo, Hydraulic paper cutter, envelope inserter, 3-hole punch, and various other bindery equipment).Please describe your experience utilizing print workflow automation and optimization.Please list any print management software applications you have utilized to manage print jobs and if you have experience implementing these systems.Please describe your experience implementing quality control measures to ensure high-quality reproductions. (e.g., color management, job preflight experience).Selection CriteriaApplicants who meet the minimum qualifications will be included in further evaluation. Interviews will be limited to those applicants who, in addition to meeting the basic requirements, have experience and education which most closely match the position qualifications and the needs of the school system.Applicants may be required to complete a skills assessment prior to or during the interview process.Employment InformationCompensationThis is a 12-month per year position in the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) employee unit. The current salary range for this position is Grade VII on the Maintenance/Warehouse salary scale. Step placement will be in accordance with the salary procedures of the Howard County Public School System and the AFSCME Master Agreement which considers relevant prior experience. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, this position is not exempt from overtime.RetirementMembership in the Maryland State Retirement Agency (MSRA) pension plan is a mandatory condition of employment for all employees who meet the eligibility and membership criteria defined in the State Personnel and Pensions Article and the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR). A qualifying employee cannot reject membership, nor can an ineligible employee elect membership. The annual contribution to the pension plan will be 7% of an employee's annual salary.BenefitsHCPSS offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees. Information about additional benefits such as paid time off can be found in the negotiated agreement for employees in this bargaining unit.Pre-Employment RequirementsProfessional references will be contacted prior to any offer of employment. Recommended candidates will be required to provide references from current and recent supervisors.All employees, regular and temporary, must be fingerprinted, have a criminal background investigation completed, and successfully complete the Maryland Employment History Review, pursuant to Section 6-113.2 of the Education Article, Annotated Code of Maryland. In addition, some positions will require completion of a physical examination and/or drug testing.Anyone offered employment is required to provide proper identification and documentation of eligibility for employment in the United States. H