Printing Manager

About

The Printing Manager is responsible for leading all printing operations within a food grade packaging facility. This role ensures production targets are met through strong technical oversight, equipment performance management, and effective leadership of a unionized workforce.

Core Competencies

• Technical expertise in printing processes
• Problem solving and root cause analysis
• Regulatory compliance
• Leadership and people development
• Project and change management
• Quality assurance and continuous improvement

Key Responsibilities

Technical Operations and Print Process Management

• Oversee daily printing press operations to ensure efficiency, quality, and safety
• Lead problem solving activities and implement corrective actions
• Manage print and plate approvals, print trials, and print quality standards
• Ensure equipment is maintained according to manufacturer specifications
• Monitor equipment performance and ensure targeted speeds are achieved
• Maintain compliance with industry and customer print standards
• Track KPIs including waste, speeds, and make ready performance
• Lead PDCA project activities and ensure tasks are completed on time and within budget
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment through 5S practices
• Manage plate handling, verification, cleaning, and return processes
• Oversee material inputs and maintain appropriate stock levels

People Management and Training

• Provide daily supervision, coaching, and technical direction to unionized employees
• Ensure proper use of PPE and adherence to all plant safety policies
• Support cross training and certification programs to build operational flexibility
• Lead recruitment and onboarding for new Printing department employees
• Manage employee training and certification programs

Quality Control and Continuous Improvement

• Monitor print quality and conduct root cause analysis for defects
• Implement corrective actions and maintain documentation
• Standardize SOPs, quality checklists, production boards, and visual controls
• Support lean manufacturing initiatives
• Partner with suppliers to resolve material issues and drive innovation

Minimum Qualifications

• Five to seven years of experience in printing management or supervision
• Lean Six Sigma or TPM knowledge is an asset
• Maintenance background is an asset
• Diploma or degree in Printing Technology, Graphic Communications, or related field preferred
• Strong understanding of printing systems, ink systems, and substrates
• Working knowledge of GMP, SQF, HACCP, and printing standards
• Proficiency in press troubleshooting, print quality control, and process improvement