Senior Lead, Print Operator

ABOUT US

The Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) is one of the leading school systems in Maryland and the nation. To learn more about us and our 2024 -2029 Strategic Plan , please visit our website and our careers page . Join our award-winning workforce and make a difference in the lives of our students!

ABOUT THE APPLICATION PROCESS

Before you begin, please read the job posting below carefully including the Application Requirements specific to this position. Be sure your application reflects experience and education required to meet the minimum and any preferred qualifications listed. Our application guide includes detailed instructions to assist you. Once your application has been submitted, you will not be able to add documentation or make any changes.

Please note that application submission will be available only through 11:59 PM on the date p rior to the indicated end date. If no end date is indicated, the posting will remain open indefinitely .

Job Posting End Date:

10-11-2026

Reminder: Current permanent and temporary employees must apply through the Jobs Hub in Workday, not the external career site.

DESCRIPTION

Under 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 QUALIFICATIONS

A 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 QUALIFICATIONS

The 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 year s or more exper ie nc e op erat in g d igital pr o du ction printing equipment. (e x. Canon Titan, Varioprint , imagePRESS production cop ier ) .

7 years o r more experience operating production finishing equipment (e x. Duplo, Hydraulic paper c utter, envelope inserter, 3-hole punch, and various other bi n dery equipment ).

Print workflow automation and optimization experience.

Variable-data printing (VDP) experience .

Print management software experience . (e x. Web-to-Print and Management Informations System ( MIS ) software, Adobe ).

Experience implementing q uality control measures to ensure high-quality reproductions . (e x. color management, job preflight experience ) .

ESSENTIAL POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

The 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 Safety

Th e 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 ABILITIES

The below list is a summary of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for success in this position, not an exhaustive or comprehensive list.

Knowledge

Digital 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.

Skills

Technical 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.

Abilities

Leadership & 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 REQUIREMENTS

Working Hours

The duty day for this position is 8.5 hours including a one - hour duty-free lunch.

This position will require m ay require occasional evening or weekend hours during peak production periods.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Complete applications must be submitted , and o nce your application has been submitted, you will not be able to add documentation or make any changes. I ncomplete applications will not be consider ed. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application.

Supplemental Application Questions

T his position requires applicants to provide r esponses 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 (ex . 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.