Job Description

Production Manager

Civilian Screen Printing -- Kitchener, ON

Position Type:

Full-Time, On-Site

Schedule:

Monday-Friday

Reports To:

Ownership / Operations Director

About Civilian Screen Printing

Civilian Screen Printing is a high-volume, quality-driven shop specializing in premium screen printing and garment decoration. We partner with touring artists, local businesses, events, organizations, and recurring accounts to deliver consistent, accurate, and well-crafted products. We value organization, accountability, and exceptional customer experience.

Position Overview

The Production Manager oversees the full end-to-end workflow of the

screen-printing department

--from scheduling and team coordination to quality assurance and equipment performance. This role ensures jobs are executed accurately, efficiently, and on schedule while maintaining Civilian's high standards for craftsmanship and consistency.

The ideal candidate is a strong leader with deep knowledge of screen-printing processes and a commitment to maintaining a clean, efficient, and accountable production floor.

Key Responsibilities

Screen Printing Leadership & Workflow Management

Oversee all aspects of the

screen-printing

department, including press setup, production scheduling, and daily workflow. Build and manage the daily/weekly production schedule in coordination with the Sales and Art Departments. Assign tasks to press operators and support staff, ensuring coverage and smooth execution. Monitor job progress throughout the day and make adjustments as needed to meet deadlines. Manage and order inks, chemicals and other consumables.

Quality Control

Ensure

all

jobs have an approved test print sign off before entering production--no exceptions. Verify ink mixes, garment counts, placements, and approvals before production begins. Conduct in-process and final QC to uphold accuracy, consistency, and shop standards. Implement corrective actions and communicate quality issues proactively.

Team Management & Training

Supervise, coach, and support the screen-printing team, fostering accountability and continuous improvement. Train new staff on press operation, safety, shop workflow, and best practices. Lead regular team meetings to review expectations, address issues, and discuss upcoming production needs.

Equipment, Maintenance & Shop Standards

Oversee maintenance and cleanliness of all screen-printing equipment (automatic presses, manuals, flash units, conveyor dryers, screen cleaning stations, etc.). Troubleshoot machinery issues and coordinate repair calls when necessary. Ensure proper handling of chemicals, inks, screens, and cleaning materials. Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient production environment.

Operational Efficiency

Identify inefficiencies and implement improvements to maximize productivity and reduce downtime. Maintain inventory of inks, chemicals, screens, squeegees, and production supplies. Track waste, misprints, production delays, and equipment downtime--addressing root causes. Support continuous improvement of processes, SOPs, and documentation.

Cross-Department Collaboration

Work closely with Sales, Art, Digital/Embroidery and Shipping to align timelines, job expectations, and production priorities. Communicate production updates, challenges, and solutions proactively. Support consistent execution for key accounts and recurring clients.

Qualifications

3+ years of screen printing or print-shop production experience, with a preference for a supervisory or lead role. Strong technical knowledge of screen-printing processes: mesh selection, ink systems, curing, press setup, registration, and troubleshooting. Excellent leadership, communication, and team management skills. Strong organizational and time-management abilities. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $50,000.00-$60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Casual dress Dental care Extended health care Life insurance On-site parking Vision care
Work Location: In person