Digital Printer Technician (Johannesburg)

Job description

Equipment diagnostics and repair

• Diagnose and repair complex mechanical, electrical, and electronic faults on digital printing equipment.
• Troubleshoot issues on digital printing systems including Sublimation, UV, DTF and other large-format printing equipment.
• Respond promptly to machine breakdowns to minimise production downtime.

Preventative maintenance

• Perform scheduled preventative maintenance on all digital printing equipment.
• Conduct inspections, cleaning, lubrication, calibration, and replacement of wear components.
• Ensure all equipment operates safely and efficiently in accordance with manufacturer specifications.

Print quality and machine calibration

• Calibrate equipment to ensure colour accuracy and print consistency.
• Adjust print heads, media feeds, tension, alignment, ink delivery systems, and other machine settings.
• Resolve print quality issues including banding, colour variation, registration problems, and mechanical defects.

Testing and commissioning

• Perform test prints following maintenance or repairs.
• Verify equipment performance against production specifications.
• Ensure machines are production-ready before releasing them back into operation.

Technical administration

• Maintain accurate maintenance records and service reports.
• Record spare parts usage and identify future maintenance requirements.
• Assist with spare parts inventory management.
• Escalate recurring equipment issues and recommend long-term solutions.

Operator support and training

• Provide technical support to production operators.
• Train operators on correct machine operation, daily maintenance, and troubleshooting techniques.
• Promote best practices for machine care and preventative maintenance.

Requirements

• Technical qualification (NQF level 4–6) in:

o Mechanical engineering
o Electrical engineering
o Printing technology
o Or an equivalent recognised technical qualification.

Experience

• Proven experience maintaining and repairing digital printing equipment.
• Experience with one or more of the following technologies:
• Large Format Printing
• UV Printing
• DTF Printing
• Dye Sublimation
• Inkjet Printing
• Laser Printing

• Experience working within a production or manufacturing environment will be advantageous.

Technical competencies

• Strong electrical and mechanical fault-finding abilities.
• Understanding of digital printing technologies and colour management.
• Knowledge of RIP software.
• Basic computer networking and machine connectivity.
• Ability to read technical manuals, electrical schematics, and service documentation.
• Familiarity with preventative maintenance systems.

Behavioural competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• High attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Customer-focused approach when supporting internal stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and under pressure.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Positive attitude with a continuous improvement mindset.

Physical requirements