Supervisor, Print Production

The Supervisor, Print Production is responsible for leading the branch print shop and overseeing the production of graphics for trade shows, exhibitions, and corporate events on Shepard’s EFI VUTEK printers, ZUND CNC routers, and, where available, EFI Fabri Vu fabric printers. This role ensures that all graphics meet Shepard’s quality standards, are delivered on schedule, and align with client specifications.

• Recruit, train, and supervise Wide Format Print Operators and production staff to ensure optimal staffing levels and efficient use of labor, controlling overtime.
• Conduct annual performance evaluations and provide ongoing coaching, mentoring, and professional development.
• Schedule and prioritize production across EFI VUTEK, ZUND, and Fabri Vu equipment to meet show deadlines, including rush orders.
• Operate EFI VUTEK, ZUND, and Fabri Vu equipment as needed to cover peak workloads and staffing gaps, and train operators on proper setup, operation, and troubleshooting.
• Oversee file preparation and RIP, verifying size, scale, bleed, and substrate settings against the job ticket and client specifications, and return files that are not print-ready to the requester.
• Manage color output and consistency, and oversee the Graphics Sample Process for Show Look, client print samples, and color matching.
• Oversee all graphics are produced, finished, packaged, and labeled to meet quality installation standards, and complete final quality checks before graphics leave the shop.
• Create detailed manifests to guarantee on-site graphics and logistical efficiency.
• Track and document production status, material usage, waste, and reprints in Salesforce.
• Order materials through the Purchase Order (PO) system per Shepard’s national substrate standards and allocate costs appropriately to jobs.
• Oversee the storage, preservation, and labeling of graphics inventory for future use.
• Maintain all graphics equipment in quality operating order, schedule routine maintenance, and coordinate vendor service to minimize downtime.
• Implement and enforce Shepard’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and best practices.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe production environment and ensure compliance with all safety regulations.
• Attend operations and event planning meetings and provide accurate production timelines, capacity updates, and recommendations.
• Provide professional and responsive communications for graphics-related inquiries for internal and external customers.

• Minimum of 3 years of wide-format print production experience, including at least 1 year supervising a print shop, sign shop, or production crew, preferably in the trade show industry or equivalent environment.
• Must be able to operate and troubleshoot large-format printing, CNC routing, and laminating equipment, including EFI VUTEK, EFI Fabri Vu, and ZUND, and train operators to do the same.
• Working knowledge of RIP software, file preflighting, and color management for print output.
• Working knowledge of rigid substrates, vinyl, and fabric and how each behaves in print, cutting, and finishing.
• Experienced in preparing graphics for installation through weeding, masking, trimming, and labeling, with additional capability to assist in light installation work.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with strong math skills for scheduling, material yield, and job costing.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (e.g., Outlook, Word, and Excel); familiarity with Salesforce is a plus.
• Ability to meet physical demands of the position that include frequent periods of standing, walking, bending, and reaching; must be able to lift and move up to 50 lbs.
• High school diploma or equivalent; trade certifications or equipment manufacturer training are a plus.