Color Matching Technician
Flexographic Ink Laboratory
Please note pay will be based on experience.
Position Summary
The Color Matching Technician is responsible for developing, evaluating, and maintaining accurate ink color matches and color standards for customer requirements. This position requires hands-on color matching experience, strong visual color judgment, and the ability to use laboratory instruments and color management software. The successful candidate will work safely and accurately, follow established procedures, document results, and communicate effectively with laboratory, production, quality, and technical service personnel.
Essential Responsibilities
· Match customer-requested colors and establish accurate, repeatable color standards.
· Prepare ink drawdowns and proofs using a hand proofer; evaluate color, strength, shade, opacity, transparency, undertone, and overall appearance.
· Operate and maintain spectrophotometers and X-Rite color management software.
· Interpret color data, including L*a*b* values and ΔE, and make calculated formula adjustments to achieve customer specifications.
· Basic math, percentages, ratios, and formula adjustments.
· Accurately weigh and blend materials while following approved formulations and laboratory procedures.
· Measure and record pH using a calibrated pH meter and measure viscosity using a Zahn cup.
· Create and maintain accurate formulas in the SPEC ink dispensing software and prepare complete QC folders and supporting documentation.
· Evaluate production or press-returned samples, identify color-related issues, and recommend appropriate corrections.
· Maintain laboratory equipment through routine cleaning, calibration, and proper handling.
· Keep the laboratory clean, organized, and stocked; report equipment, material, quality, or safety concerns promptly.
· Work collaboratively with production, quality, technical service, and pressroom personnel to resolve color and print-performance issues.
· Oversee quality control processes for all production batches to maintain product integrity and customer satisfaction.
Required Qualifications
· Hands-on experience matching ink, coatings, paint, or a comparable color-critical product.
· Demonstrated ability to visually evaluate color differences and make adjustments to achieve an approved standard.
· Ability to perform consistent drawdowns or proofs and accurately weigh materials.
· Working knowledge of color measurement concepts and the ability to learn or operate spectrophotometers and color management software.
· Ability to measure pH and viscosity and maintain accurate laboratory records.
· Basic computer skills for entering formulas, test results, and other laboratory data.
· Strong attention to detail, organization, dependability, and commitment to safe work practices.
· Ability to work independently, follow procedures, accept feedback, ask questions, verify work, and communicate problems promptly.
· Standing for extended periods, with or without reasonable accommodation
Preferred Qualifications
· Press-side experience in flexographic or gravure printing, including troubleshooting color, viscosity, pH, strength, and print appearance at the press.
· Experience with water-based flexographic inks used in corrugated, paper, or packaging applications.
· Experience with X-Rite instruments/software, SPEC dispensing software, or a comparable ink formulation system.
· Laboratory quality control or chemical manufacturing experience.
· SAP/ERP experience preferred.
Safety Requirements
· Wear all required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and other task-specific PPE.
· Follow chemical handling, labeling, storage, spill response, and waste disposal procedures.
· Maintain good housekeeping and immediately report or correct spills, unsafe conditions, and damaged equipment within the employee’s level of authority and training.
Pay: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person