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DTFX Printer & Heat Press Operator

Lakeshirts


Job Location:

Detroit Lakes, MI - USA

Monthly Salary: Not provided by the employer
Posted: 30 July 2026 (30+ days ago)
Application Deadline: 27 October 2026
Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

HEAT UP YOUR CAREER PRINT. CUT. HEAT. REPEAT.

THE OPPORTUNITY:

Lakeshirts a leading wholesale supplier of custom-designed apparel and accessories is seeking a skilled and motivated individual to fill the role of Direct to Film (DTFx) & Heat Press operator. The ideal candidate will be able to help grow this operation by backing up the Lead in printing DTFx and spot sublimation designs as well as being able to operate various heat press machines. This team member will also coordinate with adjacent departments in order to ensure the timely production of high-quality designs on garments and hats.

Schedule: Monday-Friday 8a-4p (Days) or Monday - Thursday 4pm-2am (Nights)

Pay: $16 per hour

A Typical Day (job functions) Prepare Produce Prioritize

  • Operate the DTFx printer and heat press machines including spot sublimation designs/application
  • Ensure proper temperature pressure timing and precise application for each technique
  • Convert and set up inks for the machine in via computer ensuring they are ready for production
  • Send approved art to the DTFx machine and oversee its operation
  • Run the DTFx machine efficiently to produce high-quality designs on garments
  • Perform quality control checks on garments to ensure impeccable quality
  • Conduct light maintenance on the DTFx printer to ensure continuous operation
  • Utilize Excel and Adobe Illustrator to manage art files and design setups
  • Move jobs along our valuestream via computer program (Zion) to ensure timely delivery to the next department
  • Solve problems that arise during machine operation or workflow ensuring minimal disruptions and optimal efficiency
  • Maintain Lakeshirts acceptable standard of quality
  • Follow safety practices; identify problems and work to resolve safety issues as they occur in accordance to OSHA standards
  • Work actively with others in the department and company to achieve positive results
  • Help in other areas as workflow allows to contribute to our core value of TEAM
  • Ability to lift 30-50 lbs continuously
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the DTFx Lead including special projects

Skills (qualifications) Technical Aptitude Attention to Detail Quality Focus

  • High school diploma or equivalent; additional training or certification a plus
  • Previous experience in machine operation training or a related field preferred
  • Proficiency in using Excel for data management and Adobe Illustrator for art files
  • Strong organizational skills to manage art files and production setups effectively
  • Excellent problem-solving skills with ability to address issues promptly and effectively
  • Detail-oriented meticulous and thorough proofing and eye for quality
  • Ability to work independently or as part of a team and stay self-motivated & self-directed in a dynamic environment
  • Mechanical aptitude for performing light machine maintenance
  • Positive attitude and willingness to contribute to a collaborative team environment
  • Problem-solving mindset and the ability to think on your feet (NIMBLE)
  • Effective communication skills to collaborate with team members
  • Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and production needs
  • Reliable responsible and receptive to feedback/direction
  • Perform repetitive tasks for several hours
  • Manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced working environment and adapt to changing priorities
  • Ability to be on your feet 8-10 hrs/day

WHY LAKESHIRTS IS THE PLACE YOU WANT TO BE. At Lakeshirts we believe in making work as awesome as the apparel we create. Were not just a t-shirt company- were also a hat sticker and sock company (and so much more!). Were a place where creativity meets culture where ideas and innovation are encouraged and where the atmosphere is truly one-of-a-kind. As one of the largest screenprinting manufacturers in the U.S. we decorate a variety of garments and accessories for the resort licensed collegiate and K-12 markets supported by over 1000 ah-mazing team members from sea to shining sea.

OUR CULTURE TRULY SETS US APART. Life at Lakeshirts is all about embracing our core values having fun and working with great people who make every day an opportunity to thrive. Were looking for those who want to roll up their sleeves and make an impact while enjoying a culture that values creativity teamwork continuous improvement and empowering each team member to define and elevate their success. We also foster a strong sense of community and are dedicated to wowing our customers on the daily.

LIFES BETTER IN A T-SHIRT & SO IS WORK! Heres what you can expect when you join the Lakeshirts team:

  • Compensation Work Hard. Get Rewarded: Guided by our value of meritocracy we offer a compensation package that reflects your unique skills talents and contributions. You are not just a number-your success ideas and efforts directly shape your growth and earning potential empowering you to take your career to the next level. And there is an option to be paid daily!
  • Insurance Benefits Weve Got You Covered: From health and life insurance to voluntary benefits like dental vision short-term/long-term disability and critical illness & accident coverage weve got you covered; benefits kick in the first of the month following 60 days of full-time employment
  • Paid Time Off Life Outside of Work: Enjoy up to 22 paid days off during the first year because we know life happens outside of work & we want you to be able to enjoy
  • Profit Sharing If Were Profitable. Youre Profitable: When we win you win
  • Retirement Planning Free Money Yes Please!: Our 401(k) program helps you plan for the future
  • Onsite Perks Get in my Belly: At our HQ in Detroit Lakes enjoy hot breakfast lunch and snacks from our subsidized cafeteria
  • Dogs @ Work Yes. Its A Thing. And Its Pawsome: Bring your furry friend to work because we believe dogs just make everything better
  • Relaxed Dress Code Wear What Makes You Feel Your Best: Whether its jeans tees and flip flops- we believe comfort fuels creativity and we offer an employee merchandise discount to keep you & your family well-stocked
  • Flexible Work Schedules Full Time Part Time & Everything In Between: Because we understand the importance of work-life balance
  • Unique Culture That Is Priceless: We make work fun; we believe in teamwork giving back to our communities and doing what we love with great people and always rocking a t-shirt a hat and some cool socks

Cognitive or Mental Requirements of the Job:

Employee must be able to see and hear read and write. Requires good judgment people-oriented flexible organized diplomatic reliable enthusiastic courteous helpful and patient.


Physical Demands:


NEVER (0%): Climb Crawl Lift 25-50 lbs. Lift over 50 lbs. Carry 25-50 lbs. Carry over 50 lbs.

OCCASIONALLY (1%-33%): Lift Stand Walk Carry Push Pull Balance Bend Twist Reach Lift under 10 lbs. Lift 10-24 lbs. Carry under 10 lbs. Carry 10-24 lbs. Reach above shoulder height Reach at shoulder height Reach below shoulder height

FREQUENTLY (34%-66%): Reach below shoulder height

CONTINUOUSLY (67%-100%): Sit

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive and should in no way be considered a contract or guarantee of employment. Employee may perform other related duties as needed based on the ongoing needs of the business. Minnesota is an Employment-At-Will state and implies no specific length of employment.



Required Experience:

IC


About Company

Company Logo

The Lakeshirts story starts more than 30 years ago when two childhood friends, Mark Fritz and Mike Hutchinson, started printing shirts in Mark’s parents’ basement to sell on Detroit Lakes mile long beach. At that time, the company consisted of two teenagers, a couple dogs, a homemade ... View more

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