Apprentice Direct Imaging Artist Job at Kaleidoscope® in Chicago

Overview The Apprentice Direct Imaging Artist is an entry-level, hands-on role designed to build foundational skills in direct imaging. Working under close supervision, the Apprentice supports straightforward, well-scoped production tasks while learning our standards, materials, and processes. The Apprentice partners daily with the Direct Imaging Manager and Direct Imaging Artists to practice core techniques, follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and progress toward independent work on basic jobs.

Responsibilities Assist on production work by preparing substrates, film, and workstation setups for straightforward direct imaging jobs; execute steps exactly as instructed and per SOPs.

Shadow and learn from Direct Imaging Artists to understand materials, registration, curing, and finishing techniques (e.g., transfers, spot finishes, flood coats).

Run basic, well-scoped print steps under supervision (e.g., first-pass prints, simple color passes); escalate issues immediately to the mentor / manager.

Document work accurately (job tickets, versioning, measurements) and maintain a clean, organized station in line with department standards.

Apply learned technical skills on assigned tasks as directed by the Manager, senior team members, or the Director of Prototyping Operations.

Follow all established SOPs and safety / quality guidelines; proactively ask clarifying questions to ensure accuracy.

Support department deadlines, including periodic overtime / evening or weekend work when required by rapid prototyping timelines.

Qualifications Mindset & Collaboration : Positive attitude; embraces studio culture; works well across the Prototyping group and with internal partners / clients.

Communication : Clear, proactive communicator; asks questions and provides status updates to mentors and the Manager.

Pace & Pressure : Comfortable in a fast-paced environment; deadline-positive; willing to support overtime / evening / weekend work as needed.

Technical Foundation : Basic familiarity with print / production or strong motivation to learn quickly; aims to build toward consistent quality in transfers, spot finishes, and flood coats under supervision (independent mastery not required at entry).

Physical Demands : Ability to stand and work for long periods, and have enough stamina to walk over 5,000 steps during an average shift.

Detail Oriented : An eye for detail, and a commitment to the highest quality output is essential to success in the Direct Imaging department.

Learning & Progression Milestones First 30 days : Complete safety & SOP onboarding; shadow core workflows; assist with setup / teardown; demonstrate correct labeling and basic QC checks.

By 60 days : Independently set up and execute simple, single-color or first-pass steps on defined jobs; maintain logs; communicate challenges promptly.

By 90 days : Execute basic multi-step tasks under light supervision (e.g., registration adjustments, standard finish application on approved substrates); ready to take on a subset of Junior tasks on straightforward projects.

Supervision & Development Manager and Primary Mentor : Direct Imaging Manager for priorities, coaching, weekly check-ins, and performance feedback.

Technical Mentors : Direct Imaging Artists are all accessible for technical guidance, knowledge or assistance to help advance the Apprentice Direct Imaging Artist’s skills.

Checkpoints : 30 / 60 / 90-day reviews with documented goals and skill demonstrations aligned to department SOPs.

AI Integration & Learning Shadow team members using AI-assisted tools for quality control and workflow optimization

Learn to interpret AI-generated suggestions for substrate preparation, curing settings, and finishing techniques

Participate in foundational AI literacy training tailored to the Direct Imaging department

Support Documentation accuracy using AI-enhanced logging and labeling tools

Education And Experience No formal degree required; relevant coursework, vocational training, or personal projects in print / graphics are a plus. (Your current job family does not require a degree for adjacent levels.)

Salary Range : $18-$22 USD Hourly

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