Plate Making Technician

The Plate Making Technician produces accurate, press ready flexographic plates using Esko CDI imaging and water wash processing systems.

Position Summary

The Plate Making Technician produces accurate, press‑ready flexographic plates using Esko CDI imaging and water‑wash processing systems. Working from approved work orders and standard recipes, the technician sets and verifies exposure/imaging parameters, controls washout/dry/detack conditions, and safeguards plate integrity through correct handling, labeling, and storage. The role rigorously follows documented SOPs for imaging, exposure, processing, drying/post‑exposure, inspection, labeling, and storage, and completes all logs, checklists, and shift handover notes to ensure full traceability. The technician proactively maintains equipment uptime through daily/weekly care (cleaning, filter changes, pH/temperature checks) and escalates abnormalities early. The position collaborates closely with Prepress, Plate Mounting, Production, QA, and the Traffic Coordinator to meet schedule requirements and support press readiness. Success is measured by on‑time “plate‑ready” delivery, first‑pass quality, low rework, equipment uptime, and housekeeping/safety performance.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

1) Job Intake & Preparation

• Review job bag/work order and verify plate type/size, repeat, thickness, and any special notes.
• Confirm file readiness (LEN/TIFF/layout) with Prepress.
• Request and stage materials/consumables via the Material Requisition process.
• Check availability/condition of plate bags, separators, and labels for handover.

2) Imaging & Exposure

• Set exposure/imaging parameters based on plate thickness and required relief.
• Operate Esko CDI exposure/imaging unit per job specifications.
• Perform light‑intensity checks/lamp tests and record results.
• Verify test scales, registration targets, and plate orientation before imaging.

3) Processing (Washout, Dry, Post‑Exposure/Detack)

• Operate water‑wash processors; set wash times, temperatures, and brush pressure.
• Dry plates, perform post‑exposure/detack, cool, and condition plates prior to inspection.
• Perform routine care: drain/refill tanks, check pH, clean/replace transport rollers.
• Dispose of waste and change filters per SOP and supplier guidance.

4) Quality Control

• Inspect dots, relief depth, floor, and edge definition using loupe/microscope and Beta Flex measuring tools.
• Verify plate size/orientation and registration marks; determine release or hold.
• Document inspection results and communicate issues promptly to Lead/Manager.
• Segregate and tag any non‑conforming plates; initiate rework request when required.

5) Documentation & Records

• Complete QC checklists and processing logs for each job.
• Record exposure energy/time, wash parameters, drying/post‑exposure settings, inspection results, material usage, and maintenance actions.
• Ensure accurate job/plate labeling (job number, revision, date, set count) and file retrieval notes.
• Maintain shift handover notes on work‑in‑process and outstanding actions.

6) Handling, Storage & Handover

• Label plates and plate bags with job number, revision, and date.
• Store plates under defined conditions and update storage/location records.
• Prepare plate sets for mounting and coordinate handover timing with Plate Mounting.
• Protect plates from heat/light; use separators and sleeves to prevent damage.

7) Maintenance, Safety & Housekeeping

• Perform daily/weekly equipment checks and preventive maintenance tasks; escalate issues to the Lead/Manager.
• Follow PPE and chemical‑handling procedures; maintain ventilation and safe‑work practices.
• Keep workspace clean and audit‑ready; remove water residue, wipe surfaces, and secure cords/hoses.
• Promptly report hazards, near‑misses, or equipment alarms.

8) Collaboration

• Coordinate with Prepress Artists, Plate Mounters, Production Supervisors, QA, and the Traffic Coordinator.
• Participate in shift handovers and brief huddles to review priorities and issues.
• Support press‑side queries on plate identification or replacement timing when requested.

Minimum Qualifications

• Secondary school diploma or technical certificate (graphics/print preferred).
• Entry‑level candidates considered with successful completion of the internal 10‑week Plate Making Technician Training Program; prior flexo plate‑making experience is an asset.
• Familiarity with Esko CDI imaging, exposure units, and water‑wash plate processors .
• Ability to read job tickets and basic press/plate parameters (line screen, angles, repeats, plate thickness).

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Technical

• Plate materials, relief and exposure settings, wash parameters, drying/post‑exposure sequences, and inspection criteria.
• Basic measurement and use of test targets/scales.

Tools & Equipment

• Esko CDI; exposure units; water‑wash processors; drying/post‑exposure units; microscopes/loupes; Beta Flex measuring tools; thickness gauges; calibrated timers/thermometers/pH meters.

Software & File Discipline

• Bitmap Viewer and basic file storage/retrieval discipline for plate jobs.

Core Competencies

• Attention to detail, documentation accuracy, communication, teamwork, time management, adherence to SOPs, reliability under time pressure.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• Standing and walking most of the shift; safe lifting up to [25–40 lb / 10–18 kg].
• Exposure to heat, UV equipment, water‑wash chemistry, and equipment noise; PPE required.
• Rotating shifts or extended hours may be required to meet deadlines.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• On‑time “plate‑ready” to schedule ≥ 95%.
• First‑pass QC pass rate ≥ 98%.
• Remake/rework rate ≤ 2% of plates.
• Processor/imager uptime ≥ 92% (excluding planned maintenance).
• Housekeeping & safety audit score ≥ 90%.

Decision‑Making Authority

• Place a job on hold for quality or safety concerns and escalate non‑conformances to the Lead/Manager.
• Request urgent re‑imaging or rework when inspection criteria are not met.

Training & Advancement

• Must complete and maintain certification through the internal 10‑week Plate Making Technician Training Program.
• Typical progression: Plate Making Technician → Senior PMT → Plate Mounting Lead / Prepress QC → Prepress Supervisor/Manager.
• Cross‑training opportunities available in Plate Mounting and Prepress QC.