Ink Technician in Wigan

Join Saica Flex, a division of the Saica Group specializing in flexible packaging and labeling. At Saica Flex, we have a challenge: to drive and develop sustainable solutions based on the principles of the circular economy. We believe in talent, professional growth, and making a positive impact on the world. If you're looking for a dynamic environment where every day is an opportunity to innovate and create a better world, Saica Group is the place for you!

At Saica Group, we are more than an organisation; we are a community committed to delivering sustainable paper and packaging solutions while championing circularity and innovation in waste management. With over 10,000 colleagues across 11 countries and more than 80 years of history, we are proud to create sustainable solutions that make a lasting impact.

This opportunity is within our Saica Flex division, which manufactures a range of flexible plastic films for leading food manufacturers and retailers. Based at our Wigan site, we produce high-quality printed packaging using advanced flexographic printing technology.

About the role: We are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented individual to join our flexographic printing team as an Ink Technician. You will play a key role in preparing, matching and managing inks to ensure the high-quality print standards our customers expect. Previous experience in a flexographic printing environment or a similar print-related role would be advantageous. However, full training will be provided for the right individual who demonstrates a positive attitude, a willingness to learn and excellent attention to detail.

Why Join Saica Flex? Joining Saica Flex means becoming part of a global business that values innovation, sustainability and continuous improvement. We offer long-term career opportunities, ongoing development and the chance to work alongside experienced colleagues within a supportive team environment.

Ink Technician – Responsibilities:

• Preparing and mixing inks to production specifications and colour standards.
• Matching colours accurately using approved formulations and quality standards.
• Monitoring ink performance throughout production and making adjustments as required.
• Maintaining ink inventory, ensuring stock levels are controlled and materials are stored correctly.
• Recording ink formulations and maintaining accurate production records.
• Supporting press operators with ink-related technical issues and colour consistency.
• Conducting routine quality checks to ensure print standards are met.
• Cleaning and maintaining ink mixing equipment and work areas in accordance with company procedures.
• Ability to follow written procedures and Health & Safety requirements, including the safe handling and disposal of inks and chemicals.
• Working collaboratively with production, quality, and planning teams to meet customer deadlines.

Skills & Experience:

• Essential
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Good colour perception, with the ability to accurately distinguish subtle colour variations.
• Strong organisational skills.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Basic computer literacy.
• Desirable
• Previous experience as an Ink Technician or in a flexographic printing environment.
• Experience with colour matching and ink formulation.
• Knowledge of solvent-, water-, or UV-based ink systems.
• Understanding of quality management systems within print manufacturing.
• Forklift truck licence or previous experience.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary.
• Friendly and supportive working environment.
• Full training and ongoing development.
• Opportunities for progression and further technical training.
• 22 days' holiday, inclusive of Bank Holidays, based on 11.5-hour shifts, plus an annual Christmas shutdown.
• Overtime opportunities at 1.5x your hourly rate.
• Refer a Friend Scheme of £500.
• Cyle to work and Home & Technology scheme.
• Employee Discount Platform.
• Flu and eye test vouchers.

The role operates across the following shift patterns: 12 hour rotating shift pattern, spread over a rotating 4 week cycle. This will typically be: Week 1 – 4 nights, 3 off; Week 2 – 3 days, 1 off, 3 nights; Week 3 – 3 off, 4 days; Week 4 – 7 off.

Saica Group is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone is treated fairly and with respect. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. Reasonable adjustments will be made throughout the recruitment process where required.

If you're enthusiastic, eager to learn and enjoy working as part of a hardworking and supportive manufacturing team, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today by submitting your CV.

By joining the Saica Group, you're choosing more than a job – you're choosing a purpose-driven career that aligns with your values. You'll collaborate with like-minded individuals to shape a sustainable future, making a meaningful contribution to our world.

Saica Group is committed to Occupational Risk Prevention for its employees and partner companies, Environmental Protection, the Quality of its products and services, and Equal Opportunities between men and women. In our work, we strive to maintain a balance between professional and personal life.