Job Description
About Lakeside Book Company
Lakeside Book Company is the largest book manufacturer in North America — and we love books. Every title we produce matters, and so does every hand that helps make it. Our people are at the heart of our success, and our mission is simple: Keep the world reading.
Ink Room Technician
Schedule: 3 Shift Rotation – 8 hour shifts
Pay: $24.00/hr - $30.25/hr plus a 7% shift differential for 2nd & 3rd shift
Location: We have 2 locations in Crawfordsville: North Plant at 1009 Sloan St.
South Plant at 600 State Road 32 West. This position will be for the SOUTH PLANT
As an Ink Technician, you will:
Mix and adjust ink colors to meet job needs, check quality to keep production consistent, prepare materials and support press operators and team members throughout the production process. You will also safely operate equipment, while maintaining a clean work area.
Key Responsibilities:
• Color Matching & Formulation: Creating, adjusting, and testing custom ink colors to meet precise client specifications and press standards.
• Quality Control: Conducting tests on ink viscosity, strength, and pH to ensure consistency throughout the printing process.
• Inventory & Press Support: Managing raw materials, preparing ink for jobs, and providing on-site technical assistance to press operators.
• Safety & Maintenance: Operating blending equipment, handling chemical compounds, and maintaining a clean work environment according to safety standards.
• Requirements
• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent is required, with technical or manufacturing degrees preferred.
• Skills: Strong mathematical skills, color matching proficiency, and familiarity with ink software.
• Physical: Ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and work with chemical products.
• Experience: Previous experience in flexographic printing or ink manufacturing is often preferred.
At Lakeside Book, we value craftsmanship and collaboration by encouraging employees to improve their skills and capabilities. To that end, in addition to meeting the qualification requirements for this position, preference will be given to candidates who agree to participate in cross-training. This includes achieving qualified status within the position and assuming responsibility as a backup for lateral and progressive roles, as needed.
Discover What Makes Crawfordsville Special
With roots dating back to 1921, our Crawfordsville site is founded on over a century of craftsmanship, community pride, and long-term opportunities. As part of a leading industry organization, we are proud to be a local employer of choice.
Our team consists of approximately 850 dedicated and skilled employees who take pride in their work's impact around the world. Whether just starting your career or seeking a place to grow, we welcome individuals from all backgrounds and experiences.
Crawfordsville offers an excellent quality of life, whether you're a resident or considering relocation:
• Enjoy outdoor activities with nearby parks, trails, kayaking, and camping.
• Participate in local events like the Covered Bridge Festival, Strawberry Festival, and the Taste of Montgomery County.
• Explore cultural attractions such as the Rotary Jail Museum, Athens Arts Gallery, and various events at Wabash College.
We Give Back to Our Community: Community involvement is a core part of our identity.
• Our employees volunteer with local organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club, Early Learning Center, Youth Service Bureau, food pantries, and United Way.
• We are actively involved in the Chamber of Commerce, participating in local parades, ribbon cuttings, and networking events.
• We provide support through donations to schools and nonprofits and participate annually in leadership programs.
We prioritize the well-being of our team both within and outside the workplace:
• Safety is a core value, and we take pride in being recognized as a VPP Star Site (Voluntary Protection Program through IOSHA).
• Enjoy fun events like BBQs, pizza parties, and Family Day.
• We recognize achievements through service anniversaries, retirements, and apprenticeship graduations.
• Opportunities are available to join committees focused on Wellness, the Inclusion Council, and the Lakeside Club.
What Makes Crawfordsville Truly Stand Out?
With deep community ties and a history of employees staying for 25+ years, Crawfordsville offers more than just a job—it’s a place to build a meaningful career and make a difference.
A Culture of Safety and Responsibility
At Lakeside Book Company, safety is more than a rule — it’s part of who we are. We’re committed to creating a workplace where every employee, visitor, and customer. That means staying alert, looking out for one another, and making smart, safe daily choices.
Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information.
We’re also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. To request accommodation, please contact talent@lakesidebook.com.
Please note: This job posting outlines key responsibilities and expectations for the role. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.
