Position Summary:
The Prepress Operator ensures the format, content and color of all files for offset and digital printing. The position requires great communication skills, keen attention to detail, and a strong understanding of the offset and digital printing process.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities:
Communicate effectively with Sales and Account Management team members
Preflight customer's files for: size, image resolution, bleeds, overprints, font issues, and color breaks
Verify provided artwork will reproduce to customer expectations
Process and build files for production
Determine and create page layouts, while accounting for folds, trims, and die cuts as necessary.
Work with various graphic design and layout software applications commonly used on Mac OS
Perform quality checks on finished hard and PDF proofs before releasing to manufacturing
Output digital files to various output devices
Operate CTP plate making equipment to prepare plates for press
Perform maintenance to department equipment
Contribute to safety goals by maintaining a clean, clutter-free workplace, report potentially unsafe conditions and ensure that the department meets and exceeds safety requirements
Meet productivity and quality standards by completing work in timely and accurate manner
Work overtime as needed
Other duties as assigned
Mandatory Qualifications:
High school diploma or general education degree (GED)
Basic computer skills including email, basic mouse, keyboard and menu navigation
Basic math skills including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and measurement
Basic color management skills with the ability to work in different digital file formats
3+ years of experience in an electronic pre-press environment
Extensive skills with Adobe Creative Suite applications used for print production (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat)
Ability to communicate/understand basic written and verbal instructions including read planning notes / layouts to produce imposed files
Demonstrated ability to use problem-solving skills in producing jobs effectively
Preferred Qualifications:
3+ years of experience working in printing or manufacturing
3+ years of experience with Color Management
Extensive skills with Apogee, Metrix, Phoenix
Ability to continue to learn and use new graphics software on an ongoing basis
Vocational/technical school or college degree in electronic prepress and/or equivalent experience
Extensive knowledge and demonstrated skills in all production processes related to electronic pre-press activities, including software, hardware, equipment, and materials
Apogee, Metrix, and Pitstop software knowledge
Image retouching and color correction knowledge
Physical Requirements:
Frequent reaching, bending, climbing, kneeling, crouching, and stooping
Frequent standing for prolonged periods of time
Frequent walking
Ability to lift, pull, push up to 40 pounds
Ability to visually inspect all work for defects
Manual dexterity for repetitive work
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions
Pay is negotiable based on experience
