Prepress Operator
$45,760–$83,200 year
On-siteNiles, Illinois, United States
Job Summary
Review incoming customer artwork for printability and production compatibility, verifying file specifications including dimensions, bleeds, margins, resolution, fonts, and color builds. Correct artwork issues while maintaining customer design intent and create production-ready PDF files. Generate digital and hard-copy proofs for customer approval, execute trapping, imposition, and nesting, and prepare files for offset printing according to equipment and substrate requirements. Maintain file organization, revision control, and production documentation while communicating artwork concerns to internal customers. Troubleshoot file-related production issues and implement corrective actions to support continuous improvement initiatives. Adhere to company quality standards, safety practices, and production procedures to ensure efficient production and high-quality printed products.
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Associate degree in Graphic Communications, Printing Technology, or related field
- 2+ years of experience in a prepress, graphic arts, packaging, or printing environment
- Proficiency with the Adobe® Creative Cloud: Adobe® Acrobat Pro, Adobe® Illustrator, Adobe® Photoshop, Adobe® InDesign
- Strong understanding of PDF workflows and print production standards
- Knowledge of color management
- Experience with proofing systems, KODAK PRINERGY® and PREPS®, Enfocus PitStop Pro®
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects while meeting deadlines
- Strong communication and problem-solving abilities
Desired Qualifications
- Associate degree in Graphic Communications, Printing Technology, or related field preferred
- Knowledge of offset printing, foil, em-, de-bossing for packaging
- Experience with barcodes, variable data printing, and packaging artwork
- Understanding of G7, GRACoL, SWOP, or other color standards
- Experience working within ISO or quality-controlled manufacturing environments
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