Pre-Press Supervisor

POSITION SUMMARY

The Art/Pre-Press Supervisor serves as the department's daily workflow and quality control lead, acting as second-in-command to support operational excellence and team productivity. This role is responsible for managing day-to-day workflow, performing first-pass quality control, providing technical guidance to designers, and ensuring adherence to departmental standards and brand guidelines. The Supervisor maintains continuity during the Manager's absence and plays a critical role in supporting both the creative team and client management through effective communication and problem-solving.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Workflow Management & Operations

• Lead daily workflow coordination and job prioritization for proofing and pre-press operations
• Assign and escalate rush or high-priority jobs to ensure timely completion
• Monitor department throughput and identify bottlenecks or inefficiencies
• Remain fully cross-trained in proofing and pre-press to step in and assist with workload as needed
• Maintain productivity standards and ensure consistent output quality

Quality Control & Approval Authority  

• Perform first-pass and routine quality control checks on proofs and production files
• Provide approval for routine proofs and production files within established guidelines
• Enforce SOPs, brand standards, and department guidelines across all projects
• Escalate unresolved or high-risk quality issues to the department manager
• Collaborate with the department manager to address customer complaints and quality defects
• Help identify corrective actions and implement quality improvements

Technical Leadership & Support 

• Provide technical guidance and troubleshooting support to designers and production staff
• Utilize software solutions that facilitate department development and related design and prepress production (Adobe Creative Suite, Google Workspace, ERP systems, etc.)
• Assist with automation development and workflow improvement initiatives
• Stay current with industry best practices and emerging technologies
• Train team members on new tools, techniques, and processes

Communication & Coordination

• Communicate proactively with designers and Client Management (CM) regarding missing assets, clarifications, or project requirements 
• Serve as liaison between production team and other departments
• Facilitate clear communication of priorities, deadlines, and expectations
• Provide regular status updates to the department manager

Creative Support & Development 

• Assist in the design and development of multi-channel marketing collateral including print materials, signage, and vehicle graphics
• Support mock-up creation for branded portals and digital applications
• Brainstorm and collaborate with the creative team and management on fresh design and advertising concepts
• Contribute creative insights to enhance project outcomes

Leadership & Administrative Support 

• Act as backup for the Manager when unavailable, maintaining operational continuity
• Support the manager in administration of established policies and procedures
• Provide feedback to the manager on employee performance and development needs
• Participate in team development initiatives and foster a positive work environment
• Assist with onboarding and training of new team members

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Associate's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, Printing Technology, or related field; OR
• High school diploma/GED with equivalent professional experience in graphic design and pre-press operations

Experience:

• Minimum 4-6 years of progressive experience in graphic design, pre-press, or print production
• Experience in a lead, senior designer, or supervisory capacity
• Proven track record of quality control and workflow management
• Experience working in a fast-paced production environment with tight deadlines

Technical Skills: 

• Expert-level proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat Pro)
• Strong understanding of pre-press processes, file preparation, and print production workflows
• Proficiency with Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive, etc.)
• Experience with ERP systems or production management software
• Knowledge of color management, file formats, and output specifications
• Understanding of various printing processes and substrate applications

Core Competencies:

• Strong attention to detail with exceptional quality control abilities 
• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects and manage competing deadlines
• Leadership presence with ability to motivate and guide team members
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Collaborative mindset with ability to work cross-functionally
• Adaptability and flexibility in a dynamic work environment 

Benefits:

• Generous PTO Policy!
• Health, Dental, Vision and more!
• 401k!
• Paid Holidays!