What are the responsibilities and job description for the Graphic Design/Prepress position at Specialty?
ON SITE — Graphic Design / Pre-press Technician
This person is responsible for preparing print-ready files, producing finished output on digital presses and high-volume copiers, and providing excellent service to our clients in person, by phone, and online. Day to day, the role includes pre-flighting and preparing artwork for production, operating and maintaining digital press and copier equipment, troubleshooting file and output issues, assisting customers with job specifications, and coordinating with the sales team to keep jobs on schedule.
The ideal candidate has a degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, or a related field and at least two years of professional experience in a print or pre-press environment. He or she must be highly organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable working on both Mac and PC platforms using industry-standard design and pre-press software (Adobe Creative Suite, RIP software, imposition tools). Hands-on experience operating digital presses or production copiers is strongly preferred. Strong communication skills, a working knowledge of print production processes (color management, paper stocks, finishing), and experience with copy editing or proofreading round out the ideal profile.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Pre-flight, prepares, and packages customer-supplied and in-house files for digital press and copier output, ensuring color accuracy, correct imposition, and print-ready specs
- Operates, monitors, and performs basic maintenance on digital presses and high-volume copiers
- Interacts with customers by phone or in person to discuss job specifications, provide estimates on turnaround, and resolve production or design questions
- Gathers project requirements, brainstorms and mocks up design concepts, presents ideas to management and/or clients, and revises work based on feedback
- Uses Adobe Creative Suite and other design software to create layouts, selecting colors, images, textures, and typography appropriate to each project
- Develops materials for print marketing, websites, promotional displays, newsletters, signage, and other customer needs
- Troubleshoots file, color, and output issues and coordinates with the appropriate department personnel to resolve them
- Maintains accurate job records, order tracking, and documentation of customer interactions
- Handles customer complaints professionally or escalates when necessary
- Meets or exceeds service, quality, and production targets
- Attends all staff meetings, trainings, and educational sessions as required
- Provides administrative assistance as needed
- Performs other duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS
- College degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, or a related field
- Two years of relevant experience in a print, pre-press, or production environment required
- Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite and pre-press/desktop publishing tools on both Mac and PC
- Working knowledge of digital press and copier operation, color management, paper stocks, and finishing processes strongly preferred
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with clients, staff, vendors, and production partners
- Self-reliant; able to work independently, manage multiple jobs simultaneously, and accept full responsibility for projects from file prep through finished output
- Excellent organizational skills with the ability to meet frequently changing deadlines in a fast-paced production environment
- Strong attention to detail with a commitment to accuracy and print quality
- Highly professional and dependable
- Portfolio required