Prepress Technician

A prepress technician prepares digital files for the printing process by reviewing, correcting, and formatting artwork and layouts to ensure quality and correct production. Their duties include color separation, color correction, creating proofs, maintaining equipment, and collaborating with customer service to meet project deadlines for digital and offset jobs. Essential skills for the role are proficiency with design software, layout software, attention to detail, and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues.

Job Responsibilities:

File Preparation:

Import, review, and correct digital files (text, images, layouts) for printing.

Proofing:

Generate and review proofs (digital or physical) to check for errors and ensure the final output matches the client's vision.

Troubleshooting:

Identify and resolve technical issues in digital files or prepress equipment.

Equipment Maintenance:

Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and minor repairs on prepress equipment.

Collaboration:

Work with customer service and print operators to ensure smooth project workflow.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Technical Proficiency:

• Expertise in graphic design software like Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).
• Attention to Detail:
• Meticulous review of files to catch formatting, text, and color errors.
• Problem-Solving:
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical problems efficiently.

Computer Skills:

• Strong knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware, and specialized prepress software.

Communication:

• Clear oral and written communication to coordinate with team members and clients.

Helpful Experience

InDesign – Smartstream (or other VDP software)

Heidelberg – Prinect/Cockpit

Enfocus - Pitstop

Work Environment

• May be required to work additional hours, including weekends, from time to time - on an as needed basis.
• Extended periods of sitting at a workstation and working on a computer in an onsite clerical function in general office environment.
• Occasional walking, bending, standing, and lifting; fast paced and occasionally high stress production company setting.
• Uses hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls; reaches with hands and arms; stoops, kneels, and crouches; uses verbal commands and must be able to hear with or without aid.
• Exposure to machinery and mechanical parts.
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 20 pounds.
• Effective visual and hearing abilities, with or without aid, suitable for an office and production warehouse environment. Noise level is usually moderate.