POSITION SUMMARY: The Print Production Manager will work closely with the Creative, Design Development, and Project Management groups to purchase and coordinate the manufacturing of project-related graphic items with Miller Zell manufacturing facilities. The position will also be responsible for costing and purchasing, using approved Miller Zell practices and standards to ensure the cost-effective production of items required for each client/project.

POSITION COMPETENCIES: Responsibilities associated with each position are a combination of organization-wide and department-specific standards. Competencies are evaluated initially during each employee’s Introductory Period using the onboarding plan and manager observations. Thereafter, competencies are assessed on an ongoing basis and formally documented annually using the Annual Performance Appraisal Form.

ORGANIZATIONAL RANKING:

Reports To: Senior Print Production Manager

Other Responsibilities: No.

JOB FUNCTIONS:

Every effort has been made to make this job description as complete as possible. However, it in no way states or implies that these are the only duties the incumbent will be required to perform. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or is a logical assignment to the position.

This position requires a team-oriented individual with strong interpersonal and organizational skills who can successfully manage multiple projects with extremely tight deadlines. Must possess effective time management and communication skills. Print experience is required, preferably with large-format digital, offset, and/or screen printing knowledge. Basic knowledge of inventory control is preferred.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

• For internal print production, request or create estimates as needed, prepare production work orders (via ePace & lift MIS), communicate deadlines and project deliverables, and monitor production quality and timely execution of print projects
• Work with production supervisors and staff to resolve any production issues that arise during a project
• Work with account managers, graphic designers, Graphic Center production staff, and vendors to determine the print substrates and production method that is best fit for the design intent and final use for each project.
• Attend and/or assist with press checks when needed.
• Monitor costs and continually strive for cost reduction and increased profit margins
• Prepare and issue purchase orders, work orders, and change orders
• Ensure consistency and quality control through the print production process and manage projects so delivered orders are within budget and on time.
• Assist in the coordination of logistics issues, packaging, and shipping of products/projects at vendors and MZ warehouses.
• Punctuality and regular attendance are required on the job.
• For outside print, negotiate and obtain quotes from vendors, prepare cost estimates, issue purchase orders
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with print vendors.

MEASURES OF EFFECTIVENESS:

• As observed by the manager and others.
• Review of documentation.
• Project outcomes and results are delivered in a cost-effective, high-quality, competent, and efficient manner as determined by internal and external processes.
• Conduct and interpersonal relationships contribute positively to the delivery of projects and services, and the orderly operation of the department and the organization.
• Skills are maintained and enhanced through meetings with interdisciplinary team members, participation in planning activities, and attendance at in-service and continuing education programs.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: Associate's or Bachelors' degree in Graphics or Print Production.

Experience: Minimum 3 to 5 years in purchasing, negotiating, and estimating. Prior print industry experience in positions such as purchasing, estimating, and/or customer service is strongly preferred.

Special Skills/Qualifications: Basic inventory control knowledge is preferred, as project coordination skills, strong communication skills

MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL REQUIREMENTS: The incumbent must manage stress appropriately; make decisions under pressure; handle multiple priorities, work alone, or may be required to work in areas that are confined and/or crowded.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS: The incumbent will never be exposed to toxins, chemicals, detergents, extreme temperatures (30 degrees F – 115 degrees F), dust, fumes, moving mechanical parts, x-ray/electromagnetic energy, high-pitched noises, Communicable diseases, or gases. The incumbent will spend approximately 90% of their time indoors.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: SEDENTARY WORK: Lifting 30 lbs. maximum and occasionally lifting and/or carrying articles.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Must be able to lift and/or push up to 30 pounds with mechanical assistance. This position requires stooping, kneeling, bending, manual dexterity, repetitive hand and arm coordination, finger dexterity, and visual acuity both far and near with depth perception. The incumbent will sit 75% of the time and stand/walk 25% of the time.

CONTACTS / INTERACTS WITH: Employees, Clients, and Vendors