Pre-press Specialist

Description

Job Summary:

The Prepress Specialist supports all aspects of production by preparing, reviewing, and optimizing files for print. Responsibilities include file creation, preflight, color management, and press-ready layout preparation for projects originating from multiple departments. This role requires a strong understanding of print production processes and the ability to work effectively with industry-standard prepress and design software.

Successful candidates are detail-oriented, organized, and capable of maintaining accuracy in a fast-paced production environment. The Prepress Specialist must demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and communicate effectively with team members across departments to ensure projects move smoothly from concept to production.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None. 

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Review and assess incoming artwork and files to ensure they meet production and print specifications.

• Perform file preflight checks and corrections including but not limited to resolution, bleed, fonts, color space, layout, spot colors, transparencies, and potential design issues.

• Create or modify customer artwork and production files as needed to meet printing requirements.

• Ensure jobs meet quality standards and are delivered to press in a timely manner to support production schedules.

• Troubleshoot file errors and production challenges, providing solutions to keep jobs moving through the workflow.

• Operate and maintain prepress software and workflow automation tools used in file preparation and production workflows.

Requirements

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong understanding of print production processes including digital and/or offset printing.

• Proficiency with industry-standard design and prepress software such as Adobe Creative Cloud (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, Acrobat).

• Experience preparing files for print including bleed, trim, color modes, image resolution, and font management.

• Experience working in both macOS and Windows-based environments.

• Strong attention to detail with the ability to identify and resolve file issues before they impact production.

• Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to handle multiple jobs in a fast-paced environment.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills when collaborating with internal teams such as customer service, design, and production.

Minimum Education and Experience:

• Associate’s degree or technical certification in Graphic Design, Print Production, Prepress Technology, or a related field, or a minimum of 2 years of equivalent professional experience in a print or prepress environment.

• Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, and Acrobat).

Preferred Experience:

• Experience working in a commercial print, packaging, or high-volume digital print environment.

• Strong graphic design background with the ability to translate creative concepts into print-ready production files.

• Experience working with workflow automation systems (e.g., Enfocus Switch or similar automation platforms).

• Knowledge of imposition and press layout preparation programs (Kodak Preps, Kodak Workshop, Tilia Phoenix, Impostrip or similar solutions).

• Familiarity with digital press front ends or RIP software (e.g., Fiery, Revoria Flow, HP SmartStream, or similar systems).

Physical Requirements: 

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working on a computer.

• Ability to move throughout the production and warehouse areas as needed.

• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds occasionally.

• Ability to reach, bend, and access materials stored at varying heights.