Junior Prepress Technician

Job Summary:  The Junior Prepress Technician provides the interface between the Customer Service Department and the press room/printing department. Files generated by customers must be reviewed so that proofs/plates can be accurately prepared in compliance with job specifications and company quality standards and ensures all prepress work meets customer timeframe requirements.

Prepress Operations

• Operate all equipment in accordance with operating instructions.

• Receive and manipulate files digitally from all sources.

• Preflight and troubleshoot customer digital files. 

• Prepare files for output to proof/plate.

• Layout/impose files on imposition templates. Setup register targets and trim lines for production using Preps and Metrix imposition software.

• Output files to the proofing device and/or Plate setter; set line screens, resolution, and other press-specific settings.

• Produce and verify all Digital Proofs making Dylux/Mock-up proofs as needed.

• Maintain a clean and well-organized work area.

• Perform paste-up and book imposition as necessary.

• Make backups on a regular basis and organize files for safekeeping and for easy retrieval.

• Troubleshoot RIP issues as required. 

• Hard - Proof folded offset jobs and digital books as required.  

• Efficiently operate plating machines and software as required.

• Send approved custom jobs and outstanding scheduled jobs to plating as required. 

• Match plates with appropriate docket and proofs as required.

• Troubleshoot Prinergy and/or imposition issues as required. 

• Responsible for workflow of jobs with special requirements such as finishing (roll labels, spot UV, foil, etc.). 

• Assist in and support recruitment initiatives as required. 

• Respond to Prepress department customer inquiries. 

• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 1 year of print production experience.

• Minimum of 1 year of practical experience in graphic design/prepress.

• Proficient knowledge of applicable professional prepress applications.

• General knowledge of utility programs.

• Adequate knowledge of Macintosh and Windows platforms and operating systems.

• Ability to prepare files for output to proof and plate, receive and manipulate files digitally and maintain operating systems on production machines.

• Knowledge of Kodak Prinergy workflow.

• Knowledge of how to prepare and impose jobs for offset, digital and large format printing.

• Knowledge of printing terminology and practices.

• Experience in paste-up and book imposition.

• Thorough knowledge of PDF 

• Excellent language and communication skills.

• Demonstrated initiative and commitment to learning.

• Meet or exceed minimum test results as specified by the hiring manager.

Working Conditions:

• Intensive computer work and extended use of the computer keyboard and mouse.

• Sitting for prolonged periods of time - up to 8.5 hours per day.

• Working remotely and in office as required at the sole discretion of the company.

• Occasional lifting of objects up to 20 lbs.

• Work area may have fluorescent lighting and air conditioning.

• Noise level is usually moderate to loud.

• Exposure to ink and chemical fumes, and airborne particles such as paper dust and drying powder.

• Appearance at all times must represent the company image.

• Fast-paced environment: subject to numerous schedule and priority changes and short notice activity.

• Additional hours may be required due to operational requirements.