SUMMARY: Unlike a traditional graphic artist, a prepress artist must understand the printing process in which images will be reproduced in order to prepare and assemble final files for print or plate production. The successful individual should be able to make recommendations to customers and staff in order for the printer to produce the highest quality of printing. A complete understanding of the flexographic printing process is desired. Quality final art construction and file assembly is the primary responsibility of this position.

Essential Functions: The following are indicative of the essential functions required to perform this job successfully.

• Work safely and adhere to all safety guidelines.

• Pre-flight and review customer supplied files and materials to limit downtime in art production.

• Communicate with internal / On-Site staff and customers directly to meet expectations, services, and delivery.

• Advise customers, sales staff, and customer service regarding potential pitfalls in areas of graphics and printing.

• Enter and maintain production orders for the latest up to date and correct information.

• Manage file production to meet delivery of scheduled proofs –PDF Soft Proofs and CT GMG Hard Proofs.

• Read / process production orders to insure and maintain deliveries as scheduled.

• Manipulate vector-based art files utilizing Adobe Suite of tools and Esko Software.

• Typesetting and art development.

• Work with Color Department to advise problem areas when finalizing file development.

• Assist in the development and programming of accurate workflows and automation.

• Step files to customer templates and layouts and provide final files for plate making.

• Quality check other Pre-Press Artist file production for detailed accuracy of work performed.

• Follow and perform all QA procedures to ensure artwork meets quality standards and meets customer’s expectations.

  Education and Experience: Educational requirements, years of work experience.

• Bachelor’s degree in relative field of study preferred. Experience and production skills will be considered in lieu of degree.

  Skills, Abilities, and Personal Characteristics:

• Ability to work overtime including nights and weekends as workload dictates.

• Hard worker that aspires to excel.

• Mature, motivated, willing to help out as needed.

• Strong computer skills and technical knowledge required utilizing both Mac and Windows platforms.

• Complete understanding and utilization of Adobe and Esko Suite of graphic production tools.

• Mechanical aptitude in art and file manipulation and development.

• Detail oriented and quality driven.

• A self-starter with the ability to work independently or with a team.

• Understanding of multiple printing processes, especially in the area of flexographic printing.

• Ability to set up art to printer’s parameters and specifications in areas of template, layouts, and stepping.

• Utilize Esko electronic tools provided to ensure quality and accuracy in file development.

The above description is NOT an all-inclusive job description. We are a lean manufacturing operation and often personnel have to work in other departments and perform other duties in the course of their workday. Personnel is expected to cover other areas when others are out or otherwise unavailable. Depth of work and activities are encouraged and expected.