SUMMARY
The Sr. Director of Prepress oversees the conversion of digital creative files into accurate, print-ready output. This role leads and oversees prepress staff, streamlines automated workflows, manages color standards, and prepares mechanicals for offset and digital presses. The ideal candidate has deep expertise in web and sheet-fed templates, imposition, and Computer-to-Plate (CTP) output, and ensures final output is checked and press issues are resolved quickly.
ACCOUNTABILITIES
Workflow & Production Management
- Lead the daily flow of print jobs, including scheduling, preflighting, and platemaking, to meet tight deadlines.
- Monitor internal email, the DG3 FTP site, and client portals for incoming job files.
- Prioritize production queues to maximize cost-efficiency and pressroom uptime.
Technical Oversight & Imposition
- Apply advanced print theory to impose files accurately for press formats, variable data printing (VDP), and bindery requirements.
- Maintain expert-level execution of web and sheet-fed templates.
Color Management & Quality Assurance
- Maintain color standards, ICC profiles, and device calibration across digital and offset systems.
- Conduct detailed preflight reviews to identify and correct issues with resolution, bleeds, trim, trapping, and fonts.
- Generate, review, and approve high-fidelity proof before large-scale production.
Team Leadership
- Hire, train, mentor, and supervise prepress technicians and operators.
- Cultivate a culture of precision, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the department.
QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Technical Expertise & Software Proficiency
- Operating Systems: Fluent in both Mac and PC platforms.
- Prepress and preflight tools: Expert knowledge of Agfa Apogee, Preps, Enfocus PitStop, and FlightCheck.
- Design software: Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, including InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, and Acrobat.
- Workflow automation and RIP software: Familiarity with high-end tools such as Heidelberg Prinect, Esko, or Kodak Prinergy.
- Production techniques: Strong understanding of offset (sheet-fed and web) and digital production, including HP Indigo.
Professional Skills
- Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to work effectively with multiple departments, including Pressroom, Bindery, Account Management, and Sales.
- Client focus: Committed to internal and external customer satisfaction, with a solution-oriented approach under pressure.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; a technical degree or certification in Graphic Communications or Print Production is a plus.
Experience: 7 to 10+ years of progressive experience in the electronic prepress and printing industry.
- At least 5+ years in a supervisory or management role in a high-volume graphics or print production environment.
Preferred: Hands-on experience with Agfa Apogee Workflow systems and Quadient for variable data is strongly preferred.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This role is primarily based on an office setting, with some work in manufacturing or warehouse areas that may be noisy, hot, or humid. The pace can be demanding, with multiple priorities and tight deadlines. Travel is minimal, at less than 10%.
EEO Statement: DG3 is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We prohibit discrimination based on age, race, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, national origin, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic background.
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- AD&D insurance
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Referral program
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
