We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Prepress Manager to lead our prepress department and ensure print-ready files are prepared accurately, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards. This position will oversee the prepress team, manage workflow and priorities, review customer files, coordinate proofs, and ensure consistent color and production quality throughout the printing process.
The ideal candidate has strong knowledge of commercial print production, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to lead a team in a fast-paced print shop environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Prepress & File Preparation
Manage the preparation and processing of customer artwork and production files.
Review files for proper dimensions, bleeds, resolution, fonts, color spaces, trapping, imposition, and other print specifications.
Identify and resolve file issues before they reach production.
Prepare files for digital, offset, large-format, or other applicable printing processes.
Ensure files are properly imposed and prepared for plates, digital presses, or other production equipment.
Communicate with customers, sales staff, and production personnel regarding file corrections and technical requirements.
Proofing & Quality Control
Manage the proofing process and ensure proofs accurately represent the final printed product. Review proofs for layout, color, content, registration, and production accuracy.
Establish and maintain quality-control procedures within the prepress department.
Troubleshoot print-quality issues and work with press and finishing departments to identify root causes. Maintain consistency and accuracy from customer-approved files through final production.
Color Management
Oversee color management procedures and maintain consistent color reproduction.
Monitor color profiles, calibration, proofing systems, and production standards.
Work closely with press operators to resolve color-related issues.
Maintain appropriate color workflows and standards across different substrates and printing processes.
Team Leadership & Workflow
Supervise, train, and support prepress employees. Assign jobs and manage department priorities based on production schedules and deadlines.
Monitor workload and adjust staffing or workflow as needed.
Establish efficient procedures to reduce errors, rework, and production delays.
Provide coaching, feedback, and performance support to team members.
Promote a culture of accuracy, accountability, communication, and continuous improvement.
Production Coordination
Work closely with sales, customer service, production, press, and finishing departments.
Help establish realistic production timelines and communicate potential issues before they affect deadlines.
Troubleshoot technical problems and provide solutions to keep jobs moving.
Ensure all production files meet the shop's specifications before releasing them to production. Maintain organized job records and documentation.
Qualifications
3+ years of experience in prepress, print production, or a related field; supervisory or management experience preferred.
Strong understanding of commercial printing and prepress workflows.
Proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud, particularly Adobe Acrobat, InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop. Experience with PDF preflight, imposition, trapping, color separation, and file preparation.
Strong understanding of CMYK, spot colors, ICC color profiles, and color management.
Experience with digital and/or offset printing workflows. Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills. Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality. Ability to manage multiple jobs and deadlines in a fast-paced production environment.
Strong communication and leadership skills.
Preferred Experience
Experience with prepress workflow automation or workflow-management systems.
Knowledge of RIP systems and digital front ends. Experience with large-format printing is a plus. Experience with CTP/plate production is a plus. Knowledge of variable-data printing is a plus.
Familiarity with industry color and print standards is preferred.
Key Attributes
Detail-oriented and quality-focused Organized and deadline-driven
A strong problem solver
An effective team leader
Comfortable working under pressure Proactive in identifying production issues Strong in communication and collaboration Willing to be hands-on when needed
*This position is available immediately and offers full health, dental, and life insurance at zero cost to employee*
Pay: $28.00 - $32.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
