Pre-Press Assistant

TOPPAN Packaging Americas • Elk Grove, IL

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Pre-Press Assistant supports printing operations by performing responsibilities within both the Plate Check and Pre-Flight functions. This role plays a critical part in ensuring printing plates, proofs, color standards, and job files are accurately prepared, organized, verified, and delivered to support production. Success in this position requires strong attention to detail, communication skills, color management knowledge, and the ability to work closely with multiple departments.

Requirements

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent work experience.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English proficiently.
• Color matching or ink-related experience.
• Pre-flight, graphics, printing, or color management experience.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Solid math skills and analytical abilities.
• Comfortable working with software systems and technical production data.
• Ability to safely work with ladders and lift materials as required.
• Enjoy collaborating with multiple departments in a manufacturing environment.
• Frequent walking, standing, bending, and reaching.
• Ability to use platform ladders safely.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to retrieve materials from elevated storage locations.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment while maintaining attention to detail and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Utilize EFI and FileMaker location service programs to locate printing plates and related documentation.
• Retrieve printing plates, GMG color targets, and stepped paper proofs from designated storage locations.
• Use platform ladders to safely access materials stored at elevated rack locations.
• Visually inspect and verify printing plates prior to delivery to the Mounting Department.
• Deliver plates and supporting documentation using carts or by hand when required.
• Organize and return cleaned plates, GMGs, and proofs to designated storage locations after production.
• Order replacement plates as needed.
• Communicate with Customer Relations, Graphics, Mounting, Preflight, Scheduling, and Press departments regarding plate requirements and replacements.
• Maintain accurate organization of plate inventory and documentation.
• Operate ColorCert software supplied by X-Rite.
• Create CCJ color files and manage job transfers.
• Build and maintain job files containing customer, graphics, and ink color data.
• Assist with Plate Check activities based on production needs.
• Create and manage press run conditions for production jobs.
• Develop job dependencies based on artwork layouts and design specifications.
• Work closely with Press Operations to establish and maintain future run conditions.
• Create customer color standards and color targets.
• Retrieve press retain samples using platform ladders when required.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives through participation in Global Performance System (GPS) activities, including: 5Star Programs, Pillar Teams, Audits, Near Miss Reporting.
• Maintain regular attendance and punctuality.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Employee Assistance Program and wellbeing resources
• Paid time off and holidays
• Company-paid and voluntary insurance plans including life, accident, and disability coverage
• Tuition reimbursement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED