Prelim/Prepress Operator 1

RR Donnelley•Wilson, NC

About The Position

The Prelim/Prepress Operator 1 reviews client electronic files for completeness before plate making and prepares print jobs for production. Using desktop publishing and graphics software, the operator formats jobs to paper dimensions, determines page layouts while accounting for folds, trims, bleeds, and grippers, and adds crop marks and color bars as needed. The role identifies missing or problematic components and works with Customer Service Representatives, customers, and production personnel to resolve issues. The operator loads customer-supplied files onto the Pre-Press file server and creates electronic page images and manufacturing proofs for Press and Bind operators. The position may also prepare color proofs for customer review. Mechanical skills are used to perform minor repairs and maintenance on a flatbed scanner, image setter, and automated film processing equipment.

Requirements

Ability to work with graphic design and layout software commonly used on Mac and PC systems.
Good understanding of digital file formats, including PDF, TIFF, and EPS, across Mac and PC operating systems.
Basic color management skills and ability to work with different digital formats.
Ability to output digital files to various output devices.
Ability to continue learning and using new graphics software.
Understanding of the offset printing process and how one color affects another.
Mechanical skills using small hand tools to make minor repairs and perform maintenance on a flatbed scanner, image setter, and automated film processing equipment.

Responsibilities

Review electronic files received from clients for thoroughness and completeness before plate making.
Use desktop publishing software to format print jobs to the dimensions of the paper.
Determine page layout while accounting for folds, trims, bleeds, and gripper; add crop marks and color bars as necessary.
Identify missing or problematic components and communicate them to Customer Service Representatives, customers, and production personnel.
Work with Customer Service Representatives, customers, and production personnel to resolve job problems.
Load customer-supplied electronic files for output onto the Pre-Press file server.
Create electronic page images and manufacturing proofs for Press and Bind operators.
Prepare color proofs for customer review when needed.
Perform minor repairs and maintenance on a flatbed scanner, image setter, and automated film processing equipment.