PrePress Manager

Stahls' • Mentor, OH

5d

About The Position

The Prepress Manager is responsible for leading all activities within the prepress operation, including Reclaim, Coating, Imaging, and Inspection. This role ensures that all jobs meet client specifications, production schedules, and quality standards while driving continuous improvement, technical excellence, and operational scalability.

This position supports a high-volume, multi-shift manufacturing environment serving major licensed programs, national brands, and professional sports organizations. The Prepress Manager plays a critical role in translating prepress quality into on-press efficiency and enterprise production performance.

Requirements

• Minimum 5+ years of supervisory or management experience, preferably in screen printing manufacturing, production, warehouse, or operations environments
• Demonstrated ability to lead, train, and motivate teams while maintaining accountability
• Proven track record of operational leadership in fast-paced manufacturing environments
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to make sound decisions and resolve technical and personnel issues professionally
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and production/scheduling systems
• Ability to work flexible hours as business needs require, including occasional off-shifts and weekends during peak volume

Nice To Haves

• Deep understanding of screen-printing prepress workflows, including: Screen mesh selection and tensioning standards Emulsion systems (dual cure, photopolymer, water-resistant emulsions) Manual and automated coating systems Exposure unit calibration and light integrator systems RIP software, CTS/LTS or laser imaging systems
• Strong knowledge of separations and imaging: Spot color separations Process color (CMYK) for screen Halftones and dot structures
• Experience with registration systems, screen inspection standards, and defect detection
• Understanding of water-based vs plastisol prepress requirements
• Reclaim chemistry, environmental compliance, and wastewater handling
• Exposure to automated prepress systems: Automatic coaters CTS/LTS systems Conveyorized dryers Automated reclaim systems
• Exposure to Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement systems
• Experience in high-volume, multi-shift production environments
• Background in enterprise manufacturing or scaled operations

Responsibilities

• Lead all day-to-day prepress operations including Reclaim, Coating, Imaging, and Inspection
• Manage, train, develop, and schedule prepress staff to maintain efficient workflows and performance standards
• Build bench strength through coaching, training, and internal development
• Ensure strong shift-to-shift communication and consistent execution of department plans
• Partner with HR on hiring, development, performance management, promotions, and disciplinary actions
• Step into hourly job functions as needed during staffing shortages or peak production periods
• Ensure effective setup, operation, calibration, and maintenance of prepress equipment
• Actively troubleshoot technical prepress issues impacting quality and production
• Standardize prepress workflows and best practices across operations
• Support automation, digitization, and modernization of prepress systems
• Assign and escalate rush and high-priority jobs to ensure on-time completion
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Production, Art, Quality, Engineering, and Operations
• Ensure all work meets client specifications, internal standards, and compliance requirements
• Own prepress performance metrics, including: Screen remake rates Imaging and exposure error rates On-press rejects tied to prepress defects Reclaim cycle times Screen turnaround time (TAT)
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on: First-pass yield improvement Setup time reduction Waste reduction Standard work development
• Apply Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles to drive process excellence
• Track department supplies and PPE and coordinate purchasing with the Sr. Buyer
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, chemical handling, and environmental requirements
• Support wastewater management and reclaim chemistry compliance

Benefits

• We value work/life balance
• We offer flexibility in the workplace to accommodate life outside of work, generous PTO packages, and opportunities to earn additional time off throughout the year.
• We take health and wellness seriously
• We provide comprehensive benefits packages with low premiums and front-end deductibles.
• Team members can contribute pre-tax dollars to FSA or HSA accounts and earn additional PTO by participating in healthy lifestyle activities.
• We don’t believe in just getting a job; we believe in careers
• With ongoing training and opportunities for personal development, we actively foster career growth.
• Looking to take your career to the next step? We offer tuition reimbursement and long-term career pathways across our global organization.
• We believe in making a difference (and having fun while doing it)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: No Education Listed