Prepress Operator

Hearst•Houston, TX

About The Position

The Prepress Operator reviews, prepares, and processes newspaper and commercial print materials to ensure accuracy, quality, and compliance with production specifications before files are released to press. The role requires strong attention to detail, effective communication, the ability to manage multiple priorities, and the ability to work efficiently in a deadline-driven production environment. The position works with Editorial, Diagramming, Prepress, and other departments to resolve production issues and maintain an accurate workflow. It involves using production and publishing systems and Adobe software to review, edit, troubleshoot, and prepare files for print. Work hours may be flexible to accommodate production schedules and business needs, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Hearst Newspapers (HNP) has 2,500 employees and a network of 24 daily and 52 weekly publications, along with digital news and lifestyle sites, marketing services businesses, and entertainment businesses. HNP describes investing in new ways to tell stories by growing newsrooms, diversifying tools, and evolving platforms.

Requirements

Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven production environment.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to prioritize and manage multiple assignments simultaneously.
Experience working with Adobe Creative Cloud applications.
Ability to learn and work with multiple production and publishing systems.
Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with Editorial, Diagramming, Prepress, and other departments.
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays when required.

Responsibilities

Review pages, layouts, plans, and sections for accuracy and completeness before releasing files to press plates.
Verify production specifications for commercial print projects involving internal departments and external vendors.
Monitor internal and external communications to address production requirements, changes, and deadlines promptly.
Communicate regularly with Editorial and Diagramming teams to resolve issues, coordinate changes, and maintain an accurate production workflow.
Manage multiple tasks and production assignments across various platforms while meeting strict deadlines.
Operate and navigate production systems, including Newsway, CUE Print, Naviga, and PGL.
Use Adobe software to review, edit, troubleshoot, and prepare files for print production.
Monitor production workflows and identify issues that could affect page quality, deadlines, press schedules, or delivery.
Promptly communicate production issues and work with appropriate teams to resolve missing, incorrect, or problematic files.
Follow established production procedures, deadlines, quality standards, and press requirements.
Support other production team members as needed to maintain workflow and meet daily deadlines.
Work flexible hours as required, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on production schedules and business needs.