Prepress Operator

Hearst•Houston, TX

7d•Hybrid

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 efficient work in a deadline-driven production environment. The operator reviews pages, layouts, plans, and sections; verifies commercial print specifications; and works with Editorial, Diagramming, Prepress, and other teams to resolve production issues and coordinate changes. The role uses production and publishing systems, including Newsway, CUE Print, Naviga, and PGL, as well as Adobe software to review, edit, troubleshoot, and prepare print files. It monitors workflows and communicates issues that could affect page quality, deadlines, press schedules, or delivery. The position follows established production procedures, deadlines, quality standards, and press requirements and supports other production team members as needed. Flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, may be required based on production schedules and business needs.

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 with Adobe Creative Cloud applications is essential.
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 and address production requirements, changes, and deadlines promptly.
Maintain communication with Editorial and Diagramming teams to resolve issues, coordinate changes, and maintain an accurate 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.
Communicate production issues promptly and coordinate 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, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required by production schedules and business needs.