Prepress Operator

Join the Imagine team•Charlotte, NC

About The Position

The Prepress Operator ensures artwork and files for offset, digital, screen, and dye sublimation printing meet client technical specifications for format, content, and color. The role prepares customer files and production layouts, verifies that artwork will reproduce as expected, and performs quality checks on proofs before releasing work to manufacturing. It requires effective communication, attention to detail, and a strong understanding of printing processes. The operator works with Sales, Account Management, and Production to coordinate schedules, communicate job status, clarify client expectations, and understand printing capabilities. The role may also include operating CTP plate-making equipment, maintaining department equipment, and working overtime as needed.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Five or more years of experience in an electronic prepress environment, or a bachelor's degree in Graphic Communications, Graphic Design, or Printing Technology.
Basic computer skills, including email and basic mouse, keyboard, and menu navigation.
Basic math skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and measurement.
Basic color-management skills and the ability to work with different digital file formats.
Extensive skills with Adobe Creative Suite applications used for print production.
Ability to communicate and understand basic written and verbal instructions.
Ability to use problem-solving skills to produce jobs effectively.
Ability to visually inspect work for defects.
Manual dexterity for repetitive work.
Ability to lift, pull, and push up to 40 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Vocational or technical school or college degree in electronic prepress.
Five or more years of experience working in printing or manufacturing.
Knowledge of image retouching and color correction.
In-depth understanding of dye sublimation printing processes and materials, including color-management and file-preparation best practices.
Experience with large-format printers and other machinery used in dye sublimation.
Understanding of print-finishing processes, such as heat pressing and transfer methods.

Responsibilities

Communicate effectively with Sales and Account Management team members.
Prepare customer files by addressing size, image resolution, bleeds, overprints, font issues, and color breaks.
Maintain quality control during prepress processes by following work instructions, documentation requirements, and procedures.
Verify that supplied artwork will reproduce according to customer expectations.
Maintain a workflow schedule and regularly communicate status to internal customers.
Process and build files for production.
Determine and create page layouts, accounting for folds, trims, and die cuts as needed.
Use graphic design and layout software applications commonly used on Mac OS.
Perform quality checks on finished hard-copy and PDF proofs before releasing them to manufacturing.
Output digital files to various output devices.
Respond to concerns from Sales and Production personnel regarding client expectations, alterations, or suggestions.
Support safety goals by maintaining a clean, clutter-free workplace, reporting potentially unsafe conditions, and ensuring the department meets safety requirements.
Communicate with Production to understand printing capabilities.
Meet productivity and quality standards by completing work accurately and on time.
Operate CTP plate-making equipment to prepare plates for press, as needed.
Perform maintenance on department equipment, as needed.
Work overtime as needed.
Perform other duties as assigned.