Prepress Operator

Hearst•Houston, TX

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

At Hearst Newspapers (HNP), the Prepress Operator helps prepare accurate, complete newspaper and commercial print products for press. The role reviews, prepares, and processes print materials to ensure they meet quality standards and production specifications before files are released to press plates. It requires attention to detail, communication, organization, and the ability to work efficiently in a deadline-driven production environment. The position follows HNP’s hybrid work week schedule and coordinates with Editorial, Diagramming, Prepress, and other teams to maintain production workflows and address issues. The operator works with production and publishing systems and Adobe software, monitors files and deadlines, and may work flexible hours—including evenings, weekends, and holidays—based on production schedules and business needs. This position does not provide immigration sponsorship; applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

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.
Must have the right to work in the United States without immigration sponsorship.

Responsibilities

Review pages, layouts, plans, and sections for accuracy and completeness before files are released 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 with Editorial and Diagramming teams to resolve issues, coordinate changes, and maintain an accurate production workflow.
Manage multiple production tasks and 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 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.