Prepress Technician

Smurfit Westrock • Woodridge, IL

5d • Onsite

About The Position

Smurfit Westrock is hiring a Prepress Technician to prepare, inspect, and process electronic artwork files for high-resolution print production. The role ensures files meet quality standards through color correction, trapping, retouching, proofing, and output preparation. The technician also helps maintain prepress equipment, monitor calibration, and support efficient workflows to deliver print quality in a manufacturing environment.

This is an onsite, day-shift, full-time role in Woodridge, Illinois. The starting rate is $24 per hour, depending on role, level, and location. Actual pay depends on work location and factors including skills, experience, and education. The application window is expected to close by January 4, 2027. Candidates must complete a drug screening after receiving a conditional offer and before starting employment. Relocation support is not available.

Requirements

• Minimum 2 years of prepress or print production experience.
• Strong Adobe Creative Cloud skills.
• Strong color correction and quality inspection abilities.
• Basic computer skills, including email and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to read and interpret work instructions, safety procedures, and technical documents.
• Basic math skills.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Reliable attendance and ability to work overtime as needed.
• Ability to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, hearing protection, safety shoes, gloves, hard hats, and task-specific protective equipment.
• Commitment to workplace safety and compliance with company policies and procedures.
• Completion of required safety and job-related training.
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, hear, speak, and use hands throughout the workday.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for computer and equipment operation.
• Ability to occasionally bend, stoop, squat, reach, push, and pull.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds frequently and up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Close attention to detail and strong visual acuity, including color differentiation.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with moderate to loud noise levels.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in commercial printing, packaging, or graphic arts production.
• Experience with Automation Engine (Esko) or similar workflow software.
• Knowledge of print production processes, color management, and file preparation.
• Experience operating prepress output equipment and proofing systems.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and preflight electronic files for print production.
• Perform file assembly, color correction, retouching, trapping, and imposition.
• Review and inspect proofs to ensure quality and customer specifications are met.
• Output files and verify accuracy before release to production.
• Ensure work meets department quality standards.
• Organize completed work for the next stage of production.
• Monitor equipment calibration and make adjustments as needed.
• Perform routine maintenance on prepress equipment.
• Load materials into output devices and maintain equipment performance.
• Follow department procedures, quality standards, and safety requirements.
• Support continuous improvement efforts and perform other duties as assigned.
• Identify hazards and follow the STOP Work process when necessary.

Benefits

• Short-term bonus incentive may be available.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance may be available.
• Flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts may be available.
• Retirement savings plans may be available.
• Life and disability insurance programs may be available.
• Paid sick leave as required by applicable state or local law.
• 10 days of paid vacation.
• 11 days of paid holidays.

What This Job Offers

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