Prepress Graphics Specialist

Multi-Color Corporation Recruiting•St. Louis, MO

About The Position

The Press Plate Maker is a production-focused, non-design role responsible for accurately constructing and processing artwork files and making plates for multiple printing methods, including lithography, flexography, gravure, and digital label printing. The role requires expertise in printing processes and technical prepress preparation to configure jobs to customer specifications, meet turnaround times, and maintain print quality. The position involves preparing and checking electronic artwork, producing proofs and final stepped files, operating Macintosh workstations and related graphics systems, and coordinating job priorities with internal teams. It also includes communicating about specifications and special requirements, maintaining production records and equipment, and supporting continuous improvement and new technology initiatives.

Requirements

Associate degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience totaling two years in Graphics Reproduction, Customer Service, or related fields.
Advanced computer skills, including business operating systems, prepress/preflight software, internet applications, word processing, and spreadsheet software.
Demonstrated proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud.
Proficiency in MS Office applications.
Ability to learn new technology, including new or upgraded software and hardware.
Understanding of color theory and color separation.
Vision abilities including color perception, depth perception, and focus adjustment.
Detail-oriented and well organized, with pride in delivering quality work.
Ability to multitask and work well under pressure with tight deadlines.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to translate technical information into actionable tasks.
Willingness to work a flexible schedule and overtime as needed.
Ability to problem-solve and work with minimal supervision.
Ability to travel sporadically as necessary.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Hybrid, Esko, GMG, or HP Indigo software.

Responsibilities

Make plates for printing presses.
Critically evaluate completed plates and complete the appropriate QA checklists.
Maintain plate logs and verify information on plate envelopes.
Coordinate plate priorities with Scheduling, the Graphics Coordinator, or the Graphics Supervisor; maintain components-to-press schedules and track completed or flagged jobs.
Execute electronic art separations from customer-supplied artwork according to internal job tickets and printer specifications for all print types and materials, including applying traps, overprints, pullbacks, and positive or reverse line requirements.
Output electronic proofs and hard color proofs.
Convert approved proof files into final stepped files for plate output.
Inspect finished files and complete the QA checklist.
Communicate with customer representatives and teammates about job specifications or special requirements.
Manage multiple jobs at different production stages.
Operate Macintosh workstations using the company ERP and graphics systems, applying knowledge of manufacturing operations.
Assist with external communications and file transfers.
Complete required documentation accurately and promptly.
Respond directly to customer or graphics-separator queries and provide feedback on specifications.
Participate in researching and developing new technology.
Perform routine maintenance and manage computers and equipment.
Comply with facility safety policies, procedures, and applicable regulations, as well as the MCC company code of ethics.
Participate in continuous improvement and Kaizen teams.
Attend department meetings and internal training classes.
Perform other duties as assigned.