Mastering, Pre-press Operator

About the role

The mandate of the Pre-Press team is to translate card designs to accurate, error-free, and quality-checked forms that are ready for press. Fanatics Collectibles is looking for a Pre-Press Card Mastering Operator to establish master/templates for print-ready files in line with our Pre-Press team’s commitment to excellence.

The ideal candidate is technically adept across pre-press and workflow systems, exhibits strong attention to detail, and brings deep experience in print file production. Candidates with a passion for sports and entertainment will likely find themselves a strong cultural fit.

In this role, you will…

• Collaborate with the design team to prepare trading card templates for final execution, ensuring that visual elements align with brand, style, and sport guidelines
• Execute pre-press tasks and file preparation for Variable Data composition to ensure optimal file setup and print quality
• Prepare print-ready files and conduct thorough quality checks to verify accuracy and consistency in colors, fonts, and images
• Work closely with creative and production partners to communicate specifications, review proofs, and address any potential issues in the production process
• Stay up to date on industry trends, new printing technologies, and design techniques to continuously improve the quality and efficient production of trading cards
• Collaborate cross-functionally with design, marketing, and brand/product to ensure smooth workflow and alignment of creative goals
• Utilize the printing workflow management tool system to process incoming print jobs, ensuring proper file preparation, imposition, and trapping for optimal output
• Provide guidance and training for junior operators and production staff on pre-press and printing workflow management tool system workflows and best practices

Requirements

• Proven experience (3+ years) as a pre-press / production artist
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Acrobat) and other relevant design software
• Strong understanding of print production processes, color separations, and file formats
• Attention to detail and ability to maintain consistency in design across various projects
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines