Prepress Technician

Job Summary

The Prepress Technician is responsible for preparing customer artwork and production files to ensure accurate, efficient, high-quality print output in a specialty packaging environment. This role supports the production workflow through file preflight, retouching, layout preparation, plate-ready file setup, and close coordination with production, quality, and customer-facing teams to ensure packaging graphics meet specification, brand, and regulatory requirements.

Key Results Area

• Review customer artwork, specifications, and job tickets to confirm file readiness, dimensions, color builds, die lines, copy, barcode placement, and print compatibility
• Preflight digital files and identify issues related to resolution, fonts, trapping, bleeds, overprints, separations, and graphic integrity before production release
• Prepare press-ready files for carton, inserts, label, and other packaging applications produced within print environment
• Support computer-to-plate workflows and help maintain efficient file preparation processes that improve speed, reduce cost, and support production quality
• Perform image retouching, color correction, and page or layout adjustments to align artwork with customer requirements and manufacturing standards
• Build and revise layouts, including CF2 page layout and related structural or graphics preparation tasks used in packaging production
• Verify that files align with color management expectations and G7-oriented print quality requirements
• Collaborate with press operators, structural design, quality, customer service, and other internal teams to resolve file issues and support successful job launches
• Generate proofs or file outputs for internal review and customer approval, ensuring version control and documentation accuracy
• Maintain organized electronic files, revision histories, templates, and production records in accordance with department procedures
• Troubleshoot prepress workflow problems and escalate recurring quality, artwork, or compatibility issues when needed

Skills & Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; associate degree, certificate, or technical training in graphic communications, printing technology, prepress, or a related field preferred
• 2+ years of experience in prepress, graphic production, packaging graphics, or commercial print production preferred
• Working knowledge of print production concepts such as color separations, trapping, bleeds, resolution, imposition, proofing, and file preflight
• Experience with Adobe Creative Cloud applications, especially Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat, and InDesign
• Familiarity with packaging artwork, die lines, and production specifications in a manufacturing or converting environment
• Ability to manage multiple jobs, revisions, and deadlines with strong accuracy and attention to detail
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Basic understanding of color management, print quality standards, and plate output workflows
• Experience in folding cartons, healthcare packaging, or regulated print environments
• Familiarity with CTP workflows, packaging layout software, CF2 file handling, and proofing systems
• Exposure to ISO-based quality systems, CGMP environments, or G7 print standards
• Experience supporting offset printing operations or working closely with pressroom and finishing teams
• Strong attention to detail and artwork accuracy
• Able to interpret technical specifications and translate them into production-ready files
• Effective time management in a deadline-driven manufacturing setting
• Consistent quality mindset with a focus on error prevention and process discipline
• Team-oriented communication style and willingness to support continuous improvement