Prepress Operator

PRINCIPAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Adapt to complying with set production workflow and conform to precise procedures.
• Effectively communicate with prepress, pressroom and converting personnel.
• Maintain accurate preparation of single item files for folding boxes, proper trapping, both manually and using automatic tools, barcode creation and proofing using proscribed procedures and workflows.
• Maintain accurate preparation of printing forms, both inside and outside, mark insertion and output to plate and film files.
• Preflight incoming artwork in order to identify risks that would otherwise not be apparent to non-technical clients or company personnel.
• Develop error-free mechanical files utilizing Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Esko Artpro, PackZ software or other software programs as appropriate.
• Comply with instructions and adapt quickly as a project modifies in a given direction.
• Review and heed entire job instructions as written or as verbally communicated and put across questions when required for successful project completion.
• Perform and review quality control of prepared single items and forms using visual and software methods, including the ability to create mock-ups and vinyls.
• Perform masking and colour-correction in Photoshop. On-press colour-correction will require the application of created and edited curves and the ability to apply item-level cutbacks as well as full-plate curves.
• Must have understanding of colour management and colour printing on sheetfed offset press and silkscreen.
• Must have an understanding of product decoration such as stamping and embossing to successfully create files to be used in high-value die creation. Experience with die-cutting and coating considerations is necessary.
• Must operate a platesetter and processor, along with proofing systems, testing tools such as Axicon and Stratix scanners, the use of X-Rite Spectroscan, eXact, Intellitrax and i1io and Kongsberg cutting table is required.
• Must be able to understand computer-based systems such as Mac and Windows client computers, networking concepts, physical networking equipment, NAS, virtual and physical servers, back-up and cloud systems.
• Communicate with clients or with external suppliers as directed.
• Convey inaccuracies and recommend apt workflow.
• Identify opportunities for waste reduction and continuous improvement.
• Collect key performance indicators and maintain general record-keeping.
• Maintain professional relations and appearance with all clients contacts off and on site.
• Produce high quality work meeting established production standards.
• Maintain a clean, orderly, and safe working area at all times to efficiently produce materials.
• Promote education of clients and non-technical company personnel so as to increase the quality of incoming work and to improve the efficiency of information interchange.
• Request materials in a timely manner. Communicate urgency of materials needed to Supervisor.
• Perform additional duties/projects as assigned by management and/or Supervisor.

SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Must learn and comply with all Cultech, Inc. safety rules; reference to employee handbook.

• High school diploma or GED.
• Knowledge of offset and silkscreen printing technologies as practiced in the present.
• Knowledge of software systems from Esko is prerequisite, specifically, Nexus and Automation Engine Pilot.
• Experience with a DAM is helpful as well as GRACoL methods and aims is preferred. Experience with proofing systems from GMG and Esko is fundamental.
• Proficient level of English communication: verbal & written.
• Ability to codify and record procedures in writing.
• Ability to read and understand a printing job bag.
• Must have good color recognition.
• Strong computer skills required, both PC and Mac.
• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office is required. Some prior experience in software-based time- and resource accounting systems, such as Hybrid or SAP, is helpful.
• Must be attentive to detail with a sense of urgency.
• Excellent manual dexterity.
• Must be able to sit for long periods of time and perform repetitive manual tasks with frequent rotations.
• Must be able to comprehend and follow all job procedures and safety protocols.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Employees must fulfill the performance standards of this position and comply with policies, rules and procedures of Cultech, including those set out in the Employee Handbook or otherwise communicated (verbally or in writing) to employees. As necessary, employees are expected to manage waste and chemical products properly.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and work responsibilities of the position. This job description and the duties of this position are subject to change, modification and addition as deemed necessary by Cultech management. Employees are required to comply with supervisory instructions and perform other job duties, responsibilities and assignments as requested by supervisors or management. The job responsibilities of this position may include cross training in other functions or positions to ensure satisfactory operation of the department or work area. This job description does not constitute an employment contract between Cultech and any employee.

• Full medical, dental, vision benefits with eligibility 1st of the month following date of hire.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
• Group life insurance paid by the company.
• Short- and long-term disability insurance.
• Twelve paid holidays in each full calendar year.
• 15 PTO (Paid Time Off) days prorated at entry and exit.
• Participation in our 401(K) plan with a 50% corporate match on the first 6 percent of the employee contribution with yearly profit-sharing distributions dependent on the Company's profitability and meeting its quality, safety and operational objectives.