Job Description

The Prepress Technician is responsible for preparing digital files for printing by ensuring accuracy, quality, and compliance with press and customer specifications. This role requires strong attention to detail, technical expertise in prepress software. Demonstrable experience with Prinect and Adobe InDesign is preferred.

Qualifications

• Prepare and review incoming files for color accuracy, resolution, and proper formatting using Adobe Creative Cloud applications.
• Identify missing or problematic file components and communicate issues to Customer Service Representatives.
• Process digital files through the Heidelberg Prinect workflow system for print production.
• Determine correct page layout, including folds, trims, bleeds, and gripper allowances; add crop marks and color bars as needed.
• Produce accurate offset printing plates according to job specifications.
• Collaborate with customer service, scheduling, and pressroom teams to maintain an efficient workflow and meet production deadlines.
• Prepare color proofs for customer approval.
• Impose images and operate CTP plate making, bending, and tabbing equipment to prepare plates for press.
• Conduct quality checks on completed plates before releasing them to the pressroom.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree in Printing Technology, or 5+ years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).
• Minimum 3 years of Mac experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of process color; color correction and proofing experience preferred.
• Experience with variable data creation/editing is a plus.
• 3+ years of Heidelberg Prinect experience preferred.
• Solid knowledge of digital file formats (PDF, TIFF, EPS, etc.).
• Mechanical aptitude, including the ability to use small hand tools for minor repairs and maintenance on imagesetters and plate processors.
• Ability to lift to 40 lbs on a daily basis.

Benefits:

• Medical Insurance: Choice of BCBS EPO or BCBS HSA plans.
• Dental Insurance: Coverage through Delta Dental of Massachusetts.
• Vision Insurance: Coverage through Vision Service Plan (VSP).
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Use pre-tax dollars for eligible medical expenses.
• Vacation and Sick Time: Prorated during the first year; thereafter, 2 weeks’ vacation and 1-week sick time annually.
• Short- & Long-Term Disability Insurance: Provided at no cost to eligible employees.
• Basic Life Insurance: Company-paid basic life insurance, with the option to purchase additional Voluntary Life/AD&D coverage for yourself and/or dependents.
• 401(k) Plan: Company contributes up to 6% of employee’s contributions.