Job Objectives:
Under the direction of the Digital Solutions Manager, the incumbent will be responsible for reviewing files generated by customers and those generated within the Digital Print Department. Reviews are performed so that output files can be accurately prepared in compliance with job specifications and company quality standards. The Technician will also assist Account Executives with promoting services to clients.
Major Duties and Responsibilities
1. Coordinate with Sales and Production Teams to produce and prioritize jobs, and when necessary, reorganize to meet deadline changes and updates. Update the status of production projects and communicate any issues.
2. Preflight and troubleshoot client digital files, load fonts, inspect graphics, and make colour separations.
3. Troubleshoot prepress problems and resolve issues in collaboration with the Digital Solutions Manager, VP of Technology and Production Managers.
4. Receive and manipulate files electronically from email and disk.
5. Prepare files for output to various devices.
6. Layout/impose files on printer templates. Set up register targets and trim lines for production.
7. Output files to image setter; set line screens, resolution, and other press-specific settings.
8. Operate plate setter and digital proofing systems.
9. Clean and maintain equipment and work area following maintenance procedures, and update maintenance logs.
10. Monitor and manage inventory of design and graphics supplies; order and stock supplies as assigned by supervisor
11. Maintain plate setter.
12. Perform routine computer maintenance, including software updates and utility programs.
13. Troubleshoot press problems and resolve issues in collaboration with the Production and Technology Managers.
14. Act as a resource to other team members to address inquires, problems or challenges with projects.
Minimum Qualifications and Skills
1. Post-Secondary education in Graphic Design or a related discipline.
2. Previous experience as a Prepress technician.
3. Thorough knowledge of professional publishing applications for Mac or PC including: QuarkXpress, Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Acrobat, Photoshop, Microsoft Word as well as PDF and postscript files and PDF plug-ins.
4. Knowledge of Mac and Windows platforms and operating systems.
5. General knowledge of utility programs such as file compression, disk repair and Mac to PC conversion processes.
6. Ability to prepare files for output to plate (spot and 4-color process), receive and manipulate files electronically and maintain operating system on production machine.
7. Ability to send files to the plate setter, digital presses, color printers and proofing systems.
8. Experience in book imposition.
9. Knowledge of all facets of print production, bindery and press is considered an asset.
10. Strong communication skills including the ability to work well with clients, managers and coworkers.
11. Effective problem solving skills and decision making ability.
Core Competencies
1. Problem Solving
2. Quality Control
3. Communication
4. Attention to Detail
Physical Effort
A mild amount of physical effort will be required to perform the duties of the job.
In a typical day the incumbent will be expected to:
- Sit, stand and walk up to 7 hours or more per day.
- Extensive use of a computer and mouse.
Mental Stress
A moderate amount of mental effort will be required to perform the duties of the job.
In a typical day the incumbent will be expected to:
- Read, interpret and commence tasks based on job specifications.
- Communicate with employees and prioritize work schedules.
- Problem solve as issues arise.
Working Conditions
- Work will primarily be performed an office environment.
- Required to work non-standard hours with occasional overtime work.
- Lighting and temperature are adequate there are no hazardous or unpleasant conditions caused by noise or dust in immediate work area. Will be exposed to noise and dust for small periods of time when entering the plant production area.
- Fast-paced environment subject to numerous schedule and priority changes and short notice activity.
Type of Supervision Received
- The Prepress Technician will report to the Digital Solutions Manager. The Technician will work in collaboration with members of the Sales, Technology and Production team. Work may be checked periodically for quality and specifications.
Additional Duties: This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed. You will be expected to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties as requested by your manager.
