Prepress Operator 2

Prepress Operator - SGX (Propelis Group)

SGX, part of the Propelis Group, combines over 150 years of experience from SGS&Co and SGK, creating a leader in packaging graphics, prepress, and print production. We provide comprehensive solutions including artwork and file preparation, plate and cylinder production, and metal deco services, leveraging advanced technology and a global presence.

Position Summary

As a Prepress Operator, you will be an integral part of our production team, responsible for executing packaging artworks while maintaining the integrity of approved designs and themes. This role involves preparing and applying printer's technical specifications to pre-media packaging graphics files, ensuring the highest standards of quality and workmanship. You will work under minimal supervision, receiving guidance from your manager or supervisor on assigned tasks.

Essential Responsibilities, Accountabilities & Results

• Read, understand, and follow work instructions, specifications, workflow diagrams, and SOPs.
• Ensure all artworks are saved in designated server locations with correct document control file naming conventions.
• Participate in process improvement initiatives and production meetings to contribute positively to the business.
• Communicate effectively with team members to foster an efficient workflow between prepress and commercial teams.

Pre-flight and Organization of Incoming Jobs

• Check customer-supplied files against provided PDFs for discrepancies and size conformity.
• Ensure job instructions align with supplied or referenced artwork.
• Verify colors used and check image resolution.
• Cross-reference job specifications within team software to verify file integrity.

Trapping & Assembly

• Receive product definitions from sales, project managers, or production managers.
• Manipulate files to meet customer specifications.
• Create traps, holdbacks, overprints, knockouts, minimum type, and line thickness according to specifications for various printing types and client requirements.
• Add appropriate color control marks, printer registration marks, and ID marks to all press-ready files.
• Step, repeat, and apply distortion and cutbacks as applicable.
• Organize files according to defined job folder and server structures, preparing them for output.
• Output proofs for internal checks and customer review as specified.

Completed Job Quality Control Check

• Verify basic mark positions, including centers, corner trims, screen scales, punch marks, job name, color designations, and job data/labels.
• Ensure the accuracy of final data deliverables such as PDF, TIFF, and stepped LEN files.
• Respect common separations.
• Measure job trim to trim to calculate length, width, and any distortion.
• Complete all required checklists accurately and fully, correcting any errors found.
• Flag any errors or deviations from standard work procedures to the Production Manager/Supervisor.

Competency Requirements

• Proficiency with various graphic design and layout software on Mac and PC platforms.
• Strong understanding of digital file formats (pdf, tiff, eps) across different operating systems.
• Basic color management skills and ability to work with diverse digital formats.
• Ability to output digital files to various output devices and continuously learn new graphics software.
• Proficiency in using Microsoft communication tools like Outlook and Teams.
• Understanding of print processes and color interactions.

Educational & Experience Minimum Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent; some college or an Associate's Degree is preferred.
• 1-3 years of experience in a printing environment is preferred.
• Full comprehension in reading work instructions and business memos.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong proofreading skills.
• Ability to work independently after initial training.
• ArtPro+ experience is preferred.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described are representative of those required for successful job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Employees may occasionally be asked to perform duties with different physical requirements, and should notify management of any limitations.

• Regularly required to talk and hear.
• Periodic standing, walking, and bending.
• Occasional lifting or moving of items up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

About Propelis

Propelis is a collection of global marketing services and technology companies with a combined legacy of over 150 years, serving more than 2,000 clients with over 9,000 employees across 30 countries. Propelis offers the scale and support of a global organization while respecting the unique culture of each portfolio company. Learn more at www.SGXgraphics.com.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We are committed to making our employment website and application process accessible. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities. Please contact our Human Resource Team for assistance.

Compensation and Benefits

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The U.S. pay range for this position is $26 - $36.22 USD per hour. Individual pay is determined by work location, experience, and other job-related factors. Your recruiter can provide more details on the specific salary range for your preferred location.

Group benefits include health care plans, dental, vision, life insurance, flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts, disability insurance, and a 401(k) Savings Plan.

Key skills/competency

• Prepress Operator
• Packaging Graphics
• Print Production
• Artwork Preparation
• File Preparation
• Trapping
• Color Management
• Digital File Formats
• Print Processes
• ArtPro+