Graphic Production Specialist

Able Quality Printing Company Overview:

We are a small, but growing, small-format and large-format printing company offering a diverse range of services, including custom printing on paper products, signage, apparel (screen printing and embroidery), and promotional products. We have served both local and national clients for over 40 years. We are seeking a dedicated Graphic Production Specialist to join our team and play a critical role in ensuring our clients' designs are prepared and produced with exceptional precision and care.

Job Summary:

The Graphic Production Specialist ensures accurate file preparation and press operation for various types of print jobs. This is primarily a prepress and production role focused on optimizing customer artwork files for flawless execution while meeting production timelines. Occasionally, this role will require full-service graphic design for clients.

The ideal candidate is proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), highly detail-oriented, and capable of multitasking in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Prepress and Production:

· Execute electronic art separations to customer-supplied artwork, adhering to internal job specifications and printer requirements for various mediums.

· Verify that customer-provided artwork meets quality standards, including resolution, color modes, and proper dimensions.

· Add crops, bleeds, and imposing to ensure files are ready for press production.

· Output electronic proofs and hard-copy proofs for client approval.

· Convert approved files to final production-ready files for digital press and screen printing output.

· Inspect finished files and complete a quality assurance (QA) checklist before production.

· Perform file transfers and manage external communication with clients regarding job specifications.

Graphic Design and Client Collaboration:

· Provide full-service graphic design for clients when needed, creating original layouts, branding elements, and promotional materials.

· Translate client requirements into high-quality designs while ensuring print compatibility.

· Collaborate with sales and customer service teams to meet client expectations and timelines.

Operations and Maintenance:

· Operate and maintain small-format digital printers, ensuring print quality and performing routine maintenance.

· Utilize the company ERP system and graphics software for efficient job tracking and processing.

· Perform regular computer and equipment management tasks to ensure optimal performance.

· Troubleshoot technical issues related to artwork, software, and printing processes.

Continuous Improvement and Documentation:

· Participate in internal training, department meetings, and process improvement initiatives.

· Document workflows, completed jobs, and updates accurately and promptly.

· Stay up-to-date with new printing technologies and software advancements.

Qualifications:

Required:

· Associate degree or at least 2 years of equivalent experience in graphics reproduction, customer service, or a related field.

· Expert-level proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign).

· Familiarity with prepress software for color correction, trapping, and imposing.

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).

· Strong understanding of color theory, color separation, and printing processes (digital, screen, and large format).

· Exceptional attention to detail, organization, and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.

· Ability to work independently and problem-solve technical challenges.

· Strong verbal and written communication skills to convey technical information clearly to clients and team members.

· Ability to see color accurately (specific vision abilities include color perception, depth, and focus adjustment).

Preferred:

· Experience with additional graphics software (e.g., Esko, GMG, or Hybrid systems) or digital printing platforms like HP Indigo.

· Experience with ERP systems related to print manufacturing.

· Familiarity with screen printing and embroidery file setup.

Additional Information:

· Willingness to work occasional overtime to meet client demands or production deadlines.

· Ability to stand or sit for extended periods while operating equipment.

Compensation and Benefits:

· Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.

· Paid holidays: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and other flex time opportunities.

· Career development opportunities, including training in advanced printing technologies and leadership roles.

To apply: Please submit your resume, portfolio, and cover letter detailing your experience and why you’re an ideal fit for this position.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Ability to Commute:

• Louisville, KY 40213 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Louisville, KY 40213: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person