Pre-Media Manager (Working Manager Role)

Kaleidoscope is a creative collective of thinkers, designers and makers that together connect people and brands.

At Kaleidoscope, we believe the most effective brand solutions require both abstract thinking & tangible results. And like a kaleidoscope that combines colors, shapes and forms to allow us to view the world through a unique point of view, our creative collective of thinkers, designers and makers come from all walks of life and flex all types of skills to provide fresh perspectives rooted in Strategy, Design and Prototyping.

The Role  

The Pre-Media Manager (Working Manager Role) will oversee and manage the Pre-Media team while also contributing to the hands-on technical work within the department. This position combines leadership and managerial responsibilities with active involvement in prepress tasks, including preparing client-supplied artwork for film and digital output.

The Pre-Media Manager will ensure workflows are efficient, quality standards are met, and team members are aligned with the appropriate responsibilities based on their skills. This role requires a blend of strategic oversight and direct participation in the execution of prepress duties to maintain a high level of production and operational efficiency. 

• Supervise and manage a team of Pre-Media Artists while actively contributing to prepress work, such as pre-flighting client files, image creation, color correction, and file adjustments.  
• Oversee pre-flighting of client files, ensuring artwork meets project specifications and is optimized for digital and print output.  
• Review, modify, and troubleshoot client files, including using Illustrator and Photoshop for image creation, color correction, and file adjustments.  
• Collaborate with the Director of Prototyping Operations to ensure smooth workflow, adherence to timelines, and quality control in the prepress department.  
• Analyze and adjust files for proper color conversion, image placement, and technical accuracy.  
• Work with team to manage and operate output devices including image setters, spectrophotometers, color copiers, and large-format inkjet printers.  
• Work with team to maintain and manage the performance of image setters, film processors, color printers, and inkjet printers.  
• Manage vendor relationships and procure materials such as paper, film, and inkjet supplies.  
• Implement improvements to optimize workflow efficiency and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.  
• Ensure compliance with company quality standards and customer specifications.  
• Work closely with other departments, including all production departments and client services, to meet project requirements.  
• Oversee department scheduling including a second shift, ensuring that team resources are allocated effectively to meet deadlines and client needs.  
• Analyze team member skillsets and align responsibilities to their strengths, ensuring that each artist is focused on tasks that match their expertise.  
• Provide guidance on professional development to enhance the team's skillset and performance.  
• Balance leadership responsibilities with hands-on tasks, providing support where needed and ensuring the timely delivery of projects.

• Advanced skills in Photoshop and Illustrator, with proficiency in image creation, color correction, ink trapping, and spot colors, particularly for packaging.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.  
• Strong customer-focused approach with an emphasis on producing the highest quality product.  
• Excellent communication skills to collaborate with internal teams and external vendors.  
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.  
• Proven leadership abilities, with experience managing or mentoring teams in a pre-media or prepress setting.  
• Strong organizational and scheduling skills, with the ability to effectively prioritize and manage resources.  
• Willingness to actively contribute to prepress tasks while overseeing and managing the team.

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent work experience.  
• 5 years of experience in prepress or pre-media roles, with a minimum of 2 years in a leadership position.  
• Experience with prepress workflows, color management, and print production processes.

At Kaleidoscope, we value our team members and strive to provide them with a competitive benefits package that supports their well-being and helps them achieve their financial and personal goals. In addition to a great studio space, unlimited Starbucks coffee, and awesome people (and sometimes dogs) to work with, we offer a comprehensive benefits package for full-time team members, including:

- Flexible work arrangements, including work-from-home options and flexible hours, for certain roles;

- Generous PTO/Floating Holidays, Paid Holidays, and Paid Parental Leave to support work-life balance;

- Health, well-being, and retirement benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance;

- 100% employer-paid Basic Life and AD&D Insurance;

- Voluntary Life Insurance for additional coverage for yourself, partner, and children;

- Voluntary Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance (STD and LTD) for added financial protection;

- 401(k) plan with a generous employer match to help you plan for your future;

- Employee Assistance Program - free and confidential support for you and your family.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Upon hire, candidates are required to provide proof of authorization to work in the United States.

Salary : $85,000 - $125,000