Prepress Quality Control Technician

SUMMARY Overview of the position

Responsible for reviewing digital files, proofs, and overlays to ensure content is built to required specifications and precise to established internal expectations, documented tolerances, print industry standards, procedures and/or published direction. Evaluate and review cards, provide direction for print accuracy or improvement. Quality Control is an extension of Prepress Production and works closely with a variety of internal departments to ensure quality and fiscal responsibility.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The following statements are intended to describe the general nature of the level of work being performed by an individual assigned to this job. Other duties may be assigned.

• Review print design engineering, product content, printability and make recommendations to ensure quality standards are attained.
• Assessed delivered information and implementation of direction received from designated Lead, Project Manager(s), Marketing, Legal, Design, Sports & Entertainment, Operations and written documentation from mechanicals, briefs, and costing documentation.
• Ensure the highest possible quality of files produced within lithographic pre-production environment. Quality Control Technician(s) will maintain a global view of these production procedures and make on-going recommendations to ensure tolerances are maintained and quality product files produced.
• Effective communication skills required demonstrate close mindfulness with organized practices. Responsible for interacting daily with Digital Operations Team Lead, Project Manager(s), Prepress Production personnel and Designers.’
• Support and adhere to internal Creative Departmental procedures and requirements to include but not limited to, assisting Prepress Production during production heavy cycles.
• Proficiency in the following software or systems: Adobe Creative Suite, MS Office, and Excel.
• Hands-on, energetic and motivated self-starter with the ability to work additional hours as required.

INTERACTION

This position will interact closely with the Director of Creative, Digital Operations Production Manager, Project Managers, Prepress Production, Designers, and other internal personnel.

EDUCATION/YEARS EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or equivalent. College Degree with an emphasis in Graphic Arts a plus.
• 1-2 years of experience in Prepress or related area, publishing, or relevant duties.
• Knowledge of Kodak Prinergy is a plus.

REQUIREMENTS  To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Present understanding of Prepress and Print Industries’ standards, competent knowledge of established production tolerances. Familiarity with the 4/c process, to include, but not limited to: spot colors, varnish, foil, die cuts, deboss and/or embossing. Imposition software skills with a basic understanding of file standards for print production (bleed, trapping, color separation, resolution, etc.). 
• Minimally an intermediate knowledge of Mac and applied software with verified results, fundamental knowledge of ripping and trapping of digital files through a Prinergy Workflow. The qualified applicant must possess acceptable computer skills; a working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite is a plus. Additionally, basic to intermediate proficiency in the following software: Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Strong oral and written communication skills demonstrate close mindfulness with organized practices. Ability to articulate clearly with internal partners and not be afraid to ask questions.
• Effective organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple, high priority projects with dedicated attention to detail. 
• Demonstrated ability to read, comprehend written instructions and follow pre-established guidelines.
• Utilize technology and maximize efficiency: Maintain education and ability of innovative techniques, technologies, and software capabilities. On an on-going basis, ensure we are maximizing our technology resources and making recommendations for improvements.
• Excellent interpersonal, problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Professional demeanor; collaborator orientation. 
• Ability to perform duties under minimal supervision while exercising reasonable discretion and independent judgment.
• Manage time effectively, prioritizing duties and meeting deadlines. Ability to maintain flexible work hours. Work hours are mostly consistent, but production requirements require flexibility.
• Knowledge of the following areas would be desirable: NHL, Football and Basketball, and/or historical knowledge of pop culture, including comics and films spanning a multitude of trends.
• Hands-on, energetic and motivated self-starter