Computer Operator - PrePress

Job Summary:

• Prepare customer supplied electronic files for output using application and workflow software on Macintosh and Windows OS platforms.
• Impose electronic files into plate ready format for web and sheet presses using imposition software on Macintosh OS platform.
• Maintain equipment within the department.

Reports To: Prepress/Traxion Team Leader

Direct Reports: None

#INDW3

Lean Expectations (each employment anniversary year):

• Participate in at least two hours of educational experience(s) such as job shadowing, technical skills training, cross training, webinars, seminars or Lean networking tours.
• Implement at least one improvement idea.

Primary Duties:

• Read work order as well as all notes and instructions (customer notes, digital paperwork).
• Check document size and margins.
• Check document colors (process or spot); fix any unused or extra colors in document.
• Check and extend bleed allowances as necessary.
• Verify that fonts are working properly; troubleshoot when necessary.
• Verify that graphics and images process correctly; troubleshoot when necessary.
• Make necessary adjustments in order for the document to refine/RIP correctly.
• Save pages as PDF or Encapsulated PostScript for the intended workflow.
• Process files through Prinergy; adjust trap as needed.
• Perform basic troubleshooting of files that error throughout the workflow.
• Impose digital files into plate ready format for web and sheet presses using Preps imposition software.
• Verify imposed data is setup correctly for paper size and press.
• Verify proper section/flat identification on all flats.
• Verify black or specific color identification on all flats.
• Verify version information on all flats.
• Verify color bars are present and placed at the correct positions.
• Verify CCR marks are present and placed at the correct positions.
• Verify bindery marks are present and placed at the correct positions.
• Verify proper crosshair distance on all flats.
• Verify pages are oriented correctly (quarterfold, reverse fold, alternate flat, double parallel, metro fold).
• Verify accuracy of pagination in imposed files.
• Work directly with Project Coordinators, Preflight/Job Planners to resolve issues/problems.
• Maintain all equipment related to department.
• Follow all required safety procedures such as: PPE's, Ergonomics, Chemical Hazards, etc. Perform job in a manner that protects the health and safety of all employees. See safety manual for additional safety requirements.

Administrative Duties:

• Check accuracy of Covalent sheet daily.

• Attend Prepress CI meetings.
• Maintain digital paperwork.
• Identify when Pre/Post Proof Alterations Estimate forms are necessary.
• Review Web/Sheet Stripping report and Prepress Schedule daily for job priority.
• Utilize error log books for all equipment.

Management of Personnel Responsibilities: Not applicable

Other Responsibilities:

• Assist with Traxion production and/or handwork, as needed.
• General sweeping and cleaning of respective work area and department.
• Perform/maintain prepress 5S duties.
• Perform other duties as directed.

Job Qualifications:

• Working knowledge of Macintosh and Windows operating systems.
• Working knowledge of application and workflow software (Adobe, Microsoft, PitStop, OneVision, Preps, CGS ORIS and Prinergy).
• Working knowledge of font handling and troubleshooting.
• Working knowledge of digital workflow and trapping.
• Working knowledge of PDF file creation.
• Working knowledge of press, bindery and mailing specifications (drill allowance, margins, bleeds).
• Working knowledge of binding and fold methods.
• Working knowledge of pagination requirements for web and sheet presses.
• Working knowledge of Epson P9000 Proofers and X-Rite i1Pro spectrophotometer.
• Ability to maintain color calibration of proofing equipment.
• Ability to perform routine maintenance on proofing equipment as needed.
• Previous experience, or education, in graphic arts.
• Understanding of printing process.
• Demonstrate good attention to detail.
• Demonstrate good troubleshooting skills.
• Demonstrate effective communication skills.
• Demonstrate strong math skills.
• Able to read a ruler and convert fractions to decimals.
• Work effectively without direct supervision.
• Able to learn quickly; and understand new concepts.
• Ability to lift approximately 35 pounds.
• Work overtime as needed.

Physical Demands/Work Environment:

Computer usage = constantly

Sitting and/or standing = constantly

Lifting 35 pounds = occasionally

Occasionally 0-2.5 hours; Frequently 2.5-5 hours; Constantly over 5 hours