Pre-Press Technician

Job Profile Summary

A Prepress Technician is responsible for the preparation and mounting of digital photopolymer printing plates, as well as ink formulation and color matching. This dual-role position supports plate making, mounting and ink adjustment operations to ensure optimal print quality and production efficiency. This position requires a combination of technical expertise, physical capability, and attention to detail to ensure high-quality printing results while maintaining safety and efficiency standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform multiple processes including a combination of Plate Making, Plate Mounting and Ink Toning
• Mount, repair and adjust digital photopolymer printing plates and continuous print sleeves, including quality screening and defect inspection
• Manage ink formulation, blending, and color matching to digital standards, including handling of primers and adhesives
• Maintain accurate inventory systems for both plates and inks, ensuring proper storage and organization
• Perform troubleshooting of print issues related to plates, sleeves, and inks to maintain quality standards
• Operate and maintain equipment including all prepress machinery
• Process and handle Hazardous materials according to safety protocols
• Read and interpret production schedules and job specifications to ensure timely completion of tasks
• *Complete required documentation and computer-based reports for quality control and tracking
• *Monitor and maintain quality control throughout the prepress process, including color accuracy and plate integrity
• *Clean, strip, and process plate components following established procedures
• Other duties as assigned

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent preferred
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Stable Work history

Required Skills

• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude
• Strong attention to detail
• Proficiency in basic mathematics
• Computer literacy for reports, emails, and calculations
• Ability to use deductive reasoning for decision-making
• Ability to read and interpret technical specifications
• Fork truck operation certification (or ability to obtain)
• Possess Fine discrimination color vision (must pass Farnsworth-Munsell 100 HueColor Vision Test)

Additional Requirements

• Must be 18 years of age
• Must pass pre-employment assessment
• Drug screening required
• Background check required

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of printing processes and materials
• Familiarity with safety protocols and hazardous material handling
• Precision measuring and geometric measurement
• Equipment operation and maintenance
• Problem-solving and troubleshooting
• Time management and organization
• Color discrimination and matching
• Must pass Farnsworth-Munsell 100 Hue Color Vision Test
• Basic math skills and the ability to accurately use 1/32" tape measure
• Ability to read and apply information found in a design spec and job jacket
• Mechanical Inclination

Physical Demands

The associate will primarily work in an manufacturing environment with exposure may include, but are not limited to:

• Must be able to lift and handle objects weighing up to 50 pounds
• Capacity to stand and walk for extended periods
• Ability to climb, kneel, bend, stoop, reach and squat
• Use of ladders and other equipment
• Forklift certification or ability to obtain forklift and pallet jack certification
• Capability to handle drums weighing up to 500 lbs using appropriate equipment
• Ability to wear required PPE (hearing protection, steel-toe shoes, safety glasses)

Work Conditions: The majority of tasks will be performed in a manufacturing setting with exposure to:

• Noise levels above 85 dB
• Operation of complex machinery
• Solvents, fumes and inks
• Variable Temperatures
• Must be able to work flexible shifts
• May require nights, weekends, and holidays.
• An additional $2.50/hr premium for hours worked on NIGHT Shift only (qualifying hours vary by location).

Additional information

Printpack is proudly an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment. Embracing diversity enhances our work culture and is vital to our success.

To view your rights and government notices, please see the links below

Know Your Rights - Conozca sus Derechos - Your Rights Under USERRA (dol.gov) - FMLA - FMLA (Spanish) - Polygraph Protection - Right to Work - Right to Work (Spanish)