A Pre-Press Technician operates machinery or equipment used in the first stage of a printing process; makes adjustments to layout, color, images, and text before a document is sent to the press.
About the Role We are seeking a detail-oriented and skilled Digital Layout Specialist to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for translating digital designs and customer specifications into precise, production-ready print files and layouts. You will bridge the gap between creative concepts and physical execution, ensuring maximum material efficiency, high print quality, and accurate finishing specifications. Key Responsibilities •
File Preparation & Preflight:
Review customer print-ready files, vector artwork, and digital assets for accuracy, resolution, bleeding, fonts, color mode (CMYK/Pantone), and cut lines. •
Digital Nesting & Imposition:
Utilize layout software to nest, tile, and impose artwork efficiently onto sheets, rolls, or substrates to minimize material waste. •
Proofing & Communication:
Generate digital proofs for client approval and collaborate with designers, project managers, and production teams to resolve layout or artwork discrepancies. •
Print Prep:
Prepare cut files (e.g., Zünd, Kongsberg, or CNC plotters) with registration marks, score lines, and drill points. •
Quality Control:
Ensure all production files adhere to color standards, dimensions, bleeds, and finishing specifications before handing off to the print floor. •
Archive & System Management:
Maintain organized digital file archives and adhere to file-naming and workflow standards. • Assisting and backup: Assist in the art room and being a backup printer operator along with other tasks to ensure quick production and speedy/defect free shipments to the customer. Qualifications & Skills •
Experience:
2+ years of experience in digital prepress, graphic layout, or print production environment preferred. •
Software Proficiency:
o Knowledge of digital layout software. (e.g., Flexi, or similar). o Familiarity with nesting and RIP software (e.g., Onyx, or similar). •
Technical Knowledge:
Strong understanding of print media, bleed settings, color spaces (CMYK vs. RGB), vector vs. raster artwork, and finishing processes (cutting, folding, hem/grommet). • Attention to
Detail:
Excellent eye for precision, spatial awareness, alignment, and typographic consistency. •
Problem Solving:
Ability to catch errors early, fix broken vector paths, and troubleshoot file formatting issues under tight deadlines. Preferred Qualifications • Experience with large format printing, signage, or packaging die-lines. • Knowledge of automated prepress workflows or imposition scripts.
