Digital Press Operator / Prepress Technician Catalyst Graphics - 3.4 Eagan, MN Job Details Full-time $23 - $29 an hour 1 day ago Benefits Health insurance Dental insurance 401(k) Flexible spending account Paid time off 401(k) matching Qualifications Digital printing Machine operation Production color matching Color management Attention to detail Prepress software Technical Proficiency Adobe Acrobat Mechanical troubleshooting Layout design Printing facility experience Full Job Description Position Summary We are seeking a detail-oriented, cross-functional Prepress & Digital Print Specialist to bridge the gap between digital artwork prep and live print production. In this hybrid role, you will be responsible for receiving, preflighting, imposing, and proofing client files, as well as setting up, operating, and maintaining our digital presses. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced commercial print environment, combines technical software skills with hands-on mechanical aptitude, and takes pride in color accuracy and file integrity. Key ResponsibilitiesPrepress & File Preparation (Approx. 50%)

File Preflighting:

Inspect client artwork (PDFs, native files) for resolution, fonts, bleed, and color spaces (CMYK vs. Spot/RGB).

Imposition & Proofing:

Perform digital imposition, crossover alignment, and pagination using digital workflow tools (e.g., Fiery Impose, Enfocus PitStop, Preps). Generate soft and hard proofs for customer approval.

Variable Data Setup:

Prepare and merge variable data files (CSV, Excel) for direct mail, personalized marketing pieces, and transactional printing.

Troubleshooting & File Fixes:

Modify customer files when necessary (correcting bleeds, converting color spaces, rebuilding low-res assets) and communicate file issues to customer service or sales reps. Digital Press Operation (Approx. 50%)

Press Operation:

Set up, calibrate, and operate production digital presses to output short-run, on-demand, and variable data jobs on time.

Stock & Job Setup:

Load appropriate media/substrates, adjust sheet sizes, set media weights, and configure tray/feeder parameters.

Color Management & QC:

Monitor color output, run daily engine linearizations/calibrations, match PMS/brand colors, and conduct strict quality checks for registration, banding, and front-to-back registration.

Routine Maintenance:

Perform scheduled preventive maintenance, replace operator-serviceable parts (toner/ink, drums, fusers, waste bottles), and clear machine jams. Keep the digital print area clean and organized.

Qualifications & Requirements Experience:

2+ years of hands-on experience in a commercial print prepress department, digital print shop, or equivalent environment.

Software Proficiency:

Advanced knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) and Acrobat Pro with Enfocus PitStop. Experience with Digital Front Ends (DFEs) such as Canon or Heidelberg. Familiarity with variable data software and mail merge workflows.

Technical Skills:

Solid understanding of sheet layouts, signature imposition, color management (ICC profiles, spot colors), and paper stock characteristics (caliper, finish, grain direction).

Physical & Personal Attributes:

Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills. Ability to lift up to 40-50 lbs (paper reams/boxes) and stand for extended periods during press operations. Excellent attention to detail and ability to prioritize competing deadlines.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$23.00 - $29.00 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Flexible spending account Health insurance Paid time off

Experience:

Prepress:

3 years (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person