Position Summary The Large Format Preflight Manager is responsible for ensuring all customer artwork is production-ready before it reaches the print floor. This position serves as the critical link between Sales, Design, Customer Service, and Production by reviewing incoming files for accuracy, manufacturability, and quality. The Preflight Manager oversees the prepress workflow, establishes file standards, manages the preflight team, and ensures every job is optimized for efficient production while maintaining the highest quality standards. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, strong communication skills, and extensive knowledge of large-format printing, color management, substrates, and production methods. Key ResponsibilitiesFile Review & Preflight Review all incoming artwork for print readiness. Verify artwork dimensions, scale, bleed, safe areas, and crop marks. Check image resolution and quality. Verify fonts are embedded or outlined. Inspect linked graphics and embedded files. Confirm color spaces and convert files as needed. Ensure artwork meets company production standards. Identify potential production issues before jobs reach manufacturing. Prepare files for routing, cutting, CNC, laser, and printing equipment. Estimate & Work Order Review Review all estimates and production work orders before they are released to manufacturing. Verify that pricing, quantities, substrates, hardware, finishes, production methods, and installation requirements are accurate and complete. Confirm all customer specifications, artwork, approvals, and special instructions are properly documented. Identify and resolve discrepancies between the estimate, artwork, and production requirements before work begins. Serve as the final quality checkpoint to ensure every job is fully vetted, correctly documented, and production-ready. Production Coordination Work closely with Sales and Customer Service to resolve artwork issues. Communicate with customers regarding file corrections when necessary. Coordinate with Graphic Designers to modify artwork. Ensure files are released to production on schedule. Prioritize jobs based on production deadlines. Assist Production Managers with workflow planning. Quality Control Establish and maintain company preflight standards. Verify artwork matches customer-approved proofs. Ensure consistency across all projects. Reduce production errors through proactive file inspection. Track recurring customer artwork issues and recommend improvements. Team Leadership Supervise and mentor the Sales and production team. Train employees on file preparation standards. Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Conduct quality audits. Improve department efficiency through workflow optimization. Color Management Maintain ICC profiles and color standards. Ensure proper color conversions. Verify customer brand colors. Coordinate proofing procedures. Work with Production to maintain print consistency across equipment. Workflow Management Manage incoming production queue. Balance workload among team members. Monitor turnaround times. Ensure jobs meet production schedules. Recommend software and automation improvements. Required Skills & Qualifications & Technical Skills Expert knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite Illustrator Photoshop InDesign Acrobat Pro Experience with RIP software Knowledge of PDF workflows Color management experience Understanding of vector vs raster artwork Large format print production knowledge Experience preparing files for: Flatbed printers Roll printers Vinyl cutters CNC routers Laser cutters Industry Knowledge Large format printing Vehicle wraps ADA signage Monument signs Banners Window graphics Wall graphics Routed signs Fabric graphics Exhibit displays Installation methods Sign construction techniques Leadership Qualifications Strong organizational skills Excellent communication Ability to prioritize multiple deadlines Team leadership experience Process improvement mindset Problem-solving ability Customer-focused attitude Calm under pressure

Education & Experience Preferred:

5+ years in large-format print production or prepress. 2+ years of supervisory experience preferred. Sign industry experience strongly preferred. Performance Expectations Success in this role includes: 99%+ file accuracy before production Reduced production rework Faster turnaround times Consistent color quality Improved communication between departments 100% On-time job release Well-documented production standards Continuous workflow improvements Physical Requirements Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods. Occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Ability to distinguish color accurately. Frequent use of computers and production software. What Success Looks Like The ideal Large Format Preflight Manager is the company's final checkpoint before production. They possess an exceptional eye for detail, anticipate problems before they occur, and ensure every job enters production correctly the first time. They create efficient systems, develop their team, collaborate across departments, and help maximize productivity while minimizing costly mistakes. This position is essential to delivering exceptional quality, maintaining customer satisfaction, and supporting the continued growth and profitability of Creative Signs.

Pay:

$24.00 - $33.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off

Work Location:

In person