JOB TITLE: Prepress Production Artist

CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt

DEPARTMENT: PrePress

REPORTS TO: Art Manager

General Position Summary: The Prepress Production Artist is responsible for preparing customer-supplied artwork and internal design files for print production using industry-standard software. This is a technical production role, not a graphic design or creative position. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in file preparation, print standards, color management, die-line setup, and digital workflow systems. You will be working primarily with Esko PackEdge, Adobe Illustrator, and Photoshop in a production-driven environment.

Responsibilities

Primary Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Open, review, and analyze incoming artwork files for print feasibility and production standards.
• Prepare and adapt files for printing following Eurostampa technical guidelines.
• Work with Esko PackEdge to create and modify packaging layouts, step & repeat impositions, distortion files, barcodes, and other production elements.
• Use Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop to clean up artwork, manage layers, embed images, correct technical issues, and ensure compatibility with print processes.
• Create and manage die-line files and templates.
• Apply trapping, overprint settings, ink separations, varnishes, and finishing layers.
• Generate digital proofs for internal review and customer approval.
• Collaborate with the graphic design, technical, and production departments to ensure accuracy and feasibility of the final output.
• Maintain naming conventions, file organization, and version control per internal workflow procedures.
• Ensure print-ready files are prepared according to the requirements of flexo, offset, or digital presses, including white ink and embellishment layers.
• Support continuous improvement by participating in technical checks, feedback loops, and cross-department alignment.
• Comfortable working within a team environment and embrace learning & following specific Eurostampa procedures and processes.

Required Experience, Skills and Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience in prepress or print production, preferably in packaging or labels.
• Proficiency in Esko PackEdge (or other Esko software such as ArtPro or Automation Engine).
• Advanced skills in Adobe Illustrator (technical, not creative use) and good working knowledge of Photoshop.
• Solid understanding of printing processes (flexographic, offset, digital), color separations, spot colors, and Pantone management.
• Knowledge of PDF standards, file formats, and technical troubleshooting.
• Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy and consistency.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced production environment.
• Comfortable with collaborative workflow and constructive feedback.
• High school diploma or general education degree (GED).

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Experience working with Esko Automation Engine or similar workflow systems.
• Familiarity with HP Indigo digital presses and variable data setup.
• Understanding of pre-distortion for shrink sleeves or conic labels.

Additional Information

This is a technical production position. While you will work with visual elements, this is not a creative graphic design role. Candidates with a purely creative portfolio and no print production or packaging experience will not be considered.

The position is to work in office only Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm with potential overtime if required.

The Benefits:

• Medical Insurance- 80% Company Paid PPO Plan or up to a $1,500 Company HSA Contribution.
• Eye Insurance- 100% Company Paid.
• Life and Short Term Disability Insurance - 100% Company Paid.
• 401K with a company match of up to 4%.
• Up to 5 weeks paid vacation.
• Paid Sick Days; Paid Holidays.       

Apply NOW if you have a strong work ethic and are ready to begin your career with family owned company that makes employee satisfaction a top priority!