Position Title: Digital Prepress & Finishing Specialist

Reports To: Production Manager

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly meticulous and experienced Digital Prepress & Finishing Specialist to manage the entire workflow for our production department. This is a technical production role, NOT a creative graphic design position. The successful candidate must be a data-driven problem-solver with proven expertise in manipulating complex digital files for print accuracy and operating essential finishing machinery.

This role requires critical thinking, advanced problem-solving, and strict adherence to production deadlines.

Key Responsibilities1. Prepress and Digital File Management (The Print Foundation)

● Artwork Finalization: Prepare and manipulate final artwork files to ensure they are print-ready and optimized for the specific digital press.

● Color Calibration and Quality Control: Execute advanced adjustments to CMYK color separations and utilize spectrophotometers or other tools to calibrate and match Pantone (PMS) spot colors precisely across all print runs.

● Digital Front End (DFE) Administration: Operate and administer the Fiery DFE (Digital Front End) software for proofing, imposition, batching, and setting up precise production print runs.

● Proofing and Approval: Generate final soft proofs and hard proofs, meticulously comparing print output against color standards and production specifications for final quality approval.

2. Production and Finishing Operations (The Manufacturing Process)

● Press Operation: Execute production runs on the digital press, managing material loading, ink levels, and monitoring print quality for consistency.

● Lamination: Operate and oversee the lamination process, ensuring accurate material alignment and proper bond adhesion

● CNC Cutting Administration: Program and operate the CNC Vacuum Table Cutter for kiss-cutting and through-cutting adhesive sheets according to the finalized digital layouts.

● Matrix Stripping and Inspection: Perform meticulous matrix stripping (removing waste material) and conduct final visual inspection of completed product to verify cut registration, adhesive quality, and overall finish prior to customer delivery.

Required Skills and Experience

● Software Fluency: Required practical expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, used for print-ready file manipulation.

● Print Production Knowledge: Deep understanding of digital printing processes, Pantone/Spot Color theory, variable data printing, and material handling (adhesives/substrates).

● Technical Equipment Experience: Proven hands-on experience operating production equipment, including digital presses, laminators, and/or CNC cutting tables/plotters.

● Analytical and Detail-Oriented: Exceptional ability to work with precision, identify minute flaws in print or registration, and manipulate data

● Independent Work Ethic: Must be able to manage the entire process autonomously, troubleshoot equipment issues under pressure, and maintain production goals with minimal supervision.

Education and Experience

● Education: No formal degree is required; practical demonstration of skills and prior print or prepress experience is paramount.

● Experience: A minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in a digital prepress, print production, or graphic finishing environment.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $23.00 - $26.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Macedon, NY 14502 (Required)

Work Location: In person