PrePress Operator

Prepress Technician / Platemaker

Location: Niles, IL
Pay: $22-$38/hour
Shift: 1st Shift and 3rd Shift Openings
Schedule: 3rd Shift: 9:45 PM-6:15 AM
Employment Type: Full-Time
Openings: 3

Job Overview

We are seeking experienced Prepress Technicians / Platemakers to join a growing, established manufacturer specializing in premium packaging and specialty printing solutions in Niles, IL.

This is a hybrid production role combining traditional prepress responsibilities with hands-on offset platemaking. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in commercial printing or packaging, experience preparing production-ready artwork, and proficiency with industry-standard prepress software.

Hands-on Kodak PRINERGY experience is required. Previous platemaking experience is preferred but not necessary, as training will be provided.

Key Responsibilities

• Review incoming customer artwork to ensure files meet print production requirements.

• Verify file specifications, including dimensions, bleeds, margins, resolution, fonts, and color accuracy.

• Identify and correct artwork issues while maintaining customer design intent.

• Create and manage production-ready PDF files for offset printing.

• Utilize Kodak PRINERGY, PREPS, Enfocus PitStop Pro, and Adobe Creative Cloud to prepare files for production.

• Generate digital and hard-copy proofs for customer approval.

• Perform trapping, imposition, nesting, and color separations.

• Prepare press-ready files based on printing equipment, substrates, and finishing requirements.

• Produce offset printing plates using a Fujifilm platemaking system. Training will be provided.

• Troubleshoot file-related production issues to minimize printing delays and quality concerns.

• Maintain accurate file organization, revision control, and production documentation.

• Collaborate with other Prepress Technicians and Pressroom personnel to meet production schedules.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to workflow efficiency and print quality.

Required Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in prepress, commercial printing, graphic arts, or packaging manufacturing.

• Hands-on experience with Kodak PRINERGY is required.

• Experience with prepress proofing systems, Kodak PREPS, and Enfocus PitStop Pro.

• Proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud, including Acrobat Pro, Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.

• Strong understanding of PDF workflows and commercial print production standards.

• Knowledge of color management, including CMYK, RGB, spot colors, and color separations.

• Familiarity with trapping, imposition, overprint settings, and proofing processes.

• Understanding of G7, GRACoL, SWOP, or similar color standards.

• Experience working in ISO or other quality-controlled manufacturing environments.

• Strong attention to detail, organization, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet production deadlines.

• High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with offset printing and folding carton packaging.

• Previous offset platemaking experience, particularly with Fujifilm equipment.

• Knowledge of foil stamping, embossing, and debossing.

• Experience with packaging artwork, barcodes, and variable data printing.

• Associate degree in Graphic Communications, Printing Technology, or a related field.

Compensation & Benefits

• $22-$38/hour , depending on experience and qualifications.

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.

• 401(k) and wellness programs.

• Career growth and professional development opportunities.

• Hands-on training with Fujifilm platemaking equipment.

• Stable, growing manufacturing environment.

• Opportunity to work on high-quality packaging and specialty printing projects.

• No regular overtime required.

Why Join Us?

Join an established and growing premium packaging manufacturer that continues to invest in its people, technology, and production capabilities. This opportunity offers the chance to work with advanced prepress software, develop additional technical skills through platemaking training, and contribute to high-quality packaging projects in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.

If you have hands-on Kodak PRINERGY experience and a background in commercial printing or packaging prepress, we encourage you to apply!