As a Pre-Press Assistant, you will play a crucial role in preparing artwork for print, ensuring files are production-ready, colour-accurate, and meet the technical demands of high-end carton packaging. This role requires strong attention to detail, proficiency in pre-press software, and a solid understanding of offset printing processes.
Main Responsibilities and Duties:
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Digital Artworking: Prepare and adapt artwork supplied by clients or designers to meet print production specifications.
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File Preparation: Verify and adjust digital files for print readiness checking file formats, resolution, bleeds, colour profiles, and font embedding.
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Colour Management: Maintain consistent colour output by calibrating monitors and printers. Ensure accurate colour reproduction across various materials.
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Proofing: Produce accurate proofs to identify errors, check colour accuracy, and confirm print readiness. Troubleshoot and correct any issues prior to final print production.
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Imposition: Arrange artwork in the correct layout for printing, setting up impositions to ensure optimal colour consistency, accurate overlaps and bleeds for seamless production.
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Plate Processing: Maintain the plate processor and perform thorough content checks before plates go to production.
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Collaboration: Work closely with the design and production teams to ensure smooth workflow from artwork to print.
Skills and Attributes:
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Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite: InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop
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Solid understanding of Litho Printing and Carton packaging production
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Knowledge of pre-flighting, imposition, trapping, and colour separation processes
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Good knowledge of colour theory, profiling, and print standards
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High level of accuracy and attention to detail
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Ability to manage multiple jobs and work to tight deadlines
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Strong communication skills and a team-focused attitude
Desirable (Not Essential) Skills and Attributes:
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Previous experience in carton packaging or commercial print, Desirable (Not Essential)
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Experience with XMF workflow and Phoenix imposition software
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Familiarity with finishing processes and dieline requirements
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Understanding of pre-press automation tools and RIP systems
Benefits for the Pre- Press Assistant include:
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Competitive Salary DOE
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Overtime paid at x1.5 standard hourly rate
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25 days holiday entitlement + 8 Statutory Bank Holiday allowance
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Company Workplace Pension
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Long Service Award, additional annual leave starting from 5 years’ service
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Death in Service (4x)
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Salary Benefits Program including :- Car Salary Sacrifice/ Cycle to Work/ Employee Discounts
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Annual Health Assessment
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Annual Company Social Events :- Summer & Christmas
Working Hours:
Monday – Friday, 40 hours per week
