Job Summary

The Production Artist is a vital member of the Prepress Department, responsible for preparing, adjusting, and finalizing artwork to meet precise production specifications and international printing standards. This includes setting up digital artwork for both digital and flexographic label printing using Esko workflows. The role demands meticulous attention to detail, proficiency in prepress software, and expertise in color management to ensure seamless transitions from client-approved files to high-quality printed outputs. Collaboration with the Prepress, Customer Success, Job Engineering, and Production teams is essential to ensure all deliverables meet client expectations, operational efficiency, and compliance with ISO 12647 and FTA guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

Artwork Preparation and Review

• Art Review: Review new jobs per Prepress schedule \ assigned tasks, ensuring all inputs meet required standards.
• Fit to Specifications: Execute preflight checks and adjustments to ensure artwork complies with digital and flexographic print requirements, including bleed, trim, trapping, and mark placements, following the Prepress Production.
• Color Management: Apply ISO 12647-compliant color management, including ICC profile assignment, device calibration, Pantone matching, and proof verification.
• Proof Generation: Produce PDF and color-managed digital proofs using Esko workflows, ensuring alignment with customer expectations and securing sign-off.

Proofing and Approval

• Proof Preparation: Deliver accurate production proofs for Customer Success approval.
• Collaboration: Work with internal teams to refine files based on feedback.
• Approval Transition: Transition approved files efficiently into plate-making workflows.

Production Coordination

• Schedule Adherence: Complete tasks in line with daily Prepress schedules.
• Workflow Compliance: Follow and recommend improvements to departmental workflows.
• Software Utilization: Use Radius and Esko software for efficient task management.

Documentation and Reporting

• Record Keeping: Ensure accurate documentation of processes, adjustments, and approvals.
• Issue Reporting: Promptly report technical or workflow issues to the Process Manager.

Technical Support and Maintenance

• Troubleshooting: Assist with resolving prepress software and system issues, including providing press-side support to address print-related discrepancies that do not meet expected outcomes, ensuring timely corrective actions to ensure print quality standards are met.
• System Maintenance: Support updates and maintenance of Esko workflows and equipment.
• Cross-Training: Engage in knowledge-sharing initiatives.
• Job Engineering Support: Participate in collaboration meetings with Job Engineering and Review teams to ensure alignment on artwork, print specs, and die configurations, adhering to international standards for digital and flexographic printing.

Health, Safety, and Quality Compliance

• Compliance: Adhere to company policies, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and industry best practices.
• Housekeeping: Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace.
• Quality Assurance: Partner with Quality Control to ensure production standards are met.

Additional Responsibilities

• Die Management: Update die specifications in relevant systems.
• Continuous Learning: Stay updated on prepress technology and Esko advancements.
• General Duties: Perform other tasks as assigned by management.

Qualifications and Skills

Education

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Graphic Design, Printing Technology, or related field, or equivalent experience.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in Esko software and prepress workflows.
• Expertise in digital and flexographic file preparation.
• Strong knowledge of color management and ICC profiling.
• Experience in proofing and plate-making processes.
• Familiarity with enterprise systems like Radius.

Experience

• 3-5 years in a prepress or production artist role within commercial printing or label manufacturing.
• Proven experience optimizing files for digital and flexographic production.

Competencies

• High attention to detail and adherence to print specifications.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Effective communicator and team collaborator.
• Analytical problem-solver.
• Adaptable with a commitment to continuous improvement.

Performance Metrics

• Accuracy: Deliver error-free, production-ready files and proofs.
• Timeliness: Consistently meet Prepress deadlines.
• Collaboration: Maintain strong working relationships across departments.
• Compliance: Ensure adherence to safety, quality, and industry standards.
• Process Improvement: Drive efficiency through proactive workflow enhancements.

Career Growth Opportunities

Potential career advancement opportunities include roles such as Prepress Graphic Designer & Production Support Specialist, Color Specialist, or Production Coordinator, supported by continuous professional development and certification pathways.

Behavioural Competencies:

• Collaboration | Adaptability | Problem-Solving
• Initiative | Attention to Detail | Time Management
• Communication | Continuous Learning