Prepress Operator

Position: Prepress Operator
T ype: Full Time
Location: Calgary, AB

DCM is a leading Canadian tech-enabled provider of print and digital solutions that help simplify complex marketing communications and operations workflow. DCM serves over 2,500 clients including 70 of the 100 largest Canadian corporations and leading government agencies. Our core strength lies in delivering individualized services to our clients that simplify their communications, including customized printing, highly personalized marketing communications, campaign management, digital signage, and digital asset management. From omnichannel marketing campaigns to large-scale print and digital workflows, our goal is to make complex tasks surprisingly simple, allowing our clients to focus on what they do best.

THE ROLE:

As a Prepress Operator, you will be responsible for preparing digital files for litho, wide format and digital printing processes. This includes managing file setups, ensuring colour accuracy, performing preflight checks, and maintaining high standards of quality control throughout the prepress process.

This role will work onsite Monday to Friday on day shift from 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. in our Calgary site.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

File Preparation & Preflight Checks:

• Review and prepare incoming artwork files (PDF, InDesign, Illustrator, etc.) for print production, ensuring all files meet industry standards.
• Perform preflight checks to identify and resolve issues related to resolution, colour modes, fonts, image placement, and bleed areas.
• Adjust artwork and make necessary changes or corrections for litho, wide format and digital presses.
• Collaborate with internal production coordinators or clients to address any file-related issues or modifications.

Print Setup & Imposition:

• Set up digital files for litho, wide format and digital printing, ensuring proper layout, scaling, and imposition for efficient press runs.
• Ensure accurate file output for various printing techniques, including offset lithography, digital presses, and wide format printing methods.
• Manage colour proofing and adjustments to achieve consistency between digital files and final printed materials.

Colour Management & Proofing:

• Monitor colour accuracy using colour management software and hardware (e.g., densitometers, spectrophotometers).
• Generate and evaluate hard copy proofs for client approval before initiating full press runs.
• Maintain consistent colour quality throughout the prepress process to meet industry and client standards.

Equipment Maintenance & Troubleshooting:

• Operate and maintain prepress equipment, including RIP (Raster Image Processor) systems and digital proofing systems.
• Troubleshoot issues with files, colour calibration, and press setup to ensure timely resolution.
• Ensure all prepress equipment is calibrated and functioning correctly for optimal output.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Work closely with production, design, and pressroom teams to ensure smooth handoffs and to meet tight deadlines.
• Communicate effectively with clients to understand project requirements and ensure their satisfaction with print output.
• Provide technical support and advice to designers or clients regarding file preparation and print specifications.

Quality Control & Efficiency:

• Review printed samples and press sheets to ensure the final product meets quality standards and customer expectations.
• Ensure accuracy, consistency, and efficient file management throughout the prepress workflow.
  Assist in maintaining a safe and organized workspace, ensuring compliance with company safety standards.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Must have a minimum of 5 years' experience as a Prepress Operator in a printing environment, with experience in both lithographic and digital presses.
• Proficient with industry-standard prepress software (Adobe Creative Suite, InDesign, Acrobat, Pitstop etc.)., experience in Preps imposition software is an asset.
• Strong knowledge of print file formats (PDF, TIFF, EPS, etc.), colour management and print production techniques.
• Experience with RIP (Raster Image Processor) software and file preparation for various print technologies.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to troubleshoot complex prepress and print issues.
• Strong understanding of colour theory, proofing processes, and achieving colour consistency across different press types.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously under tight deadlines.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with other teams and clients.
  General math skills.

DATA Communications Management Corp. (DCM) is committed to equal employment opportunity, employs and does not discriminate against all qualified persons without regard to race, colour, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, or any other classification protected by applicable federal and provincial laws. We invite resumes from all qualified applicants. Should you require any accommodation throughout the recruitment and selection process, please inform human resources so that we can ensure your equal participation.

DCM would like to thank all applicants, however only those candidates qualified will be contacted.