PrePress Project Analyst

Under the direction of the People and Performance Coach - Graphic Arts Supervisor, the Pre-Press Project Analyst is responsible for all activities and coordination of pre-press operations of customer artwork and technical specifications (i.e., repro and distortion) to enable accurate print plates and to achieve customer color target on the press in a reproducible manner based on the AFS printing process. The Pre-Press Project Analyst is also expected to ensure quality control standards are always observed for these activities.

• Participates in customer/design agencies pre-production meeting(s) and establishes a client brief as input for the reproduction of artwork.
• Assesses customer artwork, advises customers regarding artwork guidelines, and provides technical instructions for the reproduction of the artwork to the Graphics Repro Representatives.
• Checks reproduction files of customer artwork jobs for color matching, trapping, layering, file structure, elements, etc. in accordance with technical specifications for repro work.
• Determines artwork amendments (text corrections and color modifications) to bring art to meet AFS printing specifications.
• Creates design guides for customers / design agencies and serves as a liaison with the AFS TFC on sleeve specifications.
• Oversees the reproduction of customer artwork (pre-press operation), color management, and pre-distortion of graphic elements, and ensures quality control standards are always maintained.
• Partners with manufacturing operations (engraving and print) to advise or consult on specific artwork problems.
• Supports sales / customer / manufacturing operations for print views to execute color matching on the print and proof press.
• Supports any efforts to maintain high-quality standards as defined by BRC and other plant-wide initiatives to help the parent-company, local company and the department
• Performs other tasks and/or assignments as defined by the Graphic Arts Manager

• Decision Making: Exercises independent judgment and discretion in matters of significance in a fast-paced environment
• Communication: Possesses strong communication skills, including excellent written and verbal communication skills, to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-oriented environment
• Teamwork: Ability to work with others as well as independently.  Demonstrates strong listening skills; values and respects others’ ideas and contributions
• Customer Focus: Possesses excellent interpersonal skills which are needed to establish and maintain an influential relationship with others
• Execution: Ability to focus on goals, metrics, and results.  Takes ownership and accountability for self and department. Uses resources efficiently, effectively, and timely.
• Innovation:  Must demonstrate an open and growth mindset, embracing change, stepping out of comfort zone, and applies creativity in generating ideas and solutions
• Analytical:  Ability to approach troubleshooting, project development and business performance analytically
• Dependability: Regular reliable attendance and demonstrates strong work ethic
• Safety and Compliance: Consistently demonstrates “safety first” mindset, adheres to company safety and security policies, and dedicated to employee safety and well-being

Preferred Qualifications:

• Product knowledge of shrink sleeve applications and requirements for packaging market related to graphic design a plus
• ESKO graphics pre-press software is ideal
• Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop CSS
• GMG Epson proofing system
• Possesses good understanding of color metric
• Strong attention to detail
• Excellent interpersonal skills which are needed to establish and maintain an influential relationship with the customer and its design agencies and/or third parties (suppliers / manufacturing operations)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills; must be able to manage tasks and projects with minimal guidance
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment