Hybrid Production Operator

Digital Artwork Specialist

Primary Responsibilities:

• Create and quality check digital artwork in accordance with client and printer guidelines, ensuring compliance with packaging requirements, technical specifications and die-lines.
• Apply and verify printer specifications including overprint, knockout, minimum dot, BWR and other print-related requirements.
• Follow task instructions and prepare, review and validate final artwork, escalating any quality or guideline concerns to Line Managers or Department Heads when required.
• Ensure a thorough understanding of client brand guidelines, packaging terminology and print production limitations.
• Create colour separations, remap colours, apply trapping, overprinting, knockouts, imposition, bleed and colour correction, making independent decisions based on established parameters.
• Utilise knowledge of prepress and printing capabilities to determine the most suitable techniques, styles and production methods.
• Collaborate closely with Prepress and Press teams to ensure artwork can be accurately reproduced using existing print technologies.
• Review artwork at different stages of production and implement required changes to meet print specifications and approval requirements.
• Prepare proofs for client review, ensuring an accurate representation of the final printed product.
• Perform preflight checks to ensure files are print-ready and compliant with production requirements.
• Quality check all work according to departmental SOPs, completing and signing off required checklists.
• Maintain expert knowledge of printing processes, including lithography, flexography, digital printing, rotogravure and screen printing, as well as retouching and GMG colour profiling.
• Support the management of production resources and accept responsibility for production-related activities within the team.
• Assist in the development and implementation of training programmes to enhance technical capabilities, particularly for junior team members.
• Work closely with Quality Assurance teams to ensure consistent delivery of high-quality output.
• Support workforce planning and resource allocation to address changing priorities and workload requirements.
• Ensure smooth project execution and delivery in line with communication objectives and graphic production standards.
• Analyse client requirements and communicate expectations effectively to internal teams.
• Create and maintain production-related documentation and process records.

Supporting Responsibilities:

• Review and analyse KPI reports covering productivity, utilisation, quality and on-time delivery metrics.
• Prepare recommendations and proposals for management regarding client trends, business opportunities and service improvements.
• Participate in Corrective Action Request (CAR) investigations and quality improvement initiatives.
• Participate in client meetings as required.
• Contribute to client planning sessions and provide project management support.
• Maintain regular communication with clients regarding operational matters, business initiatives and service improvements.
• Support business development through collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement.
• Seek alignment and approval from management and peers regarding action plans, policies and procedures.
• Foster a positive and collaborative working environment.
• Complete ad hoc assignments as required by management.
• Work with Production, Technical and IT teams to maximise efficiency through automation and ESKO solutions, including reporting on productivity improvements and time savings.

Performance Measures:

• Right First Time (RTFT) performance from SGS to Client in line with target.
• Right First Time (RTFT) performance from Production to Quality Control in line with target.
• On-time delivery performance in line with agreed targets.

Administration:

• Follow all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Maintain accurate documentation and filing systems.
• Demonstrate strong written communication skills.
• Maintain effective organisational and planning skills.
• Apply a rigorous and detail-oriented approach to all tasks.
• Ensure full traceability of work completed.