Prepress Technician

Prepress Technician

Location: Sturgis, Michigan

Status: Full-Time

The Prepress Technician is responsible for preparing customer artwork and production files to ensure accurate, efficient, high-quality print output in a specialty packaging environment. This role supports the production workflow through file preflight, retouching, layout preparation, plate‑ready file setup, and close coordination with production, quality and customer‑facing teams to ensure packaging graphics meet specifications, brand and regulatory requirements.

• Review customer artwork, specifications and job tickets to confirm file readiness, dimensions, color builds, die lines, copy, barcode placement and print compatibility
• Preflight digital files and identify issues related to resolution, fonts, trapping, bleeds, overprints, separations and graphic integrity before production release
• Prepare press‑ready files for carton, inserts, label and other packaging applications produced within MAX Solutions’ print environment
• Support computer‑to‑plate workflows and help maintain efficient file preparation processes that improve speed, reduce cost and support production quality
• Perform image retouching, colour correction and page or layout adjustments to align artwork with customer requirements and manufacturing standards
• Build and revise layouts, including CF2 page layout and related structural or graphics preparation tasks used in packaging production
• Verify files align with colour management expectations and G7‑oriented print quality requirements
• Collaborate with press operators, structural design, quality, customer service and other internal teams to resolve file issues and support successful job launches
• Generate proofs or file outputs for internal review and customer approval, ensuring version control and documentation accuracy
• Maintain organised electronic files, revision histories, templates and production records in accordance with department procedures
• Troubleshoot prepress workflow problems and elevate recurring quality, artwork or compatibility issues when needed
• Follow company safety, quality, housekeeping and standard operating procedures at all times

• High school diploma or GED required; associate degree, certificate or technical training in graphic communications, printing technology, prepress or related field preferred
• 2+ years of experience in prepress, graphic production, packaging graphics or commercial print production preferred
• Working knowledge of print production concepts such as colour separations, trapping, bleeds, resolution, imposition, proofing and file preflight
• Experience with Adobe Creative Cloud applications, especially Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat and In Design
• Familiarity with packaging artwork, die lines and production specifications in a manufacturing or converting environment
• Ability to manage multiple jobs, revisions and deadlines with strong accuracy and attention to detail
• Strong problem‑solving, communication and cross‑functional collaboration skills
• Basic understanding of colour management, print quality standards and plate output workflows

• Experience in folding cartons, healthcare packaging or regulated print environments
• Familiarity with CTP workflows, packaging layout software, CF2 file handling and proofing systems
• Exposure to ISO‑based quality systems, CGMP environments or G7 print standards
• Experience supporting offset printing operations or working closely with pressroom and finishing teams

• Strong attention to detail and artwork accuracy
• Ability to interpret technical specifications and translate them into production‑ready files
• Effective time management in a deadline‑driven manufacturing setting
• Consistent quality mindset with a focus on error prevention and process discipline
• Team‑oriented communication style and willingness to support continuous improvement

We are committed to an inclusive workplace that does not discriminate against race, nationality, religion, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender or orgender identity. We believe in diversity and encourage any qualified individual to apply. We are an EEOC Employer.