Prepress & Press/Finishing Technician

At CL&D, we're looking for a versatile team member who enjoys both the technical and hands-on sides of label production. This role bridges Prepress and Production, supporting artwork and file preparation while also operating printing and finishing equipment on the production floor.

The Hybrid Prepress & Press/Finishing Technician helps ensure jobs move smoothly from customer artwork through final production. You will prepare and verify print-ready files, support proofing and color management, assist with press setup and operation, and operate finishing equipment to produce high-quality labels that meet customer specifications.

What You'll Do

Prepress Responsibilities

• Review customer artwork and production files for accuracy and print readiness.
• Perform file setup, corrections, and basic artwork modifications as needed.
• Create and maintain production-ready files using prepress software and workflows.
• Verify dimensions, copy, barcodes, fonts, images, and color specifications.
• Generate proofs and support internal quality review processes.
• Maintain digital files, job records, and artwork archives.
• Work closely with Customer Service, Sales, Graphics, and Production to resolve artwork and production issues.
• Follow established prepress procedures and quality standards.

Press & Finishing Responsibilities

• Assist with setup, operation, and changeovers of digital printing equipment.
• Operate finishing equipment including rewinders, laminators, slitters, and inspection systems.
• Monitor product quality throughout production runs and perform required inspections.
• Read and follow job tickets, work instructions, and customer specifications.
• Record production information and complete required documentation.
• Troubleshoot routine production and quality issues.
• Perform cleaning, maintenance, and housekeeping activities on equipment and work areas.
• Support other production departments as workload demands.

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to learn production equipment.
• Basic computer skills and experience working in technical software applications.
• Ability to read and interpret job specifications and production documentation.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in flexographic, digital, or label printing.
• Experience with Adobe Creative Cloud (Illustrator, Acrobat, Photoshop, InDesign).
• Familiarity with Esko, RIP software, digital workflows, or color management systems.
• Experience with finishing equipment such as die cutting, inspection, rewinding, lamination, or slitting.
• Knowledge of print production processes and quality systems.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds with or without assistance.
• Frequent bending, reaching, pushing, pulling, and twisting.
• Ability to work safely around moving machinery and manufacturing equipment.
• Ability to distinguish colors and identify print quality defects.