Flexo & Offset Platemaker

Fanatics Collectibles; Indiana (PA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Fanatics Collectibles is seeking a skilled Flexo & Offset Platemaker to produce high-quality plates for flexographic and offset presses. You will operate CTP systems, plate imagers, and processors to meet production and color standards.

The role requires 3+ years in prepress/plate production, experience with offset CTP and digital flexo plate systems, and meticulous attention to detail. This position is based in our on-site manufacturing environment with occasional overtime.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 3+ years of experience in prepress or plate production.
• Hands-on experience with offset CTP and digital flexo plate systems.
• Knowledge of AM, FM, and hybrid screening.
• Ability to lift 30–50 lbs; strong attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Operate CTP Heidelberg Suprasetter and output plates from workflows Heidelberg Prinect and Kodak Prinergy.
• Verify imposition, screening, resolution, and separations; inspect plates for defects.
• Maintain processor chemistry and plate inventory.
• Operate Esko flexo plate imagers and process digital flexo plates (exposure, washout, drying, post-exposure).
• Mount plates to sleeves or cylinders when required.
• Coordinate with press operators to resolve plate-related issues; ensure file-to-plate accuracy.

Skills

Attention to detail

Time management

Clear communication

Problem-solving

Prioritization

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Heidelberg Suprasetter

Heidelberg Prinect

Kodak Prinergy

Esko CDI

Esko XPS Crystal

Job description

About Us

Fanatics is building a leading global digital sports platform. We ignite the passions of global sports fans and maximize the presence and reach for our hundreds of sports partners globally by offering products and services across Fanatics Commerce, Fanatics Collectibles, and Fanatics Betting & Gaming, allowing sports fans to Buy, Collect, and Bet. Through the Fanatics platform, sports fans can buy licensed fan gear, jerseys, lifestyle and streetwear products, headwear, and hardgoods; collect physical and digital trading cards, sports memorabilia, and other digital assets; and bet as the company builds its Sportsbook and iGaming platform. Fanatics has an established database of over 100 million global sports fans; a global partner network with approximately 900 sports properties, including major national and international professional sports leagues, players associations, teams, colleges, college conferences and retail partners, 2,500 athletes and celebrities, and 200 exclusive athletes; and over 2,000 retail locations, including its Lids retail stores. Our more than 22,000 employees are committed to relentlessly enhancing the fan experience and delighting sports fans globally.

About the Team

Fanatics Collectibles is a new company operating at the intersection of collectibles, culture, and technology. Backed by world-class investors, operators, and sports & entertainment partners, we are building the global leader in next-generation collectibles. As part of the broader Fanatics ecosystem, we leverage a digital sports platform that spans over 900 sports properties and engages more than 81 million fans. Together, we are reimagining every part of the collectibles experience for fans, partners, and creators.

Job Title: Flexo & Offset Platemaker

Department: Prepress / Plate Department

Reports To: Prepress Manager / Production Manager

Position Summary

The Flexo & Offset Platemaker is responsible for producing high-quality printing plates for both flexographic and offset presses. This role operates CTP systems, flexo plate imagers, exposure units, processors, and associated workflow software to ensure accurate, press-ready plates that meet production and color standards.

Key Responsibilities

Offset Plate Production

• Operate CTP Heidelberg Suprasetter
• Output plates from workflows Heidelberg Prinect and Kodak Prinergy
• Verify imposition, screening, resolution, and separations
• Inspect plates for imaging defects and quality issues
• Maintain processor chemistry and plate inventory

Flexographic Plate Production

• Operate Esko flexo plate imagers
• Process digital flexo plates including exposure, washout, drying, and post-exposure
• Handle systems such as Esko CDI and Esko XPS Crystal
• Verify correct relief depth, floor, and dot structure
• Measure plate thickness and hardness as required
• Mount plates to sleeves or cylinders (if part of workflow)

Quality Control Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with dot gain, screening, and color standards
• Perform plate inspections for pinholes, image distortion, or contamination
• Coordinate with press operators to resolve plate-related issues
• Maintain consistent file-to-plate accuracy

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 3+ years of experience in prepress or plate production
• Hands-on experience with both offset CTP and digital flexo plate systems
• Working knowledge of AM, FM, and hybrid screening
• Understanding of trapping, overprint settings, and prepress fundamentals
• Ability to lift 30–50 lbs
• Strong attention to detail

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in packaging or label printing environments
• Familiarity with color management systems
• Experience with flexo workflows and screening technologies
• Knowledge of UV, water-based, or solvent ink press requirements
• Basic mechanical troubleshooting ability

Skills & Competencies

• High attention to detail and quality
• Strong time management in deadline-driven environment
• Ability to prioritize offset and flexo production simultaneously
• Clear communication with prepress and pressroom teams
• Problem-solving and analytical mindset

Working Conditions

• Production/manufacturing environment
• Exposure to plate chemistry
• Standing for extended periods
• Occasional overtime