Graphic Designer / Pre-Press Specialist

AlphaGraphics - US117; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

Paid time off

Training & development

Job summary

AlphaGraphics - US117 in Irvine is looking for a detail-oriented Graphic Designer / Pre-Press Specialist. In this role, you will prepare files for print, create designs, and ensure accuracy through strong communication. The position entails hands-on production work, bridging both design and technical aspects. Ideal candidates will have experience in a print environment and be skilled in Adobe software. Join a small team where your contributions significantly impact the final product and enjoy various projects in a collaborative setting.

Qualifications

• Experience in a print shop, sign shop, or production environment strongly preferred.
• Strong working knowledge of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
• Solid understanding of print production including bleeds and color modes.

Responsibilities

• Preparing customer-supplied files for print.
• Creating and modifying designs for print.
• Setting up files for digital production.
• Communicating with customers to clarify specs.
• Managing proofs and revisions.
• Supporting hands-on production and finishing work.

Skills

Adobe Illustrator

Photoshop

InDesign

Attention to detail

Production environment experience

Tools

PrintSmith

Job description

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Paid time off
• Training & development

AlphaGraphics Irvine is a fast-paced print and sign shop serving both walk-in customers and established business accounts. We’re looking for a detail-oriented Graphic Designer / Pre-Press Specialist who understands that good design is only half the job — clean, accurate, print-ready files are what keep production moving.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys both the creative and technical sides of print and wants to be part of a small, hands-on team where their work directly impacts the final product. This is not a screen-only role — you should be comfortable stepping away from the desk to help with production and finishing when the shop is busy.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Preparing customer-supplied files for print (preflight, setup, bleed, resolution, color correction)
• Creating and modifying designs for print (flyers, business cards, signage, large format, etc.)
• Setting up files for digital and wide-format production
• Communicating with customers to clarify specs and ensure accuracy
• Managing proofs and revisions
• Working closely with production to ensure jobs run correctly
• Supporting hands-on production and finishing work — cutting, laminating, mounting, folding, bindery, and pack-out — as the schedule demands
• Jumping in alongside the production team during high-volume runs to help operate print and finishing equipment

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in a print shop, sign shop, or production environment strongly preferred
• Strong working knowledge of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign
• Solid understanding of print production (bleeds, margins, color modes, file setup)
• High attention to detail — catching issues before they become problems
• Ability to manage multiple jobs and deadlines at once
• Clear, professional communication with both customers and team members
• Willingness to roll up your sleeves and move between the design desk and hands-on production — comfortable with both sides of the shop

Bonus Points

• Experience with wide-format graphics or signage
• Familiarity with PrintSmith or similar MIS systems
• Experience preparing files for cut-sheet printing, vinyl cutting, or large format output

Why This Role

• Small team environment where your work matters
• True mix of design plus hands-on production and finishing — not just sitting behind a screen all day
• Consistent workflow with a variety of projects
• Opportunity to grow within a production-focused environment

Schedule

• Full-time, Monday–Friday
• On-site in Irvine

To Apply

Please include:

• Resume
• Portfolio (print-focused work preferred)