Platemaker

Houston Chronicle; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Houston Chronicle is seeking an entry-level Platemaker to join our Print Production team. You will support all plate-making systems, monitor system level functions, and produce printing plates and electronic images for printing in the newspaper.

The role requires multi-tasking, strong communication, and basic software knowledge; hours include evenings and weekends, with on-site production responsibilities and collaboration with vendors and staff.

Qualifications

• Multi-tasking and organizational skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Manage Plates & Chemical Inventory.

Skills

Multi-tasking

Organizational Skills

Good Communicator

Problem Solving

Photoshop

Microsoft Office

Adobe

Mac & PC computer experience

Newspaper plate production

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Job Description

The Houston Chronicle has an excellent opportunity for an entry-level Platemaker to join our Print Production team. You will support all plate-making systems, monitor system level functions, and produce printing plates & electronic images for printing in the newspaper.

Job Description

The Houston Chronicle has an excellent opportunity for an entry-level Platemaker to join our Print Production team. You will support all plate-making systems, monitor system level functions, and produce printing plates & electronic images for printing in the newspaper.

You will:

• Manage Plates & Chemical Inventory
• Collect data from Image Setters daily and track plate usage through weekly & monthly reports
• Prepare check off sheets for daily press runs (Page size, verify color position, identify which presses are running and type (straight, double off or collect)
• Make daily plates as needed
• On call to troubleshoot and assist with live production issues as it pertains to the Prepress operation
• Work with vendors to learn how to operate new software systems
• Train staff members on loading the skid load, trolley and new software systems
• Train Pressroom employees on how to re-make plates
• Work with mechanical maintenance group on equipment failure to get back online or make sure
• Adjust exiting workflow to add new products (i.e. NY Times, WSJ, ACN….)
• Adjust plate order to accommodate new products
• Examine page files for quality

Skills/experience required:

• Multi-tasking
• Organizational Skills
• Good Communicator
• Problem Solving
• Photoshop, Microsoft Office & Adobe
• Mac & PC computer experience
• Newspaper plate production helpful but not required
• Mechanical aptitude
• High school diploma or GED

This position will work varying evening hours & weekends.