Prepress Production Artist

Eurostampa North America; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Eurostampa North America seeks a Prepress Production Artist to prepare and manage print files in a fast-paced environment. Applicants should have strong experience in file preparation for packaging, proficiency in Esko and Adobe software, and a high attention to detail. This technical role involves collaboration across departments, ensuring print-ready files meet industry standards.

Benefits

Medical Insurance: 80% Company Paid

401K with up to 4% company match

Up to 5 weeks paid vacation

Paid Sick Days and Holidays

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience in prepress or print production.
• Proficient in industry-standard software such as Esko and Adobe.
• Solid understanding of printing processes and file formats.

Responsibilities

• Prepare customer-supplied artwork for print production.
• Work with Esko PackEdge to create packaging layouts.
• Ensure print-ready files meet production standards.

Skills

File preparation

Color management

Detail-oriented

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Esko PackEdge

Adobe Illustrator

Photoshop

Job description

JOB TITLE:

Prepress Production Artist

CLASSIFICATION:

Non-Exempt

DEPARTMENT:

PrePress

REPORTS TO:

Art Manager

General Position Summary:

The Prepress Production Artist is responsible for preparing customer-supplied artwork and internal design files for print production using industry-standard software. This is a technical production role, not a graphic design or creative position. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in file preparation, print standards, color management, die-line setup, and digital workflow systems. You will be working primarily with Esko PackEdge, Adobe Illustrator, and Photoshop in a production-driven environment.

Responsibilities

Primary Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Open, review, and analyze incoming artwork files for print feasibility and production standards.
• Prepare and adapt files for printing following Eurostampa technical guidelines.
• Work with Esko PackEdge to create and modify packaging layouts, step & repeat impositions, distortion files, barcodes, and other production elements.
• Use Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop to clean up artwork, manage layers, embed images, correct technical issues, and ensure compatibility with print processes.
• Create and manage die-line files and templates.
• Apply trapping, overprint settings, ink separations, varnishes, and finishing layers.
• Generate digital proofs for internal review and customer approval.
• Collaborate with the graphic design, technical, and production departments to ensure accuracy and feasibility of the final output.
• Maintain naming conventions, file organization, and version control per internal workflow procedures.
• Ensure print-ready files are prepared according to the requirements of flexo, offset, or digital presses, including white ink and embellishment layers.
• Support continuous improvement by participating in technical checks, feedback loops, and cross-department alignment.
• Work effectively within a team environment and follow Eurostampa procedures and processes.

Required Experience, Skills And Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience in prepress or print production, preferably in packaging or labels.
• Proficiency in Esko PackEdge (or other Esko software such as ArtPro or Automation Engine).
• Advanced skills in Adobe Illustrator (technical use, not creative) and good working knowledge of Photoshop.
• Solid understanding of printing processes (flexographic, offset, digital), color separations, spot colors, and Pantone management.
• Knowledge of PDF standards, file formats, and technical troubleshooting.
• Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy and consistency.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfortable with collaborative workflows and constructive feedback.
• High school diploma or GED.

Preferred Skills And Qualifications

• Experience with Esko Automation Engine or similar workflow systems.
• Familiarity with HP Indigo digital presses and variable data setup.
• Understanding of pre-distortion for shrink sleeves or conic labels.

Additional Information

This is a technical production position focused on print file preparation. It is not a creative graphic design role. Candidates with only a creative portfolio and no print production or packaging experience will not be considered.

The position is in-office, Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm, with potential overtime.

The Benefits

• Medical Insurance: 80% Company Paid PPO Plan or up to a $1,500 Company HSA Contribution.
• Eye Insurance: 100% Company Paid.
• Life and Short Term Disability Insurance: 100% Company Paid.
• 401K with up to 4% company match.
• Up to 5 weeks paid vacation.
• Paid Sick Days and Holidays.

Apply now if you have a strong work ethic and are ready to start your career with a family-owned company that values employee satisfaction.