Pre-Press Assistant

Position: Pre-Press Assistant
Location: Elk Grove Village, IL
Shift: 1st Shift
Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Pay Rate: $25.33/hour

Retention Bonus:
To reward long-term commitment, this position offers a $2,000 retention bonus, paid as follows:

• $1,000 after successfully completing 90 days of employment
• $1,000 after successfully completing 180 days of employment

Please note: This is a retention bonus and is not paid at the time of hire.

Summary Description

The Pre-Press Assistant supports printing operations by performing responsibilities within both the Plate Check and Pre-Flight functions. This role plays a critical part in ensuring printing plates, proofs, color standards, and job files are accurately prepared, organized, verified, and delivered to support production. Success in this position requires strong attention to detail, communication skills, color management knowledge, and the ability to work closely with multiple departments.

What You'll Be Doing

• Utilize EFI and FileMaker location service programs to locate printing plates and related documentation.

• Retrieve printing plates, GMG color targets, and stepped paper proofs from designated storage locations.

• Use platform ladders to safely access materials stored at elevated rack locations.

• Visually inspect and verify printing plates prior to delivery to the Mounting Department.

• Deliver plates and supporting documentation using carts or by hand when required.

• Organize and return cleaned plates, GMGs, and proofs to designated storage locations after production.

• Order replacement plates as needed.

• Communicate with Customer Relations, Graphics, Mounting, Preflight, Scheduling, and Press departments regarding plate requirements and replacements.

• Maintain accurate organization of plate inventory and documentation.

Pre-Flight Responsibilities

• Operate ColorCert software supplied by X-Rite.

• Create CCJ color files and manage job transfers.

• Build and maintain job files containing customer, graphics, and ink color data.

• Assist with Plate Check activities based on production needs.

• Create and manage press run conditions for production jobs.

• Develop job dependencies based on artwork layouts and design specifications.

• Work closely with Press Operations to establish and maintain future run conditions.

• Create customer color standards and color targets.

• Retrieve press retain samples using platform ladders when required.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives through participation in Global Performance System (GPS) activities, including:

  • 5Star Programs

  • Pillar Teams

  • Audits

  • Near Miss Reporting

• Maintain regular attendance and punctuality.

We'd Love to Hear From You If

• You have a High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent work experience.

• You have strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

• You can read, write, and speak English proficiently.

• You have color matching or ink-related experience.

• You have pre-flight, graphics, printing, or color management experience.

• You possess strong written and verbal communication skills.

• You have solid math skills and analytical abilities.

• You are comfortable working with software systems and technical production data.

• You can safely work with ladders and lift materials as required.

• You enjoy collaborating with multiple departments in a manufacturing environment.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent walking, standing, bending, and reaching.

• Ability to use platform ladders safely.

• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds.

• Ability to retrieve materials from elevated storage locations.

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment while maintaining attention to detail and quality standards.

Benefits

At TOPPAN Packaging Americas, we offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package designed to support overall wellbeing. Benefits may vary based on location, employment classification, or collective bargaining agreement and may include:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options

• 401(k) retirement plan with company match

• Employee Assistance Program and wellbeing resources

• Paid time off and holidays

• Company-paid and voluntary insurance plans including life, accident, and disability coverage

• Tuition reimbursement

Equal Opportunity Employer

TOPPAN Packaging Americas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

We are committed to providing a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and able to contribute to their fullest potential. Reasonable accommodations are available throughout the application and employment processes. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please contact us.