SUMMARY:

The Pre-Press Proofreader is responsible for reviewing and verifying the accuracy and completeness of packaging artwork and related materials prior to flexographic plate production. This role ensures all designs meet customer specifications and production standards, checking for correct spelling, layout, dimensions, color breaks, and other quality elements. The ideal candidate will have exceptional attention to detail, a solid command of written English, and a working knowledge of Adobe Illustrator and pre-press processes for the packaging industry.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to the following:

• Review incoming orders for completeness and accuracy prior to production.
• Verify correct box layout, panel size, and graphic placement against customer specifications or provided samples.
• Check artwork for correct bleed, traps, and color separations.
• Review and confirm correct spelling, grammar, and text formatting.
• Validate minimum type size and line thickness for printability.
• Scan and verify barcodes for accuracy and readability.
• Ensure overall graphic consistency across product lines or related SKUs.
• Monitor, document, and record all quality control (QC) errors.
• Provide feedback to the production team to address and correct issues.
• Sign off on QA sheets for completeness and accuracy prior to release for plate production.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong understanding of written English, spelling, and grammar.
• Familiarity with Adobe Illustrator and basic pre-press processes.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to read and interpret job orders, layouts, and proofs.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with production teams.
• Prior experience in flexographic printing, packaging graphics, or pre-press preferred.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• A shared commitment to our North Star of enabling people to be their best every day, including our team members, customers, vendors, and the communities we serve.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• One (1) to three (3) years of proofreading, quality control, or pre-press experience in a printing or packaging environment preferred.
• Education or experience in Graphic Arts, Printing Technology, or related field preferred.

SKILLS and ABILITIES

• Strong problem-solving skills, with the integrity to consistently do the right thing - even when tasks are tough or situations are unclear.
• Clear and respectful communication skills, with the ability to listen first, ask thoughtful questions, and respond with patience and professionalism.
• Adaptable and resourceful skills, displays ability to be entrepreneurial, showing creativity and care in finding practical solutions and improving how work gets done.
• Team-oriented skills, with a one team committed to our customers mindset, demonstrating a positive attitude and a willingness to support coworkers and contribute to shared goals that serve our customers.
• Commitment to high standards, with the drive for excellence in all we do each workday- no matter how big or small the task, or what challenges arise.
• Exceptional eye for detail and visual accuracy.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office with a working knowledge of Adobe Illustrator
• Ability to multitask and manage deadlines in a fast-paced production environment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Regularly required to sit, stand, and use hands for computer and proofing work.
• Must be able to visually inspect detailed artwork and printed materials for extended periods.
• Occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• May be exposed to moderate noise levels typical of manufacturing setting.
• Regular interaction with production and graphics personnel.
• Standard work hours with occasional overtime as business needs require.