Prepress Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

A Prepress Manager in the printing industry is responsible for overseeing the prepress department, which involves managing the initial stages of the printing process such as providing graphics solutions, preparing digital files, and checking them for errors before they are sent for printing. They ensure that all projects meet established quality standards and are completed within the set deadlines. Prepress Managers also coordinate closely with the design and production teams in order to achieve optimal results. They play a crucial role in the development and implementation of prepress procedures and standards, and often have a hand in selecting and maintaining all prepress equipment and software.

To become an effective Prepress Manager, one should have excellent knowledge of color theory, typography, and graphic design principles. Proficiency in using prepress software like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and Acrobat is also essential. Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills are also very important. Although not always a requirement, having a degree in Graphic Design or a related field is often beneficial, and some employers may prefer candidates with relevant certifications like Adobe Certified Expert (ACE). Before becoming a Prepress Manager, an individual may have roles such as a Graphic Designer, Prepress Technician, or Prepress Operator which provide essential experience in managing print files, color correction, and troubleshooting prepress issues.