Position: Prepress Operator
Employment Type: Full Time Permanent
Vacancy Status: Existing Vacancy
Location: Burlington, ON (Onsite)
DCM is a leading Canadian tech-enabled provider of print and digital solutions that help simplify complex marketing communications and operations workflow. DCM serves over 2,500 clients including 70 of the 100 largest Canadian corporations and leading government agencies. Our core strength lies in delivering individualized services to our clients that simplify their communications, including customized printing, highly personalized marketing communications, campaign management, digital signage, and digital asset management. From omnichannel marketing campaigns to large-scale print and digital workflows, our goal is to make complex tasks surprisingly simple, allowing our clients to focus on what they do best.
The Role
As a Prepress Operator, you will be involved with preparing digital files for both lithographic and large-format digital printing processes. This includes managing file setups, ensuring color accuracy, performing preflight checks and maintaining high standards of quality control throughout the prepress workflow.
This is an onsite role working Monday to Friday from 8:45 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. You will also be on a rotation schedule to work afternoon shift from 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. for one full week, once every 4 weeks.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare incoming artwork files (PDF, InDesign, Illustrator, etc.) for print production, ensuring they meet industry standards
- Perform preflight checks and resolve issues with resolution, colour profiles, fonts, image placement, and bleeds
- Adjust artwork and make corrections for lithographic and digital presses
- Set up files and impositions for offset, digital, and specialty printing, ensuring proper layout scaling and efficient press runs
- Prepare files for finishing methods, including guillotine, CNC cutting, and die cutting
- Manage colour proofing and adjustments to ensure consistency between digital files and final printed materials
- Monitor colour accuracy using colour management software and hardware (e.g., densitometers, spectrophotometers)
- Generate and evaluate hard copy proofs for client approval before full press runs
- Operate and maintain prepress equipment, including RIP and digital proofing systems, keeping all equipment calibrated and functioning properly
- Troubleshoot file, colour calibration, and press setup issues for timely resolution
- Collaborate with clients, designers, production, and pressroom teams to clarify requirements, resolve file issues, and meet tight deadlines
- Provide technical support and advice on file preparation and print specifications
- Review printed samples and press sheets to ensure quality standards and customer expectations are met
- Maintain accurate, efficient file management throughout the prepress workflow
- Help maintain a safe, organized workspace in compliance with company safety standards
Skills & Experiences
- Bachelor's degree in Graphic Communications Management or related field, paired with 1-3 years of work experience in a print environment
- Proficient with industry-standard prepress software (Adobe Creative Suite, Acrobat)
- Strong knowledge of print file formats (PDF, TIFF, EPS, etc.), colour management, and print production techniques
- Experience with RIP (Raster Image Processor) software and file preparation for various printing technologies
- Excellent attention to detail and ability to troubleshoot complex prepress issues
- Strong understanding of colour theory, proofing processes, and achieving colour consistency across different press types
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with teams and clients
- General math skills
What we offer
- Comprehensive healthcare, dental, and vision coverage for you and family
- Company-matched pension program
- Tuition reimbursement to invest in your growth and career development
- Collaborative and supportive work environment where your ideas are valued and your impact is visible
Compensation
$48,448 - $60,561 CAD per year
The compensation range listed reflects the expected compensation for the role. Actual compensation will be determined based on individual skills and experience.
If you don’t meet every requirement listed above, we still encourage you to apply. We’re interested in the diverse experience, potential, and perspective you can bring to the team.
DATA Communications Management Corp. (DCM) is committed to equal employment opportunity, employs and does not discriminate against all qualified persons without regard to race, colour, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, or any other classification protected by applicable federal and provincial laws. Should you require any accommodation throughout the recruitment and selection process, please get in touch with us through the form at the bottom of the page (https://www.datacm.com/about-us/lifedcm/), so that we can ensure your equal participation.
