Prepress Operator

Role Overview

At Hearst Newspapers (HNP), we do more than produce printed products. We help connect communities with the local news, information, advertising and stories that matter to their daily lives. Every publication that goes to press represents a commitment to our readers, customers and communities. Our prepress team plays a critical role in making sure those products are accurate, complete and ready on schedule.

Responsible for reviewing, preparing, and processing newspaper and commercial print materials to ensure accuracy, quality, and compliance with production specifications before files are released to press. This position requires strong attention to detail, effective communication, the ability to manage multiple priorities, and the ability to work efficiently in a deadline-driven production environment.

Hybrid: HNP operates on a hybrid work week schedule.

What You’ll Do

• Review pages, layouts, plans, and sections to ensure accuracy and completeness before files are released to press plates.
• Verify production specifications for commercial print projects involving both internal departments and external vendors.
• Monitor and maintain awareness of internal and external emails and communications to ensure production requirements, changes, and deadlines are addressed promptly.
• Maintain constant communication with Editorial and Diagramming teams to resolve issues, coordinate changes, and maintain an accurate production workflow.
• Manage multiple tasks and production assignments simultaneously across various platforms while meeting strict deadlines.
• Operate and navigate production systems, including Newsway, CUE Print, Naviga, and PGL.
• Use Adobe software to review, edit, troubleshoot, and prepare files for print production.
• Monitor production workflows and identify issues that could affect page quality, deadlines, press schedules, or delivery.
• Communicate production issues promptly and work with the appropriate teams to resolve missing, incorrect, or problematic files.
• Follow established production procedures, deadlines, quality standards, and press requirements.
• Provide support to other members of the production team as needed to maintain workflow and meet daily deadlines.
• Work flexible hours as required, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on production schedules and business needs.

What You’ll Bring

Required Qualifications

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven production environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple assignments at the same time.
• Experience working with Adobe Creative Cloud applications is essential.
• Ability to learn and work with multiple production and publishing systems.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with Editorial, Diagramming, Prepress, and other departments.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays when required.

Additional Information

• Sponsorship: This position does not provide immigration sponsorship. Applicants must have the right to work in the U.S. without immigration sponsorship.
• Accommodations: We are committed to an accessible application process. If you need an accommodation to apply, please contact [email protected]. This email address is for accommodation requests only.

Benefits

We support our employees through personal and professional development and promote physical, financial and emotional wellbeing for employees and their families. Our benefits include:

• Physical Wellbeing: Medical, dental and vision coverage to help keep you and your family healthy.
• Invest for the Future: Competitive retirement plan with a matching program in most markets.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Ample time off, including holidays and vacation.
• Paid Parental Leave: Paid leave to support growing families and new parents.
• Monthly Child & Dependent Care Reimbursement: Financial support for the care of your loved ones.
• Emotional Wellbeing: Mental wellness benefits to support your emotional wellbeing.
• LGBTQ+ & Inclusive Health Services: Inclusive healthcare designed for individual needs.
• Fertility Coverage & Menopause Support: Support throughout different stages of your health and family journey.
• Pet Wellness Reimbursement & Rover Credits: Support to help keep your pets happy and healthy.
• And more: Learn more about additional benefits and details here.

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