We're looking for a skilled, detail-oriented Pre-Press Operator to join our pre-production and creative services team. This role is central to the print production process — preparing, verifying, and optimizing digital files for both digital and litho (offset) printing, generating client proofs, performing imposition and press setup, making color corrections, and ensuring all print production specifications are met.

The ideal candidate has strong pre-press experience across both digital and litho workflows, solid design skills in Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop (MacOS), and a sharp eye for detail. Additional software skills are an asset.

Responsibilities

- Receive and review incoming digital files, ensuring they're complete and meet job specifications.
- Verify files are in the correct format, resolution, and color mode for the intended output — digital or litho.
- Perform pre-flight checks to catch and resolve issues before they affect print quality or production.
- Make necessary file adjustments: color correction, image retouching, resizing, and imposition for press.
- Set up and impose files correctly for litho (offset) presses, including plate and press-specific requirements.
- Maintain organized files per established naming conventions and file management systems.
- Calibrate and maintain pre-press equipment — color management systems, monitors, proofing devices — for consistent output.
- Collaborate with CSR and production teams to communicate specs, resolve file issues, and keep jobs on schedule.
- Troubleshoot technical or printing issues that arise during pre-press.
- Keep accurate records of job details,



file versions, and modifications.
- Stay current on pre-press technologies, software, and industry trends.
- Apply light design/layout skills when needed (e.g., minor adjustments, template work, client file cleanup).
- Uphold quality control standards to meet specifications and customer expectations.

Qualifications

- Proven experience as a Pre-Press Operator, with hands-on work in both digital and litho (offset) pre-press.
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) on MacOS.
- Working knowledge of PDF workflows, imposition software, and RIP/proofing systems.
- Strong understanding of color management, CMYK/RGB color modes, image resolution, and file optimization.
- Familiarity with offset, digital, and (a plus) flexographic printing processes.
- Familiarity with computer-to-plate (CTP) technology.
- Design capability — comfortable making layout adjustments or minor design work, not just file prep.
- Excellent attention to detail and ability to catch issues before they hit press.
- Strong problem-solving skills; able to work effectively under deadline pressure.
- Valuable communication skills for working with CSR, production, and customers directly.
- High school diploma or equivalent; certification in graphic design or printing technology is a plus.
- Must be a legal resident of Canada.

Bonus Skills

Not required, but a plus: web design, video editing, or other creative/technical skills that add versatility to our team.

Schedule

Variable shifts (morning and afternoon), generally Monday to Friday; may occasionally include weekends.

📌 Pre-Press Operator (Digital & Litho) (Mississauga)
🏢 Qliq Innnovation
📍 Mississauga