Graphic Designer

Associates in the Graphics Designer position are responsible for handling and storage of all graphic files & assets. The work will support PPC’s ability to produce quality flexible packaging materials in accordance with specific work instructions and applicable safety and quality assurance procedures.  In the event of absence, these job responsibilities will be covered by another employee in the “Graphics Production Artist” positions.

Responsibilities and Duties: 

This job description and performance standard document has been prepared as a guide to ensure better communication and understanding.  All responsibilities, however, have not been included, nor could they be.  Your Supervisor/Manager may from time to time ask you to perform other related duties not specifically included in this description.  Likewise, this description will be revised when required to meet current business needs.

• Checks all software and hardware at the beginning and end of each shift to ensure good housekeeping is maintained, documents housekeeping as required and contacts the IT department whenever equipment is not running properly.  Completes preventative maintenance on equipment as assigned and assists the IT department with repairs.
• Maintains a clean, organized work area.
• Prepares all digital art files as requested for Flexographic, Offset and Digital printing. 
• Follows instructions, both written and verbal, as it pertains to the assembly of art files for print production. Seek to get answers to questions or concerns regarding potential print issues that may develop during file preparation to ensure positive outcomes. 
• Able to receive or post files as needed. This may be on PPC platform or another file transit system.  
• Evaluates art files provided for content usable for assembly and print production (Pre-Flight). This includes confirming adequate file format, components, layer assessment, etc. 
• Assembles the pre-flight files for print production. Adjust files as needed to meet dieline requirements, specifications from work order and print tolerances. When possible, multiple items should be set up using the “master” template process for efficiency, consistency in art prep and print production.     
• Follows strict compliance with all Quality Control procedures to make sure that the files are being processed appropriately for print production. This includes file preparation and communication with the Graphics Supplier as well as all evaluation of the files prior to proofing and plate production. 
• Works proactively with the Graphics team to avoid any potential issues in meeting the proof or print production schedule.  
• Generates improvement ideas and embraces improvement projects to better the business. Helps to improve the workflow, including communication, template and file assembly, archiving and the standards and tolerances associated with artwork preparation for print production.
• As needed, assist with the art for signage, documents and promotional materials as needed.
• Occasionally communicate with designers/graphic artists as it relates to file preparation, needed elements such as images or fonts, or other areas as required to keep a project active. 
• Will need to stay current on software/hardware upgrades or other assets which can improve the workflow, services, products, and quality of the Graphics department.
• Covers time for other Graphics team members for vacation and sick days.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Detail-oriented, completing required information system’s inputs with a high degree of accuracy.
• Previous Flexographic printing and mechanical aptitude/experience is highly preferred.
• Knowledge of Apple, Adobe (PDF, Illustrator, and Photoshop), ESKO and Microsoft (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) platforms/programs a must with some degree of proficiency required.
• Able to read and understand work orders and provide written/verbal direction to Graphics Suppliers for the successful completion of required treatment of files. 
• Capable of performing mathematical calculation and properly using a tape measure.
• Flexibility in work assignments and priorities is required to address the dynamic needs of our customers, Sales team and the print production schedule. 
• Good verbal and written communication skills required. Proven experience with effective teams, project management, and continuous improvement methods strongly preferred.

Working Conditions and/or Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to satisfactorily see and differentiate color per adopted assessment methods in order to support efficient print production and print quality.
• Must be capable and willing to work in excess of a normal workweek as production demands dictate.
• Must be able to distinguish and ensure product quality in a fast-paced production environment.
• Must be flexible with lunch and break times as needed. 
• Must be able to identify, prioritize, and meet multiple expectations for areas of responsibility.
• Willing to be trained in both specific and non-specific pre-press and print production tasks as needed.