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Design Prepress Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

This role blends creative design with technical production and prepress skills to ensure artwork is accurate, clean, and ready for print - particularly in a large-format environment. What You'll Do:

Prepress Operator

Niles, IL · On-site

$22 - $40/hr

Correct artwork issues while maintaining customer design intent. * Create and manage production ... prepress, graphic arts, packaging, or printing environment. * Proficiency with the Adobe ® ...

Prepress Operator

Niles, IL · On-site

$22 - $40/hr

Correct artwork issues while maintaining customer design intent. * Create and manage production ... prepress, graphic arts, packaging, or printing environment. * Proficiency with the Adobe ® ...

Review artwork for brand compliance and accuracy, overseeing the design-to-print process from initiation through prepress and vendor coordination * Manage communication and relationships with ...

Works closely with prepress, die-making, and production teams to ensure designs translate ... Coordinates design workflow and priorities with the sample room and structural design team.

Works closely with prepress, die-making, and production teams to ensure designs translate ... Coordinates design workflow and priorities with the sample room and structural design team.

Packaging Engineer

Berkeley, IL · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Works closely with prepress, die-making, and production teams to ensure designs translate ... Coordinates design workflow and priorities with the sample room and structural design team.

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Design Prepress information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$23

$32

How much do design prepress jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for design prepress in Chicago, IL is $23.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $25.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Design Prepress vs Graphic Designer?

AspectDesign PrepressGraphic Designer
CredentialsOften requires print production knowledge, certifications in prepress or printingTypically holds a degree in graphic design or related field
Work EnvironmentPrint shops, publishing houses, advertising agenciesDesign studios, marketing departments, advertising agencies
Industry UsagePrimarily in printing and publishing industriesBroader across advertising, branding, digital media
Job FocusPreparing files for printing, color correction, proofingCreating visual concepts, layouts, branding

While both roles involve visual design, Design Prepress focuses on preparing files for print production, ensuring color accuracy and print readiness. Graphic Designers create visual content and concepts for various media. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What job categories do people searching Design Prepress jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Design Prepress jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Prepress Graphic Designer

FastSigns

Waukegan, IL • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off

Prepress Graphic Designer
Location: FASTSIGNS of Gurnee - Waukegan, IL
Type: Full-Time
About Us:
FASTSIGNS of Gurnee is a leader in custom signage and visual communication solutions, providing high-quality designs and printed products to businesses of all sizes. We are looking for a Prepress Graphic Designer to join our growing team. This role blends creative design with technical production and prepress skills to ensure artwork is accurate, clean, and ready for print - particularly in a large-format environment.
What You'll Do:
Prepress & Graphic Design:
  • Prepare customer files and original artwork for print production, ensuring they meet all prepress requirements: correct bleeds, color modes, resolution, crop marks, and output settings.
  • Set up and manage files for output through ONYX RIP software, ensuring accurate color management and production specs.
  • Modify and finalize customer-supplied files to meet technical specifications for digital and large-format printing.
  • Create full-color designs for signage, banners, decals, and other visual communications.
  • Proof and review designs for accuracy, consistency, and production readiness.
  • Maintain an organized library of customer assets and artwork for future use.
  • Conduct quality control checks to ensure all output meets company standards and client expectations.

Team Collaboration:
  • Work closely with sales, production, and installation teams to ensure a seamless workflow from concept to final delivery.
  • Consult with clients as needed to ensure their design goals are achieved and their files are suitable for production.
  • Recommend design or material adjustments when necessary for improved output quality or efficiency.

Skills & Qualifications:
  • 1-2 years of experience in graphic design, prepress, or signage production.
  • Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop is required
  • Strong understanding of prepress and print file setup - especially for large-format or wide-format printing.
  • Experience using ONYX RIP software (or willingness to learn quickly).
  • Excellent attention to detail and ability to handle multiple projects in a fast-paced production environment.
  • Familiarity with sign shop equipment and materials is highly desirable.

What We Offer:
  • Competitive pay plus performance-based bonus
  • Paid holidays, paid time off, health & dental insurance, and 401k matching
  • Training and development in both design and production tools
  • A collaborative, growth-focused work environment
  • The opportunity to work on projects that have real impact for local businesses

If you're detail-oriented, technically proficient, and love the intersection of design and production, we'd love to hear from you!
Important Notes:
  • This is an in-office position located in Waukegan, IL. Remote work is not available
  • Only local candidates will be considered
  • Please do not contact the employer directly regarding this job posting

Compensation: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour
At FASTSIGNS, every day is unique and presents exciting opportunities, including new ways to use your talent and grow your skills. We have a large network of independently owned locations - both locally and internationally - who offer competitive pay and ongoing training opportunities.
Are you ready to plan for your future? Discover your next career. Make your statement.
Learn more by exploring the positions offered by FASTSIGNS centers.
This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go directly to the franchisee, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this franchisee. All inquiries about employment at this franchisee should be made directly to the franchise location, and not to FASTSIGNS Corporate.