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Esko Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

Plate Hub Coordinator

Menasha, WI · On-site

$20 - $26.50/hr

Skilled in using software such as Adobe Illustrator, Esko DFS Manager, and Microsoft Office What we have to offer * Opportunity to be part of a dynamic and highly motivating work environment where ...

Plate Hub Coordinator

Menasha, WI · On-site

$20 - $26.50/hr

Skilled in using software such as Adobe Illustrator, Esko DFS Manager, and Microsoft Office What we have to offer * Opportunity to be part of a dynamic and highly motivating work environment where ...

Plate Hub Coordinator

Menasha, WI · On-site

$18.25 - $23/hr

Skilled in using software such as Adobe Illustrator, Esko DFS Manager, and Microsoft Office What we have to offer * Opportunity to be part of a dynamic and highly motivating work environment where ...

Color Analyst

Neenah, WI · On-site

$83K - $99K/yr

Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite and Esko workflows * Experience working directly with customers or press operators on color-related issues * Proficient in implementing and maintaining ISO ...

External Vendor Graphics Coordinator

De Pere, WI · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop) and Esko software (ArtPro or similar) * Strong understanding of prepress workflows and production file preparation * Ability to operate ...

Flexo EPP Operator

Neenah, WI · On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

Software knowledge of Esko software, DeskPack, and Artpro+ is considered an asset. * Experience with the Macintosh platform utilizing Illustrator, Photoshop and In-Design files. * Ability to interact ...

PrePress Technician

Neenah, WI · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

Software knowledge of Esko software, DeskPack, and Artpro+ is considered an asset. * Experience with the Macintosh platform utilizing Illustrator, Photoshop and In-Design files. * Ability to interact ...

Esko information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$12

$23

$38

How much do esko jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for esko in Appleton, WI is $23.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $26.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Esko?

Esko jobs refer to roles that involve working with Esko software and solutions, which are widely used in the packaging, printing, and graphic arts industries. These jobs typically include positions such as prepress operators, packaging designers, software engineers, and technical support specialists. Professionals in these roles use Esko's tools to streamline workflows, improve print quality, and manage packaging projects from design to production. Esko jobs often require familiarity with Esko software like ArtPro, Studio, or Automation Engine, and an understanding of the packaging or printing industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Esko specialist?

To thrive as an Esko Specialist, you need expertise in prepress operations, packaging workflows, and a thorough understanding of Esko software solutions such as ArtPro, DeskPack, and Automation Engine, often supported by relevant certifications or print production experience. Proficiency with color management systems, workflow automation tools, and integration with MIS or ERP systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help ensure accuracy and efficiency in project delivery. These skills are crucial for optimizing packaging production, reducing errors, and meeting tight deadlines in a competitive print and packaging environment.

What are some common challenges faced when working as an Esko specialist in a prepress environment?

As an Esko operator or specialist, a common challenge is managing tight production deadlines while ensuring files are properly prepared for print. You may need to troubleshoot file errors, maintain color accuracy, and collaborate closely with designers and print technicians to resolve issues quickly. Staying updated with Esko software updates and best practices is important, as workflows can change frequently. Adapting to different customer requirements and varying print technologies also requires attention to detail and strong communication within the team.

What is the difference between Esko vs Prepress Technician?

AspectEskoPrepress Technician
CredentialsTypically requires graphic arts or printing technology certifications, familiarity with Esko softwareRequires graphic arts or printing certifications, knowledge of prepress processes
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, printing companies, packaging industriesPrepress departments in printing and packaging companies
Industry UsageUsed for packaging, label, and print production workflowsInvolved in preparing files for printing, including color correction and proofing

Both roles involve preparing digital files for printing, with Esko focusing on specific software solutions for packaging and print workflows, while Prepress Technicians handle broader prepress tasks across various printing processes. Esko specialists often work directly with Esko software tools, whereas Prepress Technicians may use multiple software platforms.

What are popular job titles related to Esko jobs in Appleton, WI?

For Esko jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Esko jobs?

Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Esko job openings:

Infographic showing various Esko job openings in Appleton, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,906 per year, or $23 per hour.

Prepress/Digital Front End Specialist

Outlook group

Neenah, WI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

The Prepress / Digital Front End (DFE) Specialist is responsible for preparing, optimizing, and managing customer artwork for production across digital flexible packaging and label platforms. The primary focus will be supporting the HP Indigo 200K, with additional support for Domino N Series digital presses.
This role does not operate press equipment. The position ensures all incoming files are compliant with press specifications, color-managed accurately, properly constructed for flexible packaging and label applications, and fully optimized for digital production workflows. This position serves as the technical bridge between customer artwork, prepress standards, and manufacturing output.
**This position will be located onsite at our facility in Neenah, WI**
Key Responsibilities & Success Metrics
  • Preflight and evaluate customer-supplied artwork for flexible packaging and label production
  • Ensure correct setup of dielines, step-and-repeat layouts, bleeds, safety margins, and technical layers
  • Prepare press-ready PDFs according to HP Indigo and Domino specifications
  • Apply appropriate color management and spot color handling for digital output
  • Manage imposition and layout within DFE workflow systems
  • Submit, monitor, and troubleshoot jobs within HP and Domino front-end environments
  • Identify and correct file issues prior to production release
  • Support variable data printing (VDP), serialization, and barcode workflows where required
  • Maintain documentation standards, file naming conventions, and version control
  • Collaborate with production, quality, and customer service teams to resolve technical artwork issues
  • Assist in workflow standardization as HP becomes the primary digital packaging platform

Ideal Background & Experience
Experience
  • 3-5+ years of commercial prepress experience in a label or flexible packaging environment
  • Experience preparing files for digital press production
  • Direct experience supporting HP Indigo workflows strongly preferred
  • Experience with Domino digital inkjet platforms considered an asset

Technical Expertise
Advanced proficiency in:
  • Adobe Illustrator (critical for packaging and labels)
  • Adobe InDesign
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Adobe Acrobat Pro (including advanced preflight tools)
  • Advanced trapping software (Esko, Hybrid)

Strong working knowledge of:
  • PDF/X standards
  • Dieline construction and management
  • Technical layers and spot color plates
  • Overprint, knockout, and transparency behavior
  • Image resolution standards for digital packaging
  • Font management and packaging compliance requirements
  • Step-and-repeat principles for label production

Digital Front End (DFE) Knowledge
  • Experience with HP SmartStream Production Pro preferred
  • Familiarity with HP PrintOS
  • Understanding of Domino DFE environments or similar inkjet workflow systems
  • Knowledge of RIP processing, queue management, and job parameter configuration
  • Ability to troubleshoot file-processing and RIP errors
  • Experience in Esko Automation Engine or similar structured workflows is transferable.

Color Management Requirements
  • Strong understanding of ICC profile management for digital presses
  • Experience managing CMYK, RGB, and spot color conversion strategies
  • Familiarity with Pantone simulation in digital flexible packaging
  • Understanding of total area coverage (TAC) and ink limitations
  • Awareness of substrate impact on color reproduction
  • Familiarity with G7, GRACoL, and digital press calibration practices preferred

Variable Data & Compliance
  • Experience preparing serialized labels and packaging
  • Familiarity with CSV/XML data merging
  • Ability to generate and validate barcodes and QR codes
  • Understanding of regulatory labeling requirements (food, pharma, consumer goods) considered a plus

Education
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Formal training in graphic arts, printing technology, or packaging production preferred
  • HP Indigo workflow training considered a strong advantage

If this sounds like the opportunity you've been looking for, apply today!
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.