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Prepress Color Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prepress Operator

Niles, IL · On-site

$22 - $38/hr

This role performs file review, correction, color management, proof generation, imposition, and workflow processing to ensure efficient production and high-quality printed products. The Prepress ...

This role performs file review, correction, color management, proof generation, imposition, and workflow processing to ensure efficient production and high-quality printed products. The Prepress ...

Manage color calibration throughout digital and offset presses. * Create accurate mockups, proofs ... Help establish and maintain efficient prepress procedures, standards and best practices

Prepress Operator

Niles, IL · On-site

$22 - $38/hr

This role performs file review, correction, color management, proof generation, imposition, and workflow processing to ensure efficient production and high-quality printed products. The Prepress ...

Mac Prepress Operator

Manchester, CT · On-site

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Mac Prepress Operator The Macintosh Prepress Operator is responsible for preparing, verifying, and ... Perform color correction and color management to ensure accurate reproduction throughout the ...

Prepress Manager

Islandia, NY · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Manage the plate-making process, color management, and prepress equipment. * Team Leadership: Hire, train, and supervise prepress technicians and operators. * Customer/Internal Liaison: Communicate ...

Prepress Technician

Sturgis, MI · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Prepress Technician Location: Sturgis, Michigan HRforGrowth ® is engaged as the talent acquisition ... Verify that files align with color management expectations and G7-oriented print quality ...

Prepress Technician

Sturgis, MI · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Prepress Technician Location: Sturgis, Michigan HRforGrowth ® is engaged as the talent acquisition ... Verify that files align with color management expectations and G7-oriented print quality ...

Plate Room/Prepress Tech Pay: $23 - $25 GENERAL PURPOSE: The Plate Room / Prepress Technician ... Color Management & Print Quality • Perform color correction and calibration to support accurate ...

Prepress Technician

Twinsburg, OH · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Manage color consistency using color profiles and calibration tools.Coordinate with outside vendors ... Minimum 3 years of Prepress experience, preferably in the packaging, label, or commercial printing ...

Join Our Team Are you an experienced Prepress Technician with a passion for packaging and label ... Manage color consistency using color profiles and calibration tools. * Coordinate with outside ...

Prepress Operator (CLE)

Brooklyn, OH · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Manage color consistency using color profiles and calibration tools. * Coordinate with outside ... Minimum 3 years of Prepress experience , preferably in the packaging, label, or commercial printing ...

Showing results 21-40

Prepress Color Manager information

See salary details

$34K

$63.3K

$86K

How much do prepress color manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for prepress color manager in the United States is $63,305.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $76,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a prepress color manager?

Prepress Color Managers are professionals responsible for ensuring accurate color reproduction in print production. They oversee the color management process from digital files to the final print, calibrating devices and workflows to maintain consistent color quality. Their duties include managing color profiles, troubleshooting color issues, and collaborating with designers, press operators, and clients to meet color expectations. A strong understanding of color science, printing processes, and prepress software is essential for this role.

What are some common challenges a prepress color manager faces when ensuring color consistency across different printing devices?

A key challenge for Prepress Color Managers is maintaining color accuracy and consistency across various printing presses and substrates. Differences in ink formulations, paper types, and device calibration can all impact color output. To address these challenges, Prepress Color Managers frequently collaborate with press operators, use color management software, and implement rigorous proofing processes. Staying updated with industry standards and conducting regular device calibrations are also essential parts of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a prepress color manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Prepress Color Manager, you need expertise in color theory, print production processes, and a strong background in graphic design or related fields. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, color management systems, and proofing equipment is typically required, along with certifications like G7 Expert or Idealliance Color Management Professional. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help ensure quality and consistency across projects and teams. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining color accuracy, meeting client expectations, and ensuring smooth production workflows.

What is the difference between Prepress Color Manager vs Prepress Technician?

AspectPrepress Color ManagerPrepress Technician
CredentialsColor management certifications, graphic arts or printing degreesTechnical training, associate degree or equivalent experience
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, printing companies, color calibration settingsPrepress departments, printing presses, production floors
Industry UsageFocuses on color accuracy, color profiles, and quality controlPrepares files, plates, and ensures print readiness

The Prepress Color Manager primarily oversees color consistency and calibration, ensuring accurate color reproduction across print projects. In contrast, the Prepress Technician handles the technical preparation of files and plates for printing. While both roles require knowledge of printing processes, the Color Manager emphasizes color management expertise, whereas the Technician focuses on technical file preparation and troubleshooting.

What are popular job titles related to Prepress Color Manager jobs?

For Prepress Color Manager jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Prepress Color Manager job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,305 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Prepress Operator

Niles, IL • On-site

$22 - $38/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Prepress Operator/Platemaking Position Summary
The Prepress Operator/Platemaker is responsible for preparing customer artwork and production files for printing by ensuring all files meet company, customer, and press requirements. This role performs file review, correction, color management, proof generation, imposition, and workflow processing to ensure efficient production and high-quality printed products. The Prepress Operator/Platmaker works closely the press room and other evening Prepress Operators, to resolve artwork issues and maintain production schedules.
Key Responsibilities
• Review incoming customer artwork for printability and production compatibility.
• Verify file specifications including dimensions, bleeds, margins, resolution, fonts, and color builds.
• Correct artwork issues while maintaining customer design intent.
• Create and manage production-ready PDF files.
• Generate digital and hard-copy proofs for customer approval.
• Execute trapping, imposition, and nesting as required.
• Prepare files for offset printing.
• Create press-ready files according to equipment, substrate and finishes required.
• Maintain file organization, revision control, and production documentation.
• Communicate artwork concerns and technical requirements to internal customers.
• Troubleshoot file-related production issues and implement corrective actions.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to workflow efficiency and quality.
• Adhere to company quality standards, safety practices, and production procedures.
• Offset plate making on Fuji Film system. Will train.
Required Qualifications
• High school diploma or equivalent; Associate degree in Graphic Communications, Printing Technology, or related field preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in a prepress, graphic arts, packaging, or printing environment.
• Proficiency with the Adobe® Creative Cloud: Adobe® Acrobat Pro, Adobe® Illustrator, Adobe® Photoshop, Adobe® InDesign.
• Strong understanding of PDF workflows and print production standards.
• Knowledge of color management.
• Experience with proofing systems, KODAK PRINERGY® and PREPS®, Enfocus PitStop Pro®.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects while meeting deadlines.
• Strong communication and problem-solving abilities.
Preferred Qualifications
• Knowledge of offset printing, foil, em-, de-bossing for packaging.
• Experience with barcodes, and packaging artwork.
• Understanding of G7, GRACoL, SWOP, or other color standards.
• Experience working within ISO or quality-controlled manufacturing environments.
• Platemaking experience preferred but will train if needed.
Technical Knowledge
• CMYK, RGB, spot colors
• Color separations and screening
• PDF/X standards
• Trapping and overprint settings
• Bleed and trim specifications
• Imposition software
• Resolution and image optimization
• Print proofing and color matching
• Press and finishing requirements
• Platemaking
Physical Requirements
• Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods.
• Visual abilities: close, distance, color, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus
Success Metrics
• Accuracy of production files
• On-time job preparation
• Reduction of press delays caused by file issues
• Compliance with customer specifications and production standards