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Prepress Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RR Donnelley

Prepress Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$56K/yr

Basic color management skills and the ability to work with different digital formats are required Must have the ability to output digital files to various output devices; must have the ability to ...

RR Donnelley

Prepress Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$56K/yr

Basic color management skills and the ability to work with different digital formats are required Must have the ability to output digital files to various output devices; must have the ability to ...

RR Donnelley

Prepress Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Basic color management skills and the ability to work with different digital formats are required Must have the ability to output digital files to various output devices; must have the ability to ...

The Messenger

Graphic Designer

Fort Dodge, IA

Prepare design files for print production including color management and prepress set-up *Collaborate with marketing team to create compelling content for social media and websites *Incorporate ...

All JobsPrepress JobsPrepress Manager JobsPrepress Manager Jobs in Iowa

Prepress Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$31.9K

$59.5K

$80.8K

How much do prepress manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for prepress manager in Iowa is $59,460.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,400.00 and $71,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a prepress manager?

As a prepress manager, you work at a printing press where you oversee the development of a printing project before it enters large-scale printing. Your responsibilities are specifically to ensure that the graphics or other designs are properly prepared and that the technical specifications are clear to the press operator. You also proofread material and format the project according to the specifications provided to you by the clients. As a manager, you also hire and train new prepress technicians and teach them how to operate prepress equipment and perform other duties for the department.

What are some typical challenges a prepress manager might face in coordinating between design and production teams?

A Prepress Manager often navigates challenges such as ensuring files are print-ready, resolving discrepancies between designers' concepts and production capabilities, and maintaining tight deadlines. Effective communication is key, as the role requires translating creative ideas into technical instructions that the production team can execute. Additionally, staying updated with evolving software and printing technologies helps mitigate costly errors and ensures high-quality output.

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

To thrive as a Prepress Manager, you need a strong background in graphic design, print production processes, color management, and prepress software, typically supported by a degree in graphic arts or a related field. Expertise with industry-standard tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, preflighting software, RIP systems, and workflow management platforms is essential. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to lead and communicate effectively with both creative and production teams are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure error-free, high-quality print outputs and efficient project delivery in the fast-paced print industry.

What is the difference between Prepress Manager vs Prepress Technician?

AspectPrepress ManagerPrepress Technician
CredentialsRelevant certifications (e.g., Adobe Certified Expert), experience in print productionSimilar certifications, focus on technical skills and software proficiency
Work EnvironmentOversees prepress department, manages staff, coordinates workflowsPerforms technical tasks, prepares files, operates prepress equipment
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in printing companies, publishing, advertising agenciesCommonly employed in similar settings, often reporting to Prepress Managers

The Prepress Manager oversees the entire prepress process, managing staff and workflows, while the Prepress Technician focuses on executing technical tasks like file preparation and equipment operation. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, but differ in responsibility level and scope within the print production process.

More about Prepress Manager jobs

What are popular job titles related to Prepress Manager jobs in Iowa?

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

What job categories do people searching Prepress Manager jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Prepress Manager jobs in Iowa are:

Prepress Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prepress Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,460 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Prepress Graphic Technician

Ames, IA • On-site

Inovar Packaging Group LLC
See more jobs at Inovar Packaging Group LLCexternal

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description


Prepress Technician

This is a technical production role focused on file preparation, compliance, and print readiness — not creative design.


First shift 8am-4:30pm, Monday-Friday.


Inovar Packaging Group, a leader in labeling, promotional, and identification solutions, is one of North America’s premier label printing and flexible packaging companies. We have industry-leading resources, innovation, and operational excellence while maintaining our strong legacy of customer service and product quality. Serving industries such as automotive, food and beverage, health and beauty, agriculture, and retail, we are committed to delivering high-quality products and services.


Why Join Us?

 • Competitive pay and company equity
 • Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short/long-term disability, 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match!
 • Paid Time Off (PTO) and company holidays
 • Opportunities for career growth within a rapidly expanding company
 • A collaborative and innovative work environment



Position Overview:

The Prepress Technician plays a critical role in ensuring high-quality print production by preparing customer files for Flexographic and Digital printing. This position requires technical expertise in file preparation, proofreading, and barcode verification, as well as strong collaboration with management, prepress, production, and customer service teams. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, and capable of managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Prepare customer files for Flexographic and Digital printing, including trapping, stepping, and distortion.
  • Edit and create artwork using graphic design software such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop
  • Maintain clear communication with Management, Prepress, Production, and Customer Service teams.
  • Proofread all content for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and consistency.
  • Conduct hard copy proofing and ensure accuracy in variable data and sequential numbering.
  • Collaborate with clients to understand design needs and provide proofs for approval
  • Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to the graphics prepress process


Basic Qualifications:

  • Associate degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
  • Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, including Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat, and InDesign.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel).
  • Strong time management, organization, and multitasking skills.
  • Ability to think critically, solve problems proactively, and deliver within deadlines.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a client-focused approach.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in graphics or an industry-related field.
  • Experience with Esko Workflow.
  • Background in Flexographic printing or label manufacturing prepress.
  • Familiarity with general manufacturing and pre-production graphics manipulation.


At Inovar, our values of Customer Focused, Partnership Driven, and Team Engagement guide how we work with our customers and with one another.

Apply