Prepress Production Manager Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

At Japs-Olson (JO), we believe a career should be more than a job, it should be an opportunity to create a lasting impression. As a trusted leader in direct mail and commercial printing for over a century, JO is proud to be an employer of choice in the Twin Cities, empowering our team to solve problems creatively within a culture of collaboration and growth.

Whether you're a recent graduate eager to launch your career, seeking meaningful work that aligns with your values, or a seasoned professional ready to share your expertise, JO is a place where your contributions can make a difference. We offer competitive benefits, career advancement opportunities, and a commitment to work-life balance, all within a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to grow and succeed.

Join JO, where progress is celebrated, people are uplifted, and your ideas can make a difference every day.

The Prepress MAC Operator (Proofer) plays a key role in preparing customer files for high-quality commercial print production. This position is responsible for reviewing, preflighting, and optimizing artwork to ensure it meets customer specifications and production requirements. Working closely with Customer Service and Production teams, the Proofer creates accurate proofs and print-ready PDFs, resolves file-related issues, and supports plate production to help ensure jobs move efficiently and accurately through the manufacturing process.

• Download, preflight, and validate customer files, ensuring fonts, images, color profiles, bleeds, trims, and layouts meet production requirements.
• Prepare, modify, and optimize artwork files for production, ensuring proper formatting, layout, color, and overall print readiness.
• Generate accurate proofs and print-ready PDFs while maintaining high standards of quality and attention to detail.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and communicate artwork or production concerns with Customer Service Representatives and other stakeholders to ensure timely resolution.
• Perform quality checks throughout the prepress process to ensure compliance with customer specifications and internal production standards.
• Support computer-to-plate (CTP) operations and plate production activities for the Press Department.

• Associates degree or equivalent relevant experience required; Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Proficiency in Prepress software including Adobe Creative Suite, InDesign, Acrobat, Prinergy, and Microsoft Office Suite, with the ability to quickly learn and adapt to new software and technology platforms.
• Exceptional time management skills, enabling the timely completion of tasks and effective management of multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to interpret production instructions accurately and convey information in a clear, professional, and supportive manner.
• Keen attention to detail, coupled with a commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and accuracy in all aspects of work.
• Demonstrated on-site work presence, exhibiting reliability, punctuality, and a proactive approach to assigned responsibilities.

• Affordable medical insurance plans
• Vision and dental insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contributions
• 401(k) savings plan with company contributions
• Additional voluntary benefits
• Paid holidays and floating holidays
• Paid parental leave
• Company sponsored life insurance
• Short and long-term disability

• Pay Range: $25-$32 hourly
• Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt
• Shift: 8am-4pm, Monday-Friday

JO is an equal employment opportunity employer. All employees and applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, or status with regard to public assistance.

The pay range listed reflects typical compensation based on market data, generally between the 25th and 75th percentile for similar roles. Where you land within that range depends on your experience, skills, and qualifications. Our recruiters will keep you in the loop throughout the process, so you know where you stand. We’re committed to fair and open conversations every step of the way.