Trainee Variable Data Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Are you looking for a career with a great company? We are looking for a Variable Data Programmer to join our award-winning team! The ideal candidate is very detail oriented with experience in data manipulation, USPS regulations, list processing and data management. Suttle-Straus, is a premier provider of printing, digital imaging, wide format, mailing, custom kitting, warehousing, and distribution services. Our success is founded on three core principles: A clear focus on meeting and exceeding customer expectations; a long history of implementing new technologies to increase quality and efficiency; and the importance of building an outstanding workforce. Suttle-Straus offers a collaborative work environment, great benefits and fantastic co-workers. 

We offer a competitive benefits package with immediate eligibility for health, dental, vision and life insurance, and eligibility after 30 days for a company matched 401(k) plan. Paid time off accrues monthly from date of hire.

Job Summary:

The Variable Data Programmer is responsible for developing and programming personalized print and mail communications through variable data composition and document setup. This role focuses on translating client requirements into efficient, accurate, and visually effective variable print solutions for production.

Responsibilities include setup and programming of variable text, graphics, and layout logic for personalized mailings, as well as preparing and standardizing client-supplied data for use within composition workflows. The Variable Data Programmer works closely with internal teams to interpret project requirements and implement effective production methodologies for simple to more complex variable campaigns.

This is a technical, production-focused position requiring strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple aspects of document composition and output generation. Daily responsibilities may include variable composition of both data and artwork files, document programming, proofing, and production support utilizing a variety of software platforms including Adobe Creative Suite applications. Knowledge of data processing and postal workflows is beneficial; however, training is available for candidates with strong aptitude in variable composition and print production workflows.

Essential Job Functions:

• Design, develop, and execute variable data composition workflows for personalized print and mail communications, ensuring accurate and visually consistent output across all projects.
• Build and maintain dynamic templates and composition logic by merging client data with creative assets to produce highly customized, data-driven documents for proofing and production.
• Translate client and internal requirements into effective personalization strategies, including segmentation, conditional logic, and multi-version output.
• Work closely with Client Services and production teams to interpret job requirements and ensure accurate execution of variable composition and personalization.
• Utilize client-supplied artwork (typically Adobe Creative Suite files) to create fully integrated variable documents, maintaining brand integrity and production standards.
• Perform quality assurance and troubleshooting of variable output, ensuring data accuracy, layout integrity, and compatibility with downstream production processes (e.g., inserting, barcoding, mailing).
• Apply problem-solving skills to resolve composition challenges related to data mapping, template logic, layout rendering, and output generation.
• Support and enhance composition workflows and efficiencies, identifying opportunities for automation, standardization, and template reuse.
• Serve as a technical resource to internal and external stakeholders on variable data composition capabilities and best practices.
• Perform data preparation tasks as needed to support composition workflows, including file ingestion, normalization, and basic cleansing-leveraging established processes and tools that are structured and trainable.
• Assist with data-related workflow steps such as presort processing and file standardization, with a primary focus on ensuring data readiness for successful variable composition output.
• Demonstrate the ability to learn and apply new tools, technologies, and composition techniques quickly within a production-driven environment.
• Maintain a high level of accuracy, attention to detail, and adherence to documented standard operating procedures.

Skills & Education: 

• Associate degree or equivalent professional experience is a plus
• Must be proficient with Windows and Mac operating system
• Excellent typing skills required
• Experience with DOS & Microsoft Office Suite required
• Experience with Adobe Creative Cloud applications
• Experience with BCC or Quadient Inspire a plus
• Database experience a plus
• Experience in a mail logistics and / or letter shop preferred but trainable
• Working knowledge of postal sortation and bulk mailing rules a plus
• Requires great attention to detail
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced work environment