Senior Print Shop Specialist - University Printing and Mail - UTK

Prepare customer files for printing, imposing page layouts to accommodate the various presses, print processes. Proficiency in software, Adobe Creative Suite, PitStop, imposition software and RIP software (Prinect), and page layout tools; Mac and PC environments. Prepare proofs for customer approval.  Operate and maintain plate setting and proofing equipment.

• Reviewing and correcting digital files, including checking layout, color space, typography, resolution, fonts, and images. 
• Performing preflight checks to verify all required elements (fonts, graphics, text, images) are complete and compatible for printing. 
• Managing color profiles, applying color corrections, and ensuring accurate color reproduction.
• Performing impositions and adding necessary marks, crop, bleed, registration. 
• Generating digital or physical proofs for client approval. 
• Operating and maintaining prepress equipment, such as computer-to-plate (CTP) systems, and proofing devices. 
• Trapping files, and preparing files for various printing methods (offset, digital (KM1, Ricoh, MGI, I-Jet) large format. 
• Troubleshooting technical issues. 
• Collaborating with designers, clients, press operators, to meet specifications and deadlines.
• Archiving files, maintaining inventory of supplies, and assisting with minor equipment maintenance.
• Resolving file issues, calibrating equipment, and handling technical errors under tight deadlines.
• Working with staff, clients, and providing clear feedback on file discrepancies. 
• Preparing and inspection of proofs for customer approval. 
• Direct client contact both email an phone. 
• Ensure that jobs are set up correctly in accordance with job ticket information and original order form when starting job and checking proofs. 
• Maintain proof printing equipment. 
• Follow procedures regarding  the MIS system, file handling, data collection and input. 
• Follow all UTK polices regarding color and logos in accordance with Communication and Marketing guidelines.
• Set up and maintain MIS templates for online ordering, includes business cards, letterhead and envelopes.  
• Set up and maintain Digital Storefront.  
• Keep current with prepress software upgrades.
• All other duties as assigned. 

Required Qualifications:

• High School Diploma
• 2 years prepress experience
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Have knowledge of sheet-fed press production requirements and methods, paper types and finishes. 
  • Technical knowledge: Understanding of digital file formats (PDF, TIFF, EPS), color management, prepress workflows, and printing processes (offset, digital, dye cutting, foil). 
  • Problem-solving and troubleshooting: Resolving file issues, calibrating equipment, and handling technical errors under tight deadlines.
  • Mechanical aptitude: Basic maintenance and operation of prepress hardware.
  • Other soft skills: Dependability, adaptability to new technology, ability to work under pressure, and organizational skills for managing multiple jobs.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Vocational training, Associates, or Bachelors in Printing or Graphic Arts
• 4 years prepress experience. 
• Large litho press experience. 
• Large bindery (folding, stitching and binding) experience. 
• MAC maintenance experience. 
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 
  • Knowledge of other prepress software: Pitstop, Variable data processing, color calibration processes.
  • Server and RIP.
  • Good problem solving skills.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees—the Volunteers—who uphold the university’s tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service. 
UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee’s flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy’s largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory. 
The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.  
UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development an