Estimating/Prepress Manager

Job Title: Estimating/Prepress Manager

Company Overview:

Quality Packaging, Inc. specializes in providing comprehensive packaging solutions, including contract packaging, materials, and equipment. Our dedication to delivering quality products and services is supported by a commitment to world-class customer service. We prioritize integrity, honesty, and respect in all our relationships-with customers, vendors, employees, and our community. With expertise in package design, materials, and equipment, we ensure timely deliveries at competitive prices, fostering long-lasting partnerships with our valued clients.

Join us at Quality Packaging, Inc. and be part of a team dedicated to excellence and innovation in the packaging industry.

Position Summary: The Estimating/Prepress Manager is a pivotal role within Quality Packaging, Inc. (QPI), responsible for overseeing the entire preproduction process as well as the estimating department. This position ensures that all project specifications, cost estimations, and routing information are meticulously managed within the company's ERP system, Maverik, maintaining production efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and delivering high-quality output. The Estimating/Prepress Manager works closely with various departments to ensure smooth workflow and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

• Estimating:

• Cost Estimation: Prepare detailed and accurate cost estimates for all printing projects, considering all variables such as labor, materials, time, and overhead costs.

• Project Analysis: Analyze project specifications, including print run size, paper type, ink requirements, finishing processes, and delivery schedules to develop comprehensive and competitive estimates.

• Collaboration: Work closely with sales, production, and finance teams to gather necessary information for precise cost estimation and to ensure estimates align with company objectives and profitability targets.

• Vendor Management: Liaise with suppliers to obtain the best pricing and terms for materials and services required for each project.

• Preproduction Management:

• Team Supervision: Supervise the prepress team, ensuring proper setup and preparation of all print jobs. This includes managing tasks such as file preparation, color correction, proofing, and plate making.

• Quality Assurance: Verify that all preproduction steps meet company standards and customer requirements, conducting quality checks and ensuring adherence to specifications.

• Process Coordination: Coordinate with production teams to ensure that all preproduction activities are seamlessly integrated into the production schedule, minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency.

• Technical Support: Provide technical support and troubleshooting for prepress issues, including software and hardware problems, color management, and proofing discrepancies.

• Maverik ERP System Management:

• Data Integrity: Ensure that all project specifications, routing information, and updates are accurately entered into the Maverik ERP system, maintaining data integrity and consistency.

• Workflow Monitoring: Monitor and manage the preproduction workflow within the Maverik ERP system, identifying and addressing any bottlenecks or inefficiencies.

• Training: Train staff on Maverik ERP system usage and updates, ensuring all team members are proficient in its functions and capabilities.

• System Optimization: Work with IT and other departments to continuously improve and optimize the Maverik ERP system for better performance and user experience.

• Quality Control:

• Procedure Implementation: Develop and implement quality control procedures to ensure all preproduction activities meet the highest standards of accuracy and quality.

• Regular Audits: Conduct regular audits of prepress processes to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions as needed.

• Discrepancy Resolution: Address and resolve any discrepancies or issues that arise during the preproduction phase, ensuring timely and effective solutions.

• Team Leadership:

• Leadership: Lead and mentor the prepress and estimating teams, providing guidance, support, and professional development opportunities to achieve departmental and company goals.

• Performance Management: Conduct performance evaluations, set clear expectations, and provide feedback to team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.

• Collaboration: Foster a collaborative and efficient work environment, encouraging open communication and teamwork among all departments.

• Collaboration and Communication:

• Customer Liaison: Liaise with internal and external customers to clarify project requirements, provide updates, and ensure their expectations are met throughout the preproduction process.

• Sales Support: Work closely with the sales team to provide accurate and timely estimates, supporting them in securing new business and maintaining client relationships.

• Interdepartmental Communication: Communicate effectively with all departments, including sales, production, finance, and customer service, to ensure seamless workflow and project completion.

• Documentation: Maintain comprehensive documentation of all preproduction activities, estimates, and quality control measures for reference and reporting purposes.

Qualifications:

• Educational Background: Bachelor's degree in Graphic Arts, Printing Technology, Business Administration, or a related field.

• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in prepress and estimating within the printing industry, with a proven track record of managing preproduction processes and preparing accurate cost estimates.

• Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in ERP systems, prepress software (such as Adobe Creative Suite, RIP software), and estimating tools with machine routings and sheet layouts.

• Industry Knowledge: Strong understanding of printing processes, materials, production techniques, and industry standards.

• Analytical Skills: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess complex project requirements and develop accurate estimates.

• Organizational Skills: Exceptional organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.

• Communication Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively liaise with customers, team members, and other departments.

• Leadership Abilities: Proven leadership and team management abilities, with a focus on mentoring and developing staff to achieve their full potential.