SUMMARY  Overview of the position

The Packaging Production Artist is an intermediate level position. The experienced Packaging Production Artist will be a collaborator who is fast, accurate and organized that can seamlessly join a highly productive and fast paced Prepress environment. Having a keen eye for design, typography and strong attention to detail, the Packaging Production Artist must feel comfortable following strict branding guidelines as well as be able to manipulate graphics and images creatively when needed. A thorough understanding of die lines is also necessary.The candidate is also expected to possess competent abilities in CMYK color correction and have exceptional Illustrator and Photoshop skills. Responsibilities include taking a requested project from start to finish. Must possess the ability to focus on the details. Effective communication skills are necessary. There will be a lot of interaction between different departments and personnel to achieve a successful project.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Thefollowing statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by an individual assigned to this job.

• Proficient understanding of the packaging environment as well as color correction and outlining capabilities are a big part of our deadline-driven environment. There will be room for growth into the high-end memorabilia department which will require RGB color knowledge and pre-flighting PSD’s.
• The ideal candidate will possess print experience, Offset preferred, Digital acceptable. Familiarity with the 4/C process is beneficial, to include, but not limited to: spot colors, varnish, foil, die cuts, deboss and/or embossing.
• Hands on, energetic and motivated initiative-taker with the ability to work additional hours as required.
• Achieve the highest possible quality of files produced within lithographic pre-production environment.
• Accomplished communication skills required, demonstrate close mindfulness with organized practices. Responsible for interacting daily with Packaging Lead, Project Manager(s), and teammates.

• Proficiency in the following software or systems: Adobe Creative Suite and MS Office.

INTERACTION

This position will interact closely with the Senior Packaging Production Lead, Packaging Designers, Project and Brand Managers, Photo and Type Editors, as well as the Marketing Team on occasion.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

N/A

EDUCATION/YEARS EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or equivalent. 
• College Degree with an emphasis in Graphic Arts a plus.

• 2+ years of experience as a Packaging Production Artist or in a Prepress related area.

REQUIREMENTS Toperform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Have a thorough understanding of various printing processes and manufacturing techniques for boxes, foil packs, collectible tins, and gravity feeds. Have a thorough understanding of packaging die lines.
• Ability to do photo retouching as well as create 3D packaging renderings in Photoshop from Illustrator files using existing templates.

• The qualified applicant must possess proficient computer skills; a working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite is required. Plus, intermediate proficiency in the following software: Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Effective oral and written communication skills demonstrate close mindfulness with highly organized practices. Ability to articulate clearly with fellow employees.
• Effective organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple, high priority projects with dedicated attention to detail.
• Professional demeanor; collaborator orientation.
• Ability to perform duties under minimal supervision while exercising reasonable discretion and independent judgment.
• Manage time effectively, prioritizing duties and meeting deadlines. Ability to maintain flexible work hours. Work hours are mostly consistent, but production requirements require flexibility.
• Knowledge of the following areas would be desirable: NHL Hockey, Professional Wrestling, plus historical knowledge of pop culture, including comics and film spanning a multitude of trends.