Prepress Graphic Designer

Prepress Graphic Designer

Location: FASTSIGNS of Gurnee Waukegan, IL Type: Full-Time

About Us: FASTSIGNS of Gurnee is a leader in custom signage and visual communication solutions, providing high-quality designs and printed products to businesses of all sizes. We are looking for a Prepress Graphic Designer to join our growing team. This role blends creative design with technical production and prepress skills to ensure artwork is accurate, clean, and ready for print - particularly in a large-format environment.

What You'll Do:

Prepress & Graphic Design:

• Prepare customer files and original artwork for print production, ensuring they meet all prepress requirements: correct bleeds, color modes, resolution, crop marks, and output settings.
• Set up and manage files for output through ONYX RIP software, ensuring accurate color management and production specs.
• Modify and finalize customer-supplied files to meet technical specifications for digital and large-format printing.
• Create full-color designs for signage, banners, decals, and other visual communications.
• Proof and review designs for accuracy, consistency, and production readiness.
• Maintain an organized library of customer assets and artwork for future use.
• Conduct quality control checks to ensure all output meets company standards and client expectations.

Team Collaboration:

• Work closely with sales, production, and installation teams to ensure a seamless workflow from concept to final delivery.
• Consult with clients as needed to ensure their design goals are achieved and their files are suitable for production.
• Recommend design or material adjustments when necessary for improved output quality or efficiency.

Skills & Qualifications:

• 12 years of experience in graphic design, prepress, or signage production.
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop is required.
• Strong understanding of prepress and print file setup - especially for large-format or wide-format printing.
• Experience using ONYX RIP software (or willingness to learn quickly).
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to handle multiple projects in a fast-paced production environment.
• Familiarity with sign shop equipment and materials is highly desirable.

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay plus performance-based bonus
• Paid holidays, paid time off, health & dental insurance, and 401k matching
• Training and development in both design and production tools
• A collaborative, growth-focused work environment
• The opportunity to work on projects that have real impact for local businesses

If you're detail-oriented, technically proficient, and love the intersection of design and production, we'd love to hear from you! Important Notes:

• This is an in-office position located in Waukegan, IL. Remote work is not available.
• Only local candidates will be considered.
• Please do not contact the employer directly regarding this job posting.