Printing - Epac Packing Flashcards
Tell me about yourself
’m currently a production planner and production artist with a background in design, graphic communications, pre-press, and project management. I have about eight years of experience in the industry, and I graduated with a degree in printing. Throughout my career, I’ve developed a strong foundation in managing projects, collaborating with teams, and ensuring the final product meets high standards. I’m passionate about both design and the technical side of production, which is why I’m excited about the opportunity to work with ePac, especially considering their focus on sustainability and innovative packaging solutions
Tell me about Rydin and what you did every day.
At Rydin, I work as both a Production Planner and Production Artist, though my primary focus is planning. I review artwork for accuracy, prepare files for printing, and handle trapping and setup for hangtags and other printed materials. I also coordinate production schedules to ensure jobs run efficiently. While planning is my main role, I step into production artist tasks when needed, ensuring that artwork is properly set up and press-ready. This role has strengthened my ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining high print quality standards.
Tell me about Moss and what you did every day.
At Moss, I worked as a Preflight Technician, where I reviewed incoming files to ensure they were print-ready. This involved checking for missing links, verifying colors, and preparing files according to press specifications. I collaborated with a cross-functional team, including designers and production staff, to troubleshoot any file issues and ensure smooth production. I also created proofs for client review, providing details on how their files would be printed and making any necessary adjustments to optimize output. My role required strong attention to detail and a solid understanding of prepress processes to ensure high-quality results.
What made you interested in this job?
I’m interested in this Prepress Coordinator role because it aligns with my background in prepress, file preparation, and print production. My experience reviewing and troubleshooting artwork, setting up files for various print processes, and collaborating with teams to ensure high-quality output makes this a great fit. ePac’s focus on digital printing and flexible packaging is exciting to me, and I’d love to contribute my skills in color management, trapping, and proofing to support efficient production workflows.
Tell me about a time when you had to communicate complex technical information to a customer who wasn’t familiar with printing terminology.
In my previous role, I worked with many clients who didn’t have a background in printing. One instance that stands out was when a client sent a file in RGB and didn’t understand why the colors looked different when proofed. Instead of just telling them to fix it, I explained that screens use RGB, while printers use CMYK, and that certain colors—especially bright blues and greens—might shift in the printing process. To reassure them, I provided a side-by-side visual comparison of the color shift and suggested slight adjustments to bring the colors closer to their expectations. They appreciated the clear explanation and felt confident in the final product.
Tell me about a time you had to troubleshoot a file that wouldn’t print correctly.
A file wasn’t printing correctly due to transparency issues, causing elements to disappear. I checked the Output Preview in Acrobat, identified overprinting problems, and flattened the transparencies in Illustrator. After re-ripping the file and running a test print, the issue was resolved, and the job went to production smoothly.
How do you handle last-minute changes or rush jobs?
In prepress, last-minute changes are common, and I’ve learned to stay flexible while keeping quality a priority. For example, at my previous job, a customer requested a some color to be updated to artwork an hour before it was scheduled for printing. I quickly assessed the scope of the revision and communicated with both the customer and the press operator to determine the best approach. I made the changes efficiently, double-checked the proof, and ensured it was approved before sending it to production. The key was staying composed, prioritizing accuracy, and keeping everyone informed to avoid production delays.
Describe a time you worked closely with press operators or other departments to ensure print quality.
In my previous role, I worked closely with press operators to ensure print quality, especially when dealing with issues like drop shadows dropping out. One time, we were preparing a project that included graphics with drop shadows, and I noticed that the drop shadows weren’t printing as expected. I immediately communicated with the press operator to identify the issue. We found that the drop shadow settings needed adjustment to ensure they would print correctly. After making the necessary changes, we reviewed the proofs together to verify that everything was in order before moving to production. It was important to collaborate closely and address these technical issues to ensure the final print was of the highest quality.
Can you give an example of a time when you had to learn a new tool or software quickly?
In my current role, I needed to familiarize myself with SmartStream, which I hadn’t used extensively before. I took the initiative to self-teach by going through online tutorials and experimenting with sample files. Within a short time, I became comfortable using it for variable data and color management tasks. I believe my ability to learn new tools quickly is a key strength, especially in a field that constantly evolves with technology.
Walk me through the steps you take when preparing a file for digital printing.
When preparing a file for digital printing, I start by ensuring the file is in the correct color mode (CMYK for full-color jobs). I check the resolution to make sure it’s at least 300 DPI for clarity. Next, I review the artwork for any missing fonts or linked images and ensure they’re embedded or supplied correctly. I also check the bleed and crop marks to ensure they’re set up correctly for trimming. I then run the file through a preflight check to identify any issues that could affect the print quality. Finally, I create a digital proof and review it with the team before sending it to production
How do you ensure color accuracy when preparing a file for print?
I ensure color accuracy by checking that files are in the correct color mode—CMYK for full-color jobs or spot colors for Pantone matching. I also verify ICC profiles and, when needed, reference color books or run test prints to confirm accuracy. While I haven’t done extensive color correction recently, I understand the process and can apply it as needed.
What do you know about HP Indigo presses and their capabilities?
HP Indigo presses use liquid ink, producing sharp, vibrant prints similar to offset. They support CMYK and extended colors, enable variable data printing for customization, and work with various materials. Their flexibility makes them ideal for short-run jobs
Have you worked with Esko or SmartStream before? If so, how did you use them?
I have some familiarity with SmartStream and have been self-teaching myself how to use it for variable data and color management. While I haven’t extensively used Esko, I understand its role in packaging prepress, particularly for file preparation, trapping, and color profiling. I’m confident I can get up to speed quickly with hands-on experience.
How do you handle estimating and quoting for a job?
In my role as a production planner, I estimate and quote jobs by assessing material costs, production time, and labor. I review project specs, account for waste and press efficiency, and ensure pricing aligns with production capabilities. I also collaborate with the team to confirm feasibility and adjust quotes if needed.
How do you handle large file transfers and workflow efficiency?
For large files, I use file transfer systems like FTP, WeTransfer, or cloud-based storage solutions. I also ensure that files are compressed appropriately without sacrificing quality. When managing workflow, I keep file structures organized and use project management tools to track progress efficiently.
What steps are involved in the prepress process?
File preparation, color correction, proofing, imposition, and creating the plates for printing.
How do you handle a file that has color discrepancies in the prepress stage?
I would evaluate the file in the correct color space (CMYK), adjust using color management tools, and proof it to ensure color consistency.
How would you manage a situation where a job requires last-minute changes, and the press is already set up?
Communicate with the team about the impact, adjust the file quickly if possible, and decide whether to re-run the job or adapt the setup to accommodate the changes.
What is your experience with RIP (Raster Image Processing) software?
I have extensive experience working with RIP software, particularly in Photoshop. I frequently prepare files for print by adjusting the resolution, ensuring the correct color mode (CMYK or spot colors), and preparing images for proper rasterization. In Photoshop, I often work with high-resolution files and make necessary adjustments to ensure they meet the printer’s requirements. While working with RIP software, my focus is on ensuring the artwork is accurately processed for the best print quality. My experience in managing color accuracy, resolution, and file preparation in Photoshop has given me a solid understanding of how RIP software functions in the print production process.”
What steps do you take to ensure a print file is ready for production?
Review for resolution, color accuracy, bleed, crop marks, and correct file formats. Conduct a soft proof before the final output.
How do you handle communication between the design team and production when issues arise?
I ensure clear, concise communication, provide technical support to design teams, and ensure everyone is aligned on expectations and deadlines.
How do you ensure printing efficiency while maintaining high-quality output?
I optimize file preparation, reduce errors in prepress, and continuously monitor the workflow to ensure a smooth transition from setup to final print.
Have you ever had a disagreement with a coworker about a print job?
I did have a disagreement with a junior designer regarding the setup of a file. She initially scaled an image to fit the safety area, which wasn’t the best approach for preserving the integrity of the design, especially with bleed. I took the opportunity to explain why it’s important to adjust the canvas size in Photoshop to accommodate the bleed and avoid any cropping issues. We had an open conversation, and I walked her through the process, showing how the proper setup ensures a smoother production process and a higher-quality final result. I made sure to give constructive feedback, so she could understand my reasoning and learn for future projects.
Can you describe a time when you had to quickly learn a new process or technology?
In my previous role, I had to quickly learn about fabrics and warps when setting up files, despite not having formal training. I took the initiative to research and understand how fabric types and warps affected file setup to ensure design accuracy. In my current role, I also had to learn how to be a production artist without formal training. I relied on my existing knowledge of design and print but dedicated time to self-teach and refine my production art skills, seeking guidance when needed. Both experiences taught me how to adapt quickly and be resourceful when learning new processes.
