Production & Pre-Press Associate

Job Description

Job Description

Benefits :

401(k)

Bonus based on performance

Competitive salary

Employee discounts

Free food & snacks

Paid time off

Training & development

Title : Production & Pre-Press Associate

Job Type : Full-Time

Company : SpeedPro Imaging Chicago Loop

Office Location : 2028 S. Michigan Ave, Chicago IL

Office Hours : 8 : 30am 5 : 30pm

About SpeedPro Chicago Loop

SpeedPro Chicago Loop is a best-in-class large format digital imaging franchise system that is all about Great. Big. Graphics. We are now in our 9th Year we have been in the Top 10 annual performing studios nationally in 2022, 2023 and 2024. We've been named, The International Franchise Association's 'Franchisee of the Year' (2022), Inc 5000's List of Fastest Growing Companies-Midwest (2024 & 2025), Wide Format Magazine's list of Top 150 Largest Printers in North America (2023), 3 Best Printing Companies in Chicago (2018-2025), recipient of the Project of the Year (2018 and 2021), as well as countless other awards, and often featured in national trade magazines and podcasts for our leadership style and innovative projects. We maintain perfect 5 star ratings in Google and Facebook reviews.

Dedicated to delivering uncompromised premium quality graphic printing, innovative ideas and exceptional client satisfaction everyday; we specialize in production of retail / brand graphics, trade-show displays, event signage, banners, vehicle graphics and more. We partner with large brands, small businesses, marketing & ad agencies around Chicago and coast to coast. Our fast-growing studio needs a highly motivated team player to further increase our velocity and trajectory.

Located in the South Loop, our studio is on the famed Michigan Avenue three blocks from McCormick Place with both parking and easy access to public transportation.

Position Description Highlights

THIS IS NOT A REMOTE OPPORTUNITY

No slouches, no mediocrity, no average performers should even think of applying. We only want shooting stars that seek to shine brightly! This is a killer opportunity for the person who embraces creativity and thrives under pressure.

A hybrid role, blending a sophisticated creative eye, hands on production using the latest digital printing technology, as well as the intellect to make the machines deliver a mind-blowing final product. If you care about fabricating, designing & creating cool looking, superior quality products and are eager to learn and work as part of a collaborative team, this Production & Pre-Press Associate job might be right for you!

Production Responsibilities include :

• Printer, cutter and laminator operations
• Design
• File preparation and pre-press
• Proof preparation
• Mounting and laminating
• Packing and unloading
• Local deliveries as needed
• Efficient time management to deliver multiple jobs on-time and with the highest quality

Machines include : EFI Pro30H hybrid flatbed, Canon Oce Colorado M5, Mutoh Xpertjet 661 (ADA sign maker), Esko CNC Cutter-Router, Kala Mistral Laminator, Juki Sewing, and Acrylic Heat-bender

The ideal applicant :

• MUST HAVE PRODUCTION EXPERIENCE IN A LARGE FORMAT PRINT SHOP. NON-NEGOTIABLE.
• Must be competent in Illustrator, Adobe CS (latest versions) and Photoshop, as well as familiar with MS Office, and Excel. You will be trained in RIP software ONYX and Fiery
• Must thrive in a production / time sensitive environment, ability to multi-task and handle rigors of daily goals
• Must be a team player, thats is extremely organized and able to act and follow through on projects independently
• Is motivated to learn and achieve in a small, fast-paced environment
• Must be flexible enough to address last minute changes and to work as part of a team in effort to grow the business. (PLEASE NOTE : This position may require occasional schedule flexibility with night and / or weekend work for rush and / or large jobs / projects)
• 3D packaging design / CAD is a major upside!
• Previous work experience in a sign or print shop is HIGHLY desired
• Must have the ability to lift 60lb rolls of vinyl and heavy substrates

Experience :

Print Shop : 2-10 years

About the Owners :

SpeedPro Chicago Loop is a partner-owned company between Rebecca Considine and Eric Lazar. Eric is a former media & mobile technology executive and Marine Corps veteran, Rebecca is a 16-year broadcast television sales manager. Bringing over 50 years of combined experience in sales, leadership, custom marketing, client strategy and project execution in both traditional media and mobile realms, you will have the benefit of a working with and learning from proven leaders and trusted mentors. Offering prior start-up experience as the VP of Sales & New Business Development, Eric led sales that drove revenues from $680k per year to approximately $5M per year in less than 4 years. As an accomplished sales leader he was responsible for pushing company top line revenue to levels worthy of recognition on Inc. 500s 2010 list of Fastest Growing Private Companies in America at a rank of 262, and again in 2011 at 553 on the Inc. 5,000 list. Rebecca rose from intern to Sales Manager at iHeart Media, where she led a team of three Account Executives in the Chicago market. In her role, Rebecca oversaw all sales negotiations for a six-station regional team as well as operations, forecasting, pre & post-sell and client service. Rebecca and Eric are cut from the same cloth, as they are results driven leaders, determined to create a hip and vibrant culture that encourages fresh ideas, rewards performance, inspires corporate citizenry and endorses fun!

Final Thoughts :

• Integrity must be the core component in your personal and professional DNA
• Military veterans are encouraged to apply
• Valid drivers license highly desired
• Equal Opportunity Employer- we do not discriminate
• Please send SHORT cover letter, resume and design portfolio if applicable
• Hourly : $21.00-$24.00 per hour based on experience (40 hours per week + over-time as needed / available)
• Monthly and Annual Bonus (performance based), 401k, Health stipend, Transportation stipend
• NO candidate calls please
• ABSOLUTELY NO RECRUITERS WILL BE CONSIDERED

If you want to be part of small but enthusiastic organization and meet the Production & Graphic Design Associate job requirements, we want to hear from you! Position is available immediately. Please submit a short cover letter and your resume to eric.lazar@speedpro.com No phone calls please!