Print Production Artist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of visual communication, the demand for Print Production Artists is exponentially growing.

As the world becomes more visually inclined, the need for skilled professionals who can conceptualize, develop, and execute our visual media strengthens.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Print Production Artist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the creative process of print production,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Print Production Artist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Print Production Artist Duties and Responsibilities

Print Production Artists are responsible for creating and managing digital and print designs for a variety of media.

They have a keen eye for detail and are proficient in image editing, design software, and colour theory.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Creating digital and print designs based on the requirements of a project
• Checking and preparing files for print production, ensuring high-quality outputs
• Working closely with creative teams to execute visually compelling artwork
• Proofreading and revising designs to ensure accuracy and consistency
• Collaborating with vendors and printers to ensure deadlines are met
• Staying updated with latest printing techniques and technologies
• Adhering to a company’s brand guidelines in all designs
• Managing multiple projects and meeting tight deadlines
• Maintaining archives of images, photos, and previous work products
• Optimizing images for web and print applications

 

Print Production Artist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a detail-oriented Print Production Artist to join our team.

Your responsibilities will include creating and revising print-ready artwork, ensuring all elements are correctly formatted and optimized for printing.

You will also liaise with printers to confirm specifications and ensure final prints meet quality standards.

Candidates should have a keen eye for detail, proficiency in design software, and a thorough understanding of print production processes.

 

Responsibilities

• Create and revise print-ready artwork for various marketing materials.
• Work closely with the design team to implement design elements and standards.
• Ensure all artwork is correctly formatted and optimized for printing.
• Liaise with printers to confirm specifications and address any issues that may arise.
• Perform quality control on final prints to ensure they meet set standards.
• Stay updated on the latest design and printing technologies.
• Manage and prioritize multiple projects within design specifications and budget restrictions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure consistency and adherence to brand guidelines.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Print Production Artist, Graphic Designer, or similar role.
• Familiarity with design software and technologies (such as InDesign, Illustrator, Dreamweaver, Photoshop).
• A keen eye for aesthetics and details.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work methodically and meet deadlines.
• Degree in Design, Fine Arts, or related field is a plus.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Print Production Artist
• Work Environment: In-house design studio. Occasional travel may be required for print inspections.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Creative Director or Design Manager.
• Salary: The salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, portfolio, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Print Production Artist Do?

A Print Production Artist works in the publishing, advertising, or marketing sectors, and can also be a member of a design agency or in-house design team.

They can work for various clients on a freelance basis as well.

Their primary role involves creating, editing, and arranging the layout of graphics and text to produce print-ready documents.

This may include brochures, advertisements, packaging, and other print media.

They work closely with graphic designers and copywriters to ensure that the final product adheres to brand guidelines and meets the overall design objectives.

They are also responsible for choosing the appropriate colors, images, text style, and layout for the designs.

Print Production Artists may also be in charge of checking and approving color proofs, preparing documents for printing, and ensuring the quality of printed materials before they are distributed.

They need to have a keen eye for detail to detect any errors and fix them before the final printing process.

They are the final stage in the design process, taking the initial creative design and turning it into a tangible product that meets the client’s expectations and deadlines.

Their role is critical in ensuring that the print materials accurately convey the intended message and reach the target audience effectively.

 

Print Production Artist Qualifications and Skills

A Print Production Artist should have the skills and qualifications that are necessary for ensuring quality production and timely delivery of print materials.

These include:

• Graphic design skills to prepare and create print-ready files that meet the client’s specifications and expectations
• Technical knowledge of various printing processes, prepress procedures, and understanding of color management
• Proficiency in graphic design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, including Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop
• Strong attention to detail to ensure accuracy of text, images, and layout in preparing files for print
• Problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues that may arise during the print production process
• Excellent time-management skills to handle multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines
• Communication skills to collaborate effectively with team members, clients, and print vendors
• Understanding of typography, layout design, and color theory to produce visually appealing print materials
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changes in client specifications or project requirements

 

Print Production Artist Experience Requirements

Print Production Artists are usually required to have a degree or certification in graphic design or a related field, providing them with the necessary theoretical understanding and practical skills.

As entry-level artists, they may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships, freelancing or part-time roles in print production or graphic design.

Entry-level candidates often gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Graphic Designer, Layout Artist, or Illustrator, where they learn to create and modify designs and layouts, and handle print production tasks.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their technical skills and knowledge in software such as Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and other design and layout tools.

They may also have experience in handling projects independently and coordinating with vendors and printers.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are often considered senior Print Production Artists.

They may have experience in managing a team of designers, coordinating complex projects, handling quality control, and maintaining relationships with vendors.

Their role may also include advising on the practicality of design decisions and ensuring all designs are optimized for print.

 

Print Production Artist Education and Training Requirements

Print Production Artists typically need to have a bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a related field.

Their coursework should involve learning about design principles, typography, color theory, and computer graphics.

Familiarity with software such as Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign, is essential.

In addition to their formal education, Print Production Artists need to have a strong understanding of the printing process, including prepress procedures, paper types, and print specifications.

Some positions may require further specialization in areas such as digital print production, packaging design, or large format printing.

While not always required, obtaining certification in graphic design or print production can boost a candidate’s credibility and demonstrate their commitment to the profession.

Work experience, internships, or a portfolio showcasing the candidate’s design work and print production skills can also be beneficial for securing a position in this field.

Continuous learning is important in this role as technology and design trends evolve over time.

Therefore, many Print Production Artists engage in ongoing professional development and training opportunities.

 

Print Production Artist Salary Expectations

A Print Production Artist earns an average salary of $47,837 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can differ based on experience, geographical location, and the company they work for.

 

Print Production Artist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Print Production Artist need?

Print Production Artists must have a keen eye for detail to identify any errors or inconsistencies in the final product.

They should also possess strong technical skills, as they’ll be working with various design software and print machinery.

Understanding of color theory, typography, and layout design are also critical.

Good communication skills are necessary as they often have to coordinate with designers and print vendors.

 

Do Print Production Artists need a degree?

While a degree is not strictly required, many Print Production Artists have a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, visual arts, or a related field.

These programs often cover important topics in this field, including typography, color theory, and digital imaging.

A portfolio demonstrating their skills and understanding of print production is usually more important than formal education.

 

What should you look for in a Print Production Artist resume?

Look for experience with design software like Adobe Creative Suite, knowledge of print production processes, and a history of managing print projects from initial design to final product.

It’s also beneficial if they have experience working with different types of print materials, such as brochures, banners, packaging, and promotional items.

A strong portfolio demonstrating these skills is a must.

 

What qualities make a good Print Production Artist?

A good Print Production Artist has strong attention to detail, ensuring that the final print product is free from errors and meets all design specifications.

They’re also highly organized, as they often manage multiple projects at once.

Creativity and problem-solving skills are key, as they may need to adjust designs to fit various print formats.

Good communication skills are also important, as they’ll need to work closely with designers, vendors, and other team members.

 

Is it challenging to find qualified Print Production Artists?

Finding a qualified Print Production Artist can be a challenge due to the specific technical skills and understanding of print processes required for the role.

However, by offering competitive salaries, opportunities for career growth, and a creative work environment, employers can attract skilled candidates for this role.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the fascinating world of being a print production artist.

Surprise!

It’s not all about sketching and drafting designs.

It’s about shaping the visual landscape, one design at a time.

With our comprehensive print production artist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why put a full stop here?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously crafted job listings or refining your portfolio to a T.

Remember:

Every design is a piece of the grand visual narrative.

Let’s create that narrative. Together.