Mastering, Pre-press Operator

About the Team

Fanatics Collectibles is a new company operating at the intersection of collectibles, culture, and technology. Backed by world-class investors, operators, and sports & entertainment partners, we are building the global leader in next-generation collectibles. As part of the broader Fanatics ecosystem, we leverage a digital sports platform that spans over 900 sports properties and engages more than 81 million fans. Together, we are reimagining every part of the collectibles experience for fans, partners, and creators.

Role Summary

The mandate of the Pre-Press team is to translate card designs to accurate, error-free, and quality-checked forms that are ready for press. Fanatics Collectibles is looking for a Pre-Press Card Mastering Operator to establish master/templates for print-ready files in line with our Pre-Press team’s commitment to excellence. The ideal candidate is technically adept across pre-press and workflow systems, exhibits strong attention to detail, and brings deep experience in print file production. Candidates with a passion for sports and entertainment will likely find themselves a strong cultural fit.

In this role, you will…

• Collaborate with the design team to prepare trading card templates for final execution, ensuring that visual elements align with brand, style, and sport guidelines
• Execute pre-press tasks and file preparation for Variable Data composition to ensure optimal file setup and print quality
• Prepare print-ready files and conduct thorough quality checks to verify accuracy and consistency in colors, fonts, and images
• Work closely with creative and production partners to communicate specifications, review proofs, and address any potential issues in the production process
• Stay up to date on industry trends, new printing technologies, and design techniques to continuously improve the quality and efficient production of trading cards
• Collaborate cross-functionally with design, marketing, and brand/product to ensure smooth workflow and alignment of creative goals
• Utilize the printing workflow management tool system to process incoming print jobs, ensuring proper file preparation, imposition, and trapping for optimal output
• Provide guidance and training for junior operators and production staff on pre-press and printing workflow management tool system workflows and best practices

The ideal candidate:

• Proven experience (3+ years) as a pre-press / production artist
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Acrobat) and other relevant design software
• Strong understanding of print production processes, color separations, and file formats
• Attention to detail and ability to maintain consistency in design across various projects
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines

Ensure your Fanatics job offer is legitimate and don’t fall victim to fraud.  Fanatics never seeks payment from job applicants. Feel free to ask your recruiter for a phone call or other type of communication for interview, and ensure your communication is coming from a Fanatics email address (including @collectfanatics.com).  For added security, where possible, apply through our company website at www.fanaticsinc.com/careers.