Graphics Quality Control Technician

Location: Operations - Waupun, WI

The Graphics Quality Control Technician will be handling and preventing quality issues in the Graphics Department internally and potentially externally. As needed, this role will be responsible for basic plate making and proofing.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform daily checks to confirm that operators have completed all necessary testing on the Stork and/or Esko systems before beginning production work. Document the results of these tests.
• Review and approve all production files to ensure they meet specified quality criteria. This includes verifying the correct orientation, screen values, line count, repeat distortion, proper inclusion of bearer bars (left and right), and the alignment of file profiles with the job ticket specifications.
• Inspect each plate for quality assurance, specifically measuring and documenting the minimum dot and 50% dot values using the appropriate scales. Ensure these measurements conform to established quality standards to maintain optimal print clarity and precision.
• Utilize micrometers to measure plate thickness and ensure compliance with Eagle tolerances. Document all findings to maintain consistent quality and precision throughout production.
• For all flat plates, measure the length of the bearer bars to verify that any distortion is within acceptable limits. Document and report these measurements to ensure accurate print alignment and quality.
• Conduct a thorough inspection of all plates for potential defects or imperfections that could affect the quality of the final print. Document any defects found and ensure corrective actions are taken before proceeding with production.
• Review proofs to ensure they match the job ticket specifications and the correct profile. Evaluate proofs for any potential defects or inconsistencies, documenting any issues found and working with the team to resolve them prior to production.
• Regularly verify that the proofing system is correctly calibrated and meets the necessary standards for accuracy. Maintain records of calibration checks and adjustments to ensure consistent quality.
• Ensure that the proof accurately reflects the approved file, and that the plates align with the proof before they are packed for production. Document all verification steps to ensure consistency and accuracy throughout the process.
• Oversee the environmental conditions, particularly temperature and cleanliness, within the graphics room to ensure they meet the requirements for optimal plate-making. Address any factors that could affect plate quality.
• Actively seek opportunities for improving quality control processes within the graphics room and report findings as appropriate.
• Operate equipment to produce Asahi Water Wash photopolymer plates, ensuring they are created in accordance with specific production guidelines and quality standards.
• Utilize the Stork system to produce direct engraving plates and sleeves, ensuring they are produced to meet the required specifications and quality standards.
• Create and verify proofs, ensuring they accurately reflect the intended design and meet job specifications.
• Rigorously follow and enforce all Eagle quality standards, checks, and procedures to maintain compliance with best practices. Continuously monitor and document quality control activities to ensure consistency and reliability.
• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of file preparation processes, ensuring that all artwork and digital files are correctly formatted, prepared, and ready for production, in alignment with both client specifications and production requirements.
• Ensure that all company food safety and quality assurance procedures are followed at all times. Escalate any issues/concerns to management.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• High school diploma or High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• Experience with Mac and PC computers and proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign with proven ability to learn complex new software programs.
• Ability to work with Esko software and related equipment.
• Effective time management skills with ability to work independently and maximize productivity.
• Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work with a sense of urgency, prioritize, and meet critical deadlines in a fast-paced, high volume work environment.
• Reliability and sense of accountability, including record of good attendance.
• Professional proficiency in verbal and written English, including ability to effectively communicate with individuals in diverse roles.
• Excellent work ethic and willingness to learn.
• Positive attitude and teamwork focused mentality.
• Excellent color perception and be able to see with or without corrective lenses.
• Able to sit and stand for prolonged periods of time and lift 50 pounds or more.
• Able to stoop, kneel, and climb a ladder and stairs.

 Preferred Qualifications:

• Degree or certification in graphic arts or other related field from an educational institution or formal training program.
• Experience in a related prepress and graphics role strongly preferred.
• Experience in the flexible packaging industry.
• Strong mechanical aptitude.

 Pay: $20.00 – $30.00 per hour.

 aspirations and provide full-time team members with the following benefits:

• Medical Insurance – On the first of month following 60 days of employment, employees can choose from 1 PPO plan, 2 PPO/HSA plans, and 1 HMO plan, all provided by United Healthcare.
• HRA / HSA Contributions – Participants in the employer-provided medical insurance program will receive funds from Eagle for either their HRA (for all PPO and HMO enrollees) or HSA (for all PPO/HSA enrollees). The annual amount provided to each participant is based on one’s enrollment tier per the following schedule: $1,500.00 for Employee Only coverage, $3,000.00 for Employee + Spouse or Employee + Child(ren), and $4,500.00 for Family coverage.
• Dental Insurance – On the first of month following 60 days of employment, employees can enroll in dental insurance provided by Mutual of Omaha.
• Vision Insurance – On the first of month following 60 days of employment, employees this voluntary benefit through Mutual of Omaha.
• 401K Plan – Plan entry date is the first of the month following 6 months of service. Eagle provides its employees with a 100% match up to 1% and 50% match up to 6%.
• Company Paid Short Term Disability – The Short Term Disability premium is 100% paid by Eagle.
• Company Paid Long Term Disability – The Long Term Disability premium is 100% paid by Eagle.
• Life Insurance – The Basic Life premium is 100% paid by Eagle and is a flat $20,000 benefit for all FT, benefit eligible employees. Employees have the option to purchase additional voluntary life insurance for self, spouse, and dependent children.
• Vacation/PTO: The amount of vacation/paid time off (PTO) employees receive each year starts at 80 hours (2 weeks) each year, which accrues at a rate of 1.538 hours per week, and increases with the length of employment.
• 6 Company Paid Holidays – Eligible after 60 days of employment.
• Sick Leave – Eligible for paid sick days at the rate of 3 days (24 hours) per year after 6 months of service (prorated for per the calendar year).