VDS Operator

Role Summary

The mandate of the Fanatics Collectible Pre-Press team is to translate card designs to accurate, error-free files that are ready for press. Fanatics Collectibles is looking for a Prepress Variable Data Operator that will be responsible for preparing, processing, and managing data for personalized print ready PDF. This position requires expertise in print production, ideally, variable data printing (VDP) knowledge, and the use of specialized prepress software to ensure high-quality output.
Candidates with a passion for sports and entertainment will likely find themselves a strong cultural fit.

In this role, you will…

• Utilize variable data software to write logic to incorporate variable imagery and text into InDesign
• Identify and resolve issues related to variable data integration, file formatting, or output errors
• Collaborate closely with the production team to align on project priorities and timelines
• Strong focus on PDF review and quality control checks of approved designs against personalized PDF to ensure design accuracy (e.g., checking fonts, images, bleeds, trap, color separations, ensuring variable data fields are correctly populated and other prepress elements)
• Utilize the printing workflow management tool system to process incoming print jobs, ensuring proper file preparation, imposition, and trapping for optimal output
• Maintain accurate documentation of project specifications and file versioning
• Adapt to current industry trends, software updates, and emerging technologies related to variable data-driven print production

The ideal candidate:

• Must have expertise in Adobe InDesign, Acrobat, Illustrator, and Photoshop
• Must have certifications in graphic design, print production, prepress technology or 1+ year of experience in a prepress printing environment
• Attention to detail and ability to problem-solve complex scenarios in a fast-paced deadline-driven environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to interact with various production teams
• Entry level understanding of databases (e.g., Excel, SQL) and Microsoft Office
• Familiarity with variable data print and composition software (e.g., XMPie, Fusion Pro), is a plus
• Knowledge of Javascript Programming language or QLingo (a scripting language developed by XMPie) is a plus

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). .