Production & Pre-Press Associate

Production & Pre-Press AssociateFull-Time | On-Site | Chicago (South Loop) SpeedPro ImagingChicago Loop 2028 S. Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL Core Hours: 8:30am5:30pm (With occasional "events exist and deadlines are not theoretical" hours) IMPORTANTPLEASE READ THIS PART. REALLY. This role is not remote. This role is not entry-level. This role is not your vibe-check, side hustle, or for career exploration. If you have not already worked in a large-format print production environment, please do not apply. This isn't arroganceit's efficiency. Yours and ours. Recruiters, staffing agencies, headhunters or talent whisperers who "just want to hop on a quick call": Please don't contact us. We won't respond. This is not a challenge. It's a boundary. Now that we've got that out of the way.... About SpeedPro Chicago LoopWe're entering our 11th year, and we run a studio that performs at a level most print shops talk about and very few actually hit. A few facts (because vibes are nice, but results pay the rent): Top-10 performing studio nationally IFA's Franchisee of the Year Inc. 5000 Regional honoree Top 150 Largest 'Large Format Printers in North America' Perfect 5-star reviews We don't list awards to impress youwe list them so you understand our standard. We produce big, complex, time-sensitive graphics for brands, agencies, events, and tradeshows where failure is not an option. Our work is large, fast, unforgiving, and highly visible. We like it that way. The Role (Who This Gig Is Actually For)This job is for someone who already knows production and wants to do it at a higher level, with better tools, and fewer self-inflicted problems. You'll be hands-on across pre-press, production, finishing, and delivery. This is not "push button and pray it prints." This is craftsmanship under pressurethe kind that feels good when you nail it. Think of this job posting as a Bumble compatibility filter. Swipe right if you: Get mildly offended by sloppy files Treat deadlines with the seriousness of a court date Feel pride when something comes off the table looking perfect Prefer solving problems versus explaining why something didn't happen HOWEVER, you should swipe left if "yeah, it's good enough" is an attractive personality trait; because if so, we can promise this job will be one of your shortest relationships. ___ What You'll Be DoingRunning printers, cutters, laminators, and finishing equipment with an obsessive focus Catching file issues before they turn into uncomfortable meetings Making smart decisions on color, materials, and finishing Laminating, trimming, weeding, sewing, packing, loading, unloading--whatever is required Managing multiple jobs without drama, panic or disappearing mid-shift Occasionally leaving the building to deliver something important (fresh air included with compensation package) Equipment You'll Work With EFI Pro 30H Hybrid Flatbed Canon Oc Colorado M5 Mutoh XpertJet 661 (ADA signage) Esko CNC Cutter/Router Kala Mistral Laminator Juki Sewing Machine Acrylic Heat Bender (If that list makes you nod confidently with understanding instead of Googling in complete bewildermentexcellent.) Non-Negotiable RequirementsLet's keep this efficient: 4+ years in a large-format print or sign shop Fluent in Illustrator, Photoshop, In-Design (Adobe Creative Suite), as well as RIP software like Onyx or Fiery Solid grasp of file prep, bleed, color, substrates, finishing Comfortable moving fast without cutting corners Organized, reliable, and capable of working independently Able to lift 60 lb rolls of vinyl and heavy substrates Willing to flex hours occasionally when reality shows up unannounced Nice-to-Haves (Career Accelerators):AI Image generation (any platform) CNC routing 3D packaging or CAD Sewing or specialty finishing ADA sign making protocols Who Thrives HerePeople who do well here are usually: Calm when others spiral Detail-obsessed, but not paralyzed by perfection Team-oriented without needing hand-holding, constant reassurance or ceremonial praise Comfortable being accountable Intolerant of mediocrity We joke. We help each other. We move fast. We don't babysit. About The OwnersSpeedPro Chicago Loop is partner-owned by Eric Lazar (former media & mobile tech executive, Marine Corps veteran) and Rebecca Considine (broadcast TV sales leader). They run the studio the same way they've built every successful team: clear expectations, real accountability, zero B.S.and humor where it belongs. Compensation & Benefits$21$26/hour, based on experience Full-time (40 hrs/week + overtime as needed and available) Monthly & annual performance bonuses 401(k) with employer contribution after 1 year of service Healthcare stipend Transportation stipend Final Words (Yes, Read These Too)Integrity, Judgment, Initiative and Dependability are mandatory traits Military veterans encouraged to apply Valid driver's license preferred Equal Opportunity Employer How To Apply:Provide a short cover letter, resume, and portfolio (if applicable): No phone calls No walk-ins No recruiters If you want to work in a high-performing shop that actually delivers, with people who take the work seriously (but not themselves), and you meet the requirementswe'd genuinely like to hear from you. Compensation: $21.00 - $24.00 per hour