Junior Graphics Artist

**Working under the direction of the Art Department Manager and Senior Artists, a Junior Artist performs all of the functions in a prepress shop by utilizing his/her knowledge of print standards and production processes. Junior Artists are responsible for suggesting possible artwork improvements (by modifying digital artwork formats) to ensure a final high-quality product is delivered, while still ensuring print standards are met.**

**Responsibilities**:

- Prepare and finalize print ready art files
- Gather all information (ink colour numbers, die lines, substrate information, artwork and printing methods) used in each project
- Die line creation or import die cut die line from CADD file
- Artwork creation, layout and typesetting using Adobe Illustrator software
- Translate customer input into workable vector artwork (from samples, digital files, specs.)
- Produce proofs and mock-ups on actual carton samples, ship to customers
- Collaborate with Customer, Design Dept., Technical Services, Sales Reps, Ink supplier, Production staff, Customer Service and Die Mounting to ensure quality and consistency and that prepress guidelines and requirements are fulfilled
- Create print plates in conjunction with print die supplier
- Create a mounting copy with specific instructions for the Die Mounting department.
- Provide quotation to customer for cost of print dies
- Work safely, reporting hazards and unsafe conditions, takes all reasonable measures to protect themselves and their co-workers
- Work in compliance with the responsibilities as outlined in the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act and the Industrial Regulations and with the Company’s safe practices and procedures.
- Other duties or special projects as assigned

**Qualifications**:

- Knowledge of Macintosh platform, proficient in Adobe Illustrator, Esko tools, Degree/Certificate in Graphic Design
- Must have a passion for artwork, highly innovative, organized, and motivated. Possess strong computer skills, good verbal and written communication skills, positive attitude and willing to learn
- Adhere to deadlines and customer driven

**Competencies**:
**Customer Focus** - Personally demonstrates that external and internal customers are a high priority. Identifies customer needs and expectations and responds to them in a timely and effective manner. Anticipates and prevents delays or other things that can adversely affect the customer. Keeps customers informed about the status of pending actions and audits customer satisfaction with products or services.

**Decision Quality** - Gathers enough information to allow a pragmatic assessment of risks and benefits of alternative approaches in any decision. Stays focused on objectives and considers both the short-term and longer-term impact of decisions and keeps objectives in mind throughout the process. Communicates the impact and implications of decisions. Completes the appropriate level of due diligence required to make a quick, accurate decision.

**Drive for Results**:

- Achieves results within established timelines. Understands and demonstrates that intentions, activities and results are not the same. Pursues everything with energy, drive, and a need to finish; does not give up before finishing, even in the face of resistance or setbacks; consistently challenges self and others for results.

**Leadership** - The expectation of leadership is not reserved solely for only those who are in positions of authority, but from all employees. They demonstrate high integrity and are motivated by wanting to make a real difference to people by delivering a high quality service for their customer and the organization. In positions of authority they: invest in development for the right people and identify and develop future leaders, and coach and provide candid feedback to others. They are visible and they model behaviors, competencies and values expected and inspire others to undertake challenging tasks and projects.

**Teamwork** - Is an effective team player who adds complementary skills and contributes valuable ideas, opinions and feedback. Communicates in an open and candid manner and can be counted upon to fulfill any commitments made to others on the team. Ensures the right stakeholders are informed and involved where necessary. Is ready to “roll up their sleeves” as necessary.

**Think and Act like an owner** - Thinks and cares about the organization like an owner. Commits to and upholds organizational values, and core behaviors even under difficult circumstances. Demonstrates a strong sense of responsibility and dedication to the success of the organization. Takes appropriate risks, holds self and others accountable for measurable, high-quality, timely, and cost-effective results and openly raises a challenge even if others don’t.