Role Overview

This role combines graphic design, print setup, and physical card production. The ideal candidate is comfortable moving between a computer workstation and the print floor, understands premium print standards, and can independently produce finished, pack-ready trading cards.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Pre-Press

• Prepare print-ready trading card files using Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign
• Set up files with proper bleed, trim, crop marks, layering, and white plating
• Manage multi-layer card designs (base stock, foil layers, overlays, relic windows)
• Color correction and proofing for accurate print reproduction
• Create and manage variable data files for numbering, parallels, and limited runs

Printing & Press Operation

• Operate and maintain digital and/or offset printing machines
• Print front and back card sheets with precise alignment and registration
• Monitor ink density, color consistency, and print quality
• Handle short-run and specialty print jobs for limited editions
• Troubleshoot print issues such as banding, color shift, or registration errors

Foil & Specialty Finishes

• Apply multiple foil papers (silver, gold, holographic, prism, specialty foils)
• Align foil layers accurately to printed designs
• Manage foil lamination, stamping, or overlay processes
• Create and test specialty finishes for premium and chase cards

Relic Card Production

• Cut and prepare relic materials (fabric, memorabilia, paper artifacts, etc.)
• Mount relics securely between card layers
• Build windowed relic cards with precise die-cuts and alignment
• Ensure relic cards meet durability and presentation standards

Mounting & Assembly

• Mount paper layers together using professional adhesives or lamination techniques
• Align front/back layers for proper centering and thickness
• Press and cure cards to prevent warping or bubbling
• Maintain consistent card thickness across production runs

Cutting & Finishing

• Cut printed sheets down to standard trading card size (2.5" x 3.5")
• Operate precision cutting equipment safely and accurately
• Round corners and finish edges cleanly
• Sort, inspect, and collate cards post-cut

Quality Control

• Inspect all cards for print defects, alignment issues, or finish flaws
• Verify numbering accuracy and checklist completeness
• Maintain consistent quality standards across base and premium cards
• Reject and rework flawed product when necessary

Production Workflow & Organization

• Manage production schedules and deadlines
• Track materials, stock, and consumables
• Keep print shop clean, organized, and efficient
• Document production processes and improvements

Required Skills & Experience

• Experience in print production, preferably trading cards or collectibles
• Strong proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign
• Hands-on experience operating printing and finishing equipment
• Familiarity with foil applications, lamination, and specialty finishes
• Experience producing relic or multi-layer collectible products
• Strong attention to detail and quality control
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple production tasks

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with trading cards, sports cards, or collectible manufacturing
• Knowledge of card stock types, adhesives, foils, and coatings
• Understanding of limited-run and premium collectible workflows
• Mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting print equipment