Design and Pre-Press Apprentice

This is a fantastic opportunity to learn hands‑on skills while working alongside experienced designers and packaging specialists. If you love problem‑solving, being creative, and seeing your work become real products on the supermarket shelves, this role is for you!

As an Apprentice Design & Pre‑Press Technician, you’ll learn how to:

Create artwork based on customer briefs Prepare customer files for print production Check and correct artwork to ensure it meets technical print standards Work with Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) Produce proofs for client approval Support CAD sampling and design layout adjustments Collaborate with designers, printers, and clients

You’ll gain skills across both creative design and technical pre‑press, giving you a strong foundation for a long-term career in the print and packaging industry.

Training:
You’ll be trained on-site by our experienced team Work towards a Level 3 Print Technician qualification Learn through real projects, real clients, and real production work You will be assigned a BPIF Apprenticeship Tutor to support you through the apprenticeship curriculum, ensuring you develop the knowledge and skills required for the apprenticeship standard You will receive protected time during your normal working hours to fulfil the 'off-the-job' requirements of your apprenticeship Your BPIF training sessions will be a mixture of site-based visits and occasional online workshops

Training Outcome:

1. Junior Studio/Pre‑Press Technician

This is the most common next step.

After learning the basics during the apprenticeship, the apprentice takes on more responsibility:

Creating artwork independently Handling customer files Producing proofs Liaising with printers and account managers

2. Graphic Designer / Artwork Designer

For those who excel creatively:

Designing packaging layouts Developing brand concepts Creating customer-facing artwork Working more heavily in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign

3. Pre‑Press Specialist

Ideal for those who enjoy technical detail:

Print‑ready file preparation Colour management Plates, imposition, and print standards Working closely with print operators

4. CAD Technician / Packaging Structural Designer

For those interested in 3D or technical design:

Creating cutter guides Working with CAD software Developing packaging prototypes Working directly with customers on structural solutions

5. Studio Supervisor / Team Leader

With experience and confidence:

Managing workflows Overseeing artwork consistency Training new apprentices or junior staff Acting as the bridge between studio, production, and customers

6. Studio Manager

A longer‑term progression for those who want leadership roles:

Managing the full studio team Planning workloads and resources Approving final artwork Working closely with operations and sales teams

7. Technical / Production Roles

Some apprentices naturally move toward the print floor:

Print operator Digital press operator Plate making Production planning

This is especially common when they enjoy the practical, hands‑on print side.

8. Account Management / Customer Service for Print

For those with strong communication skills:

Managing customer relationships Helping clients with artwork queries Quoting and guiding projects Acting as the link between customers and the studio

Employer Description:

We are a proven trusted packaging printer with 25 years’ experience in the printing industry.

Working Hours :
Monday – Friday 7.30am-4pm

Skills:
Communication skills,IT skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Customer care skills,Team working,Creative,Positive attitude