Print & Distribution Apprentice

You will have some experience of office systems/procedures and possess the ability to provide information, respond to queries and draft correspondence including dealing with difficult situations sensitively.

You will be able to demonstrate:

-  A methodical and accurate approach to routine tasks
-  Effective written and oral communication skills
-  Good numeracy and budgeting skills
-  An ability to produce work within tight deadlines with good time         management

You will also have some knowledge and understanding of trade unions and the work of the public sector.

1. Print and distribution

- Learn to operate print and mailing machinery, including digital photocopiers
- Learn to enter data, produce reports, log and track materials using internal and external databases/sources, including mail merges
- Learn to review incoming work for layout and mailing details and deal with any related enquiries and ensure material conforms to PCS guidelines prior to print and distribution
- Learn to use the PCS membership database, for mailing information
- Ensure service delivery and customer care are of the highest standards
- Assist with deliveries and portering duties
- Report faults to the line manager immediately

2. Office Support Work

- Learn to arrange for and distribute newsletters, circulars, materials, etc. utilising any relevant machinery
- Learn to send, receive and deal with correspondence and electronic mail, optimising any postal rates
- Maintain efficient filing systems (shared and individual) – both paper-based and electronic
- Learn to maintain office expenditure, ordering and invoicing, and prepare budget/costings for finance departments and groups in PCS
- Photocopying and faxing
- Liaise with suppliers and external organisations and companies

3. Dealing with Queries, Messages and Correspondence

- Deal with basic queries directly via correspondence, emails, fax and telephone, and give answers where possible
- Ensure work which is time limited is brought to the attention of the line manager
- Deal with difficult callers or situations with tact and sensitivity, and refer as appropriate

Training:

Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, the qualification obtained will be a Level 3 Print Technician Apprenticeship Standard (press pathway).

The apprentice will be given time to undertake their "off-the-job" requirement of the apprenticeship.

Throughout the apprenticeship, you will be supported by both PCS and BPIF Training. You will be assigned an apprenticeship tutor to ensure you have the best training available.

Training requirements will be discussed at the point of employment to suit your individual needs and business needs. Most training and studying will be site-based.

Training Outcome:

A successfully qualified Apprentice will be invited to apply for a full time position as a Print & Distribution Assistant.

Learning and Development

The union offers a wide range of learning and development opportunities. We will work with you to support your continued professional development.

Employer Description:

PCS is the Public and Commercial Services Union, representing many thousands of members working in the civil service and related areas.

Working Hours :
33.75 hours per week (or 38.75 hours including one hour paid lunch break) Monday to Friday- 6.75 hours per day (or 7.75 hours per day inclusive of lunch) Flexible working hours by agreement with manager and with a minimum of 30 minutes for lunch.

Skills:
Communication skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Customer care skills,Problem solving skills,Administrative skills,Number skills,Team working