Apprentice Print Technician LABELNET LTD

What you will do in your working day

You will gain an understanding of the following:

• The printing industry and its markets
• How the business operates including its culture, values, processes and how you fit in
• Technical knowledge and print industry practices, processes and the materials used to carry out the occupation effectively, e.g. practices can include maintenance and continuous improvement; processes include printing, quality assurance and colour management
• Pre-press, press and post-press processes and equipment and the commercial impact of their role e.g. ensuring that printed material is presented to post-press in perfect condition
• Customers’ expectations in terms of order specification and timescales
• Quality expectations and how they are managed
• How best to solve problems and implement practical solutions in a timely manner

You will be taught the following skills:

• Efficiently operate print machinery and equipment according to the order specification and timescale
• Follow a structured approach and methodology to identify areas for improvement, proposing and implementing solutions
• Carry out work to required quality standards, targets and deadlines. Standards include colour matching, print resolution and matching customer specification and individual company standards
• Keep accurate records using both digital and manual processes as required
• Communicate and work effectively with others, including giving clear instructions to colleagues
• Implement practical solutions in a timely manner
• Ability to supervise and instruct print operatives
• Ability to take the lead as required

You will learn the following behaviours in the workplace and will be expected to demonstrate these:

• Willing to both listen and learn. Be dependable, reliable and flexible
• Perform role in a safe manner by following company policies and guidelines
• Work effectively with others in a team
• Carry out work with integrity and discretion
• Work with others to create improvements
• Work with other departments and teams to provide support of a technical nature as required
• Open to new ideas such as new technologies and working practices
• Follow process and procedures to ensure that work meets specifications
• Report consistently and accurately
• Communicate effectively and recognises the importance of good communication

The training you will be getting

Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, the qualification obtained will be a Level 3 Print Technician apprenticeship standard.

The Print Technician will have a strong core of knowledge covering the print production process, including paper science, pre-press, press and post-press, and will specialise and supplement this core knowledge by following one of the three options; Pre-Press Technician, Press Technician or Post-Press Technician.

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

Throughout your time as an apprentice, you will be supported by both Labelnet and the BPIF. You will be assigned a training coordinator to ensure that 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.

Functional Skills in English and maths if required.

What to expect at the end of your apprenticeship

Full time position within the business upon completing the apprenticeship. This could be wherever best suited.