Summary
This is an exciting opportunity to develop technical skills, build a long-term career in print production and become part of a team that delivers millions of printed products for customers across the UK.
What you will do at work
- Learn how newspaper printing presses operate and support production activities.
- Assist with press preparation, machine set-up and production changeovers.
- Support operators in maintaining print quality and meeting production schedules.
- Observe and learn production processes across press, reel store, mailroom and associated production areas.
- Follow instructions from trained Print Operators and Supervisors.
- Learn safe methods for handling paper reels and production materials.
- Assist with stock organisation, traceability and material identification.
- Support loading and unloading activities when appropriately trained.
- Learn the importance of waste reduction and efficient material usage.
- Learn and assist with routine press cleaning and basic maintenance activities under supervision.
- Support the cleaning of press components and surrounding areas in line with approved procedures and schedules.
- Learn correct roller-setting principles and assist trained operators with checks and adjustments where authorised.
- Assist with dampening system cleaning, inspection and preparation to support consistent print quality.
- Identify and report wear, damage, leaks or unusual operating conditions to a trained Print Operator, Supervisor or Engineer.
- Follow isolation, lock-off, Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements before undertaking any cleaning or maintenance task.
- Carry out quality checks under supervision.
- Learn how colour, registration and product presentation standards are achieved.
- Support housekeeping activities to maintain a clean and organised workplace.
- Assist with the monitoring and reduction of waste.
- Follow all Health & Safety procedures, Safe Systems of Work (SSOW) and COSHH requirements.
- Wear appropriate (PPE).
- Report hazards, near misses and safety concerns.
- Support a positive safety culture across the print centre.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues across production departments.
- Participate fully in apprenticeship training, workshops and assessments.
- Demonstrate a positive attitude towards learning and continuous improvement.
- Develop technical knowledge, practical skills and an understanding of print production systems.
Training
As an Apprentice Print Operator, you will learn how to produce high-quality newspapers and printed products safely, efficiently and to demanding deadlines. Working alongside experienced Print Operators, Engineers and Production teams, you will gain hands-on experience across printing, reel handling, mailroom operations and supporting production processes while completing an industry-recognised apprenticeship qualification.
Requirements and skills
Skills
- Communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Team working
- Initiative
- Non judgemental
Qualifications
- GCSE English (4) – essential
- GCSE Maths (4) – essential
About this employer
We are the leading local news publisher in the UK with a portfolio of more than 200 brands. With an online audience of over 50 million users a month and over 4 million readers a week in print, our content is read by a substantial proportion of the UK population.
In addition to our local news brands, we own a number of specialist media businesses such as s1jobs, Exchange & Mart, and Newsquest Specialist Media.
After this apprenticeship
This apprenticeship is designed to be the first step in a long-term career within Newsquest Printing.
Potential progression opportunities include:
- Print Operator Level 2
- Print Technician Level 3
- Specialist Production Roles
- Team Leader and Supervisory Positions
- Print Centre Management Pathways
- Successful apprentices who demonstrate commitment, capability and a positive attitude will be considered for permanent employment opportunities upon completion of their apprenticeship.
Things to consider
- Fast-paced newspaper and print production environment.
- Combination of classroom learning and practical workplace training.
- Shift working will be required as skills develop throughout the apprenticeship.
- Role involves standing for extended periods, manual handling and working around industrial machinery.
- Full training and supervision will always be provided.
Employee benefits
- Access to employee benefits and wellbeing support programmes.
- Holiday entitlement in line with company policy.
- Opportunities to gain specialist technical skills in a modern print environment.
- Career development opportunities within Newsquest Printing.