Pre-press operator

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly
• specialist courses run by industry bodies

Entry requirements:

College

You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need in this job. Relevant courses include:

• Level 2 Certificate in Pre Press for Print
• Level 3 Certificate in Understanding the Print Environment

Entry requirements:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

Apprenticeship

You can do a press operative intermediate or a print technician advanced apprenticeship.

These usually take between 24 and 36 months to complete as a mix of learning on the job and study.

Entry requirements:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

DirectApplication

You'll need a good general standard of education to apply directly for pre-press operator jobs. GCSEs in maths, English, art and IT may give you an advantage when looking for work. Some employers may ask for A levels or equivalent qualifications.

OtherRoutes

You can do specialist printing, packaging and graphic communications courses through the British Printing Industries Federation .

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• design skills and knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• the ability to work well with others
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to use your initiative
• persistence and determination
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• observation and recording skills
• knowledge of English language
• maths knowledge
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• administration skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• active listening skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to read English

What you'll do:

Pre-press operators work in the printing industry, getting artwork from a client and supplying the printing plates used on a press.

In your day-to-day tasks you could:

• use desktop publishing and graphics software to create artwork
• scan and retouch images
• check a whole document for accuracy
• prepare artwork for transfer to film
• transfer the final image from film onto printing plates

Location : You could work in a creative studio or in an office.
Uniform : You may need to wear protective clothing.

Salary:

Starter : £16,000
Experienced : £30,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

38 - 40 hours a week

Working Pattern is 9am to 5pm

Career Path:

You could become a pre-press manager or move into print administration jobs like estimator or production controller.

Most employers in the pre-press industry will offer training, either through a local college or short courses offered by the British Printing Industries Federation.