Pre-Press Apprentice
R H Howard LTD · Enterprise Way · posted 3 September 2026
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You will provide support to the reprographic and CAD departments. Communicate confidently and in a professional manner with customers and suppliers. Be well-organised, show good attention to detail, and be self-motivated to get work done to the highest possible quality to ensure consistent service to the print department.
Duties will include liaising with customers, learning and understanding print set up for artwork, using Esko software and workflows to create proofs and laydowns, preparing artwork for samples, making reprographic printing plates, proofreading, understanding design briefs, using a CAD plotter table and maintaining quality checks and processes are followed.
- Liaising with customers via email and telephone on artwork and proof approvals.
- Willing to learn and understand print set up for artwork.
- Use Esko software and workflows to create proofs and laydowns.
- Working with a wide range of media on layouts, ensuring artwork received in on correct cutters, making any required changes and sending to customers for approval.
- Preparing artwork for samples.
- Proofreading to produce accurate and high-quality work.
- Understand internal and clients’ briefs on designs.
- Preparing files for printing (RIP).
- Generating proof sheets in accordance with Work Orders.
- Making reprographic printing plates in advance of when print requires them on lithographic B1 press.
- Help when required by using a CAD plotter to cut out samples.
- Learn how to fold up and construct a 2D sample to a 3D carton, following the rules of the keyline.
- Using a CAD plotter table to cut out varnish blankets for production.
- Capable of working within a small studio team and also able to work on own initiative.
- Able to keep up with a high pace of work and manage deadlines efficiently.
- Liaising with relevant people/departments to ensure the Studio and Print teams are able to work as effectively as possible.
- Always follow health and safety procedures / guidelines.
- Monitor, check and maintain quality checks and processes.
- Ensure relevant documentation is named correctly and saved securely.
- Providing holiday cover for the CAD and Prepress departments.
- Any other CAD and Pre-press duties as required.
Full training will be provided.
Your training
Advanced Apprenticeship Standard for Print Technicians (Level 3)
A full plan will be created at the start of the Apprenticeship to provide information as to what you will be studying and when. Learn2print will deliver the theoretical knowledge for your Print Apprenticeship. You will attend a class each month for one full day at a local venue (this information can be provided on interview) This teaching and training will cover everything from health and safety and general industrial practices to specific industry practices. This will lead you to preparation for your end point assessment, consisting of an online exam, professional discussion and observation in the workplace. You will be allocated a designated tutor and workplace mentor who will support and guide you through the Apprenticeship.
Where it leads
Full-time position available as a Pre-press Operator.
About R H Howard LTD
R Howard are leading manufacturers of printed cartons, folding boxboard cartons, full colour printed packaging, product and shelf ready packaging, printed sleeves and backing cards.
Skills they're looking for
Entry requirements
- GCSE English (grade Grade C/4 or above) — desired
- GCSE Maths (grade Grade C/4 or above) — desired
Where you'll work
- UNIT D, LIMESQUARE ESTATE, ENTERPRISE WAY, PETERBOROUGH, PE3 8YQ