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- Tasks: Become a skilled MAC Operator, preparing artwork and lithographic materials for production.
- Company: Join a leading manufacturing business in Port Talbot, specialising in high-quality products for various sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy full training, 24 days annual leave, and a competitive salary up to £35,000.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in a dynamic environment with hands-on experience and growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: GCSE Grade A-C in Maths and English; strong communication and IT skills required.
- Other info: This is a permanent, site-based role with a supportive team culture.
The predicted salary is between 21000 - 35000 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a well-established and growing manufacturing business at a state-of-the-art facility in Port Talbot. The company specialises in producing high-quality products for use across personal care, healthcare, and pharmaceutical sectors. This newly created position has been developed to support ongoing business growth and long-term succession planning within the Pre-Press team.
Role Purpose
The successful candidate will receive full training to become a competent MAC Operator. The role supports the origination and preparation of artwork and lithographic materials required for production and involves regular communication with internal stakeholders and customers.
Key Responsibilities
- During Training:
- Interpret artwork for printing processes.
- Communicate with customers to obtain approvals.
- Manage storage and organisation of lithographic materials for production use.
- Prepare print boxes and issue clear printing instructions.
- Manufacture print plates.
- Review artwork using various design software.
- Upload/download artwork and proofs via FTP and customer systems.
- Input production formulas onto technical sheets.
- Order print plates and materials as required.
- Record job turnaround times and maintain accurate logs.
- Maintain file housekeeping for digital artwork and damaged plates.
- Participate in in-house training (MAC, screenwork, trapping).
- Monitor production schedules to anticipate and prepare for new products.
- Organise and store proofing samples and artwork pending approval.
- Communicate print plate specifications, colours, and cost details to customers for approval.
- Ensure all materials are provided to the proofer as required.
- Support the Pre-Press Manager with departmental projects and new technology trials.
- Attend pre-launch meetings with wider production teams to support the origination process.
Required Qualifications
GCSE (or equivalent) Grade A C in Mathematics and English Language.
Key Skills & Attributes
Essential:
- Ability to accurately differentiate between colours.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Strong IT proficiency.
- Attention to detail and a proactive, self-motivated approach.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a wider team to meet deadlines.
Desirable:
- Experience or knowledge of lithography or artwork origination processes.
- Experience with Adobe, Artpro & Packx.
- Experience using graphic design, artwork or plate making.
- 3D Print experience.
Location: Port Talbot
Department: Operations Pre-Press
Reports To: Pre-Press Manager
Salary: Up to GBP35,000 (dependent on skill level)
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Arrangement: Site-based, 40 hours a week, set 24 days annual leave + bank holidays.
What’s on Offer
This role offers the chance to join a forward-thinking production environment with full training and development provided. Ideal for someone looking to build a long-term career in pre-press operations and digital origination, with opportunities to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced and technical setting.
Trainee MAC Operator employer: Involve Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Involve Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee MAC Operator
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the lithography process and artwork origination. Understanding these concepts will not only help you during the interview but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your communication skills, as this role involves regular interaction with customers and internal teams. Practising clear and concise communication can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Gain some basic knowledge of design software like Adobe and Packx. Even if you’re not an expert, showing that you’ve taken the initiative to learn will impress the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your attention to detail by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed projects or tasks in the past. This will highlight your ability to meet deadlines and maintain quality standards.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee MAC Operator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant skills and experiences that align with the Trainee MAC Operator role. Emphasise any experience with artwork, lithography, or graphic design software, as well as your communication skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the position and the company. Mention why you are interested in the manufacturing sector and how your background makes you a suitable candidate for this role.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your GCSE qualifications, especially in Mathematics and English Language, as these are essential for the role. If you have any additional certifications or training related to graphic design or lithography, be sure to include them.
Showcase Your Attention to Detail: In your application, provide examples of how you have demonstrated attention to detail in previous roles or projects. This is crucial for the MAC Operator position, where accuracy is key in interpreting artwork and managing materials.
How to prepare for a job interview at Involve Recruitment
✨Show Your Attention to Detail
As a Trainee MAC Operator, attention to detail is crucial. Be prepared to discuss examples from your past experiences where you demonstrated this skill, especially in tasks involving artwork or design.
✨Communicate Effectively
Excellent communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, and be ready to explain how you would handle customer communications regarding approvals and specifications.
✨Demonstrate Your IT Proficiency
Since the role requires strong IT skills, brush up on relevant software like Adobe and any other design tools mentioned in the job description. Be ready to discuss your experience with these tools and how you can apply them in the role.
✨Express Your Willingness to Learn
This position offers full training, so it's important to convey your eagerness to learn and grow within the company. Share examples of how you've successfully adapted to new challenges in the past.
