At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn the pre-press processes that turn artwork into print-ready files.
- Company: Join Baker Labels, a dynamic and supportive print industry leader.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn, with training, bonuses, and social events.
- Other info: Potential for full-time position after apprenticeship completion.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in print with hands-on experience and mentorship.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths (Grade 5 or above) required.
The predicted salary is between 18500 - 25000 £ per year.
We are offering a fantastic opportunity for an enthusiastic and creative individual to join our busy studio and production team at our facility in Brentwood, Essex. This is a great chance to take your first steps into the print industry, gaining hands-on experience in the important processes that happen before labels go to print. You’ll learn how artwork, digital files, colour, proofs, workflow systems and production planning all come together to create high-quality printed products.
As a Bakers apprentice, you’ll be able to earn while you learn in a supportive, dynamic and rewarding environment, developing practical skills that can help you build a long-term career in print, packaging, design, artwork, pre-press or production.
A pre-press technician is skilled in the processes that occur before the printing and finishing stages. Pre-press is the first stage of production. It covers the processes and procedures that take place between the creation of a print-ready design and the actual printing process.
As part of your training, you will develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for the apprenticeship standard, while also learning the specific systems, equipment and workflows used here at Baker Labels. You’ll gain experience in:
- Checking and preparing digital artwork
- Understanding colour reproduction
- Producing proofs
- Supporting workflow management
- Ensuring files are ready for efficient, accurate print production
A skilled pre-press technician would be able to demonstrate the following knowledge, skills and behaviours:
- Know how to produce plates, cylinders, screens and/or electronic files
- Recognise different company equipment and understand its associated needs
- Understand colour theory and how colour is managed before print
- Understand the receipt, checking and processing of digital files
- Produce reports and relevant paperwork
- Design and produce creative digital artwork
- Plan and produce edited images ready for software such as Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop and other creative packages
- Check digital files and help solve issues with software and workflow management
- Create imposition schemes and job layouts
- Develop proficiency in a range of pre-press, design, workflow management and business software packages
- Communicate effectively with customers and internal teams
- Use scanning techniques to create compatible digital images
- Produce printed or digital proofs
- Manage digital colour reproduction so that press technicians can set up and run jobs effectively
This apprenticeship will help you understand how creative artwork becomes a print-ready file, and how attention to detail at the pre-press stage plays a vital role in the quality of the finished product. The BPIF Pre-Press Technician apprenticeship develops knowledge, skills and behaviours across the core elements of the standard, with additional learning linked to the specific role.
This is an excellent opportunity to take your first steps into a career within the UK printing industry.
Apprenticeship Level Expected to Achieve: Advanced Level Apprenticeship Level 2 or 3 Apprenticeship Standard
City and Guilds Print Technician Level 2 or 3 Qualification
GCSE or equivalent English (Grade 5 or above) essential
GCSE or equivalent Maths (Grade 5 or above) essential
Hands on training and mentorship. Potential for full time position upon completion. A supportive and dynamic work environment.
What is in it for you?
- Salary dependent on experience
- Training and development
- Work based pension
- Profit related bonus after 6 months service
- Wellbeing at work programme
- Great social and team building events
If you’re creative, technically minded and eager to learn how artwork becomes a finished printed product, this apprenticeship could be the perfect opportunity for you. At Bakers, you’ll be supported by experienced people across our studio, production and technical teams while gaining practical skills in a fast-paced print environment. This is your chance to build confidence, learn from industry specialists and begin a rewarding career in print.
Closing date for applications 1st August 2026. To apply please complete our application form. If you have any questions, please contact Clare Coles 01277 281900 Clare.Coles@Bakerlabels.co.uk
Pre-Press Technician Apprentice in Brentwood employer: Baker Labels
Baker Labels offers an exceptional apprenticeship opportunity for aspiring Pre-Press Technicians in Brentwood, Essex, where you can earn while you learn in a supportive and dynamic environment. With hands-on training, mentorship from industry experts, and a focus on employee growth, you'll develop essential skills in print production while enjoying benefits like a work-based pension and profit-related bonuses. Join us to kickstart your career in the vibrant UK printing industry, surrounded by a team that values creativity and collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pre-Press Technician Apprentice in Brentwood
✨Get Creative with Your Portfolio
As a graphic design apprentice, your portfolio is your ticket to the door. Show off not just your best work, but also your process and thoughts behind each piece. Include a mix of personal projects, freelance gigs, or even class assignments that reflect your unique style and skills.
✨Join Design Communities
Jump into local or online graphic design communities. Sites like Behance, Dribbble, or even social media groups can be goldmines for networking. Plus, engaging with others in the field can lead to unexpected opportunities, like collaborative projects or even job leads directly from fellow designers.
✨Attend Workshops and Meetups
Stay active in the design scene by attending workshops and meetups in your area. Not only will you sharpen your skills, but you can also meet potential mentors or employers who might be looking for fresh talent. Keep an eye out for events specific to your interests, whether it’s UX design, branding, or illustration.
✨Apply Directly to Baker Labels
Don't miss the chance to apply directly to Baker Labels through our website. This gives you a solid shot at standing out. Craft a cover letter that reflects your enthusiasm for design and why you’re excited about the apprenticeship specifically with them—it shows you’ve done your homework!
We think you need these skills to ace Pre-Press Technician Apprentice in Brentwood
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Creativity:Since you’re diving into graphic design, make sure to include a portfolio that shines! This is where you can let your creativity flow, so include a variety of projects that showcase your skills, from logos to any digital illustrations you've created. Don’t forget to add brief descriptions of each piece to explain your thought process and what tools you used.
Tailor Your CV to Design:When crafting your CV, use a clean design that reflects your aesthetic sense—remember, you’re applying for a creative role! Highlight any design software you’re familiar with, like Adobe Creative Suite or Sketch, and emphasise any relevant coursework or projects. It’s all about making a strong visual impact that aligns with the graphic design world.
Express Your Passion in the Cover Letter:In your cover letter, we want to feel your enthusiasm for graphic design! Share why you’re excited about this apprenticeship at Baker Labels and how you hope to learn and grow. Maybe mention a specific project or designer that inspires you, showing that you’re genuinely passionate about the field.
Be Prepared for a Possible Design Task:Sometimes, when applying for design roles, companies like Baker Labels might ask you to complete a design task. This could be as simple as recreating a logo or creating a mock-up. So, be ready to demonstrate your skills and approach to problem-solving. It's a great chance to shine, so embrace the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at Baker Labels
✨Showcase Your Creative Portfolio
Bring a portfolio that truly reflects your style and creativity. We want to see not just your finished projects, but also your process—sketches, drafts, and iterations show how you think and create. Make sure it's well-organised and easy for your interviewers at Baker Labels to flip through.
✨Prepare for Design Challenges
Expect a design task as part of the interview process! This could involve creating a quick mock-up or solving a design problem on the spot. Brush up on your Adobe skills and be ready to articulate your thought process while designing. It’s our chance to see how you tackle real-world challenges in graphic design.
✨Express Your Passion and Learning Attitude
As an apprentice, your eagerness to learn is just as important as your skills. Be prepared to talk about what you've been studying, projects you've worked on, and what areas of design truly excite you. Baker Labels wants to see your enthusiasm for growth and willingness to absorb feedback.
✨Research Design Trends and Tools
Stay updated with the latest design trends and tools like Figma or Canva; being knowledgeable about industry standards will impress your interviewers. Discussing recent design innovations can show your genuine interest and understanding of the field, which will definitely help you stand out at Baker Labels.
