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Trainee MAC Operator

Overview

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.

Once Signed Off as Competent (including but not limited to):

* 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 Adope, Artpro & Packx

* Experience using graphic design, art work or plate making

* 3D Print experience

Location: Port Talbot
Department: Operations – Pre-Press
Reports To: Pre-Press Manager
Salary: Up to £35,000 (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