Working In The Industry

Printing Sector Jobs

The printing sector has a wide range of jobs, all offering fast paced and challenging work. Each job provides career development opportunities for those who show a committed, enthusiastic attitude. A career in print may start in production with a position as a machine assistant, a trainee operator, a trainee bookbinder, carton manufacture and design or as a reprographic assistant. Alternatively you could find work as a graphic designer using Desktop publishing software or as a trainee print finisher. In print production there are three separate processes:

Print Development Processes

With experience in all three areas you can gain work as an account manager, a print buyer, a print estimator or as a print administrator. Print managers and print administrators often complete tasks that cover all three of these processes. These roles also often include direct contact with customers, so a good understanding of the overall printing process is needed.

Other options for career development include technical jobs such as packaging technologists, where higher level qualifications are necessary, due to the responsibilities and tasks completed. With experience and skills development any of these jobs can lead to successful career development, via supervisory and then managerial positions. An enthusiastic attitude to work is essential as are good communication skills, for working together with other team members.

The list of products and services print companies provide is growing. High levels of business investment have led to the development of modern machinery, which has increased the number of surfaces print can be applied to. The automisation process has also increased business output levels.

Today print companies are being asked to develop:- labels, programmes, merchandising, direct mail, letterheads, instruction manuals, maps, brochures, compliments slips, packaging, charts, leaflets, business cards, boxes, blueprints, manuals, invoices, annual reports, posters, forms, signs, playing cards, exhibition stands, newsletters, diaries, magazines, certificates, calendars, postcard, journals, catalogues, price lists, t-shirts etc etc.