Full job descriptionWe’re recruiting for an experienced Graphics Team Leader / Senior Mac Operator to join a well-established label printing business based in Castleford.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Mac Operator, Reprographics Operator or Pre-Press professional looking to progress into a leadership role, or an existing Team Leader seeking a new challenge.
With the current Team Leader planning to retire within the next couple of years, the business is looking for someone who can gradually transition into the role through a supported handover.
You’ll initially work alongside the existing Team Leader, learning the company’s systems and processes while progressively taking on responsibility for managing the Graphics department.
About the RoleWorking within a busy pre-production environment, you’ll be responsible for preparing and processing artwork and graphics files for print, while supporting the day-to-day running of the department.
The business produces high-quality labels using conventional, digital and hybrid printing technologies.
Key responsibilities include:
*Preparing, processing and managing artwork and reprographic files for print production.
*Creating and amending artwork using Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and specialist pre-press software.
*Managing step-and-repeat layouts, PDF proofs, colour management and tooling requirements.
*Maintaining accurate production records using MIS systems.
*Troubleshooting artwork and pre-press issues to minimise production delays.
*Supporting and gradually taking responsibility for managing the Graphics team, workloads and production priorities.
*Liaising with production teams, customers and suppliers to ensure deadlines and quality standards are met.
*Identifying opportunities to improve workflows, automation, efficiency and cost savings.
About YouWe’re looking for someone with a strong technical background in Mac operation, reprographics, artwork or pre-press, ideally within the label printing, packaging or FMCG sectors.
You may already be managing a team or be an experienced operator who’s ready to take the next step into leadership.
Ideally, you’ll have:
*Around 5 years’ experience in a Mac Operator, Reprographics or Pre-Press role.
*Experience within a fast-paced label printing, packaging or FMCG environment.
*Strong Adobe Creative Suite skills, particularly Illustrator and Photoshop.
*Knowledge of conventional, digital and hybrid printing processes, particularly flexo and combination printing.
*Experience with Esko Automation Engine or similar pre-press workflow systems.
*Good organisational, problem-solving and communication skills.
*The confidence and ambition to develop into a team leadership position.
Additional experience with Esko ArtPro, DFE, Colour Pilot, Hybrid Software (PACKZ/Cloudflow), FileMaker or workflow automation would be a real advantage.
You don’t need to have experience with every software package listed. A strong technical background, willingness to learn and leadership potential are equally important.
Why Consider This Opportunity?*Clear career progression into a Graphics Team Leader position.
*Gradual handover and mentoring from the existing Team Leader ahead of their retirement.
*Opportunity to work across conventional, digital and hybrid printing technologies.
*Scope to influence process improvements, automation and departmental efficiency.
*Established business with a skilled and experienced production team.
*Monday-to-Friday working hours, with overtime available during busy periods.
Interested?If you’re an experienced Mac Operator, Reprographics Operator, Pre-Press Specialist or Graphics Team Leader looking for your next opportunity, we’d love to hear from you.