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Apprentice Designer
Join Our Team at Smurfit Westrock!
Are you searching for a workplace that values you and your growth? At Smurfit Westrock, we’re committed to sustainability, employee well-being, and personal development.
About Us
We are a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging. Our focus is on the health and safety of our employees, the well-being of our communities, and delivering exceptional service to our customers. We support our team members to reach their full potential in an inclusive environment that values diversity.
The Role
Are you creative, hard working and eager to build a long-term career in a modern, fast‑paced manufacturing environment? We’re looking for a motivated Design Apprentice to join our Design Team at SW Diss (located in Pulham St Mary).
About This Role
This apprenticeship offers an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in corrugated packaging design. As our Design Apprentice, you will support the Design Team by undertaking a range of routine tasks as well as undertaking a BSc (Hons) in Packaging Design and Technology through Sheffield Hallum University. You will apply the skills and knowledge developed throughout the apprenticeship programme under appropriate supervision and as the apprenticeship progresses, take on a wider variety of tasks. This is a hands on role where you will be learning at the same time as carrying out a variety of tasks associated with the design of corrugated packaging.
This role is physically demanding, requiring the moving, cutting and packing for shipment of materials on a daily basis.
As an apprentice, you'll assist in developing packaging concepts, creating prototypes, and collaborating with various teams from concept to production, ensuring functionality, cost-efficiency, and sustainability.
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Main Duties
- Design & Development: Assist in designing and developing corrugated packaging solutions for a variety of products.
- Prototyping: Work with the design team to create prototypes and samples, operate a digital CNC Cutter, and ensure all samples meet design and functional criteria.
- Documentation & Reporting: Maintain detailed records of sample specifications, adjustments, and customer feedback. Ensure proper storage, tracking, and dispatch of physical samples.
- Collaboration: Work with production and engineering teams to ensure designs are manufacturable and meet quality standards.
- Learning & Development: Gain an understanding of machine capabilities, learn to use CAD software, and understand the properties and best uses of raw materials.
- Supplier Liaison: Liaise with tool manufacturers and suppliers to obtain costings for new projects and support the artwork process coordination.
- Research & Development: Contribute to the research and development of sustainable packaging materials and techniques.
- Client Interaction: Participate in client meetings to discuss design requirements and present design concepts.
Other Role Requirements
Due to the location of the role, it is likely that this would primarily appeal to those with access to their own transport as public transport links are minimal. The successful applicant will also need to have the flexibility to travel to attend studies and occasionally visit customers.
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About You
Essential:
- General knowledge and use of computer systems and software.
- Good communication skills
- Strong attention to detail
- Ability to follow instructions and work safely
- Good numeracy, literacy, and problem-solving skills
- Willingness to learn and develop new skills
- GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths & English at Grade 4/C or above (or commitment to achieve)
- Able to lift and maneuver
- Eligibility to enroll on a Design Apprenticeship
What We Offer
- Competitive salary & benefits, including annual leave, pension, and a Cycle to Work scheme
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
- 24/7 confidential support for you and your family
- Flexible working options and family-friendly policies
- Guaranteed interview for candidates meeting essential criteria (Disability Confident Employer)
Ready to make an impact? Apply today and help us build a sustainable future together.
Smurfit Westrock reserve the right to only shortlist candidates who meet both the Essential and Desirable Criteria.
We are an equal opportunities employer, and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their sex; religious or similar philosophical belief; political opinion; race; age; sexual orientation; or, whether they are married or are in a civil partnership; or, whether they are disabled; or whether they have undergone, are undergoing or intend to undergo gender reassignment.
We practice equality of opportunity in employment and select the best person for the job.
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