CPI Books UK
Foiling / Embossing operator
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Company Description
CPI Books is the Trade book printing division of CPI Group UK and part of CPI Group, Europe’s leading book printer. Operating from two UK locations, the Chatham site produces paperback and hardback books, while the Croydon site focuses on printing and finishing book covers, jackets, and plate sections. CPI Books’ Chatham site is the largest book manufacturing facility in the UK, producing on average 400,000 books every 24 hours, with roots dating back to 1857. Across seven UK locations, CPI Group (UK) Ltd manufactures around 160 million books annually for a wide range of markets including Trade, academic, law, tax, and self-publishing. As part of the wider CPI Group, the company is integrated into a network of 17 plants across five European countries, working with more than 2,000 publishers and offering strong long-term career opportunities in print manufacturing.
Role Description
This full-time, on-site role is based at CPI Books’ Croydon facility and focuses on operating foiling and embossing equipment used in the production of book covers, jackets, and related components. The Foiling / Embossing Operator will set up, run, and monitor specialist machinery, ensuring accurate registration, high-quality finish, and adherence to production schedules. Daily tasks include:
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- Interpreting job tickets
- Selecting appropriate foils and dies
- Preparing materials
- Performing test runs
- Making adjustments to meet quality standards
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The role involves routine maintenance and cleaning of equipment, troubleshooting minor mechanical issues, and working closely with the production and quality teams to minimize waste and optimize output. The operator is expected to:
- Follow all health and safety procedures
- Maintain clear records of work completed
- Contribute to a clean, efficient, and collaborative working environment
Qualifications
- Experience operating foiling, embossing, or similar print finishing machinery in a manufacturing or print environment.
- Strong attention to detail, with the ability to interpret job specifications, artwork, and production instructions accurately.
- Basic mechanical aptitude for performing routine machine checks, adjustments, and minor fault finding.
- Good organizational and time-management skills to handle multiple jobs, prioritize tasks, and meet production deadlines.
- Commitment to health and safety, including safe machine operation, manual handling awareness, and adherence to site procedures.
- Ability to work effectively in a team-based production setting, with clear communication skills and a collaborative approach.
- Willingness to work shifts or flexible hours as required by the production schedule.
- Previous experience in book printing or print finishing is an advantage; relevant vocational training or apprenticeship in print or manufacturing is beneficial.
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