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Pressroom Apprenticeship/Tech Support Position
The Arion Press, a leading publisher of limited-edition, fine-press books, seeks a print- and tech-savvy designer who is looking to join the highly collaborative production staff as an Apprentice at our facility in the Presidio of San Francisco. This Apprenticeship will be based in the pressroom, and will include extensive training in typesetting with metal type, page make-up and other pre-press operations, and letterpress printing on flat-bed, platen, and single- and two-cylinder presses. It will also provide support for M & H Type, the last remaining lead type foundry in daily operation in the United States, working with hot type cast on 100-year-old machines. Some bookbinding training may also be provided.
We are looking to combine this apprenticeship with a tech-support role that would oversee the basic IT infrastructure as well as maintain and develop the Press’s website and online communications. Candidates with design experience and an eye for typography will also assist with layout and design for Press books, commissions, and other visual communications. In exchange for digital expertise, we offer a solid foundation in analog craftwork.
Candidates must have:
•A college education, proficiency in reading, understanding of English grammar and punctuation, competence in spelling and arithmetic;
•Ability to collaborate confidently and creatively with a small production staff;
•Fluency in Creative Suite (advanced knowledge of Photoshop and InDesign, proficiency in Illustrator);
•Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint);
•Competence with web development and database management;
•Exceptional attention to detail in work quality and technical precision;
•Ability to juggle multiple assignments and meet deadlines;
•A passion for print media and a desire to innovate the integration of 21st century technologies with centuries-old letterpress print traditions.
The ideal candidate will also have:
•Solid graphic design experience with a focus on typography in the layout and production of book-length projects;
•A comprehension of 4-color process and spot-color printing, including a practical knowledge of font file handling, layer organization, and awareness of correct color space and resolution;
•Recent experience in website development.
Additional useful skills and experience:
Photography, illustration, video production
Mechanical aptitude
About the Press
Arion Press aims to pair the finest contemporary art with literature, past and present, in books that are beautifully designed and produced by hand. After partnering with Edwin and Robert Grabhorn of the Grabhorn Press, printer-publisher Andrew Hoyem established the Arion imprint in 1974 and continues to employ the exacting standards and skilled craftsmanship of the storied San Francisco fine-printing tradition in the service of an ambitious publication program. Two to three conceptually unique, limited-edition books are conceived, designed, printed, and published each year.
About the Grabhorn Institute
The non-profit Grabhorn Institute, whole owner of the Press, supports paid apprenticeship programs designed for those interested in long-term employment and not for a temporary or transitional experience. It provides training in the crafts of typography, letterpress printing, bookbinding, and type casting. Apprentices learn on the job from experienced craftspeople while working on book publishing projects, contract jobs, and type production. Work is full-time and vacation and health insurance are provided. Commitment is for a minimum four years of employment. Salary for Apprenticeships traditionally starts at minimum wage—with a review at the completion of the first year—and in the case of this hybrid Apprenticeship/IT Manager position will also take into consideration previous experience.
How to Apply
Applicants should send a CV with a one-page cover letter by email or post including personal history, education, previous employment, qualifications, interests, and contact information. References are also helpful. An in-person interview will be required, and those interested are encouraged to attend our regular public tour, most Thursdays at 3:30 p.m. Please call ahead to reserve.
How to Apply
THE ARION PRESS
1802 Hays Street, The Presidio, San Francisco, CA 94129
Tel: 415-668-2542
Email: [email protected]
Web: arionpress.com
