Printing Press Operators
What do printing press operators do?
Printing press operators set up and operate digital, letterpress, lithographic, flexographic, gravure, or other printing machines. They typically do the
following:








Collect and inspect random samples during print runs to identify any necessary adjustments
Examine job orders to determine the number to print, stock specifications, colors, or special printing instructions
Check that paper and ink meet the specifications for a given job
Start presses and pull proofs to check for ink coverage and density, alignment, and registration
Change press plates, blankets, or cylinders, as required
Obtain or mix inks and fill ink fountains
Load presses with paper and make necessary adjustments according to paper size
Feed paper through press cylinders and adjust feed and tension controls
What's the work environment like?
Printing press operators almost always work indoors in comfortable air temperatures. Workers in this occupation spend a fair amount of their days
standing. They regularly work in settings where noise levels are distracting or uncomfortable. Exposure to contaminated materials as well as
hazardous equipment and conditions is not uncommon. To remain healthy in this setting, people must wear protective or safety equipment. Accuracy
is very important in this work. Workers may experience stress in this job due to time pressure. These workers sometimes make decisions that have
an impact on other staff and on their companies. Many work full time.
Are my interests similar to those of printing press operators?
The interests of printing press operators typically match jobs that have the following characteristics:
Realistic
Often involve work activities that include
practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
Usually include working with actual
materials - many times in an outdoor setting.
Conventional
Often involve following set procedures and
routines. May include working with data and
details more than with ideas. Usually have a
clear line of authority to follow.
You'll find additional information about interests in the introduction to these profiles. To learn more about your interests and how they may connect
with careers, try the brief activity at www.mynextmove.org/explore/ip.
What are the most important types of knowledge, skills, and abilities to have in this field?










Planning and doing the basic maintenance on equipment
Testing how well a product or service works
Deciding what kind of tools and equipment are needed to do a job
Watching gauges, dials, or display screens to make sure a machine is working
Repairing machines or systems using the right tools
Figuring out what is causing equipment, machines, wiring, or computer programs to not work
Using equipment or systems
Making equipment and technology useful for customers
Writing computer programs
Managing equipment and materials
How much education do printing press operators need?
The amount of education and experience you need partly depends on a specific employer's requirements. If you are planning to work in this
occupation, here are typical expectations:
Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Work Experience
None
On-the-Job Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Learn about North Carolina and out-of-state postsecondary education and training programs by exploring College Navigator at
www.nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator.
What other careers might match my interests, abilities, and work values?










Print Binding and Finishing Workers
Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Outdoor Power Equipment and Other Small Engine Mechanics
Gas Compressor and Gas Pumping Station Operators
Welders, Cutters, and Welder Fitters
Sheet Metal Workers
Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers
Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic
Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators
Transportation Vehicle, Equipment and Systems Inspectors, Except Aviation
What is the North Carolina job outlook for printing press operators?
The number of printing press operators in North Carolina is expected to decrease from 5,820 in 2014 to 5,320 in 2024 (-9%). This occupation is still
expected to average about 90 openings each year to replace some workers who leave their jobs.
How much money can I make?
In North Carolina, half of printing press operators earn an annual salary above $32,890 (the median salary) and half earn less. Salaries usually
reflect the amount of experience a person has in the occupation. Annual salaries for this job can range from approximately $22,420 for beginners to
$39,680 for those with the most experience.
Where can I find jobs?
Most printing press operators in North Carolina work in businesses providing printing/related support services; converted paper product
manufacturing businesses; and newspaper, book, or directory publishing businesses. For specific job openings, go to NCWorks Online's Find a Job
section at www.ncworks.gov.
How can I find out more about this occupation?
Many resources exist for learning about occupations. If you would like a brief introduction to this occupation with links to more detailed sources,
MyNextMove at www.mynextmove.org provides a great start. For more detailed information, visit O*Net Online at www.onetonline.org.