Print operator
Print operators produce products like magazines, books, advertising posters, display signs, labels and packaging.
Also known as: Pre-press operator, reprographics assistant, print finisher
- Starter salary£25,000 a year
- Experienced£33,000 a year
- Typical hours37 to 40 a week
What you'll do
As a print operator, you could:
- read print instructions and select the right materials for each job
- use desktop publishing software to create digital designs
- prepare and colour match customer files and artwork ready for printing
- program print machinery settings
- monitor the printing process and meet production deadlines
- troubleshoot production problems and fix them
- check the accuracy and quality of print samples
- apply finishing processes such as folding, binding and laminating
- monitor stock levels and reorder materials
Working environment
You could work in a creative studio, in a workshop or in an office.
Your working environment may be noisy.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- design skills and knowledge
- knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
- the ability to work well with others
- to be flexible and open to change
- observation and recording skills
- maths knowledge
- the ability to use your initiative
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
How to become a print operator
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
- training with a professional body
College
You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need in this job.
Courses include:
- printmaking
- reprographics
- understanding the print working environment
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a print industry apprenticeship with a printing company. For example:
- Print Operative Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Print Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
These apprenticeships can take between 2 and 3 years to complete. They combine training on the job and time spent with a learning provider.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
Work
You could start as a print room or reprographics assistant and become a print operator or technician through on-the-job training and promotion.
Direct application
You'll need a good general standard of education to apply directly for printing jobs. GCSEs in maths, English, art and IT may give you an advantage when looking for work. Some employers may ask for A levels or equivalent qualifications.
Other routes
You can do printing, packaging and graphic communications courses through the British Printing Industries Federation .
Career path and progression
With experience and further training, you could become a team leader, production manager or move into print operations, planning and sales.
Career tips
A working knowledge of desktop publishing software will be useful, though not essential, as you will receive training from your employer.
Guides for this industry
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