About Offset Printing Jobs

Offset printing is one type of technique used to print newspapers, magazines and high volume publications. Working as an offset press operator is demanding physically and mentally, your main job is to problem solves errors and maintains a high quality press machine.

Overview

In the process of offset printing, ink is placed on a metal plate etched with graphics or text, which transfers to a rubber blanket, and applied to paper by pressing it against the rubber blanket. Printing machine operators control the complete run of print jobs on an offset printing press. Duties for an offset press operator involves monitoring for errors during print runs, pulling sheets to check for quality and consistency, fixing problem quickly to maintain schedules and technical maintenance of equipment. Retired older skilled workers with traditional skills have allowed diverse workers to transform the industry with technology.

Education

The printing industry started with apprenticeships that allowed works to move up to Press Room Supervisor positions. Smaller printing shops do practice that type of employment, larger printing companies prefer employees with college training in printing equipment operation. These college programs are two years and give an associate degree. Both businesses teach on the job from the preparation of ink to the mechanical maintenance of different type of printing presses. Computerized presses require newer printing machine operators to be literate in basic computer skills. Taking classes in color theory, science, electronics and mathematics do to technical expansion helps with problem solving on the job.

Careers

The job employment of press operators are expected to decline in the next 20 years. Technology is allowed for most tasks to be automated and print speed on print jobs to increase. As older industry workers retire, new workers are allowed to enter. Over the years, the demand for personalized print jobs has grown within the industry. The salary earning for press operators depend on geographic location, job experience and the difficult of the press operated. Wages for a press operator are hourly, the yearly salary estimate is $25,000 to $45,000; based on the lowest and highest rates reported.