Printing Press Operators
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Set up and operate digital, letterpress, lithographic, flexographic, gravure, or other printing machines. Includes short-run offset printing presses.
Median pay: $45,780/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: -8.1% projected growth, 2024–2034 — declining.
About 13,700 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Start presses and pull proofs to check for ink coverage and density, alignment, and registration.
• Examine job orders to determine quantities to be printed, stock specifications, colors, or special printing instructions.
• Adjust ink fountain flow rates.
• Verify that paper and ink meet the specifications for a given job.
• Collect and inspect random samples during print runs to identify any necessary adjustments.
• Feed paper through press cylinders and adjust feed and tension controls.
• Monitor automated press operation systems and respond to fault, error, or alert messages.
• Load presses with paper and make necessary adjustments, according to paper size.
What's the median pay for Printing Press Operators?
The median pay for Printing Press Operators is $45,780 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Printing Press Operators?
Employment for Printing Press Operators is projected to change -8.1% from 2024 to 2034 - declining.
What education is typically required for Printing Press Operators?
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
How many job openings are there each year for Printing Press Operators?
About 13,700 openings per year, on average, over the decade.