Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Perform work involved in developing and processing photographic images from film or digital media. May perform precision tasks such as editing photographic negatives and prints.
Median pay: $40,610/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: -2.6% projected growth, 2024–2034 — declining.
About 1,500 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.
• Select digital images for printing, specify number of images to be printed, and direct to printer, using computer software.
• Create prints according to customer specifications and laboratory protocols.
• Produce color or black-and-white photographs, negatives, or slides, applying standard photographic reproduction techniques and procedures.
• Set or adjust machine controls, according to specifications, type of operation, or material requirements.
• Review computer-processed digital images for quality.
• Operate scanners or related computer equipment to digitize negatives, photographic prints, or other images.
• Fill tanks of processing machines with solutions such as developer, dyes, stop-baths, fixers, bleaches, or washes.
• Measure and mix chemicals to prepare solutions for processing, according to formulas.
What's the median pay for Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators?
The median pay for Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators is $40,610 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators?
Employment for Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators is projected to change -2.6% from 2024 to 2034 - declining.
What education is typically required for Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators?
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
How many job openings are there each year for Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators?
About 1,500 openings per year, on average, over the decade.