Printing Press Operators
Also known as: Aniline Press Worker, Back Up Machine Operator, Backer (+208 more)
Set up and operate digital, letterpress, lithographic, flexographic, gravure, or other printing machines. Includes short-run offset printing presses.
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What You'll Do
- Adjust digital files to alter print elements, such as fonts, graphics, or color separations.
- Adjust ink fountain flow rates.
- Change press plates, blankets, or cylinders, as required.
- Clean ink fountains, plates, or printing unit cylinders when press runs are completed.
- Clean or oil presses or make minor repairs, using hand tools.
- Collect and inspect random samples during print runs to identify any necessary adjustments.
- Download or scan files to be printed, using printing production software.
- Examine job orders to determine quantities to be printed, stock specifications, colors, or special printing instructions.
- Feed paper through press cylinders and adjust feed and tension controls.
- Input production job settings into workstation terminals that control automated printing systems.
Essential Skills
Career Fit Overview
Use this summary to sense whether the day to day rhythm and focus of this path line up with what energizes you.
Top passions
- Organizer: Bringing order to data and processes satisfies you.
- Maker: Building and fixing energizes you. You like tangible results and practical tools.
- Leader: Taking charge and moving ideas forward motivates you.
Common styles
Attention to Detail, Dependability, Independence, Integrity, Stress Tolerance
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Key Abilities
This career demands strong capabilities in the following areas:
Technologies & Tools
Work Environment & Style
Common Styles for This Career
- Attention to Detail (High importance: 4.52/5)
- Dependability (High importance: 4.25/5)
- Independence (High importance: 3.8/5)
- Integrity (High importance: 3.78/5)
- Stress Tolerance (High importance: 3.71/5)
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Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience may be helpful but is usually not required. Training is often provided on the job.
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Also Known As
This career is known by many different job titles across industries. Here are all the variations:
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