It is important for beginners to complete the required course of study in a technical school or college where printing equipment is available. Demand is growing slowly for rotogravure Press Operators even though the process is experiencing increased use in catalog and magazine publication. Due to the high cost of rotogravure presses, they are rarely found in small shops. Sheet-fed Offset Press Operators will find more openings, particularly in smaller firms. Specialties such as the printing of business forms, engravings, and lithography on metals, plastics, and fabrics employ most of the remaining press operators.
Exceptions exist in magazine printing plants where the normal workweek includes the weekend.
Fringe benefits generally include paid holidays, vacations, sick leave, and health and retirement plans. Only a few firms provide group life insurance. Other benefits include company-subsidized cafeterias, credit unions, and various recreational activities. During the training period, the pay increases every six months if the required hours are completed successfully. For apprenticeship information contact the California Department of Industrial Relations, Division of Apprenticeship Standards.