Former printing press operators who have experience but were laid off will have a good chance of getting positions. Opportunities will also be good for those who qualify for apprenticeships or who complete training programs. Preparation Applicants for press operation jobs may find that a background in chemistry, electronics, color theory, and physics is helpful. To work on new presses, operators need computer skills. Operators gain their skills on the job, through an apprenticeship, or in a training program.
Most operators start as helpers and learn the skills needed to become operators.
In the beginning, trainees load, unload, and clean presses. Eventually they move up to operating multicolor presses. Apprenticeships last for four years, but are becoming less common. Instead of four-year apprenticeships, many operators participate in training programs at community colleges. These programs take one to two years to complete.