These presses print several colors at once as well as trim and fold the page. Many printing shops are adding computer-controlled presses. With this equipment, operators monitor the printing process on a control panel where they push buttons to make adjustments. Printing Press Operators is in the Manufacturing and Processing Career Cluster. Worker Characteristics Ability to make decisions and solve problems Ability to operate printing presses with precision Ability to mentally imagine what the book will look like when bound Ability to see details in objects, such as the printed pages Ability to coordinate the movement of eyes and hands as when operating machines Ability to move fingers and hands easily and skillfully Physical Demands Frequently need to see nearby objects clearly, such as when reading what was printed Frequently use arms and hands to reach for and handle objects, such as paper Frequently use fingers to pick up small items or operate computers Occasionally lift or move objects that weigh up to 20 pounds Occasionally need to see the difference between colors Occasionally use fingers to feel the texture of paper Occasionally need to judge the distance between objects Occasionally need to talk and listen to coworkers Occasionally stoop, kneel, and crouch while running machines Work Setting Printing press operators work indoors.
Operators generally work under pressure to meet deadlines.
They are also under pressure to make repairs quickly if a machine stops during printing. Pressrooms are noisy so workers wear ear protectors. Operators are occasionally exposed to fumes, odors, and dust. Other hazards include paper cuts and exposure to rapidly moving machine parts. The danger of accidents is much less with computerized presses because operators make most adjustments from a control panel.