To work as a printing press operator, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• complete moderate-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

Some printing press operators complete formal training programs. Professional-technical schools and two-year colleges offer printing technology programs. Some programs are two years in length and award an associate degree. Other programs are one year or less and award a certificate. These programs teach printing press operations, automation, and computer skills.

On-the-job training

Most printing press operators learn their skills on the job. Either an experienced worker leads your training or you attend an employer-sponsored training program. You usually begin as a helper and do basic tasks, such as load and unload machines. As you get more experience, you learn to operate one-color, sheet-fed presses. Later you learn to operate multicolor presses. Training can last from one month to one year.

Military training

The military trains people to become printing specialists. Training lasts from eight to 20 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.