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Entry Level Printing Plate Maker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Verstela

Printing Plate Maker

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$24/hr

We are hiring a Flexographic Printing Plate Maker to join our production team! This is a hands-on manufacturing position focused on producing high-quality printing plates used in the corrugated ...

SEEK Careers Staffing

Offset Plate Maker

Lomira, WI · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Keywords: printing, plate maker About SEEK Careers/Staffing You are a person with unique skills, experience and education. When you want to be heard and when you want to be matched with great career ...

Matthews International

Plate Maker

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

POSITION SUMMARY The Plate Maker performs a variety of tasks related to producing polymer printing plates of varying thickness from polymer sheet material. JOB RESPONSIBILITIES * Sorts and ...

sgsco

Plate Maker

Brooklyn Park, MN · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Our Brooklyn Park location has an opening for a 2nd shift Plate Maker, an entry level role that requires NO EXPERIENCE in manufacturing. Hours: 1:00pm - 9:30pm The starting pay for this position is ...

Schawk USA LLC

Plate Maker

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Our Brooklyn Park location has an opening for a 2nd shift Plate Maker, an entry level role that requires NO EXPERIENCE in manufacturing. Hours: 1:00pm - 9:30pm The starting pay for this position is ...

sgsco

Plate Maker

Brooklyn Park, MN · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Our Brooklyn Park location has an opening for a 2nd shift Plate Maker, an entry level role that requires NO EXPERIENCE in manufacturing. Hours: 1:00pm - 9:30pm The starting pay for this position is ...

Matthews International

Plate Maker

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

POSITION SUMMARY The Plate Maker performs a variety of tasks related to producing polymer printing plates of varying thickness from polymer sheet material. JOB RESPONSIBILITIES * Sorts and ...

SGS & Co

Plate Maker

Brooklyn Park, MN · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Our Brooklyn Park location has an opening for a 2nd shift Plate Maker, an entry level role that requires NO EXPERIENCE in manufacturing. Hours: 1:00pm - 9:30pm The starting pay for this position is ...

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Entry Level Printing Plate Maker information

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How much do entry level printing plate maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level printing plate maker in the United States is $16.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level printing plate maker do?

An entry level printing plate maker is responsible for preparing and producing printing plates that are used in various printing processes, such as offset or flexographic printing. Their duties typically include setting up and operating plate-making equipment, following job specifications, inspecting finished plates for quality, and maintaining a clean work area. They may also assist with basic troubleshooting and learn about different types of materials and techniques used in plate making. This role is often considered a starting point for a career in the printing industry, offering hands-on experience and opportunities for advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level printing plate maker?

To thrive as an Entry Level Printing Plate Maker, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with plate-making machinery, digital imaging software, and safety procedures is often required, with some employers providing on-the-job training or seeking candidates with relevant certifications. Strong problem-solving skills, reliability, and the ability to work efficiently as part of a team are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for producing accurate printing plates, maintaining equipment, and ensuring consistent quality in print production.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level printing plate makers, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level printing plate makers often encounter challenges such as mastering the technical aspects of plate preparation, maintaining high quality standards, and managing tight production deadlines. Attention to detail is essential, as small errors can affect the entire printing process. These challenges can be overcome through hands-on training, seeking guidance from experienced team members, and developing strong organizational skills. Being proactive in learning about new technologies and safety protocols can also make the transition smoother and support career growth within the printing industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Printing Plate Maker vs Printing Press Operator?

AspectEntry Level Printing Plate MakerPrinting Press Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic technical trainingHigh school diploma; on-the-job training or technical certification
Work EnvironmentPrint shops, manufacturing facilities, production areasPrint shops, commercial printing facilities, production floors
Job FocusPreparing and creating printing plates for pressesOperating printing presses to produce printed materials
Common UsageUsed in pre-press departments, focusing on plate creationUsed in production departments, focusing on printing process

While both roles are essential in the printing industry, the Entry Level Printing Plate Maker specializes in preparing printing plates, whereas the Printing Press Operator manages the actual printing process. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the printing industry.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Printing Plate Maker jobs?

The most popular types of Printing Plate Maker jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Printing Plate Maker jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Printing Plate Maker jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Printing Plate Maker jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Printing Plate Maker jobs are:

Entry Level Printing Plate Maker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Printing Plate Maker job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,749 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Printing Plate Maker

Standard Printing Company

Canton, OH • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Every great press run starts with a perfect plate.
Standard Printing Company is seeking a detail-oriented Plate Maker to join our Prepress team and keep our presses running at peak quality.
$2,000 HIRING BONUS
POSITION SUMMARY
The Plate Maker operates the Magnus VLF computer-to-plate (CTP) imaging system and Kodak automatic plate processor to produce printing plates according to customer and job specifications. This role is critical to pressroom quality — every plate that hits the press has to be right the first time. You will be responsible for maintaining production schedules, upholding strict quality standards, and keeping your equipment properly maintained and supplied.
This is a full-time, third-shift position. Schedule: 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM.
ABOUT STANDARD PRINTING COMPANY
Standard Printing Company has operated since 1923, utilizing a combination of trained personnel, equipment, and technology. As an established offset and digital commercial printer, the company is seeking individuals interested in long-term careers with a reputable and expanding business. Our pursuit of success is guided by our fundamental values: serving as Customer Advocates, maintaining Operational Excellence, demonstrating Integrity, fostering Trust through Transparency, and remaining grounded in Tradition while dedicated to Progress.
Learn more about us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5wHadiWauow
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Read and interpret job ticket instructions to determine plate specifications and job requirements.
  • Set up and operate the Magnus VLF CTP imaging system to expose plates according to job specifications.
  • Run exposed plates through the Kodak automatic plate processor, monitoring developer and dryer conditions per manufacturer specifications.
  • Measure and verify plate specifications (registration, punch, dimensions) against job ticket requirements.
  • Inspect processed plates for image quality and exposure accuracy; reimage or reject plates that do not meet quality standards.
  • Ensure correct plate material and consumables (developer, gum, punch templates) are available for each job.
  • Perform daily, weekly, and monthly preventive maintenance on the VLF imager and plate processor per manufacturer schedules.
  • Maintain adequate inventory of plates and processing consumables; reorder as needed.
  • Maintain accurate production records, including plate counts, job tickets, and processor chemistry logs.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area, including proper handling and disposal of plate-processing chemistry.
  • Perform other prepress duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • 1-2 years of recent, dependable work experience; printing or prepress experience a plus.
  • Understanding of CTP imaging workflows and thermal plate technology preferred.
  • Computer proficiency for operating CTP imaging software and workflow systems.
  • Precision measurement and quality-inspection skills.
  • Basic mechanical aptitude for routine equipment maintenance.
  • Ability to read and interpret job tickets and prepress specifications.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain quality standards under deadline pressure.
  • Ability to prioritize work and adapt to rapidly changing production demands.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to stand for extended periods.
  • Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
  • Occasional exposure to plate-processing chemistry; PPE required (gloves, safety glasses).
WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Prepress/plate room environment; may involve exposure to plate-processing chemical odors.
  • Third shift position: 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM.
  • PPE required when handling processor chemistry per current SDS requirements.
WHY SHOULD YOU APPLY?
Compensation: Competitive wages based on experience, plus a $2,000 hiring bonus.
Benefits on Day One: Medical, Dental, Vision, and 401(k) with company match — available from your first day of employment.
Growth amp; Development: We invest in our people. You will have access to ongoing training and real opportunities for career advancement within our Prepress and production teams.
Technology: Operate industry-leading Magnus VLF CTP and Kodak plate processing equipment in a well-maintained, modern facility.
Culture: Join a family-oriented team that has been serving customers since 1923 — stable, growing, and genuinely invested in the people who do the work.
Standard Printing Company — Canton, Ohio | In business since 1923

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