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Offset Printer Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Prepress Operator

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

We produce a wide variety of printed products using offset, digital, and wide-format equipment. We're looking for an experienced Prepress Operator who enjoys solving file challenges, working closely ...

Prepress Operator

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

We produce a wide variety of printed products using offset, digital, and wide-format equipment. We're looking for an experienced Prepress Operator who enjoys solving file challenges, working closely ...

Prepress Operator

Kirkland, WA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

We produce a wide variety of printed products using offset, digital, and wide-format equipment. We're looking for an experienced Prepress Operator who enjoys solving file challenges, working closely ...

Offset Printer Operator information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$16

$27

$35

How much do offset printer operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for offset printer operator in Seattle, WA is $27.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.27 and $30.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an offset printer operator?

Offset Printer Operators are skilled workers who set up, run, and maintain offset printing presses. They are responsible for preparing printing plates, loading paper, adjusting ink levels, and monitoring print quality throughout the production run. Offset Printer Operators also perform routine maintenance on the presses and troubleshoot any issues that arise to ensure efficient and high-quality printing. Their work is essential in producing newspapers, books, packaging, and other printed materials.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an offset printer operator?

To thrive as an Offset Printer Operator, you need a solid understanding of printing processes, color theory, and mechanical aptitude, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with offset printing presses, prepress software, and quality control systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work efficiently under deadlines are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure the production of high-quality prints, minimize errors, and maintain smooth workflow in a fast-paced printing environment.

What challenges do offset printer operators face during a typical print run, and how are they addressed?

Offset Printer Operators often encounter challenges such as color inconsistencies, paper jams, or registration errors during print runs. Addressing these issues requires a keen eye for detail, quick troubleshooting skills, and familiarity with the press's mechanical and digital controls. Operators routinely monitor print quality, adjust ink flow or pressure settings, and perform maintenance checks to minimize downtime. Collaborating closely with prepress technicians and quality control ensures that final products meet client specifications and deadlines.

What is the difference between Offset Printer Operator vs Print Finisher?

AspectOffset Printer OperatorPrint Finisher
Primary RoleOperates and maintains offset printing presses to produce printed materialsPerforms finishing tasks like cutting, folding, binding, and trimming
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of printing presses, color management, and safety certificationsSkills in binding, cutting, and finishing equipment; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentPrint shops, manufacturing facilitiesPrint shops, bindery, finishing departments
Industry UsageHigh-volume printing operationsPost-press finishing processes

The Offset Printer Operator focuses on operating printing presses to produce high-quality prints, while the Print Finisher handles the finishing touches like binding and trimming. Both roles are essential in the printing industry but involve different skill sets and responsibilities.

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Offset Printer Operator jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Offset Printer Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Offset Printer Operator job openings in Seattle, WA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,456 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Prepress Operator

Kirkland, WA • On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

PREPRESS OPERATOR (FULL-TIME) 
About Leatherback Printing 
Leatherback Printing is a fast-paced commercial print manufacturer serving customers throughout the Pacific Northwest. We produce a wide variety of printed products using offset, digital, and wide-format equipment. 
We're looking for an experienced Prepress Operator who enjoys solving file challenges, working closely with production teams, and ensuring jobs are set up correctly before they reach the pressroom. 
This is a hands-on production role with the opportunity to work alongside and learn from one of the most experienced prepress professionals in our company. The ideal candidate takes ownership of file quality, catches issues before they reach production, and helps keep jobs moving efficiently through the plant. 
What You'll Do 
  • Review customer artwork and identify issues before production. 
  • Perform preflight checks and file corrections using Adobe Acrobat Pro and Enfocus PitStop. 
  • Prepare files for offset, digital, and wide-format printing. 
  • Create proofs for internal review and customer approval. 
  • Build impositions for a variety of print projects. 
  • Generate printing plates and production-ready files. 
  • Verify color spaces, spot colors, bleeds, resolution, fonts, and other critical file attributes. 
  • Work closely with customer service representatives, estimators, and press operators to ensure jobs move smoothly through production. 
  • Troubleshoot file-related production issues and recommend solutions. 
  • Help maintain efficient prepress workflows and quality standards. 
Qualifications 
Required 
  • 5+ years of commercial print prepress experience. 
  • Advanced proficiency with:  
  • Adobe InDesign 
  • Adobe Illustrator 
  • Adobe Photoshop 
  • Adobe Acrobat Pro 
  • Enfocus PitStop 
  • Experience preparing files for offset, digital, and wide-format printing. 
  • Strong understanding of imposition, color modes, resolution, bleeds, trapping, and print production terminology. 
  • Experience creating and reviewing production proofs. 
  • Strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. 
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds. 
Benefits 
  • Competitive Pay 
  • Generous Paid Time Off 
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance 
  • Life and AD&D Insurance 
  • 401(k) with Company Match 
Work Environment 
This position is based in a manufacturing and warehouse environment. Employees may be exposed to printing equipment, moving machinery, paper dust, airborne particles, and elevated noise levels. Appropriate safety procedures and personal protective equipment are provided where required.