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Platemaker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Platemaker/Ink Technician Prepress

Aurora, IL ยท On-site

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

The Platemaker is responsible for creating plates using Prinect shooter print manager and CTP user interface software. To produce plates, the platemaker must read and understand work orders and ...

Platemaker/Ink Technician Prepress

Aurora, IL ยท On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

The Platemaker is responsible for creating plates using Prinect shooter print manager and CTP user interface software. To produce plates, the platemaker must read and understand work orders and ...

Platemaker ROLE OVERVIEW The Platemaker - Operative is responsible for producing plates and ensure the quality of the finished product through the utilization of QC tools/software. Prepare all of our ...

Platemaker ROLE OVERVIEW The Platemaker - Operative is responsible for producing plates and ensure the quality of the finished product through the utilization of QC tools/software. Prepare all of our ...

Platemaker/Ink Technician Prepress

Aurora, IL ยท On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

The Platemaker is responsible for creating plates using Prinect shooter print manager and CTP user interface software. To produce plates, the platemaker must read and understand work orders and ...

Flexo & Offset Platemaker

Allen, TX

$20 - $26.50/hr

Flexo & Offset Platemaker Department: Prepress / Plate Department Reports To: Prepress Manager / Production Manager Position Summary The Flexo & Offset Platemaker is responsible for producing high ...

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Platemaker

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Please use URL to apply: -Printers- Corporation/Platemaker

Flexo & Offset Platemaker

Allen, TX ยท On-site

$20 - $26.50/hr

Flexo & Offset Platemaker Department: Prepress / Plate Department Reports To: Prepress Manager / Production Manager Position Summary The Flexo & Offset Platemaker is responsible for producing high ...

Journeyman Platemaker

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$26.19/hr

Summary: The Denver Post, a subsidiary of MediaNews Group, is seeking a Journeyman Platemaker to join the team! What you will do: * Process plates to be sent through to the press * Work within ...

Summary: The Denver Post, a subsidiary of MediaNews Group, is seeking a Journeyman Platemaker to join the team! What you will do: * Process plates to be sent through to the press * Work within ...

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Platemaker

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Description Job Summary: Performs manual and machine operated tasks related to producing plates. This position also requires comparing printed signatures to the final bound proof to ensure correct ...

Platemaker

Jefferson City, MO ยท On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Join a Legacy of Quality, Innovation, and Community Modern Litho is a local, family-owned printing company with over 85 years of industry-leading experience. We specialize in high-quality commercial ...

Platemaker

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Description: Job Summary: Performs manual and machine operated tasks related to producing plates. This position also requires comparing printed signatures to the final bound proof to ensure correct ...

Join a Legacy of Quality, Innovation, and Community Modern Litho is a local, family-owned printing company with over 85 years of industry-leading experience. We specialize in high-quality commercial ...

Platemaker

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Job Summary: Performs manual and machine operated tasks related to producing plates. This position also requires comparing printed signatures to the final bound proof to ensure correct pagination.

Platemaker

Jefferson City, MO ยท On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Join a Legacy of Quality, Innovation, and Community Modern Litho is a local, family-owned printing company with over 85 years of industry-leading experience. We specialize in high-quality commercial ...

Platemaker_KR

Saint Charles, IL ยท On-site

$18.69 - $27.60/hr

Company Description RRD is a leading global provider of marketing, packaging, print, and supply chain solutions that elevate engagement across the complete customer journey. The company offers the ...

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Platemaker information

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How much do platemaker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for platemaker 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Platemaker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Platemaker, you need a solid understanding of printing processes, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with prepress software, imaging equipment, and plate-making machinery is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, reliability, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure the accurate production of high-quality printing plates, directly impacting print quality and workflow efficiency.

What are some typical challenges faced by a platemaker, and how can they be addressed?

Platemakers often encounter tight production deadlines and the need to maintain high accuracy when preparing printing plates. Common challenges include managing multiple plate jobs simultaneously, troubleshooting plate exposure or quality issues, and adapting to evolving printing technologies. Staying organized, closely following job specifications, and maintaining equipment can help mitigate these challenges. Collaborating with press operators and prepress teams also ensures that any issues are resolved quickly, supporting smooth production runs.

What are platemakers?

Platemakers are skilled professionals who prepare printing plates used in various printing processes, such as offset, flexographic, or gravure printing. They work with specialized equipment and materials to create plates that transfer images and text onto paper, packaging, or other surfaces. Platemakers must ensure that the plates are accurate and high-quality, as they directly impact the final print product. Their responsibilities often include reading job specifications, operating imaging devices, and performing quality checks throughout the plate-making process.

What is the difference between Platemaker vs Prepress Technician?

AspectPlatemakerPrepress Technician
CredentialsTechnical training, certifications in printing technologySimilar certifications, often with additional graphic design skills
Work EnvironmentPrinting plants, commercial print shopsPrepress departments, printing companies
Industry UsageSpecific to plate production for printing pressesBroader role including file preparation and color correction
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding plate production processesPrepress workflow and file management

The main difference between a Platemaker and a Prepress Technician is that a Platemaker focuses specifically on creating printing plates, while a Prepress Technician handles the entire file preparation process, including color correction and layout. Both roles require technical skills and work in printing environments, but the Prepress Technician's role is broader, encompassing more aspects of the prepress workflow.

More about Platemaker jobs
What are popular job titles related to Platemaker jobs? For Platemaker jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Platemaker job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,749 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Platemaker/Ink Technician Prepress

Groupe Lacroix

Aurora, IL โ€ข On-site

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description:
The Platemaker is responsible for creating plates using Prinect shooter print manager and CTP user interface software. To produce plates, the platemaker must read and understand work orders and schedules. The platemaker must also maintain accurate plate production records. This position works closely with the pressroom.
The Ink Technician is responsible for creating a color by mixing ink using the Ink dispenser and must work closely with the Press and purchasing department. Must have a printing and/or pre-press background.
REQUIREMENTS:
โ€ข

  • Minimum of 1 year of experience in the Printing Industry.
  • Ability to lift/move up to 15 lbs.
  • Computer experience is required.
  • Excellent communication skills in English (speaking & writing) are necessary.
  • Proactive team player & able to work independently.
  • Versatility, resourcefulness, and positive attitude is a MUST!
  • Punctuality & flexibility (Available for overtime as needed)
RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:
Operate CTP & Plate Processor Equipment
  • Operates Prinect software and shooter to expose digital thermal plates for offset printing production.
  • Attention to detail is required to review plates, determine their quality, and check with the work order for reference. Handle plates with care.
  • Reviews work orders for clarity and is responsible for outputting correct plates. Records plates made and adheres to prepress workflow sheet for complete plate production.
  • Performs maintenance, minor mechanical adjustments or repairs equipment following an established preventive maintenance schedule. Ensure all raw material is available for production.
  • Ability to work independently and also in a team effort with close collaboration with the Pressroom
  • Responsible for plate production and the timely output of work orders, ability to adjust on the spot for rush situations.
  • Performs other related duties and participates in special projects as assigned.
  • Required to perform preventive maintenance daily to dispose of chemicals and other raw materials.
Adobe/Mac Knowledge
  • Ability to create Step and Repeat of work orders using Esko automation engine software
  • Comfortable working with Adobe Illustrator as well as operating plotting table
  • Operating Nexus Manager for file management of problematic file curve adjustments
Operate Sun Chemical MX12 Ink Dispenser
  • The ink dispenser will be operated to maintain the necessary ink for the planned production.
  • Ability to read and understand the Production schedule to calculate the ink needed to mix for the planned production.
  • Use a computer to create object tags in our ERP system for the ink mixed.
  • Good communication between the press department and the Purchasing department.
  • Maintain ink inventory