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Pre Press Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Printing Manager

Wausau, WI ยท On-site

$72K - $83K/yr

The operations include pre-press submittals through finished print of flexible films. This role ... Develop, implement, and maintain workflows and standard operating procedures designed with a focus ...

Press Assistant

Rhinelander, WI

$16 - $21.25/hr

Support press operator with quality monitoring, machine efficiency optimization, and future job ... Prepare and organize pre-setup materials such as sleeves, mandrels, anilox rolls, and inks for ...

Press Assistant

Rhinelander, WI ยท On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Support press operator with quality monitoring, machine efficiency optimization, and future job ... Prepare and organize pre-setup materials such as sleeves, mandrels, anilox rolls, and inks for ...

Press Assistant

Rhinelander, WI

$16 - $21.25/hr

Support press operator with quality monitoring, machine efficiency optimization, and future job ... Prepare and organize pre-setup materials such as sleeves, mandrels, anilox rolls, and inks for ...

Showing results 21-40

Pre Press Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$12

$19

$28

How much do pre press operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for pre press operator in Wisconsin is $19.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pre press operator?

Pre Press Operators are professionals in the printing industry who prepare digital files and materials for printing. Their responsibilities include reviewing and correcting digital artwork, making color adjustments, and ensuring that files are correctly formatted for various printing presses. They often work with specialized software to produce printing plates or digital proofs and coordinate with designers and press operators to ensure high-quality output. Their role is crucial in preventing errors and maintaining efficiency in the printing process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pre press operator?

To thrive as a Pre Press Operator, you need a solid understanding of printing processes, color theory, and file preparation, often supported by a relevant technical diploma or equivalent experience. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, RIP software, and digital proofing systems is typically necessary. Attention to detail, time management, and strong problem-solving skills help ensure files are print-ready and production deadlines are met. These competencies are crucial to prevent costly errors and maintain high-quality print standards in a fast-paced production environment.

What are some typical challenges a pre press operator might face when preparing files for print production?

Pre Press Operators often encounter challenges such as correcting file errors, managing color consistency across different media, and ensuring all fonts and images are properly embedded or linked. They must also stay up to date with evolving software and printing technologies while meeting tight deadlines. Collaboration with designers, clients, and press operators is essential to resolve issues quickly and maintain print quality throughout the process.

What is the difference between Pre Press Operator vs Print Production Technician?

AspectPre Press OperatorPrint Production Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in printing softwareHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in printing equipment
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, printing plants, officesPrinting facilities, production floors
Job FocusPreparing digital files, color correction, layout adjustmentsOperating printing presses, overseeing print runs
Common UsageDesign firms, commercial printersCommercial printing companies, large print shops

Pre Press Operators primarily focus on preparing digital files and ensuring print-ready materials, while Print Production Technicians handle the actual printing process and machine operation. Both roles require technical skills and certifications, but their responsibilities differ in the production workflow.

Is a pre press operator a good job?

A pre press operator is a skilled role responsible for preparing digital files and printing plates for production, often requiring knowledge of design software and printing processes. The job typically offers steady employment, opportunities for skill development, and may involve working in a manufacturing or printing environment with shift schedules. Job satisfaction depends on individual interests in technical work and the printing industry.

Is a pre press operator a stressful job?

A pre press operator's job can be stressful due to tight deadlines, the need for precision, and the responsibility of preparing print materials accurately. Managing multiple tasks and operating complex equipment like graphic design software and printing presses can contribute to work-related stress.

What are popular job titles related to Pre Press Operator jobs in Wisconsin?

For Pre Press Operator jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pre Press Operator jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Pre Press Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:

Infographic showing various Pre Press Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,680 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Digital Press Operator Apprentice 3rd Shift

RR Donnelley

Cudahy, WI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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


Job description

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 industry’s most trusted portfolio of creative execution and world-wide business process consulting, with services designed to lower environmental impact. With 22,000 clients, including 93% of the Fortune 100, and 32,000 employees across 28 countries, RRD brings the expertise, execution, and scale designed to transform customer touchpoints into meaningful moments of impact.
Job Description

Available Shifts: 

3rd Shift: 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM 

  • Rotating schedule of 3 days one week and 4 days the next week. Includes working Saturday/Sunday every other week.

Compensation: 

Starting Pay Range: $20.00/hr - $26.00/hr 

3rd Shift Premium:  $3/hr 

Job Duties:

  • The position is responsible to set up, adjust, operate, and maintain a number of press equipment
  • Perform all make-ready tasks associated with the type of press operated such as hanging plates or installing cylinders, examine plates/cylinders for imperfections and checks for correct positioning of images, prepping blankets, adjusting tension and register etc.
  • Make necessary color corrections and/or press adjustments prior to production run to meet and maintain the quality specifications of the work
  • Clean, lubricate, and maintain the press, making minor repairs and replacing worn or broken parts as required
  • Performs periodic maintenance recommended by the manufacturer
Qualifications
  • Requires thorough knowledge of offset printing procedures, materials and specifiactions, equipment, and safety requirements and skills to perform assignments
  • Skill to read and understand job specifications and knowledge of press capabilities to determine the most appropriate press usage, press settings and materials needed to run the job successfully
  • Skill to make a variety of difficult precise settings of controls, settings, and adjustments, and to perform routine operational maintenance of equipment
  • Skill inroutine operational maintenance and minor repairs to equipment
  • Knowledge of the appropriate amount of packing pressure needed to obtain the proper printing pressure for the type of job being run
  • Skill in use of micrometer to mount and align the printing plate correctly.

Additional Information

The pay range for this role at the noted location is $20.00 to $26.00 per hour. The actual rate of pay offered may vary based upon, but not limited to: education, skills, experience, proficiency, performance, shift, and location. In addition to base salary, depending on the role, the total compensation package may also include  overtime, shift differential,. RRD offers benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, disability insurance, 401(k) with match, life insurance and other voluntary supplemental insurance coverages, plus tuition assistance, maternity leave, adoption assistance, and employer/partner discounts.

All employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of both a pre-employment background and drug screen.

RRD is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans