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Printer Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Lebanon, PA

$54K - $71K/yr

Our company provides printing services and flexible packaging for renowned brands. Responsibilities * Learn to operate and lead a Roto Gravure or Flexo printing machine. * Participate in a 6-8 month ...

Flexible Packaging

Machine Operator Assistant

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Poly Print is seeking Machine Operator Assistants for the following departments: Laminator, Pouch, Slitter, and Press. Set up and operate the machines to produce finished products meeting customer ...

Centrix Inc

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Shelton, CT · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Manual Pad Printing Machine Operator - Level II Has ability to operate at least four out of the five Level I machinery and one level II machine. The Level II Machine Operator position has knowledge ...

Centrix Inc

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Shelton, CT · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Manual Pad Printing Machine Operator - Level II Has ability to operate at least four out of the five Level I machinery and one level II machine. The Level II Machine Operator position has knowledge ...

Centrix Inc

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Shelton, CT · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Manual Pad Printing Machine Operator - Level II Has ability to operate at least four out of the five Level I machinery and one level II machine. The Level II Machine Operator position has knowledge ...

Centrix Inc

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Shelton, CT · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Manual Pad Printing Machine Operator - Level II Has ability to operate at least four out of the five Level I machinery and one level II machine. The Level II Machine Operator position has knowledge ...

Centrix Inc

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Shelton, CT · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Manual Pad Printing Machine Operator - Level II Has ability to operate at least four out of the five Level I machinery and one level II machine. The Level II Machine Operator position has knowledge ...

Centrix Inc

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Shelton, CT · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Manual Pad Printing Machine Operator - Level II Has ability to operate at least four out of the five Level I machinery and one level II machine. The Level II Machine Operator position has knowledge ...

Hire Energy

Machine Operator - Printing

Grand Prairie, TX

$16 - $19.25/hr

Machine operators in printing, folding, and inserting involve setting up, operating, and maintaining high-speed equipment to produce printed, folded, and mailed materials. These roles require ...

Hire Energy

Machine Operator - Printing

Dallas, TX

$16.75 - $20/hr

Machine operators in printing, folding, and inserting involve setting up, operating, and maintaining high-speed equipment to produce printed, folded, and mailed materials. These roles require ...

Viking Packaging

Machine Operator

New Paltz, NY

$19 - $23/hr

Experience operating a high-speed printing machine preferred * Must have the ability to adhere to policies and standards * Must be able to lift 50 lbs * High school degree, GED, or equivalent working ...

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Printer Machine Operator information

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How much do printer machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for printer machine operator in the United States is $18.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Printer Machine Operator do?

A Printer Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining printing presses to produce high-quality printed materials. They prepare machines by installing plates or cylinders, loading paper or other substrates, and adjusting ink levels. Operators monitor the production process, check for quality issues, and troubleshoot mechanical problems as needed. They also perform routine maintenance to keep the machines running smoothly and may assist with finishing tasks like cutting or binding.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Printer Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Printer Machine Operator, strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent are typically required. Familiarity with printing presses, color management systems, and basic computer skills—sometimes supplemented by on-the-job training or certifications—are essential. Effective problem-solving, time management, and communication skills help operators maintain workflow and collaborate with team members. These competencies ensure efficient production, minimize errors, and maintain safety and quality standards on the printing floor.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where operators may earn higher wages due to technical skills and certifications. Roles like CNC machine operators or those operating advanced automation equipment tend to have higher salaries compared to general machine operators.

What are some common challenges Printer Machine Operators face during production runs, and how can they be managed?

Printer Machine Operators often encounter issues such as paper jams, ink inconsistencies, or mechanical malfunctions during production. These challenges require quick troubleshooting skills to minimize downtime and maintain print quality. Staying proactive with routine maintenance, closely monitoring machine settings, and collaborating with maintenance teams can help address problems efficiently. Operators also benefit from clear communication with supervisors and fellow team members to coordinate workflow and meet tight deadlines.

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

AspectPrinter Machine OperatorPrint Finisher
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require technical certificationsHigh school diploma; specialized finishing certifications are a plus
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or print shop settings operating printing machineryPost-press environments focusing on finishing processes like cutting, binding, and laminating
Job FocusOperating and maintaining printing machines to produce printed materialsPerforming finishing tasks to enhance and finalize printed products

The main difference is that Printer Machine Operators focus on running printing equipment, while Print Finishers handle the final touches to printed materials. Both roles are essential in the printing industry and often work closely together to produce high-quality printed products.

What is the salary of a printer?

The salary of a printer machine operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages. The job often requires familiarity with printing machinery and safety protocols.

What does a printing machine operator do?

A printing machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining printing presses to produce printed materials such as newspapers, packaging, or promotional items. They monitor the printing process for quality, make adjustments as needed, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Skills in machine operation, attention to detail, and knowledge of printing techniques are essential for this role.

How to become a print operator?

To become a print machine operator, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or technical courses in printing technology. Skills in operating printing equipment, understanding color management, and attention to detail are important, and some employers may require certification in printing or related machinery. Experience with computer-aided design (CAD) or graphic software can also be beneficial.
More about Printer Machine Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Printer Machine Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Printer Machine Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Printer Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,213 per year, or $18.9 per hour.
Press Machine Operator Assistant

Press Machine Operator Assistant

Poly Print Inc

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Press Machine Operator Assistant

APPLY TODAY! IMMEDIATE INTERVIEW AND START!

Job Summary:

The press assistant must assist the press operator in all functions in the press department. Assisting the operator in the set up and operation of the printing press to produce printed products meeting customer specifications. Assist in monitoring of solvent & inks by proper viscosity. Insertion of shaft through cores and secure roll-on press to the feed position. To assist in the goals in productivity, quality, safety, low waste, and teamwork.

Education:

High School diploma or equivalent

Experience:

Entry level position: Job training provided

Requirements:

  • Must be a team player, reliable with strong work ethic.
  • Trained in proper handling and disposal of hazardous waste.
  • Able to read a tape measure.
  • Able to push between 50 to 75 lbs. minimum.
  • Must be able to walk, squat, crouch, turn, twist, stretch, climb steps, grab, pull, push, and bend throughout a 8 plus hour shift.
  • Palletizing, labeling and stacking rolls to keep the operator running
  • Moving product to the staging area

Duties:

  • Hearing and visual acuity for machine set up.
  • Pushing buttons, turning handles, moving controls or levers to start printing machine or manually controlling equipment (regards to speed, temperature, ink flow, and position/pressure tolerances of press)
  • Loading, positioning, and adjusting unprinted films on unwind and rewind shafts.
  • Reviewing work orders to determine ink, film, and any special notes for the specific job.
  • Dismantling and reassembling printing units or parts to clean, repair, maintain or adjust the machine.
  • Cleaning and lubricating printing machine and components, using solvents, oils, brushes and/or rags.
  • Inspecting and examining printed products for print clarity, color accuracy, conformance to specification and external defects
  • Monitoring and controlling operation of auxiliary equipment, such as viscometers.
  • Perform cleaning tasks as outlined in the cleaning logs (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.)
  • Trained in the handling of hazardous materials, spill control and clean up.