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Printing Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Electrical Automation Services Inc

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Pressman - Container Printing

Batavia, IL ยท On-site

Previous Lithographic printing experience preferred * Responsibilities * Maintain can decorators to ... Complete assigned work accurately and on time. * Assist in maintaining appropriate inventory levels ...

Electrical Automation Services Inc

Be Seen First

Pressman - Container Printing

Batavia, IL ยท On-site

Previous Lithographic printing experience preferred * Responsibilities * Maintain can decorators to ... Complete assigned work accurately and on time. * Assist in maintaining appropriate inventory levels ...

Destaco

Manufacturing Engineer Co-op

Wheeling, IL ยท On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Development of models in SolidWorks and 3D printing. * Assist in immediate containment and countermeasures to suppliers (internal/external) and customer quality complaints. * Conducting Gauge R&R and ...

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All JobsPrinting JobsPrinting Assistant JobsPrinting Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Printing Assistant information

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$5

$19

$28

How much do printing assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for printing assistant in Chicago, IL is $19.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a printing assistant do?

A Printing Assistant supports the printing process by preparing materials, setting up printing equipment, and assisting print operators with production tasks. They help ensure that machines run smoothly, monitor print quality, and may be responsible for cleaning and maintaining equipment. Printing Assistants also manage paper stocks, inks, and other supplies, and may assist in packaging finished products. Their role is essential for efficient print shop operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a printing assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Printing Assistant, you need attention to detail, basic mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with printing machinery, quality control tools, and sometimes digital printing software is typically required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in fast-paced print environments. These competencies ensure efficient production, minimize errors, and contribute to a smooth workflow in printing operations.

What are some common challenges faced by printing assistants in a fast-paced print shop, and how can they be managed?

Printing Assistants in busy print shops often encounter challenges such as managing tight production deadlines, handling multiple print jobs simultaneously, and quickly troubleshooting minor equipment issues. Staying organized and maintaining clear communication with the print team can help ensure jobs are prioritized correctly and completed on time. Developing a basic understanding of printer maintenance and being proactive about supplies also helps minimize downtime, making the workflow smoother and more efficient.

What is the difference between Printing Assistant vs Print Operator?

AspectPrinting AssistantPrint Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentPrint shops, manufacturing facilities, print production areasPrint shops, commercial printing companies, industrial settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with setup, loading materials, basic maintenanceOperating printing machines, monitoring quality, troubleshooting
Industry UsageCommonly used in print production workflowsMore focused on machine operation and quality control

The main difference between a Printing Assistant and a Print Operator lies in their responsibilities. Printing Assistants typically support the printing process by preparing materials and assisting with setup, while Print Operators handle the actual operation of printing machines and quality control. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but Print Operators usually have more technical skills and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Printing jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Printing jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Printing Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Printing Assistant job openings:

Printing Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Printing Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,497 per year, or $19 per hour.

Prepress Coordinator

Phoenix International Publications, Inc.

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Other

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

At Phoenix International Publications, Inc., weโ€™re committed to crafting engaging, educational, and entertaining books for young readers to encourage a lifelong love of story time! Together with our licensing partners, including Disney, Nickelodeon, Sesame Workshop, Baby Einstein, World of Eric Carle, and more, we create award-winning sound books, song books, picture books, board books, and novelty books that provide a unique, interactive reading experience for children and their families around the world.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Prepress Coordinator. This full-time position is based in our Chicago office. Are you ready to join our fun and creative team?

To be considered for this opportunity, you must submit a cover letter, resume and salary expectations.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • For all assigned projects, review book and packaging layouts for proper production and printer issues, such as bleed, foil and embossing layers, taglines, pagination, template, and construction.
  • Receive and check all final project files, create print-ready PDF files, preflight files, and output color proofs to route using Gracol7 color calibration standards.
  • Upload plate-ready PDF files and proofs to printers, receive and review soft proofs for each project, request and review cover treatments via press proofs, and give printers the final OK to proceed to bulk printing.
  • Assist when issues relating to advance book samples arise by communicating directly with the printer.
  • Communicate daily with overseas printers on current projects.
  • Maintain complete project information, including all transactions and communication with printers.
  • Order, manage, and approve foil stamping and embossing tools for cover treatments.
  • Provide and communicate with team in Shenzhen regarding sew-in plush tags, hang tags, or other items not produced at our regular printersโ€™ location.
  • Work closely with our Licensing team to submit files to licensing partners for review and approval. Update files accordingly.
  • Work closely with Publishing Operations to ensure title milestone dates are met.
  • Supply files to international vendors for translation and typesetting as needed.
  • Revise files for international title reprint updates, as needed.
  • Attend department meetings where the discussion is focused on new projects, delivery dates, and the status of current projects.
  • Ship proofs and other materials to vendors in conjunction with mailroom staff.
  • Stay up-to-date with current printing standards and processes.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • At least 1-2 years of professional production experience
  • Professional experience with InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator in a production capacity, including preparing files for printing
  • Knowledge of production specs, resolution, and file formatting
  • Proactive, detailed-oriented, and highly motivated
  • Time management, multitasking, and organizational skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision
  • Knowledge of Biblio is a plus
  • Knowledge of German, Spanish, or other languages is a plus (but not required)

Salary Range: $50,000 to $55,000 commensurate will experience and qualifications.

๏ปฟTo be considered for this opportunity, you must submit a cover letter, resume and salary expectations.

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