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Printing Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Printing Press Operator 1

Smyrna, TN ยท On-site

$18.17 - $27.80/hr

Company Description RRD is a leading global provider of marketing, packaging, print, and supply ... Perform all make-ready tasks associated with the type of press operated such as hanging plates or ...

Printing Press Operator 1

Smyrna, TN ยท On-site

$18.17 - $27.80/hr

Company Description RRD is a leading global provider of marketing, packaging, print, and supply ... Perform all make-ready tasks associated with the type of press operated such as hanging plates or ...

Printer

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Minimum 2 years of experience operating manual or automatic screen printing presses. * Proven experience setting up and running multicolor jobs (8-12 colors preferred). * Strong understanding of ...

As a Retail Print Manager at Office Depot you will play a pivotal role in driving print sales and ... Through its operating companies Office Depot, LLC and ODP Business Solutions, LLC, The ODP ...

Job Summary We're hiring an experienced Offset Printing Press Technician to join our 2nd-shift team, operating large-format sheetfed offset ink printing presses. Working with the Lead Pressman, you ...

Job Summary We're hiring an experienced Offset Printing Press Technician to join our 2nd-shift team, operating large-format sheetfed offset ink printing presses. Working with the Lead Pressman, you ...

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Showing results 1-20

Printing Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do printing operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for printing operator in Tennessee is $17.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $17.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Printing Operator, you need a solid understanding of printing processes, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with digital and offset printing machines, color calibration tools, and finishing equipment is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, time management, and effective communication help operators handle tight deadlines and troubleshoot issues efficiently. These skills ensure high-quality print output, minimize downtime, and support smooth production workflows.

What is the difference between Printing Operator vs Press Operator?

AspectPrinting OperatorPress Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications in printing technologyHigh school diploma; specialized training or certifications in press operation
Work EnvironmentPrint shops, manufacturing facilities, commercial printing companiesPrinting presses, manufacturing plants, commercial print facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesSet up, operate, and monitor printing machines; ensure print qualityOperate and maintain printing presses; troubleshoot mechanical issues

Printing Operators and Press Operators often share similar skills and work environments, focusing on operating printing machinery. While their roles overlap, Press Operators typically handle more complex press systems and maintenance tasks. Both roles are essential in the printing industry, with similar credentials and work settings, making them common points of comparison for job seekers and employers alike.

How much do printing companies pay?

Printing operators typically earn an average hourly wage ranging from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the printing equipment used. Annual salaries can range from approximately $25,000 to $45,000, with higher pay often associated with advanced skills, certifications, or supervisory roles.

What is the role of a printing operator?

A printing operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining printing equipment to produce high-quality printed materials. They monitor print jobs for quality, troubleshoot issues, and ensure safety protocols are followed, often working with digital or offset printing presses. Attention to detail and technical skills are essential for efficient operation and consistent output.

How much does a print press operator make?

A print press operator typically earns between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the printing equipment used. Skilled operators with certifications and knowledge of digital and offset presses may earn higher wages, especially in large manufacturing or commercial printing environments.

How to become a print operator?

To become a printing operator, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with on-the-job training or technical school courses in printing technology. Skills in operating printing machinery, understanding color management, and attention to detail are important, and some employers may prefer candidates with certifications in printing or related fields.

What are Printing Operators?

Printing Operators are skilled professionals responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining printing presses and related machinery. They ensure that print jobs are completed accurately, efficiently, and according to client specifications. Their duties include loading materials, adjusting press settings, monitoring print quality, and performing routine equipment maintenance. Printing Operators often work in commercial printing shops, publishing houses, or packaging companies. Attention to detail and technical aptitude are essential for success in this role.

What are some common challenges faced by Printing Operators, and how can they be addressed?

Printing Operators often encounter challenges such as managing tight production deadlines, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and ensuring consistent print quality. To address these, operators benefit from strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and proactive maintenance practices. Regular communication with team members and supervisors also helps in quickly resolving issues and keeping projects on track. Ongoing training on new printing technologies can further enhance efficiency and reduce downtime.
What job categories do people searching Printing Operator jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Printing Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Printing Operator jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Printing Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Printing Operator jobs in TN? For Printing Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Printing Press Operator 1

Printing Press Operator 1

RR Donnelley

Smyrna, TN โ€ข On-site

$18.17 - $27.80/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


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

Responsibilities:

  • Set up, adjust, operate, and maintain single or multi-color offset press
  • 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 knowledge of offset printing procedures, materials, equipment and safety requirements and skills to perform assignments
  • Skill to read and understand job specifications to determine press set-up materials needed to run the job successfully
  • Must have sufficient knowledge of press capabilities to determine the most appropriate use of the press and corrective adjustments required to run efficiently
  • 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
  • Skill in routine operational maintenance and minor repairs to equipment
  • Ability to make adjustments to feeder and feed board (e.g., ability to adjust suctions and blast, front and side guides and the timing of the head stops).
  • Training and mentoring new and existing employees, ensuring consistent knowledge of company policies, procedures, and best practices to improve team performance and productivity.
Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Theย salary range for this role at the noted RRD location is $18.17 - $27.80 / hour. Starting pay decisions are determined based on multiple factors including but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, skills, experience, certifications, proficiency, performance, shift, location, and other business needs.ย Typically, roles follow step progressions to a target rate or set increments over time. Depending on the role, in addition to the hourly rate of pay, the total compensation package may also include overtime, shift differential, call-in, and/or stand-by pay. RRD's benefit offerings include medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, disability insurance, 401(k) with company match, life insurance and other voluntary supplemental insurance coverages, plus parental leave, adoption assistance, tuition 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