Printing Equipment Operator
いんさつせつびオペレーター
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A technical job that operates printing equipment such as offset printing machines and rotary presses to mass-produce printed materials.
Description
Printing equipment operators handle the setup, operation, color adjustment, quality inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of printing machines. Based on printing job instructions, they attach plates, mix inks, adjust printing pressure and paper feed speed, and conduct quality control through color proofing and dot gain management. They collaborate with bookbinding and plate-making departments, thoroughly manage safety and hygiene, and maintain stable production.
Future Outlook
With the progress of digitalization and automation, operations will become more efficient, but since specialized color adjustment and machine maintenance skills are required, the demand for skilled operators is expected to remain to a certain extent. In the shrinking printing market, personnel skilled in high-value-added printing fields and digital printing machine operation will be highly valued.
Personality Traits
High Concentration / Meticulous / Strong Sense of Responsibility
Work Style
Career Path
Operator Apprentice → Printing Equipment Operator → Shift Leader → Manufacturing Manager → Factory Manager
Required Skills
Color Adjustment / Color Proofing / Machine Maintenance / Printing Machine Operation / Printing Plate-making Knowledge
Recommended Skills
Basic Maintenance Knowledge / DTP Software Operation (InDesign・Illustrator) / Knowledge of Printing Terminology and Standards / Safety and Health Management
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Attention to detail is needed to not miss subtle color differences or misalignments. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Long hours of standing work and material handling require physical stamina. |
| Problem Solving | The ability to identify the cause of malfunctions and make adjustments is required. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Manufacturing is mainly according to specifications, and free thinking is not often required. |
Related Qualifications
- Color Coordinator Certification Level 2
- Printing Technician (Grade 2)
Aliases
- Printing Machine Operator
- Printing Operator
Related Jobs
- Bookbinding Operator
- Plate-making Operator
- Printing Technician