Print Finisher
Print finishers work in the bindery area of a print company. They operate machines that cut, fold, staple, stitch and trim paper.
Tasks & duties
Print finishers may do some or all of the following:
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receive and follow the print finishing instructions
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check print finishing specifications such as size, shape and binding
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set the guillotine to cut paper and card to the required size
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load paper on machines that fold, stack, cut, staple and bind
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manually fold, crease, perforate, collate and stack paper
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apply decoration to covers
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trim work to a finished state
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check final products before dispatching
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maintain machinery
Skills & knowledge
Print finishers need to have:
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knowledge of printing methods and specifications
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good machine operating and basic maintenance skills
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knowledge of different paper types and sizes
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an understanding of safety in the workplace as they work with heavy machinery
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problem-solving skills
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good organisational skills
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basic maths skills
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good communication skills
Entry requirements
Most people find a job as a print finisher and then start an apprenticeship. PrintNZ Training for details about apprenticeships
Secondary education
Three years of secondary education are recommended to enter training as a print finisher.
Training on the job
Skills are gained on the job through an apprenticeship. Apprentices complete assignments and attend workshops to learn how to operate and maintain print-finishing machinery.
Useful experience
Experience in the printing trade, operating machinery or work as a bindery assistant may be useful.
For more information, please refer to Career Services.
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