Sheet-Fed Printer

Tasks & duties

Sheet-fed printers may do some or all of the following:

• discuss printing requirements with clients
• receive printing plates to work from
• fasten the printing plates into the printing press
• mix the inks for the colours they need to use
• load paper and inks into the press
• adjust water and ink flow and paper size guides
• run the press
• constantly check the quality of the printing
• fix printing problems by adjusting the press
• prepare the job for the print finisher
• clean and maintain the printing press
• run their own business

Skills & knowledge

Sheet-fed printers need to have:

• mechanical and technical skills to operate, maintain and repair manual and computerised machinery used for printing
• knowledge of printing methods, inks, colours and substrates (materials printed on)
• knowledge of types of paper and paper sizes
• skill in analysing detail and colours
• good communication skills
• organisational skills
• basic maths skills

Entry requirements

Most people find a job as a sheet-fed printer then start an apprenticeship. To enter an apprenticeship you need to be employed in a printing company, pass an eyesight test and have normal colour vision. PrintNZ Training website has details about apprenticeships

Secondary education

Three years of secondary education is preferred to enter further training.

Training on the job

Skills are gained on the job. Apprentices complete assignments and attend workshops. Further training in supervision and management is also available for sheet-fed printers wanting to move into these roles.

Useful experience

Experience working with machinery or in a factory is useful.

For more information, please refer to Career Services.