Printing Trades Workers play a crucial role in the printing industry in Australia. They are responsible for composing and setting type prior to printing, operating printing presses, binding and finishing printed products, and preparing stencils and operating screen printing equipment.

Indicative Skill Level:

Most occupations in this minor group require a certain level of skill, which can be obtained through the following qualifications and experience:

In Australia:

• AQF Certificate III including at least two years of on-the-job training, or AQF Certificate IV (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

In New Zealand:

• NZQF Level 4 qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

Relevant experience of at least three years may be considered as a substitute for the formal qualifications mentioned above. In some cases, additional on-the-job training and/or relevant experience may be required alongside the formal qualification.

Tasks Include:

• Operating graphic cameras and other photographic equipment to reproduce camera-ready copy onto films, plates, and digital output devices
• Operating computer screen-based equipment for scanning, color separation and correction, retouching, and other processes used to transfer copy to film and produce film for plate, cylinder, and digital output productions
• Setting up, operating, and monitoring machines used in typesetting, photographing copy, printing and cutting, folding, collating, and binding printed material
• Performing routine finishing operations and machine maintenance
• Preparing stencils and operating screen printing equipment

Subcategories:

Within the field of Printing Trades Workers, there are several subcategories that individuals may specialize in:

• Print Finishers and Screen Printers (ANZSCO 3921)
• Graphic Pre-press Trades Workers (ANZSCO 3922)
• Printers (ANZSCO 3923)

Overall, Printing Trades Workers play a vital role in the printing industry, ensuring the production of high-quality printed materials through their expertise and skills in various printing processes.