Flexographic printing is a growing field with good job prospects. High school diploma or equivalent is required, and apprenticeship programs are available. Basic computer and communication skills are important, and entry-level jobs can lead to promotion. On-the-job training is essential for learning how to set up print jobs and become a successful flexographic press operator.
While job growth in the printing industry has been rather slow in the early 21st century, the field of flexographic printing is an exception. The flexo press, also known as the flexo press, is capable of printing on a wide variety of surfaces and the job prospects for anyone looking to become a flexo press operator are very good. Some professional post-secondary schools teach flexographic printing, and two- to four-year apprenticeship programs are also available. A high school diploma or equivalent is generally required as a minimum education by most flexo printers. Basic knowledge of science and math, plus computer and communication skills, will help prepare you to become a flexographic press operator.
High school students and those enrolled in General Education Development’s High School Equivalence Diploma (GED) programs must focus on the fundamental job skills needed to become a flexographic press operator. Written and oral communication skills are important tools that will help you perform well. Learning computer skills is also important as flexographic presses expand the use of computers, especially in the areas of workflow, job management and color control.
Typically, entry-level jobs at flexographic printing plants are offered in cleaning, maintenance, and material handling roles. Taking one of these jobs and performing well can create the opportunity to become a flexo press operator through promotion. Other parts of the print plant that can provide valuable experience leading up to a press operator position include – press packing and cleaning.
Due to the versatility of the flexographic process, an important phase of on-the-job training is learning how to set up print jobs. As flexo can be used on a wide range of materials with varying shapes and compositions, understanding the correct setup processes is essential to ensure trouble-free work. Feeding issues involving cardboard or other materials to be printed on often present challenges and are carefully addressed during training. Becoming a flexographic press operator requires resources and a strong attention to detail.
Most flexo printing interns are usually given their first maintenance and cleaning jobs. As the intern’s knowledge increases, he receives training in all positions around the flexographic press. This includes monitoring ink and paper levels, adjusting ink flows and ratios to produce correct ink densities and colors, ensuring color registration is maintained, and cleaning or replacing plates and blankets. Over time, the successful flexographic press operator will accumulate substantial knowledge about printing on a wide variety of surfaces.
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