Graphic Pre-press Worker Kaimahi Whakairoiro (Mua Perehi)

Graphic pre-press workers use computers to prepare text and designs for printing.

Graphic pre-press workers may do some or all of the following:

  • receive material from clients to design or lay out for printing
  • input and set out text
  • scan and set out graphics
  • check that the text and layout meet printing requirements
  • proofread text
  • send proofs to clients for approval
  • prepare computer files for printing onto film or directly onto the press
  • send the files to a printer or to a digital printing press
  • manage the production of files from a digital printing press
  • keep up to date with new versions of computer software.

Physical Requirements

Graphic pre-press workers need to have normal colour vision.

Useful Experience

Useful experience for graphic pre-press workers includes:

  • work in printing or publishing companies
  • work with computers
  • design work.

Personal Qualities

Graphic pre-press workers need to be:

  • adaptable
  • organised
  • skilled at communicating and writing
  • good at problem solving and decision making
  • accurate, with an eye for detail
  • good at measurement and calculations
  • able to work well under pressure and unsupervised.

Skills

Graphic pre-press workers need to have:

  • knowledge of the design requirements for print, including fonts and typography, layout, colour management and design
  • understanding of the different printing processes and production methods
  • knowledge of design and graphics software.

Conditions

Graphic pre-press workers:

  • usually work regular business hours or do shift work
  • work in offices, print shops or studios.

Graphic Pre-press Workers can earn around $48K-$50K per year.

Pay for graphic pre-press workers varies depending on experience, the amount of shift work they do, and if they train or supervise others.

  • Apprentices usually start on the minimum wage, with pay increasing as they gain skills and complete unit standards.
  • After completing an apprenticeship, and with up to three years' experience, graphic pre-press workers usually earn up to $50,000 a year.
  • Senior graphic pre-press workers with more than five years' experience can earn $60,000 to $80,000.

Source: PrintNZ, 'PrintNZ Industry Report', 2017.

Graphic pre-press workers may progress to work as graphic designers, web developers, or advertising art directors. Some choose to start their own graphic design companies.

Years Of Training

3 years of training usually required

There are no specific requirements to become a graphic pre-press worker. However, most employers require you to have a qualification, or learn on the job while doing an apprenticeship.

Competenz offers a Level 4 New Zealand Certificate in digital processes for print, which includes a graphic pre-press programme. The qualification is achieved by completing an apprenticeship while working for an employer.

Some people enter this job after completing a tertiary course in graphic design.

Graphic Pre-press Worker