Printing Machinist Courses
A Printing Machinist operates printing equipment to produce printed materials while monitoring print quality, preparing images for printing, and performing binding tasks.
AI Exposure
Low

Core skills such as social intelligence and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Printing Machinist
Get qualified to work as a Printing Machinist with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
ICP31220
Duration
6 months - 3 years
Study mode
Apprenticeship, On Campus, Traineeship
Become a qualified print machinist with the ICP31220 Certificate III in Printing. This trade qualification will develop your knowledge of the printing and graphic arts industries, and teach you how to use (and maintain) a range of print machinery and equipment. Graduate with the skills and confidence to produce printed materials using different printing techniques (lithographic, flexographic, gravure printing et al). Enquire now for the full list of study units, specialisation electives, and upcoming enro...
Career opportunities
Duration
6 months - 3 years
Study mode
Apprenticeship, On Campus, Traineeship
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ICP31220
The ICP31220 Certificate III in Printing (Flexographic Printing) launches your career as a skilled print machinist specialising in flexographic printing. Learn to create high-quality printed products on various surfaces and be employed as a flexographic printer. This qualification covers setting up and operating flexographic presses, managing equipment, and solving problems, with additional responsibilities for guiding others and overseeing their output.
Enquire now for the full list of elective choices, ...
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ICP31220
The ICP31220 Certificate III in Printing (Lithographic Printing) equips you to become a trade-qualified lithographic printer in the Australian manufacturing sector. Learn to operate a range of machinery and produce high-quality printed materials. This qualification is designed for print machinists who set up and operate various printing presses and digital printers, manage equipment, and solve problems. It also includes responsibilities such as guiding others and overseeing their output.
Enquire now for t...
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Common questions

How much does a Printing Machinist earn?
In Australia, a full time Printing Machinist generally earns $1,281 per week ($66,612 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

What are the job opportunities for a Printing Machinist?
This industry has experienced a drop in employment numbers in recent years. There are currently 4,400 people working as a Printing Machinist in Australia, compared to 6,500 five years ago. Printing Machinists usually work in larger towns and cities where printing facilities are located.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

How do I become a Printing Machinist?
If you’re interested in a career as a Printing Machinist, consider enrolling in a Certificate II in Printing and Graphic Arts. This course will give you the skills to work with a range of printing machines and digital technology programs. You’ll cover a range of topics including pre-press, screen printing and binding and finishing. A Certificate III in Printing may also be appropriate.
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More information
A Printing Machinist is involved with the production of printed material including newspapers, books and advertising leaflets. You might operate printing equipment and monitor settings such as ink or print quality. Printing Machinists may work with digital images or text and prepare them for printing. You might perform other tasks such as binding, finishing and packaging.
Printing Machinists should have excellent technical abilities and strong attention to detail. It’s important you can communicate well and work as part of a team. Printing Machinists must follow correct procedures during their duties and follow instructions closely. You’ll need to manage your time well and prioritise tasks when needed.
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