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The differences between printers and digital print operators can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 2-4 years to become both a printer and a digital print operator. Additionally, a printer has an average salary of $33,219, which is higher than the $31,749 average annual salary of a digital print operator.
The top three skills for a printer include customer service, data entry and quality standards. The most important skills for a digital print operator are quality checks, image quality, and quality standards.
| Printer | Digital Print Operator | |
| Yearly salary | $33,219 | $31,749 |
| Hourly rate | $15.97 | $15.26 |
| Growth rate | 10% | - |
| Number of jobs | 1,756 | 46,110 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 36% | Bachelor's Degree, 35% |
| Average age | 48 | 48 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 4 |
A printer is primarily responsible for printing materials according to project requirements. Although the extent of their responsibilities depends on their company or employment industry, it typically includes identifying the project needs, utilizing machines and tools, cutting materials according to size guidelines, and submitting materials to clients or managers promptly. Moreover, a printer typically works in a team setting, which requires an active communication line for a smooth and efficient workflow.
A digital print operator is primarily in charge of preparing and processing custom prints according to client orders, ensuring efficiency and client satisfaction. It is their duty to identify and take note of the client's needs and preferences, operate printing machines and equipment, and complete orders within deadlines. They also assist clients by answering inquiries, offering recommendations or alternatives, and promptly and professionally solving complaints. Moreover, a digital print operator must also handle calls and correspondence, maintain records of all transactions, monitor supply inventories, perform regular maintenance checks on equipment, and conduct basic repairs when necessary.
Printers and digital print operators have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Printer | Digital Print Operator | |
| Average salary | $33,219 | $31,749 |
| Salary range | Between $22,000 And $49,000 | Between $26,000 And $37,000 |
| Highest paying City | - | Clifton, NJ |
| Highest paying state | - | Washington |
| Best paying company | - | Quad |
| Best paying industry | - | Manufacturing |
There are a few differences between a printer and a digital print operator in terms of educational background:
| Printer | Digital Print Operator | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 36% | Bachelor's Degree, 35% |
| Most common major | Graphic Design | Graphic Design |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between printers' and digital print operators' demographics:
| Printer | Digital Print Operator | |
| Average age | 48 | 48 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 66.2% Female, 33.8% | Male, 74.8% Female, 25.2% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 9.8% Unknown, 3.5% Hispanic or Latino, 17.0% Asian, 7.4% White, 61.9% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5% | Black or African American, 9.8% Unknown, 3.5% Hispanic or Latino, 17.6% Asian, 7.4% White, 61.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5% |
| LGBT Percentage | 5% | 5% |