Fitter, printer

What does a printing press assembler do? – Tasks and work environment

A printing press assembler works with assembling, adjusting, and monitoring machines and equipment used in print production. Tasks may include installing printing plates, checking paper feeds, supervising print quality, troubleshooting, and performing basic repairs. The work is often team-based and under time pressure, as production flow must be maintained to meet tight deadlines. The work environment is characterized by machine noise, standing work, and sometimes heavy lifting, requiring both precision and physical endurance.

Salary development over time

The salary for printing press assemblers has shown a relatively stable development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,000 SEK per month, which increased to 34 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has been slightly adjusted downward to 34 700 SEK. The total increase from 2022 to 2024 amounts to approximately 5%, but between 2023 and 2024, the salary has been virtually unchanged with a slight decrease. This trend can be linked to a stable but not growing demand for the profession, where technological development and automation influence staffing needs. Salary development also reflects a competitive industry where raises primarily occur through experience and specialization rather than general increases.

Printing press assembler salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 34 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month (female), 34,900 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 37,300 SEK/month (female), 37,800 SEK/month (male)
• Hourly wage: 209 SEK/hour (average for hourly workers)
• Gender differences: Women earn 85% of what men do (women: 31 900 SEK, men: 37 700 SEK)
• Regional differences: Varies depending on labor market, but larger cities tend to offer higher salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as a printing press assembler, a high school diploma is usually required, preferably with a focus on graphic technology or industry. Many employers value practical experience with printing machines, and some may offer internal training or trainee programs. Technical interest, precision, and the ability to work independently and in teams are important qualities for success in the profession.

• High school education: Industrial technology or graphic technology (3 years)
• Certifications/courses: Courses in printing technology, machine handling, or quality assurance
• Internship/trainee: Practical training during education or internal onboarding at the workplace
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and some machine experience
• Self-study/online: Opportunities to deepen knowledge in machine technology and production processes via online courses

Common benefits and compensations

Printing press assemblers are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pensions, insurance, and wellness contributions. Some workplaces also offer shift and overtime premiums, subsidized lunches, or work clothing. Working hours may vary between day shifts, evenings, and weekends depending on production needs.

Competition and challenges

The profession of printing press assembler is clearly affected by ongoing digitalization and automation within the printing industry. The demand for traditional printing services is slowly decreasing, which can lead to high competition for jobs in some regions. At the same time, there remains a steady need for qualified personnel in specialized printing houses and for technically advanced machines. Those wishing to establish themselves in the profession should be prepared to continuously develop their technical skills and adapt to new production methods.

Tips for those who want to become a printing press assembler

To succeed as a printing press assembler, it helps to have a genuine technical interest and be solution-oriented. Precision is crucial, as small mistakes can affect the entire production chain – therefore, always double-check your work and machine settings. Flexibility is a valuable asset, especially when unexpected problems arise and quick adjustments are needed. Being cooperative and communicating clearly with colleagues facilitates teamwork, while patience and stress tolerance help during intensive production periods. Taking the initiative to learn new machines and software strengthens your career prospects. Finally, it is always beneficial to stay curious about industry technological trends and pursue further training when possible.

Key facts about Printing Press Assembler

• Education level: High school education in industry or graphic technology recommended
• Work environment: Production, often with machine noise and shift work
• Employment type: Full-time, sometimes shifts or night work
• Demand: 1,433 available jobs nationally
• Special skills: Machine handling and quality assurance

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years as a printing press assembler, there are opportunities to advance to machine operator, production technician, or supervisor within the printing industry. Further education in automation, digital printing, or maintenance can open doors to more specialized roles. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for the profession of prepress technicians and printers, there is no clear outlook due to limited data, but currently there are 1,433 job openings in the field. The industry’s move toward more digital and automated production suggests that those who master new technology will have good opportunities in the future.

Frequently asked questions about Printing Press Assembler

• What does a Printing Press Assembler earn?
  - The average salary is 34 700 SEK per month, with variations between 31,800 SEK and 37,800 SEK depending on experience, gender, and employer.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Men earn an average of 37 700 SEK per month, while women earn 31 900 SEK, which means women earn 85% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a printing press assembler?
  - High school education in industry or graphic technology is recommended, often supplemented with practical training or internal onboarding.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries tend to be higher in metropolitan regions where competition for qualified labor is greater.
• What are the job tasks of a printing press assembler?
  - The work includes assembling, adjusting, and monitoring printing machines, as well as quality assurance and basic maintenance.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The prognosis is uncertain due to limited data, but currently there are 1,433 job openings in the field.
• What benefits are common?
  - Collective agreements, occupational pensions, insurance, and sometimes overtime pay and wellness contributions are common.