Print Binding and Finishing Workers: All You Need to Know
Print binding and finishing workers are responsible for taking printed materials and turning them into final products, such as books, magazines, and brochures. They work in a variety of industries, including publishing, printing, and commercial printing. Print binding and finishing workers may work with a variety of materials, such as paper, leather, and fabric.
Examples of Print Binding and Finishing Jobs
Print binding and finishing workers may perform a variety of jobs, including:
- Folding and trimming paper to create booklets or brochures
- Sewing or gluing book pages together to create a spine
- Stamping or embossing covers with titles, logos, or designs
- Wrapping books or magazines in plastic or paper for protection during shipping
- Trimming excess material from finished products
Education and Training Required
While there is no specific education or training required for print binding and finishing workers, many employers prefer to hire candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Vocational schools and community colleges may offer courses in print binding and finishing, which can be helpful to those seeking employment in the field. On-the-job training is also common, as many skills are learned through hands-on experience.
Progression in the Field
Print binding and finishing workers may progress to higher positions within the field, such as supervisor or manager. They may also specialize in a particular area, such as bookbinding or envelope manufacturing. Advancement may be based on job performance, experience, and education. Some workers may also choose to open their own businesses and work as self-employed print binding and finishing workers.
How to Get into the Field
If you’re new to the field of print binding and finishing, there are several ways to get started. Consider seeking an apprenticeship or internship, which can provide valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities. You can also contact local print shops and companies to inquire about entry-level positions. Build a strong foundation by developing skills in areas such as measuring, cutting, and sewing. Finally, consider taking courses at a vocational school or community college to learn more about the field.
Print binding and finishing workers are responsible for binding and finishing printed products, such as books, magazines, and brochures. This occupation involves operating machinery, cutting and folding paper, and applying binding materials.
According to the salary data provided, the US National Average salary for print binding and finishing workers ranges from $30,326.40 to $40,830.40 depending on level and pay type. Entry-level workers earn $30,950.40 on average, while those not able to be leveled earn $38,251.20 on average. Full-time workers earn slightly higher salaries, with those in Level 04 earning the highest average salary of $40,809.60.
In terms of unionization, non-union print binding and finishing workers earn slightly lower salaries on average at $37,003.20 compared to $38,729.60 for their unionized counterparts.
Geographically, the occupation is best paid in the San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA metropolitan area with an average salary of $44,070, and least paid in the Birmingham-Hoover, AL metropolitan area with an average salary of $22,220.
Salary Data Table:
| Occupation | Level | Pay Type | Average Salary (US National Average) |
|————|——-|———-|————————————-|
| Print binding and finishing workers | All workers | Level 02 | $31,782.40 |
| Print binding and finishing workers | All workers | Level 04 | $40,830.40 |
| Print binding and finishing workers | All workers | Not able to be leveled | $38,251.20 |
| Print binding and finishing workers | All workers | Entry | $30,950.40 |
| Print binding and finishing workers | Nonunion | All levels | $37,003.20 |
| Print binding and finishing workers | Full-time | All levels | $38,729.60 |
| Print binding and finishing workers | Full-time | Level 02 | $31,844.80 |
| Print binding and finishing workers | Full-time | Level 04 | $40,809.60 |
| Print binding and finishing workers | Full-time | Not able to be leveled | $38,313.60 |
| Print binding and finishing workers | Full-time | Entry | $31,824.00 |
| Print binding and finishing workers | Time-based pay | All levels | $38,438.40 |
