Digital Print Operator Consolidated Series

California State Personnel Board Specification

Series established January 19, 2000

Definition of Series

This consolidated series specification describes two levels of Digital Print Operators that are responsible for the completion of high-speed duplication and/or digital printing. Work includes receiving or obtaining master material from either hard copies or electronic images, preparing the master copy and reprographic equipment for reproduction, completing the assigned print jobs, proofing work, completing minor maintenance and repairs on equipment, setting up printing and finishing equipment, performing the finishing tasks needed to complete the assigned print jobs, fulfilling ancillary tasks related to reprographic work (training, maintaining multiple logbooks and other record-keeping documents, ordering supplies, etc.), and performing other related work. Completion of this work is expected to adhere to safe printing and equipment practices and follow all precautions provided on machines and operating manuals.

Definition of Levels*

Digital Print Operator I

This is the entry and first journey level in the series. Under general supervision, incumbents perform a variety of complex tasks associated with completing high-speed duplication and/or digital printing work. This work includes entering commands into the equipment being operated, performing the less complex digital manipulations needed to prepare the printing job, and performing the finishing tasks associated with the assigned printing jobs.

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* Additional information regarding functions performed, complexity factors, and scope of responsibility is contained in a separate document titled "Allocation Guidelines."

Digital Print Operator II

This is the full journey level in the series. Under direction, incumbents are responsible for completing printing jobs that require the execution of the full range of complex operating commands and electronic manipulation functions. They perform the tasks needed to prepare, operate, and maintain a variety of digital printing equipment including their finishing attachments. Incumbents may serve in a lead capacity.

Minimum Qualifications

Digital Print Operator I

Either I

In the California state service, one year of experience equivalent to an Office Assistant (General) or Bookbinder I.

Or II

Two years of experience performing general clerical duties that include operation of general office equipment including but not limited to photocopiers, laser printers, and word processing equipment.

Digital Print Operator II

Either I

In the California state service, one year performing the duties of a Digital Print Operator I.

Or II

Two years of experience performing progressively more difficult printing duties that include operation of high-speed duplication or digital print equipment.

Knowledge and Abilities

Digital Print Operator I

Knowledge of: Principles and procedures used to operate high-speed or digital print equipment; papers and tools used in high-speed print duplication; record-keeping practices, supply inventory, and requisition processes; basic electronics and computer commands used to operate digital print equipment; safety requirements applied in the operation of large equipment; industrial workplace safety practices.

Ability to: Operate digital print equipment; perform minor repairs; prepare job for shipment; follow oral and written instructions used to complete printing jobs; organize, prioritize, schedule, and structure multiple work tasks in order to optimize efficient use of print capabilities; identify minor problems with print jobs or equipment and make corrections; take measurements using fractions and apply basic mathematical functions (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division); set up and operate various types of finishing equipment including hydraulic drills, cutters, heavy-duty stitchers, and comb binding machines; interact effectively and courteously with all levels of personnel, customers, vendors, and other parties; move and/or lift up to 50 pounds; stand for long periods of time.

Digital Print Operator II

Knowledge of: All of the above, and computer operation principles and processes used to operate digital print equipment; principles and techniques used to modify digital print images and products.

Ability to: All of the above, and retrieve and save electronic files; electronically manipulate printing files and jobs including sizing, cropping, masking, rotating images, shading, watermarks, stretching, merging from merged files, and mail merging; electronically manipulate colors; learn new software application programs.

Special Characteristics

Both Levels:

Flexibility to adapt to changing work priorities; willingness to work in a noisy environment; and willingness to work nights and overtime. May require color vision sufficient to perform essential functions of jobs involving color printing.

Additional Desirable Qualifications

Both Levels:

Graduation from high school or its equivalent.

Digital Print Operator II

Knowledge of more than one software application program.

Class History