Commercial Digital Printer Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Sets up, operates and maintains a variety of commercial digital printing equipment to print specified printing jobs on a variety of substrates, such as paper, vinyl and plastic.
What does a Commercial Digital Printer do?
A Commercial Digital Printer prepares and runs digital printing equipment for different print jobs, selecting and handling suitable substrates such as paper, vinyl and plastic. The role also includes maintaining the equipment so that it continues to produce the required work.
Specialisations
How to become a Commercial Digital Printer in South Africa
- Build practical familiarity with commercial digital printing equipment and the different substrates used for print jobs.
- Develop the ability to follow detailed job specifications and operate printing equipment accurately.
- Seek supervised workplace exposure or training with a commercial printing employer.
- Learn routine equipment-care and maintenance practices relevant to the machines being used.
- Confirm current training, provider and assessment options with relevant employers, accredited providers or official bodies, as there may not be one universal qualification pathway for this occupation.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
This career suits someone who is comfortable working with specialised equipment, following precise print specifications and handling different materials. Practical exposure to digital, wide-format, laser, inkjet, variable-data or vinyl printing can help, depending on the equipment used by the employer.
Useful school subjects
- Computer Applications Technology
- Information Technology
- Mechanical Technology
Skills that may help
- Operating commercial digital printing equipment
- Setting up equipment for specified print jobs
- Working with paper, vinyl and plastic substrates
- Routine equipment maintenance
- Following detailed specifications
- Accuracy and attention to print quality
- Adapting to different types of digital printing equipment