Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators
Photographic process workers develop and process images from film or digital sources, handling tasks like editing negatives and prints. They work in photo labs, studios, printing facilities, and retail photo departments, operating specialized equipment to produce finished photographic products for customers and businesses.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against photographic process workers and processing machine operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves loading film into processing machines, monitoring chemical baths and exposure settings, and inspecting prints for quality. Workers may spend time editing negatives, adjusting image colors and contrast, mounting photos, or packaging finished orders. Tasks require attention to detail and following standardized procedures to ensure consistent results across batches.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCA. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy hands-on work with clear procedures and measurable outcomes. If you prefer practical, concrete tasks over abstract thinking and tend to follow established systems reliably, this work suits you well.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $48,710 | $57,760 | $81,490 | 400 |
| Virginia | $36,940 | $47,380 | $54,110 | 110 |
| California | $40,020 | $47,320 | $67,120 | 740 |
| Florida | $34,860 | $46,840 | $49,230 | 450 |
| Wisconsin | $41,180 | $46,480 | $58,150 | 60 |
| Washington | $38,440 | $46,280 | $75,310 | 80 |
| Maryland | $36,330 | $45,600 | $62,650 | 200 |
| Iowa | $34,810 | $43,310 | $46,690 | 90 |
| New Jersey | $36,430 | $43,300 | $45,240 | 110 |
| Delaware | $42,220 | $42,220 | $42,220 | 30 |
| Oregon | $39,940 | $39,940 | $45,560 | 40 |
| Utah | $37,960 | $39,510 | $42,270 | 60 |
All 29 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Press Operator Certification — Flexographic Technical Association
- PrePress Operator Certification — Flexographic Technical Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against photographic process workers and processing machine operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-9151.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.