An offset printing specialist or printing machinist organises and operates printing presses to produce items like cards, magazines and books.

Letterpress, the oldest form of printing, lithographic, flexographic and gravure printing presses all have different methods, processes and results that a printing machinist should be familiar with. They should also be able to select the most appropriate machine for the particular job, plan and arrange image materials, combine inks and regulate colour flows, and adjust the printing plates to fit the item involved.

Offset printers should also be able to perform minor maintenance on their equipment and understand the machine. Printing machinists should be able to perform their roles in both small business sites and large manufacturing operations.