Bind books and other publications or finish printed products by hand or machine. May set up binding and finishing machines.
SOC: 51-5113.00
Common Job Titles
Binder Operator
Bindery Operator
Bindery Worker
Book Binder
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate binding and finishing machines including perfect binders, saddle stitchers, and folding equipment in production settings, maintaining quality standards and production schedules.
Developing
Hands-onPerform machine setup, calibration, and adjustments for binding operations using mechanical knowledge and following production specifications.
Developing
KnowledgeAssess machine performance and output quality against production standards through continuous monitoring and quality control analysis.
Developing
Hands-onExecute manual binding and finishing operations including trimming, drilling, and hand binding for specialty products or low-volume jobs requiring precision.
Developing
Hands-onPerform routine maintenance and minor repairs on bindery equipment to minimize downtime and ensure operational efficiency.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze production issues and machine malfunctions applying troubleshooting procedures to identify root causes and implement solutions.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret job specifications, work orders, and customer requirements to determine appropriate binding methods and finishing techniques.
Developing
Hands-onCoordinate material handling and workflow processes using hand trucks, pallet jacks, and conveyors to move finished products efficiently.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate time management and production planning techniques when organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling multiple binding jobs.
Developing
MindsetEngage in collaborative communication with supervisors, team members, and other departments to coordinate production workflow and resolve operational issues.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Print Binding and Finishing Workers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
36,470
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $31,110. 25th percentile: U.S. $36,070. 50th percentile: U.S. $39,820. 75th percentile: U.S. $48,240. 90th percentile: U.S. $57,980. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$31,110
10% of workers earn the following or more
$57,980
Workers on average earn
$43,040
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Administration and Management3.5/5
Production and Processing3.4/5
Mechanical3.2/5
Customer and Personal Service3.1/5
Mathematics2.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Office software
Microsoft Outlook
Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
Email software
Houchen Bindery Library Automated Retrieval System LARS
