Education and training requirements for Photographic process workers and processing machine operatorsMost photographic process workers and processing machine operators receive on-the-job training from their companies, manufacturers� representatives, and experienced workers. New employees gradually learn to use the machines and chemicals that develop and print film. Employers prefer applicants who are high school graduates or those who have some experience in the field. Familiarity with computers is essential for photographic processing machine operators. The ability to perform simple mathematical calculations also is helpful. Photography courses that include instruction in film processing are valuable preparation. Such courses are available through high schools, vocational-technical institutes, private trade schools, and colleges and universities. On-the-job training in photographic processing occupations can range from just a few hours for print machine operators to several months for photographic processing workers such as airbrush artists and colorists. Some workers attend periodic training seminars to maintain a high level of skill. Manual dexterity, good hand-eye coordination, and good vision, including normal color perception, are important qualifications for photographic process workers. Photographic process machine workers can sometimes advance from jobs as machine operators to supervisory positions in laboratories or to management positions within retail stores. More information on Photographic process workers and processing machine operators from The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook Overview of Photographic process workers and processing machine operators occupation Number of Photographic process workers and processing machine operators in the U.S. Salary and earnings for Photographic process workers and processing machine operators Working conditions for Photographic process workers and processing machine operators Significant points for Photographic process workers and processing machine operators Training requirements for Photographic process workers and processing machine operators Labor Information Home | Occupational data by city | Search Rainforests | Madagascar | What's new |