Explore Careers in Print with the Canadian Printing Industries Association
The printing and imaging industry in Canada is evolving, fast-paced, and full of opportunity. Through the Careers in Print initiative, the Canadian Printing Industries Association (CPIA) invites young people to discover dynamic career paths that combine creativity, technology, teamwork, and innovation.
Whether you’re interested in design, production, project management, data analysis, or sustainability, the print industry offers diverse roles with excellent potential for professional growth and advancement. With nearly 50,000 Canadians employed across more than 3,000 companies, this is a sector that continues to thrive and adapt.
Explore the profiles below to learn about each role, and imagine where a career in print could take you.
Estimator
Enjoy working with numbers and strategy? Estimators develop accurate quotes based on materials, production time, and project specs—helping businesses stay competitive and profitable.
Perfect for analytical thinkers who like to blend logic with print knowledge.
Structural Designer
Love engineering and design? Structural Designers turn ideas into real-world packaging solutions using CAD software and a deep understanding of materials, assembly, and production techniques.
This career is where innovation meets functionality.
Production Scheduler
Organized and deadline-driven? Schedulers keep production moving by planning daily jobs, assigning staff, and managing machinery use to meet customer timelines.
A vital role for anyone who thrives on coordination and communication.
Data Analyst
Interested in data and strategy? Data Analysts support smarter decision-making by turning numbers into insights that guide operations, marketing, and long-term planning.
A strong career path for analytical minds who want to make a measurable impact.
Programmer
Love solving problems with code? Programmers develop custom tools and software solutions that improve everything from eCommerce to production workflows in print businesses.
A perfect role for digital thinkers who want to shape the future of print tech.
Production Manager
Lead teams and deliver results! Production Managers coordinate every stage of print production to ensure timelines, quality, and efficiency are met.
This high-impact role is suited to experienced professionals with leadership and technical skills.
Shift Supervisor
Ready to take charge? Shift Supervisors guide daily production operations, manage staff, and keep quality and safety standards on track across departments.
It’s a great fit for emerging leaders looking to grow into management.
Procurement Specialist
Skilled at sourcing and negotiating? Procurement Specialists manage the purchase of paper, ink, and other materials, ensuring cost control and reliable supply for print operations.
A key behind-the-scenes role that keeps production running smoothly.
Demand Planner
Good at forecasting and planning? Demand Planners coordinate supply chains and production schedules to meet client needs—balancing demand, inventory, and delivery timelines.
Ideal for strategic thinkers who want to keep things flowing efficiently.
Press Technician
Are you hands-on and passionate about technology? Press Technicians play a critical role in bringing print projects to life. With advanced technical and mechanical skills, they ensure precise colour reproduction and manage a variety of print technologies and substrates.
Join this fast-paced, detail-oriented career and be part of producing everything from packaging to publications.
Prepress Specialist
Do you love working with digital tools and visuals? Prepress Specialists prepare digital files for print, ensuring colour accuracy, layout precision, and production readiness across packaging, signage, publishing, and more.
If you’re detail-oriented and enjoy working with creative software, this is your chance to shape every project before it hits the press.
Packaging Designer
Bring your creativity to life through packaging! Packaging Designers combine visual appeal with functionality to create memorable product experiences. You’ll work with brands, materials, and structural concepts to design packaging that sells.
This is a perfect career for creative thinkers with a passion for problem-solving and design.
Project Manager
Like keeping things on track? Project Managers oversee print projects from start to finish—balancing schedules, budgets, and client expectations while coordinating teams and resources.
If you’re organized, collaborative, and thrive in a fast-paced environment, this leadership role could be a perfect fit.
Sustainability Coordinator
Passionate about the planet? Sustainability Coordinators lead environmental initiatives within print companies—from reducing waste to supporting green certifications and sustainable practices.
Make a difference by helping the industry evolve in smarter, more responsible ways.
Workflow Architect
Are you a process thinker? Workflow Architects design and implement systems that automate and streamline operations—boosting efficiency and enhancing the customer experience.
This role is ideal for problem-solvers who love improving how things get done.
Finishing Specialist
Enjoy hands-on work with high-tech equipment? Finishing Specialists operate the machines that bring the final touch to printed products—folding, cutting, binding, and more.
It’s a role that blends skill, speed, and precision across a variety of applications like packaging, signage, and labels.
Technical Sales Representative
Great with people and passionate about print? Technical Sales reps work closely with customers to find solutions, guide them through print options, and ensure high-quality results.
This role blends customer service with deep product knowledge—perfect for outgoing, tech-savvy professionals.