Plate Mounter
だいぎこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A job that involves attaching and fixing printing plates to machines and performing precise positioning in the printing process.
Description
Plate mounters are specialized technicians who attach printing plates (plates) to bases (base plates) on printing machines such as offset presses and perform proper alignment and fixation. The work directly affects printing accuracy, so even millimeter-level deviations are not tolerated, and plates are installed using measuring instruments like calipers and dedicated clamps. After printing, they remove the plates, clean them, and manage storage, smoothly handing over to the next processes such as printing machine operators and bookbinding. In recent years, with the spread of digital prepress, adaptability to different materials and automated equipment is also required.
Future Outlook
While the decline in publishing and newspaper printing continues, demand for packaging printing and high-value-added printed materials is expected to remain. Adaptability to digital prepress and automated equipment will enhance market value.
Personality Traits
Cautious / High Concentration / Meticulous / Strong Sense of Responsibility
Work Style
Career Path
Plate Mounter (Apprentice) → Plate Mounter → Platemaking Operator → Printing Machine Operator → Printing Process Leader
Required Skills
Measuring Instrument Operation / Plate Misalignment Adjustment / Plate Surface Cleaning / Printing Plate Fixing Technique
Recommended Skills
CAD/CAM Basics / Digital Platemaking Basic Knowledge / Offset Printing Machine Operation / Quality Control
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because minute misalignments greatly affect print quality. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Since work procedures are specified, accuracy is required more than creativity. |
Related Qualifications
- Printing Skills Certification
Related Jobs
- Bookbinder
- Platemaker
- Printing Machine Operator