MAC Operator (DTP)
まっくおぺれーたー（でぃーてぃーぴー）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession that uses Macintosh to perform typesetting and layout for publications and advertisements, creating print-ready data.
Description
MAC Operators (DTP) primarily use software such as InDesign and Illustrator in a Mac environment to handle layout, typesetting, and proofreading for printed materials like magazines, books, flyers, and pamphlets, creating print-ready data (such as PDF). Through discussions with designers and clients, they reflect specifications while handling tasks such as text and image placement, color proofing, font specification, crop mark and bleed settings, bridging from imposition to printing processes. Knowledge of color management, resolution management, and file formats is also necessary to maintain quality.
Future Outlook
While the demand for printed materials is flat to declining due to digitalization, demand for typesetting for electronic publishing and web content is expanding. Although AI layout support tools are becoming widespread, there is continued demand for personnel with specialized typesetting expertise.
Personality Traits
Work Style
Contract Employee / Freelance / Full-time Employee / Remote / Temporary Staff
Career Path
Assistant DTP Operator → DTP Operator → Prepress Engineer → Graphic Designer → Creative Director
Required Skills
Adobe Illustrator (Vector Editing) / Adobe InDesign / Adobe Photoshop (Image Correction and Processing) / Color Management Basics / PDF Submission and Preflight Check
Recommended Skills
Basic Printing Machine Knowledge / English Document Reading / Prepress Processes / QuarkXPress / Web Fonts
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because small text or layout errors directly affect quality. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Because it is necessary to adapt to changes in DTP software and printing technology. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Mainly layout adjustments rather than mathematical analysis, with few complex calculations. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Mainly desk work, with low physical burden. |
Related Qualifications
- Color Certification
- DTP Expert Certification
Aliases
- DTP Operator
- Typesetting Operator
Related Jobs
- Graphic Designer
- Prepress Operator
- Printing Machine Operator