Metal Etching Worker (Printing Platemaking)
きんぞくふしょくこう（いんさつせいはん）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A technical job that applies resist, exposes, develops, and chemically etches metal plates for printing to manufacture intaglio and lithographic plates.
Description
Metal etching workers (printing platemaking) apply photosensitive resist to metal plates such as aluminum or copper, form printing plate patterns through exposure and development, and then perform etching processing using acids or solvents to engrave concavities and convexities. They manage the concentration and temperature of processing solutions, conduct quality inspections using microscopes, thoroughly manage safety and hygiene, and stably produce plates that conform to specified standards. They also collaborate with plate design software and perform process improvements to enhance plate reproducibility.
Future Outlook
Although demand for plate manufacturing is decreasing due to the digitalization of the printing industry, metal etching technology for high-precision plates and special printing continues to be required. Adaptation to new technologies such as acid-free etching in response to environmental regulations is key.
Personality Traits
High concentration / High safety awareness / Meticulous and careful / Patient
Work Style
Factory work / Indoor work / Manufacturing line / Overtime available / Shift work
Career Path
Metal Etching Worker Apprentice → Metal Etching Worker → Process Manager → Printing Platemaking Department Leader → Quality Control Staff
Required Skills
Chemical handling (etching) / Exposure and development operation / Quality inspection (microscope inspection) / Safety and health management / Temperature and concentration management
Recommended Skills
Chemical analysis / Forklift driving skills / ISO standards knowledge / Platemaking software operation
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because errors in concentration or development time directly affect platemaking quality. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | High creativity is not required because standardized processes must be followed. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Advanced mathematical analysis skills are not needed, as it only involves concentration calculations. |
Related Qualifications
- Hazardous Materials Handler Class B Category 4
Aliases
- Etching Operator
- Metal Etching Worker
Related Jobs
- Chemical Processor
- Photogravure Platemaker
- Printing Operator