Phototypesetter Operator
しゃしんしょくじききおぺれーたー
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession that operates phototypesetting machines to perform character composition and film development, creating printing flats.
Description
Phototypesetter operators operate phototypesetting machines to perform character composition and output and develop films for printing. Based on manuscript data or layouts, they adjust machine settings (such as font size, letter spacing, and line spacing) to achieve precise character composition. The output films undergo development, fixation processing, quality inspection, and proofreading to complete the printing flats. They also support stable machine operation through maintenance and troubleshooting. Although there has been a shift to DTP systems in recent years, this is a profession where specialized knowledge can be applied as the foundation of printing and plate-making processes.
Future Outlook
Due to the progress of digitalization, demand is on a shrinking trend, but personnel who understand the overall printing and plate-making process and can adapt to DTP workflows will continue to be needed.
Personality Traits
High Concentration / Meticulous / Strong Sense of Responsibility
Work Style
Career Path
Phototypesetter Operator (Junior) → Phototypesetter Operator (Senior) → Plate-making Operator → Printing Operations Manager
Required Skills
Equipment Calibration and Maintenance Technology / Film Development Technology / Machine Maintenance / Phototypesetter Operation / Typesetting
Recommended Skills
Color Management / DTP Software Operation / Typography Knowledge
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because the precision of fine character composition and spacing directly impacts quality. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Creativity is relatively low because it is based on layouts assigned by the machine. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because advanced mathematical analysis is not required. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Mainly standing work, but little heavy labor. |
Related Qualifications
- Printing Technician
Aliases
- Phototypesetter Operator
- Phototypesetting Operator
Related Jobs
- DTP Operator
- Graphic Designer
- Letterpress Printer
- Plate-making Operator