Platemaking Technician
さっぱんせいはんこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Prepress technician who creates printing plates based on flats or films, operates platemaking equipment, and performs quality control.
Description
Platemaking technicians handle the prepress process of creating printing plates from DTP data or photographed films. They operate CTP devices and developing machines to perform exposure on photosensitive materials, chemical processing, plate inspection, color adjustment, and other tasks, executing high-precision platemaking that determines the quality of offset printing. Important duties also include maintenance and adjustment of platemaking equipment, troubleshooting, and operation of color management systems.
Future Outlook
Even as the printing industry advances in digitalization, demand for high-precision prepress technology is expected to remain stable. On the other hand, automation and mechanization are progressing, requiring proficiency in digital color management and remote operation technologies.
Personality Traits
High concentration / Meticulous / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Day shift / Factory work / Overtime possible / Shift work / Team work
Career Path
DTP Operator → Platemaking Technician (Prepress Operator) → Prepress Leader → Platemaking Department Manager → Printing Factory Executive
Required Skills
CTP Equipment Operation / Design Software (Adobe) / Film Development Technology / Photosensitive Material Handling
Recommended Skills
Color Management / DTP Software (InDesign) / Proofreading / Quality Control
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | High precision is required to prevent minute plate misalignments or color differences. |
| Problem Solving | Investigating causes during equipment troubles or platemaking defects is essential. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because it focuses more on routine process management than creative thinking. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Mainly standing work and machine operation, but little heavy labor. |
Related Qualifications
- Printing Technician (Platemaking)
Aliases
- Plate Worker
- Platemaker
Related Jobs
- Bookbinder
- Printing Operator
- Proofreader