Type Casting Worker
かつじいぞうこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Type casting workers manufacture type used in letterpress printing for books and newspapers by casting lead alloys, and perform finishing processes and quality inspections.
Description
Type casting workers are specialists who manufacture type for printing. First, they melt alloys such as lead, tin, and antimony, and pour them into hand molds to form the type. After forming, they remove it from the mold, perform finishing processes like chamfering and polishing, and strictly inspect the dimensions and shapes of the characters using gauges and micrometers. They also handle mold management and maintenance, as well as quality control across a wide range of processes, including adjustments to temperature and alloy ratios during casting. While inheriting traditional techniques, they are also required to use CAD/CAM for type design and address safety and health management in recent years.
Future Outlook
Although the market size is shrinking due to the spread of digital printing, there is potential for sustained or increased demand in limited niche markets backed by the retro boom in letterpress printing and its value as a traditional craft.
Personality Traits
Attentive / Dexterous with hands and good at detailed work / Patient / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Day Shift / Factory Work / Indoor Work / Shift Work / Team Work
Career Path
Junior Type Casting Worker → Senior Type Casting Worker → Type Factory Manager → Printing Factory Technician → Printing Processing Specialist
Required Skills
Dimensional Inspection / Finishing Processing / Hand Mold Operation / Lead Alloy Casting / Mold Management / Quality Control
Recommended Skills
CAD/CAM Type Design / English Literature Reading / Metallurgy / Safety and Health Management
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because no errors in character shape or dimensions are allowed. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because it involves handling heavy lead alloys and continuous work in high-temperature environments. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Because it centers on traditional manual work with standardized processes. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Creativity is not particularly required as manufacturing follows established standards. |
| Initiative & Leadership | Mainly follows established work procedures. |
Aliases
- Letterpress Type Caster
- Type Craftsman
Related Jobs
- Bookbinder
- Compositor
- Plate-Making Technician
- Printer