Platemaker
ずあんせいはんこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialized profession that produces plates (plates) used for printed materials. Exposes and develops originals from film or digital data to create printable plates.
Description
Platemakers receive originals created by DTP operators or designers and manufacture printing plates through processes such as film output, CTP system plate output, exposure, and chemical development. They perform halftone processing and screen output, adjusting dot patterns and densities suitable for printing. They ensure high-precision platemaking quality through operation of platemaking equipment, chemical management, and plate inspection. Quality control and maintenance to prevent plate misalignment and unevenness are also important roles.
Future Outlook
With the普及 of CTP and digital output technologies, the platemaking process is becoming automated, and demand is declining. However, needs for specialized technicians remain in high-end printing and packaging printing fields that require high precision.
Personality Traits
Work Style
Early Morning and Night Work / Printing Factory Employment / Shift Work
Career Path
Junior Platemaking Operator → Platemaking Technician → Prepress Leader → Manufacturing Management → Production Management
Required Skills
CTP Device Operation / Chemical Safety Management / Exposure Machine and Developer Operation / Halftone Processing / Platemaking Equipment Maintenance
Recommended Skills
Color Calibration / DTP Software Operation / ISO Standards Knowledge / Quality Control (Inspection and Measurement)
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because minute plate misalignments or unevenness directly affect print quality. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Mainly centered on machine operation, with little heavy lifting work. |
Related Qualifications
- Color Certification
- DTP Expert
- Printing Technician (Platemaking)
Aliases
- Plate Operator
- Platemaking Technician
- Prepress Operator
Related Jobs
- Bookbinder
- DTP Operator
- Printer
- Printing Technician