Description

Desktop publishing operators and workers in related occupations use computers to enter copy into a typesetting system or operate typesetting output equipment to produce text that is ready to print. They are employed by firms that specialize in typesetting, commercial printing companies, publishing and printing companies and various establishments in the public and private sectors that have in-house printing departments.

Job Titles

• Desktop compositor
• Desktop publishing (DTP) operator
• Desktop publishing (DTP) specialist
• Newspaper page assembler
• Photocompositor
• Phototypesetter
• Preproduction operator

Main Duties

• Operate desktop publishing software and equipment to design, lay out and produce camera-ready copy and may perform pre-flight operator duties
• Mark copy with computer codes and typographic instructions before it is typeset.

Workplaces

• Commercial printing companies
• Firms that specialize in typesetting
• In-house printing departments of private and public sector establishments
• Publishing and printing companies

Skills

• Coordinating
• Critical Thinking
• Learning and Teaching Strategies
• Oral Communication: Active Listening
• Oral Communication: Oral Comprehension

Abilities

• Colour Perception
• Near Vision
• Pattern Identification
• Perceptual Speed
• Arm-Hand Steadiness

Personal Attributes

• Adaptability
• Attention to Detail
• Collaboration
• Creativity
• Independence

Similar Occupations

• Graphic designers and illustrators (52120)
• Camera, platemaking and other prepress occupations (94151)
• Desktop publishing operators supervisor (in 12010.00 Supervisors, general office and administrative support workers)
• Graphic arts copy stylist; Paste-up artist (in 52111.00 Graphic arts technicians)
• Proofreaders and editorial assistants (14301.03)

Source: OaSIS