BlissPoint Analytics

Occupation AtlasPrepress Technicians and Workers

O*NET · 51-5111.00

Prepress Technicians and Workers

Format and proof text and images submitted by designers and clients into finished pages that can be printed. Includes digital and photo typesetting. May produce printing plates.

Also called Ad Compositor · Ad Setter · Advertisement Compositor · Advertising Layout Worker · Bankman · Blueprint Blocker · Blueprint Cutter · Blueprint Developer
195 more

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Job Zone 3 — Medium Preparation NeededHolland code CRA35 skills on file

Compare with another occupationCompare with Dental Laboratory Technicians

Job Zone

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5

Zone 3: Medium Preparation Needed

Medium preparation. Vocational training, related on-the-job experience, or an associate degree, with one to two years of training that combines experience and informal instruction.

Job Zone is O*NET's rating of how much education, experience and training an occupation typically needs — a property of the work, not of anyone doing it.

Occupational interest profile

CRAConventional · Realistic · Artistic — the three strongest interests, in order

  • C Conventional5.76
  • R Realistic5.01
  • A Artistic3.10
  • I Investigative1.96
  • S Social1.65
  • E Enterprising1.35

RIASEC (Holland) interests on O*NET's 0–7 scale: what the work draws on, not what any individual prefers. Hover a row for what each dimension means.

Education and experience

The education level respondents say the job requires, and the most common answer for experience and training.

  • Less than a High School Diploma2%
  • High School Diploma or the equivalent39%
  • Post-Secondary Certificate10%
  • Some College Courses21%
  • Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree23%
  • Bachelor's Degree5%
Related work experience
Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years (38%)
On-site or in-plant training
Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months (23%)
On-the-job training
Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months (33%)

Typically associated skills

All 35 O*NET skills, most important first. Importance (1–5) says how much a skill matters here; level (0–7) says how much of it the work calls for, with O*NET's example of a nearby level. Neither is a proficiency rating of a person.

  • Speakingbasic3.13.1Level 4 looks like: Interview applicants to obtain personal and work history
  • Active Listeningbasic3.13.0Level 2 looks like: Take a customer's order
  • Critical Thinkingbasic3.13.0Level 2 looks like: Determine whether a subordinate has a good excuse for being late
  • Monitoringbasic3.13.0Level 2 looks like: Proofread and correct a letter
  • Time Management3.12.8Level 2 looks like: Keep a monthly calendar of appointments
  • Operations Monitoring3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Monitor completion times while running a computer program
  • Reading Comprehensionbasic3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Read step-by-step instructions for completing a form
  • Complex Problem Solving3.02.9Level 2 looks like: Lay out tools to complete a job
  • Coordination3.02.9Level 2 looks like: Schedule appointments for a medical clinic
  • Judgment and Decision Making3.02.9Level 2 looks like: Decide how scheduling a break will affect work flow
  • Active Learningbasic2.93.0Level 2 looks like: Think about the implications of a news article for job opportunities
  • Writingbasic2.92.9Level 2 looks like: Write down a guest's order at a restaurant
Show the other 23
  • Social Perceptiveness2.92.8Level 2 looks like: Notice that customers are angry because they have been waiting too long
  • Persuasion2.92.4Level 2 looks like: Solicit donations for a charity
  • Instructing2.82.5Level 2 looks like: Instruct a new employee in the use of a timekeeping system
  • Quality Control Analysis2.82.4Level 2 looks like: Inspect a draft email for errors (e.g., grammar, punctuation)
  • Service Orientation2.62.6Level 2 looks like: Ask customers if they would like a cup of coffee
  • Negotiation2.62.1Level 2 looks like: Present justification to a manager for altering a work schedule
  • Operation and Control2.62.1Level 2 looks like: Navigate the settings on an office printer to print on both sides of the paper
  • Learning Strategiesbasic2.42.3Level 2 looks like: Learn a different method of completing a task from a coworker
  • Systems Analysis2.42.3Level 2 looks like: Determine how loss of a team member will affect the completion of a job
  • Systems Evaluation2.42.3Level 2 looks like: Determine why estimates for the time to complete a task are overly optimistic
  • Equipment Maintenance2.41.9Level 2 looks like: Add oil to an engine as indicated by a warning light
  • Management of Personnel Resources2.32.3Level 2 looks like: Encourage a coworker who is having difficulty finishing a project
  • Troubleshooting2.12.1Level 2 looks like: Identify the source of a leak by looking under a machine
  • Equipment Selection2.11.8Level 2 looks like: Select a tool to adjust a loose part on a bicycle
  • Repairing2.11.8Level 2 looks like: Tighten a screw to get a door to close properly
  • Mathematicsbasic2.02.0Level 2 looks like: Count the amount of change to be given to a customer
  • Operations Analysis2.01.5Level 2 looks like: Select a printer for an office
  • Technology Design1.81.0Level 2 looks like: Adjust exercise equipment for use by a customer
  • Management of Material Resources1.80.9
  • Programming1.80.9
  • Sciencebasic1.60.9
  • Management of Financial Resources1.50.5
  • Installation1.0—

Tasks

7 core · 8 supplemental

What people in this occupation do, as O*NET records it, core tasks first by importance (1–5).

  1. Generate prepress proofs in digital or other format to approximate the appearance of the final printed piece.4.7
  2. Proofread and perform quality control of text and images.4.7
  3. Enter, position, and alter text size, using computers, to make up and arrange pages so that printed materials can be produced.4.6
  4. Operate and maintain laser plate-making equipment that converts electronic data to plates without the use of film.4.5
  5. Perform "preflight" check of required font, graphic, text and image files to ensure completeness prior to delivery to printer.4.5
  6. Enter, store, and retrieve information on computer-aided equipment.4.4
  7. Maintain, adjust, and clean equipment, and perform minor repairs.4.0
Show the other 8
  1. Operate presses to print proofs of plates, monitoring printing quality to ensure that it is adequate.4.4
  2. Select proper types of plates according to press run lengths.4.4
  3. Examine finished plates to detect flaws, verify conformity with master plates, and measure dot sizes and centers, using light boxes and microscopes.4.3
  4. Examine unexposed photographic plates to detect flaws or foreign particles prior to printing.4.2
  5. Examine photographic images for obvious imperfections prior to plate making.4.0
  6. Scale copy for reductions and enlargements, using proportion wheels.3.9
  7. Analyze originals to evaluate color density, gradation highlights, middle tones, and shadows, using densitometers and knowledge of light and color.3.7
  8. Set scanners to specific color densities, sizes, screen rulings, and exposure adjustments, using scanner keyboards or computers.3.5

Knowledge

Bodies of knowledge the work draws on.

  • Computers and Electronics4.04.8Level 4 looks like: Use a computer to format a document
  • English Language3.63.7Level 4 looks like: Edit an article for a news website
  • Design3.53.9Level 4 looks like: Design plans for remodeling a kitchen
  • Mathematics3.43.2Level 4 looks like: Analyze data to determine areas with the highest sales
  • Production and Processing3.33.4Level 4 looks like: Supervise an appliance assembly line
  • Customer and Personal Service3.23.2Level 4 looks like: Be responsible for 10 children at daycare
  • Administrative2.93.7Level 4 looks like: Type 30 words per minute
  • Communications and Media2.73.1Level 4 looks like: Host a music radio show
Show all 33
  • Administration and Management2.62.9
  • Education and Training2.52.7
  • Sales and Marketing2.32.1Level 1 looks like: Sell cakes at a bake sale
  • Engineering and Technology2.12.0Level 1 looks like: Install a door lock
  • Fine Arts2.12.0Level 1 looks like: Attend a popular music concert
  • Mechanical2.12.1Level 1 looks like: Replace the filters in a furnace
  • Public Safety and Security1.81.1Level 1 looks like: Use a seatbelt
  • Chemistry1.71.5Level 1 looks like: Use a common household bug spray
  • Telecommunications1.71.2Level 1 looks like: Send an email
  • Economics and Accounting1.60.9Level 1 looks like: Answer billing questions from credit card customers
  • Law and Government1.50.8Level 1 looks like: Describe the length of a U.S. presidential term
  • Personnel and Human Resources1.51.2Level 1 looks like: Fill out a medical claim form
  • Psychology1.50.9Level 1 looks like: Monitor several children on a playground
  • Transportation1.30.9Level 1 looks like: Ride a train to work
  • Building and Construction1.2—
  • Geography1.2—
  • Physics1.2—
  • Sociology and Anthropology1.2—
  • Foreign Language1.1—
  • History and Archeology1.1—
  • Medicine and Dentistry1.1—
  • Philosophy and Theology1.1—
  • Therapy and Counseling1.1—
  • Biology1.0—
  • Food Production1.0—

Abilities

Enduring capacities the work calls for.

  • Near Vision3.84.0Level 5 looks like: Read the fine print of a legal document
  • Inductive Reasoning3.33.0Level 2 looks like: Decide what to wear based on the weather report
  • Problem Sensitivity3.33.1Level 4 looks like: Notice from a subtle difference in a client's mood that something is bothering them
  • Visual Color Discrimination3.33.1Level 4 looks like: Trace electrical circuits marked by various colored wires
  • Visualization3.33.3Level 4 looks like: Follow a diagram to assemble a metal storage cabinet
  • Category Flexibility3.13.1Level 3 looks like: Classify flowers according to size, color, and smell
  • Information Ordering3.13.0Level 2 looks like: Follow the correct steps to make change
  • Oral Comprehension3.13.1Level 4 looks like: Understand a coach's oral instructions for a sport
Show all 52
  • Oral Expression3.13.1Level 4 looks like: Give instructions to a lost motorist
  • Written Comprehension3.13.0Level 2 looks like: Understand signs on the highway
  • Control Precision3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Adjust a room light with a dimmer switch
  • Deductive Reasoning3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Know that a stalled car can coast downhill
  • Flexibility of Closure3.02.9Level 2 looks like: Detect that your phone is ringing while at a concert
  • Perceptual Speed3.02.9Level 2 looks like: Sort mail according to ZIP codes with no time pressure
  • Selective Attention3.02.9Level 2 looks like: Answer a business call with coworkers talking nearby
  • Speech Clarity3.02.9
  • Speech Recognition3.02.9Level 2 looks like: Recognize the voice of a coworker
  • Arm-Hand Steadiness2.93.0Level 2 looks like: Light a candle
  • Finger Dexterity2.92.8Level 2 looks like: Put coins in a parking meter
  • Written Expression2.93.0Level 4 looks like: Write a job recommendation for a subordinate
  • Manual Dexterity2.82.8
  • Fluency of Ideas2.62.9Level 2 looks like: Name four different uses for a screwdriver
  • Originality2.63.0Level 2 looks like: Use a credit card to open a locked door
  • Far Vision2.52.8Level 2 looks like: Read a roadside billboard
  • Mathematical Reasoning2.32.0Level 1 looks like: Determine how much 20 oranges will cost when they are priced at 5 for 4 dollars
  • Auditory Attention2.12.1Level 2 looks like: Listen to a lecture while people nearby are talking
  • Speed of Closure2.11.5
  • Depth Perception2.01.9Level 2 looks like: Merge a car into traffic on a city street
  • Memorization2.02.0Level 1 looks like: Remember the number on your bus to be sure you get back on the right one
  • Number Facility2.01.8Level 1 looks like: Add 2 and 7
  • Rate Control2.01.6Level 1 looks like: Ride a bicycle alongside a jogger
  • Time Sharing2.02.1Level 2 looks like: Listen to music while entering numbers into a spreadsheet
  • Wrist-Finger Speed2.01.8Level 2 looks like: Use a screwdriver to twist in a screw
  • Hearing Sensitivity1.91.9Level 2 looks like: Notice a doorbell ringing
  • Reaction Time1.91.4Level 2 looks like: Start to slow down the car when a traffic light turns yellow
  • Multilimb Coordination1.61.3Level 2 looks like: Row a boat
  • Response Orientation1.60.9
  • Trunk Strength1.50.9
  • Extent Flexibility1.40.5
  • Static Strength1.40.8Level 1 looks like: Push an empty shopping cart
  • Dynamic Strength1.3—
  • Dynamic Flexibility1.0—
  • Explosive Strength1.0—
  • Glare Sensitivity1.0—
  • Gross Body Coordination1.0—
  • Gross Body Equilibrium1.0—
  • Night Vision1.0—
  • Peripheral Vision1.0—
  • Sound Localization1.0—
  • Spatial Orientation1.0—
  • Speed of Limb Movement1.0—
  • Stamina1.0—

Work activities

Kinds of activity the work is made of.

  • Working with Computers4.64.3Level 4 looks like: Write software for keeping track of parts in inventory
  • Getting Information4.34.0Level 4 looks like: Review a budget
  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates4.24.0Level 4 looks like: Report the results of a sales meeting to a supervisor
  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems4.24.2Level 4 looks like: Select the location for a major retail store
  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge4.25.2Level 4 looks like: Keep current on changes in maintenance procedures for repairing sports cars
  • Thinking Creatively4.04.4Level 4 looks like: Adapt popular music for a high school marching band
  • Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work3.84.3Level 4 looks like: Plan and adjust a personal to-do list according to changing demands
  • Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings3.74.3Level 4 looks like: Test electrical circuits
Show all 41
  • Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information3.52.8
  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events3.52.9
  • Scheduling Work and Activities3.53.6Level 4 looks like: Prepare the work schedule for salesclerks in a large retail store
  • Controlling Machines and Processes3.43.1Level 4 looks like: Operate a drilling rig
  • Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials3.43.3Level 4 looks like: Inspect equipment in a chemical processing plant
  • Processing Information3.43.6Level 4 looks like: Calculate the adjustments for insurance claims
  • Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others3.33.4Level 4 looks like: Organize the cleanup crew after a major sporting event
  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships3.33.9Level 4 looks like: Maintain good working relationships with almost all coworkers and clients
  • Training and Teaching Others3.33.0Level 4 looks like: Teach a social sciences course to high school students
  • Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others3.22.5Level 1 looks like: Interpret a blood pressure reading
  • Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People3.23.2Level 4 looks like: Determine the value of property lost in a fire
  • Documenting/Recording Information3.12.7
  • Communicating with People Outside the Organization3.03.1Level 4 looks like: Present information to potential clients about available services
  • Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates3.02.5Level 1 looks like: Work occasionally as a backup supervisor
  • Analyzing Data or Information2.92.6
  • Coaching and Developing Others2.93.0Level 4 looks like: Provide on-the-job training for administrative workers
  • Developing and Building Teams2.92.3Level 1 looks like: Encourage two coworkers to stick with a tough assignment
  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards2.92.6
  • Providing Consultation and Advice to Others2.83.5Level 4 looks like: Recommend a new software package to increase operational efficiency
  • Developing Objectives and Strategies2.72.7
  • Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment2.72.0Level 1 looks like: Specify the lighting for a work area
  • Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others2.62.4Level 1 looks like: Apologize to a customer who complains about waiting too long
  • Handling and Moving Objects2.53.4Level 4 looks like: Arrange books in a library
  • Monitoring and Controlling Resources2.52.5Level 1 looks like: Work as a server responsible for keeping track of utensils
  • Performing Administrative Activities2.52.1Level 1 looks like: Complete routine paperwork
  • Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment2.52.6
  • Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment2.42.2Level 1 looks like: Make simple, external adjustments to a door hinge with ordinary hand tools
  • Performing General Physical Activities2.32.2Level 1 looks like: Walk between workstations in a small office
  • Assisting and Caring for Others2.11.3Level 1 looks like: Help a coworker complete an assignment
  • Performing for or Working Directly with the Public2.01.6Level 1 looks like: Check tickets at a concert
  • Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment1.71.1Level 1 looks like: Drive a car
  • Selling or Influencing Others1.71.1Level 1 looks like: Convince a coworker to assist with an assignment
  • Staffing Organizational Units1.71.2Level 1 looks like: Work in a position that has minimal staffing requirements

Work context

The conditions most characteristic of the work, on O*NET's 1–5 context scale.

  • Time Pressure4.9
  • Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams4.7
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate4.6
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled4.6
  • E-Mail4.5
  • Telephone Conversations4.4
  • Spend Time Sitting4.2
  • Contact With Others4.1
  • Freedom to Make Decisions4.0
  • Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team4.0

Technology

26 tools

Software used in this work. In demand: among the tools job postings for this occupation name most. Hot: often named in job postings across the economy.

In demand (6)

  • Adobe Creative Cloud softwarehot
  • Adobe Illustratorhot
  • Adobe InDesignhot
  • Adobe Photoshophot
  • Microsoft Excelhot
  • Microsoft Office softwarehot

Hot (4; 6 more marked hot above)

  • Adobe Acrobat
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Word
Other tools (16)
  • Adobe Director
  • Adobe FrameMaker
  • Adobe FreeHand MX
  • Adobe LifeCycle Enterprise Suite
  • Adobe PageMaker
  • Corel CorelDraw Graphics Suite
  • Corel Painter
  • Esko ArtPro
  • File transfer protocol FTP software
  • Global Graphics Software Harlequin
  • Hamrick Software VueScan
  • LaserSoft Imaging SilverFast Ai Studio
  • Multi-line optical character reader OCR software
  • ProjectSend
  • QuarkXPress
  • Web browser software

Related occupations

O*NET's own list of the occupations most related to this one, closest first.

  1. Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators
  2. Printing Press Operators
  3. Etchers and Engravers
  4. Office Machine Operators, Except Computer
  5. Print Binding and Finishing Workers
  6. Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
  7. Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
  8. Paper Goods Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
  9. Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
  10. Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers

ESCO equivalents

From the official ESCO–O*NET crosswalk, strongest match first. A broader occupation takes in this one; a narrower one is a part of it.

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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license; O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. ESCO occupations and skills are from the European Commission's ESCO classification, and the occupation crosswalk is the official ESCO–O*NET mapping by the ESCO Secretariat with USDOL/ETA. This service uses the ESCO classification of the European Commission. BlissPoint Analytics has modified all or some of this information: skill, task and descriptor ratings are rounded to one decimal, and ESCO occupations show Job Zone and interests copied from a crosswalked O*NET occupation. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.