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Job Definition
View MovieFormat typescript and graphic elements using computer software to produce publication-ready material.
Job Zone

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. Some may require a bachelor's degree.

Interests
Realistic - Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
Artistic - Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.
Conventional - Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
Knowledge
Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
English Language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Production and Processing - Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Skills
Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Time Management - Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Service Orientation - Actively looking for ways to help people.
Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Coordination - Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Equipment Selection - Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Tasks
Transmit, deliver or mail publication master to printer for production into film and plates.
Collaborate with graphic artists, editors and writers to produce master copies according to design specifications.
Create special effects such as vignettes, mosaics, and image combining, and add elements such as sound and animation to electronic publications.
Check preliminary and final proofs for errors and make necessary corrections.
Operate desktop publishing software and equipment to design, lay out, and produce camera-ready copy.
View monitors for visual representation of work in progress and for instructions and feedback throughout process, making modifications as necessary.
Enter text into computer keyboard and select the size and style of type, column width and appropriate spacing for printed materials.
Store copies of publications on paper, magnetic tape, film or diskette.
Position text and art elements from a variety of databases in a visually appealing way to design print or web pages, using knowledge of type styles and size and layout patterns.
Enter digitized data into electronic prepress system computer memory, using scanner, camera, keyboard, or mouse.
Edit graphics and photos using pixel or bitmap editing, airbrushing, masking, or image retouching.
Import text and art elements such as electronic clip-art or electronic files from photographs that have been scanned or produced with a digital camera, using computer software.
Prepare sample layouts for approval, using computer software.
Study layout or other design instructions to determine work to be done and sequence of operations.
Load floppy disks or tapes containing information into system.
Wages

In 2008, the California average annual wage was $41,530.00.

Most people employed in this occupation were paid between $27,250.00 and $61,350.00.

Outlook

During 2006, there were approximately 2,900 people employed in this field in California. It is projected that there will be 2,900 employed in 2016. This occupation will have about 0 openings due to growth and about 60 replacement openings for approximately 60 total annual openings. This occupation .

Colleges and Training
Below are college programs that are generally associated with this occupation. To view colleges that offer these programs, click on the titles below.
Prepress/Desktop Publishing and Digital Imaging Design - A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to the layout, design and typographic arrangement of printed and/or electronic graphic and textual products. Includes instruction in printing and lithographic equipment and operations; computer hardware and software; digital imaging; print preparation; page layout and design; desktop publishing; and applicable principles of graphic design and web page design.
Similar Occupations
Film and Video Editors - Edit motion picture soundtracks, film, and video.
Computer Operators - Monitor and control electronic computer and peripheral electronic data processing equipment to process business, scientific, engineering, and other data according to operating instructions. May enter commands at a computer terminal and set controls on computer and peripheral devices. Monitor and respond to operating and error messages.
Prepress Technicians and Workers - Set up and prepare material for printing presses.
Printing Machine Operators - Set up or operate various types of printing machines, such as offset, letterset, intaglio, or gravure presses or screen printers to produce print on paper or other materials.
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Job Openings
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