[Core] [97% incumbents] Generate prepress proofs in digital or other format to approximate the appearance of the final printed piece.
  DWAs: Operate photographic developing or print production equipment.

[Core] [97% incumbents] Proofread and perform quality control of text and images.
  DWAs: Inspected printed materials or other images to verify quality.

[Core] [97% incumbents] Perform "preflight" check of required font, graphic, text and image files to ensure completeness prior to delivery to printer.
  DWAs: Operate photographic developing or print production equipment.

[Core] [97% incumbents] Operate and maintain laser plate-making equipment that converts electronic data to plates without the use of film.
  DWAs: Operate photographic developing or print production equipment. | Maintain production or processing equipment.

[Core] [97% incumbents] Maintain, adjust, and clean equipment, and perform minor repairs.
  DWAs: Clean production equipment. | Repair production equipment or tools. | Maintain production or processing equipment.

[Supplemental] [97% incumbents] Operate presses to print proofs of plates, monitoring printing quality to ensure that it is adequate.
  DWAs: Monitor equipment operation to ensure that products are not flawed. | Operate photographic developing or print production equipment.

[Supplemental] [97% incumbents] Examine finished plates to detect flaws, verify conformity with master plates, and measure dot sizes and centers, using light boxes and microscopes.
  DWAs: Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.

[Supplemental] [97% incumbents] Examine unexposed photographic plates to detect flaws or foreign particles prior to printing.
  DWAs: Examine condition of property or products.

[Core] [96% incumbents] Enter, position, and alter text size, using computers, to make up and arrange pages so that printed materials can be produced.
  DWAs: Enter commands, instructions, or specifications into equipment. | Program equipment to perform production tasks.

[Core] [96% incumbents] Enter, store, and retrieve information on computer-aided equipment.
  DWAs: Enter commands, instructions, or specifications into equipment.

[Supplemental] [96% incumbents] Examine photographic images for obvious imperfections prior to plate making.
  DWAs: Inspected printed materials or other images to verify quality.

[Supplemental] [96% incumbents] Analyze originals to evaluate color density, gradation highlights, middle tones, and shadows, using densitometers and knowledge of light and color.
  DWAs: Inspected printed materials or other images to verify quality.

[Supplemental] [96% incumbents] Set scanners to specific color densities, sizes, screen rulings, and exposure adjustments, using scanner keyboards or computers.
  DWAs: Operate digital imaging equipment.

[Supplemental] [95% incumbents] Select proper types of plates according to press run lengths.
  DWAs: Select production equipment according to product specifications.

[Supplemental] [95% incumbents] Scale copy for reductions and enlargements, using proportion wheels.
  DWAs: Operate photographic developing or print production equipment.

[EMERGING:New] Correct color in photographs or digital images.

--- SKILLS ---
  Active Listening (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand
  Speaking (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  Critical Thinking (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ
  Monitoring (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization
  Reading Comprehension (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  Writing (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc
  Active Learning (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr
  Learning Strategies (imp:2.38 lvl:2.25) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo
  Mathematics (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — Using mathematics to solve problems.
  Science (imp:1.62 lvl:0.88) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

--- KNOWLEDGE ---
  Computers and Electronics (imp:4.00 lvl:4.79) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput
  English Language (imp:3.63 lvl:3.72) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea
  Design (imp:3.51 lvl:3.91) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of 
  Mathematics (imp:3.36 lvl:3.22) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl
  Production and Processing (imp:3.33 lvl:3.35) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot
  Customer and Personal Service (imp:3.23 lvl:3.23) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic
  Administrative (imp:2.93 lvl:3.72) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce
  Communications and Media (imp:2.67 lvl:3.09) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m
  Administration and Management (imp:2.60 lvl:2.85) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, 
  Education and Training (imp:2.47 lvl:2.65) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching
  Sales and Marketing (imp:2.29 lvl:2.14) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products
  Mechanical (imp:2.12 lvl:2.13) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main
  Engineering and Technology (imp:2.09 lvl:2.02) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th
  Fine Arts (imp:2.06 lvl:1.99) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform
  Public Safety and Security (imp:1.82 lvl:1.14) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote
  Telecommunications (imp:1.71 lvl:1.19) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te
  Chemistry (imp:1.67 lvl:1.47) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a
  Economics and Accounting (imp:1.58 lvl:0.87) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar
  Personnel and Human Resources (imp:1.54 lvl:1.24) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra
  Psychology (imp:1.51 lvl:0.86) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, 
  Law and Government (imp:1.45 lvl:0.83) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat
  Transportation (imp:1.34 lvl:0.87) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea
  Physics (imp:1.23 lvl:0.55) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships,
  Geography (imp:1.23 lvl:0.63) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an
  Sociology and Anthropology (imp:1.19 lvl:0.69) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human 
  Building and Construction (imp:1.18 lvl:0.56) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r
  Foreign Language (imp:1.12 lvl:0.27) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu
  History and Archeology (imp:1.10) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi
  Medicine and Dentistry (imp:1.09) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i
  Therapy and Counseling (imp:1.09) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r
  Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.07) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their 
  Biology (imp:1.03) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd
  Food Production (imp:1.00) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food

--- ABILITIES ---
  Near Vision (imp:3.75 lvl:4.00) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  Problem Sensitivity (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no
  Inductive Reasoning (imp:3.25 lvl:3.00) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion
  Visualization (imp:3.25 lvl:3.25) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when 
  Visual Color Discrimination (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c
  Oral Comprehension (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through 
  Written Comprehension (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  Oral Expression (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde
  Information Ordering (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according
  Category Flexibility (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping
  Deductive Reasoning (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that 
  Flexibility of Closure (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so
  Perceptual Speed (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among
  Selective Attention (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac
  Control Precision (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi
  Speech Recognition (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
  Speech Clarity (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
  Written Expression (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under
  Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold
  Finger Dexterity (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot
  Manual Dexterity (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your
  Fluency of Ideas (imp:2.62 lvl:2.88) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas
  Originality (imp:2.62 lvl:3.00) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa
  Far Vision (imp:2.50 lvl:2.75) — The ability to see details at a distance.
  Mathematical Reasoning (imp:2.25 lvl:2.00) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob
  Speed of Closure (imp:2.12 lvl:1.50) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea
  Auditory Attention (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra
  Number Facility (imp:2.00 lvl:1.75) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
  Memorization (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced
  Time Sharing (imp:2.00 lvl:2.12) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of
  Rate Control (imp:2.00 lvl:1.62) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an
  Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:2.00 lvl:1.75) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and 
  Depth Perception (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you
  Reaction Time (imp:1.88 lvl:1.38) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou
  Hearing Sensitivity (imp:1.88 lvl:1.88) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch 
  Multilimb Coordination (imp:1.62 lvl:1.25) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or
  Response Orientation (imp:1.62 lvl:0.88) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o
  Trunk Strength (imp:1.50 lvl:0.88) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the 
  Static Strength (imp:1.38 lvl:0.75) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
  Extent Flexibility (imp:1.38 lvl:0.50) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Dynamic Strength (imp:1.25 lvl:0.50) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv
  Spatial Orientation (imp:1.00) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher
  Speed of Limb Movement (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
  Explosive Strength (imp:1.00) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping
  Stamina (imp:1.00) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti
  Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo
  Gross Body Coordination (imp:1.00) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh
  Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:1.00) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta
  Night Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
  Peripheral Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar
  Glare Sensitivity (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
  Sound Localization (imp:1.00) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.

--- WORK ACTIVITIES ---
  Working with Computers (imp:4.60 lvl:4.27) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra
  Getting Information (imp:4.33 lvl:3.97) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour
  Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:4.16 lvl:4.21) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol
  Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:4.16 lvl:5.23) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:4.15 lvl:3.97) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone,
  Thinking Creatively (imp:3.98 lvl:4.40) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste
  Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.75 lvl:4.34) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your
  Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:3.65 lvl:4.25) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment,
  Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:3.51 lvl:2.92) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or 
  Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:3.49 lvl:3.64) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
  Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:3.47 lvl:2.77) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc
  Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:3.42 lvl:3.27) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o
  Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:3.41 lvl:3.06) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines 
  Processing Information (imp:3.39 lvl:3.64) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying
  Training and Teaching Others (imp:3.29 lvl:3.04) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr
  Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:3.26 lvl:3.88) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m
  Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:3.25 lvl:3.35) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:3.23 lvl:2.48) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:3.22 lvl:3.20) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
  Documenting/Recording Information (imp:3.08 lvl:2.68) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte
  Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:3.02 lvl:3.09) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio
  Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:2.97 lvl:2.52) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance 
  Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:2.94 lvl:2.61) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o
  Coaching and Developing Others (imp:2.94 lvl:3.03) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw
  Analyzing Data or Information (imp:2.92 lvl:2.61) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break
  Developing and Building Teams (imp:2.89 lvl:2.29) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe
  Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:2.83 lvl:3.48) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical,
  Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:2.70 lvl:2.65) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to 
  Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:2.65 lvl:1.97) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t
  Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:2.60 lvl:2.43) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, 
  Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:2.53 lvl:2.60) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines,
  Performing Administrative Activities (imp:2.50 lvl:2.12) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files
  Handling and Moving Objects (imp:2.49 lvl:3.36) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials,
  Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:2.45 lvl:2.45) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
  Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:2.41 lvl:2.23) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an
  Performing General Physical Activities (imp:2.28 lvl:2.18) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co
  Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:2.10 lvl:1.34) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe
  Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:2.04 lvl:1.62) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving
  Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:1.74 lvl:1.10) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s
  Staffing Organizational Units (imp:1.69 lvl:1.19) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ
  Selling or Influencing Others (imp:1.65 lvl:1.08) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or

--- WORK STYLES ---
  Attention to Detail (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Dependability (imp:2.30) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Dependability (imp:2.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Cautiousness (imp:1.23) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Attention to Detail (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Perseverance (imp:0.88) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Adaptability (imp:0.76) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Cooperation (imp:0.73) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Achievement Orientation (imp:0.70) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:0.65) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Self-Control (imp:0.59) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Self-Confidence (imp:0.43) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Integrity (imp:0.31) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Innovation (imp:0.28) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Stress Tolerance (imp:0.22) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Sincerity (imp:0.10) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Initiative (imp:0.05) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Cautiousness () — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Integrity () — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Optimism (imp:-0.10) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation (imp:-0.12) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Empathy (imp:-0.14) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Humility (imp:-0.28) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:-0.40) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Leadership Orientation (imp:-0.68) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.

--- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS ---
  Time Management (imp:3.12 lvl:2.75) — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  Coordination (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  Complex Problem Solving (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev
  Operations Monitoring (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr
  Judgment and Decision Making (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m
  Social Perceptiveness (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  Persuasion (imp:2.88 lvl:2.38) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
  Instructing (imp:2.75 lvl:2.50) — Teaching others how to do something.
  Quality Control Analysis (imp:2.75 lvl:2.38) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate
  Negotiation (imp:2.62 lvl:2.12) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
  Service Orientation (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — Actively looking for ways to help people.
  Operation and Control (imp:2.62 lvl:2.12) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  Equipment Maintenance (imp:2.38 lvl:1.88) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o
  Systems Analysis (imp:2.38 lvl:2.25) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, 
  Systems Evaluation (imp:2.38 lvl:2.25) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed 
  Management of Personnel Resources (imp:2.25 lvl:2.25) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best 
  Equipment Selection (imp:2.12 lvl:1.75) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  Troubleshooting (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  Repairing (imp:2.12 lvl:1.75) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
  Operations Analysis (imp:2.00 lvl:1.50) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  Technology Design (imp:1.75 lvl:1.00) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
  Programming (imp:1.75 lvl:0.88) — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
  Management of Material Resources (imp:1.75 lvl:0.88) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi
  Management of Financial Resources (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the
  Installation (imp:1.00) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : 23,840
  annual_median    : $48,690
  annual_pct10     : $35,810
  annual_pct25     : $40,930
  annual_pct75     : $58,580
  annual_pct90     : $66,080
  annual_mean      : $50,800
  hourly_median    : $23.41

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : District of Columbia ($100,980)
  lowest_state     : Puerto Rico ($33,030)
  dispersion_ratio : 3.057x

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (46 total) ---
  Manufacturing                            emp:   17,670  median: $  48,180
  Information                              emp:    2,450  median: $  49,130
  Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp:    1,250  median: $  43,830
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:      740  median: $  40,950
  Management of Companies and Enterprises  emp:      550  median: $  47,700
  Wholesale Trade                          emp:      390  median: $  47,540
  Educational Services                     emp:      270  median: $  64,120
  Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp:      240  median: $ 100,980
  Retail Trade                             emp:      150  median: $  36,510
  Transportation and Warehousing           emp:       50  median: $  46,250

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (11 total) ---
  Manufacturing                            emp:   17,670  median: $  48,180
  Information                              emp:    2,450  median: $  49,130
  Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp:    1,250  median: $  43,830
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:      740  median: $  40,950
  Management of Companies and Enterprises  emp:      550  median: $  47,700
  Wholesale Trade                          emp:      390  median: $  47,540
  Educational Services                     emp:      270  median: $  64,120
  Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp:      240  median: $ 100,980
  Retail Trade                             emp:      150  median: $  36,510
  Transportation and Warehousing           emp:       50  median: $  46,250

exact_match_status : no_exact_match
matched_title      : N/A
match_score        : 0.0000
wikidata_qid       : N/A
word_count         : 0
wikipedia_url      : N/A
license            : CC BY-SA 4.0
fetched_at         : 2026-06-02T23:12:54.065190Z

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: Electronics for Imaging (similarity: 0.3636)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronics_for_Imaging
  QID: Q5358494
  Extract: Electronics for Imaging, Inc. (EFI) is an international company based in Silicon Valley that specializes in digital printing technology. 
Formerly located in Foster City, California, the company is now based in Fremont. On July 1, 2015, EFI entered the textile printing marketing with the acquisition

  Title: Institut Latihan Perindustrian Kuala Lumpur (similarity: 0.2667)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Institut_Latihan_Perindustrian_Kuala_Lumpur
  QID: Q18351659
  Extract: Institut Latihan Perindustrian Kuala Lumpur, is a public vocational college situated in a 13.7-acre land in Kuchai Lama, suburb of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Founded in 1964 under Jabatan Tenaga Manusia, ILPKL is the oldest institute of technology in Malaysia. It is one of 32 Institut Latihan Jabatan T

  Title: 2003 Birthday Honours (similarity: 0.2642)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2003_Birthday_Honours
  QID: Q4601160
  Extract: 

The 2003 Queen's Birthday Honours were announced on 14 June 2003 for the United Kingdom and on 2 June 2003 for New Zealand.

  Title: Chrome Remote Desktop (similarity: 0.2264)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrome_Remote_Desktop
  QID: Q5113785
  Extract: Chrome Remote Desktop is a remote desktop software tool, developed by Google, that allows a user to remotely control another computer's desktop through a proprietary protocol also developed by Google, internally called Chromoting. The protocol transmits the keyboard and mouse events from the client 

  Title: Operating system (similarity: 0.2500)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operating_system
  QID: Q9135
  Extract: An operating system (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware and software resources, and provides common services for computer programs.

model_pass1          : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2          : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes     : Strong O*NET data with detailed task descriptions, clear skill requirements, and comprehensive wage data. Limited by lack of Wikipedia context but occupation is well-defined with specific technical requirements.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-04T01:41:08.027315+00:00
tokens_input         : 4,727
tokens_output        : 4,077
cost_usd             : $0.043722
wikipedia_used       : False
wikipedia_title      : None
wikipedia_note       : No exact Wikipedia match found for prepress technicians. The closest semantic neighbor was Electronics for Imaging, a company that develops printing and imaging technology, which provides limited contextual relevance.

--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Prepress Technicians and Workers format and proof text and images submitted by designers and clients into finished pages ready for printing, using specialized software and equipment. They operate digital typesetting systems, generate proofs, perform quality control, and may produce printing plates using laser plate-making equipment. These skilled technicians serve as the critical link between design and production in the printing industry.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
Prepress technicians begin their day by performing preflight checks on digital files, ensuring all required fonts, graphics, and images are complete and properly formatted. They use Adobe Creative Suite software to enter, position, and alter text size while arranging pages for optimal printing. Throughout the day, they generate digital proofs to approximate final printed pieces and conduct thorough quality control reviews of text and images. They operate and maintain laser plate-making equipment that converts electronic data to printing plates, monitor printing quality during proof runs, and examine finished plates for flaws using precision measurement tools.

WHO THRIVES:
Individuals who excel in this role possess exceptional attention to detail and near vision capabilities, as they must detect subtle flaws and ensure precise color accuracy. They combine technical computer skills with creative visualization abilities, working comfortably with complex design software while maintaining focus during repetitive quality control tasks. Successful prepress technicians demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and dependability, as printing deadlines are often tight and errors can be costly. They typically have a conventional work style with realistic interests, enjoying systematic, detail-oriented work with tangible outcomes.

CAREER ENTRY:
Most prepress technicians enter the field with a high school diploma (39.3%) or associate's degree (23.2%), often supplemented by some college courses in graphic design or printing technology. Entry-level positions typically require on-the-job training to learn specific software applications and printing equipment operation. Many employers prefer candidates with prior experience in graphic design, photography, or related technical fields that demonstrate familiarity with digital imaging and design software.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Prepress technicians can advance to supervisory roles overseeing prepress operations or transition into related areas such as printing press operation or graphic design. With additional training, they may become printing production managers or specialize in emerging digital printing technologies. Some technicians leverage their technical expertise to move into equipment sales or technical support roles for printing industry suppliers.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
Prepress technicians earn a median annual salary of $48,690 according to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, with wages ranging from $35,810 to $66,080 across experience levels. Employment totals 23,840 workers nationally, with significant geographic variation from $33,030 in Puerto Rico to $100,980 in the District of Columbia. The majority of positions (17,670) are in manufacturing, followed by information services (2,450) and professional services (1,250). While traditional printing faces digital disruption, demand continues for skilled technicians who can adapt to new technologies and manage increasingly complex digital workflows.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
Prepress work faces moderate automation pressure as software increasingly automates preflight checking, color correction, and basic formatting tasks. However, the role's emphasis on quality control, creative problem-solving, and complex decision-making about visual elements provides protection from full automation in the near term.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [career_pathway] Printing Press Operators (51-5112.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles work in the printing production workflow with prepress technicians preparing materials that printing press operators then produce.
    data: Related occupation listed
    data: Same job zone 3
    data: Sequential production workflow
  [skill_overlap] Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators (51-9151.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both require near vision abilities, equipment operation skills, and quality control of visual materials.
    data: Near Vision importance 3.8
    data: Equipment operation tasks
    data: Visual quality control
  [knowledge_overlap] Graphic Designers (27-1024.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both require strong design knowledge and proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite software.
    data: Design knowledge importance 3.5
    data: Adobe Creative Cloud usage
    data: Visual composition skills
  [riasec_cluster] Office Machine Operators, Except Computer (43-9071.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both have conventional RIASEC profiles emphasizing systematic, detail-oriented equipment operation.
    data: Conventional RIASEC score 5.76
    data: Equipment operation focus
    data: Systematic work approach
  [task_similarity] Print Binding and Finishing Workers (51-5113.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both perform quality control inspection and equipment maintenance in printing production environments.
    data: Quality control tasks
    data: Equipment maintenance duties
    data: Same industry focus

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['prepress', 'typesetting', 'proof', 'plate making', 'preflight', 'color separation', 'print production', 'digital imaging']
  exclude_keywords : ['press operator', 'bindery', 'graphic design', 'photography', 'packaging']
  title_patterns   : ['Prepress Technician', 'Prepress Operator', 'Electronic Prepress', 'Digital Prepress', 'Typesetter']
  common_variations: ['Prepress Tech', 'Electronic Typesetter', 'Digital Prepress Technician', 'Prepress Specialist', 'Print Production Technician', 'Prepress Worker', 'Desktop Publishing Specialist', 'Digital Imaging Technician']

total_terms    : 40
top_words      : ['equipment', 'tendency', 'others', 'production', 'printing', 'control', 'quality', 'principles', 'materials', 'digital', 'operate', 'developing', 'software', 'design', 'includes', 'objects', 'computer', 'ideas', 'prepress', 'techniques']
source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
equipment                  46  0.01682  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:50%  dwas:33%  inference:11%
tendency                   42  0.01536  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
others                     38  0.01390  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
production                 21  0.00768  dwas                 dwas:52%  onet_dimensions:38%  inference:10%
printing                   19  0.00695  inference            inference:79%  onet_tasks:11%  wikipedia:11%
control                    18  0.00658  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:67%  inference:22%  onet_tasks:6%
quality                    16  0.00585  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:38%  inference:31%  dwas:19%
principles                 16  0.00585  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
materials                  14  0.00512  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:71%  dwas:21%  onet_tasks:7%
digital                    13  0.00475  inference            inference:54%  wikipedia:23%  onet_tasks:15%
operate                    13  0.00475  dwas                 dwas:46%  onet_dimensions:23%  onet_tasks:15%
developing                 13  0.00475  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:62%  dwas:38%
software                   12  0.00439  inference            inference:50%  onet_dimensions:25%  wikipedia:25%
design                     12  0.00439  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:50%  inference:50%
includes                   12  0.00439  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
objects                    12  0.00439  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
computer                   11  0.00402  wikipedia            wikipedia:55%  onet_dimensions:27%  onet_tasks:9%
ideas                      11  0.00402  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
prepress                   10  0.00366  inference            inference:90%  onet_tasks:10%
techniques                 10  0.00366  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
resources                  10  0.00366  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:90%  wikipedia:10%
body                       10  0.00366  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
technicians                10  0.00366  inference            inference:100%
images                      9  0.00329  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:33%  dwas:33%  inference:33%
plates                      9  0.00329  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:67%  inference:33%
monitoring                  9  0.00329  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  onet_tasks:11%
problems                    9  0.00329  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
problem                     9  0.00329  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:78%  inference:22%
services                    9  0.00329  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:67%  inference:22%  wikipedia:11%
events                      9  0.00329  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  wikipedia:11%
quickly                     9  0.00329  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
activities                  9  0.00329  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
performing                  9  0.00329  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  inference:11%
orientation                 9  0.00329  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
color                       8  0.00293  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:50%  onet_dimensions:25%  inference:25%
needs                       8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
procedures                  8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
rules                       8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
standards                   8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
products                    8  0.00293  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:62%  dwas:38%