State of Maryland

A Phototypesetter Operator I is the full performance level of work in the operation of computerized phototypesetting equipment producing camera-ready copy in a print shop or publications design unit.  Employees in this classification set type for copy contained in a variety of printed material such as magazines, newspapers, brochures, catalogues, posters, etc. that are frequently used in connection with public relations and may have a large distribution to the general public.  Employees in this classification must be able to produce professional level print copy.  Employees in this classification, in addition to setting type, may prepare specifications and perform layout work for routine and/or repetitive jobs.  Employees in this classification keep records and files relating to the work performed and are required to conduct routine maintenance of equipment and supplies. Employees in this classification do not supervise other positions.

Employees in this classification receive general supervision from a higher-level Phototypesetter Operator, administrator or print shop supervisor.

Positions in this classification are evaluated using the classification job evaluation methodology.  The use of this method involves comparing assigned duties and responsibilities of a position to the job criteria found in the Nature of Work and Examples of Work Sections of the class specification.

The Phototypesetter Operator I is differentiated from the Phototypesetter Operator II in that the Phototypesetter Operator I performs the full range of duties and responsibilities under general supervision while the Phototypesetter Operator II assigns, reviews and approves the work of and trains lower-level Phototypesetter Operators.

Controls electronic computer system used in phototypesetting by setting control switches on computer to clear system and by entering command code in order to start operation of equipment;

Monitors and maintains computerized phototypesetting equipment by following directions and messages flashed on control panel, making minor adjustments using hand tools, cleaning the equipment, and loading the equipment with paper and chemical solutions as required, in order to keep the equipment in proper operating condition;

Reads submitted manuscripts and printing specifications for publications such as magazine and newspaper articles, brochures, posters, catalogues, etc. in order to determine style and size of type, correct spacing and column length, and other related design and parameter factors;

Sets type according to specifications by entering the correct computer codes and typing the copy on the keyboard, proofreading copy on a video display, making corrections and justifying copy, entering copy into computer memory and on photographic paper, and developing copy in processor, in order to produce copy for paste-up;

Prepares job specifications for routine and repeat jobs;

Proofreads copy for adherence to specifications and correctness of spelling, grammar and punctuation in order to make necessary corrections;

Pastes up routine copy and/or corrections using illuminated table and drafting equipment in order to produce camera-ready copy;

Assists in ordering and storing necessary supplies such as photographic paper, chemical fixer and developing solution, etc.;

Gauges the amount of supplies needed and informs supervisor when additional supplies must be ordered;

Maintains a log of work produced, by recording specifications, hours worked, materials used, and number of times corrections were made in order that the cost of the jobs can be determined and that specifications are available for future reference;

Stores type fonts and floppy disk files in order to preserve them in proper condition;

May process copy sent in through remote terminals;

Performs other related duties.

Knowledge of graphic design and composition, printing terminology, typefaces, spacing, spelling, punctuation and grammar;

Ability to maintain and operate computerized phototypesetting equipment;

Ability to visualize the resultant finished copy by looking at the rough manuscripts;

Ability to estimate length and pagination of finished product;

Ability to keep accurate records;

Ability to meet production deadlines.

Education:   None.

Experience: One year of experience in the operation of phototypesetting equipment.

Note: Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a non-commissioned officer in Lithographer classifications or Lithographer specialty codes in the phototypesetting field of work on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.  

Class specifications are broad descriptions covering groups of positions used by various State departments and agencies. Position descriptions maintained by the using department or agency specifically address the essential job functions of each position.

This is a Skilled Service classification in the State Personnel Management System.  All positions in this classification are Skilled Service positions.  Some positions in Skilled Service classifications may be designated Special Appointment in accordance with the State Personnel and Pensions Article, Section 6-405, Annotated Code of Maryland.

This classification is assigned to Bargaining Unit A- Labor and Trades classes.  As provided by State Personnel and Pensions Article, Section 3-102, special appointment, temporary, contractual, supervisory, managerial, and confidential employees are excluded from collective bargaining. Additionally, certain executive branch agencies are exempt from collective bargaining and all positions in those agencies are excluded from collective bargaining.

Employees in this classification are eligible to receive overtime compensation.  An employee who works more than the normal workweek is entitled to be compensated for that overtime, as provided by the State Personnel and Pensions Article, Section 8-305.