Graphic Compositor
Class Specifications – G.75
Senior Graphic Compositor – 4691
Graphic Compositor – 4692
October, 1975
Series Concept
Graphic Compositors perform a variety of tasks involving the operation of cold type composing machines such as Varityper, MTSC composer and phototype- setters in planning and preparing the layout and composition of forms, brochures, charts, statistical tables, and other material for reproduction by photo offset printing process or other methods; and perform other related duties as required.
Incumbents typically combine creative ability and skill in planning the basic layout of material; selecting the style, size and variety of type to be used; copyfitting; determining proper line spacing, placing of footnotes, photographs and illustrations; justifying margins; and preparing copy, by pasteup techniques in blending a variety of graphic elements into cold type print and/or artwork.
The Graphic Compositor series reflects levels of difficulty such as the coordination of large and/or difficult projects; consulting and advisory services to departments; and specialized composing skills and knowledge of publications procedures. This series is not intended to include MTST operators.
Class Concepts
Senior Graphic Compositor
Under general supervision, incumbents operate cold type composing machines in the preparation of materials requiring an advanced level of composing skill due to specialized requirements in layout design, coding and machine operation for reproduction by photo offset printing process or other methods.
Incumbents typically serve as consultants and advisors to other departments on matters relating to material prepared on cold type composers; type technical terminology, using the style requirements of technical and statistical publications; coordinate large and/or difficult projects; receive work requests, estimate time and costs of projects; determine layout of final material, using independent judgment as to format and style with consideration of the originator’s instructions; may check pressman’s printed copy for correct setup and color on the press; and may provide direction or project supervision to other Graphic Compositors in a large operation.
Senior Graphic Compositor positions differ from Graphic Compositor positions due to incumbents’ responsibility for consulting and advisory services; the coordination of large and/or difficult projects; and the high degree of composing skills required in copyfitting, design layout, and use of composing machines requiring operation of components such as forms ruling attachments and segmented type fonts.
Graphic Compositor
Under supervision, incumbents operate cold type composirg machines in the preparation of material for books, brochures, procedures manuals, office forms, etc., for reproduction by photo offset printing process or other methods. Graphic Compositors typically offer design ideas and expertise in the creation of printed material; determine proper type styles, sizes and weights, length of lines, horizontal and vertical spacing, copyfitting, and right hand margin, justification; determine appropriate use of footnotes, illustrations, charts and other insertions; must possess knowledge of printer’s markings and printing terminology; crop and size photographs and related items, and may make overlays for multiple color reproduction; and maintain files for originals, negatives, work orders and time sheets.
Minimum Qualifications
Senior Graphic Compositor
Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma and three years of typing experience, two of which shall have been in the operation of a cold type composer, including statistical composition; or an equivalent combination of education and experience; and knowledges and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.
Graphic Compositor
Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma and two years of typing experience, one of which shall have been in the operation of a cold type composer; or an equivalent combination of education and experience; and knowledges and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.