A worker who, prior to actual printing operations, sets and assembles type and cuts in chases for printing articles, headings, and other printed matter, or who composes type by operating various typesetting machines. Typically is required to complete a lengthy apprenticeship and is thoroughly versed in type style, printed page makeup, and printing techniques involved in newspaper or commercial printing.

Classifications are made according to type of printing activity engaged in as compositor, linotype operator, make-up arranger, monotype-keyboard operator, type-casting machine operator, typesetter-perforator operator.