when installing a timing chain set is the #1 cylinder supposed to be at or near TDC (of compression stroke) when matching up the crank gear "symbol" with the "dot" on the cam gear?

I believe so, as long as you install it with both dots facing each other, you can't go wrong.

both marks at 12 o'clock is #1 cyl TDC-both marks facing each other is a ref for correct install, but #1 is 180 degs off in this position