What You Need to Know About Desktop Publisher
Job Description: Format typescript and graphic elements using computer software to produce publication-ready material.
Life As a Desktop Publisher: What Do They Do?
- Prepare sample layouts for approval, using computer software.
- Edit graphics and photos, using pixel or bitmap editing, airbrushing, masking, or image retouching.
- Enter data, such as coordinates of images and color specifications, into system to retouch and make color corrections.
- Collaborate with graphic artists, editors and writers to produce master copies according to design specifications.
- Study layout or other design instructions to determine work to be done and sequence of operations.
- Select number of colors and determine color separations.
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Skills Needed to be a Desktop Publisher
Desktop Publishers state the following job skills are important in their day-to-day work.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Other Desktop Publisher Job Titles
- Technical Editor
- Technical Publications Manager
- Studio Designer
- Computer Typesetter
- Computer Publisher
Job Outlook for Desktop Publishers
There were about 14,600 jobs for Desktop Publisher in 2016 (in the United States). There is little to no growth in job opportunities for Desktop Publisher. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 1,200 job openings in this field each year.
The states with the most job growth for Desktop Publisher are Washington, Maryland, and Alaska. Watch out if you plan on working in Missouri, Kansas, or Kentucky. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
How Much Does a Desktop Publisher Make?
Desktop Publishers make between $22,770 and $75,120 a year.
Desktop Publishers who work in Massachusetts, Connecticut, or California, make the highest salaries.
How much do Desktop Publishers make in each U.S. state?
| State | Annual Mean Salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $37,670 |
| Arizona | $38,680 |
| California | $56,370 |
| Colorado | $53,330 |
| Connecticut | $55,500 |
| Florida | $41,920 |
| Georgia | $49,220 |
| Illinois | $38,610 |
| Indiana | $34,390 |
| Iowa | $38,640 |
| Kansas | $33,050 |
| Kentucky | $35,850 |
| Louisiana | $33,390 |
| Maine | $35,220 |
| Maryland | $56,770 |
| Massachusetts | $58,000 |
| Michigan | $44,230 |
| Minnesota | $45,830 |
| Missouri | $41,620 |
| Nebraska | $32,970 |
| New Hampshire | $38,980 |
| New Jersey | $47,800 |
| New Mexico | $50,250 |
| New York | $55,260 |
| North Carolina | $47,470 |
| Ohio | $41,720 |
| Oklahoma | $41,000 |
| Oregon | $45,810 |
| Pennsylvania | $41,440 |
| South Carolina | $37,080 |
| Tennessee | $44,850 |
| Texas | $43,950 |
| Utah | $43,040 |
| Vermont | $42,630 |
| Virginia | $50,600 |
| Washington | $46,080 |
| Wisconsin | $50,090 |
What Tools & Technology do Desktop Publishers Use?
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Desktop Publishers:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Hypertext markup language HTML
- JavaScript
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Outlook
- Python
- jQuery
- Microsoft Access
- MySQL
- Word processing software
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Project
- Adobe Systems Adobe Acrobat
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Microsoft Visio
- Adobe Systems Adobe Photoshop
- Microsoft Publisher
- Microsoft Visual Basic
How to Become a Desktop Publisher
What education or degrees do I need to become a Desktop Publisher?
What work experience do I need to become a Desktop Publisher?
Where do Desktop Publishers Work?
Below are examples of industries where Desktop Publishers work:
Related Careers
Those thinking about becoming a Desktop Publisher might also be interested in the following careers:
Career changers with experience as a Desktop Publisher sometimes find work in one of the following fields:
References:
Image Credit: Auburn University College of Architecture, Design and Construction via Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International
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