What is a Desktop Publisher?
Example of Desktop Publisher Job Format typescript and graphic elements using computer software to produce publication-ready material.
Desktop Publisher Responsibilities
- View monitors for visual representation of work in progress and for instructions and feedback throughout process, making modifications as necessary.
- Position text and art elements from a variety of databases in a visually appealing way to design print or web pages, using knowledge of type styles and size and layout patterns.
- Create special effects such as vignettes, mosaics, and image combining, and add elements such as sound and animation to electronic publications.
- Transmit, deliver or mail publication master to printer for production into film and plates.
- Enter text into computer keyboard and select the size and style of type, column width, and appropriate spacing for printed materials.
- Import text and art elements, such as electronic clip art or electronic files from photographs that have been scanned or produced with a digital camera, using computer software.
What Skills Do You Need to Work as a Desktop Publisher?
Below is a list of the skills most Desktop Publishers say are important on the job.
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.
Related Job Titles for this Occupation:
- Publishing Specialist
- Mac Operator
- Desktop Support Specialist
- Managing Editor
- Technical Editor
What Kind of Desktop Publisher Job Opportunities Are There?
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. The BLS estimates 1,200 yearly job openings in this field.
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.
Desktop Publisher Average Salary
Desktop Publishers make between $22,770 and $75,120 a year.
Desktop Publishers who work in Massachusetts, Connecticut, or California, make the highest salaries.
Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Desktop Publishers in different U.S. states.
| 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 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
Becoming a Desktop Publisher
What education is needed to be a Desktop Publisher?
How Long Does it Take to Become a Desktop Publisher?
Where Desktop Publishers Work
The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.
You May Also Be Interested In…
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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