What Does it Take to Be a Desktop Publisher?
Desktop Publisher Example Format typescript and graphic elements using computer software to produce publication-ready material.
Life As a Desktop Publisher
- Load floppy disks or tapes containing information into system.
- 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.
- Select number of colors and determine color separations.
- Transmit, deliver or mail publication master to printer for production into film and plates.
- Collaborate with graphic artists, editors and writers to produce master copies according to design specifications.
- Edit graphics and photos, using pixel or bitmap editing, airbrushing, masking, or image retouching.
Featured schools near , edit
What Every Desktop Publisher Should Know
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:
- Digital Pre Press Operator
- Creative Director
- Editor
- Desktop Publisher
- Electronic Prepress System Operator
Job Demand for Desktop Publishers
In the United States, there were 14,600 jobs for Desktop Publisher in 2016. There is little to no growth in job opportunities for Desktop Publisher. There will be an estimated 1,200 positions for Desktop Publisher per 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.
What is the Average Salary of a Desktop Publisher
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 |
Tools & Technologies Used by Desktop Publishers
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 do I Become a Desktop Publisher?
Are there Desktop Publishers education requirements?
What work experience do I need to become a Desktop Publisher?
Who Employs Desktop Publishers?
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:
Those who work as a Desktop Publisher sometimes switch careers to one of these choices:
References:
Image Credit: Auburn University College of Architecture, Design and Construction via Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International
More about our data sources and methodologies.
Featured Schools
Request Info | Southern New Hampshire University You have goals. Southern New Hampshire University can help you get there. Whether you need a bachelor's degree to get into a career or want a master's degree to move up in your current career, SNHU has an online program for you. Find your degree from over 200 online programs. Learn More > |