What You Need to Know About Desktop Publisher
Desktop Publisher Example Format typescript and graphic elements using computer software to produce publication-ready material.
A Day in the Life of a Desktop Publisher
- Load floppy disks or tapes containing information into system.
- Check preliminary and final proofs for errors and make necessary corrections.
- Edit graphics and photos, using pixel or bitmap editing, airbrushing, masking, or image retouching.
- Prepare sample layouts for approval, using computer software.
- 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.
- Study layout or other design instructions to determine work to be done and sequence of operations.
What Every Desktop Publisher Should Know
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
- Desktop Publishing Specialist
- Technical Editor
- Publishing Specialist
- Mac Operator
- Technical Publications Manager
Is There Job Demand for Desktop Publishers?
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 14,600 jobs in the United States for Desktop Publisher. 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.
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.
How much do Desktop Publishers make 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 & 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?
The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.
Similar Careers
Those interested in being a Desktop Publisher may also be interested in:
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
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