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Desktop Publishers

The occupation Desktop Publishers covers people who format typescript and graphic elements using computer software to produce publication-ready material. O*NET rates it as medium preparation, which usually means one or two years of vocational training, an apprenticeship or an associate’s degree. It leans on reading comprehension, critical thinking, and judgment and decision making. One core duty is to operate desktop publishing software and equipment to design, lay out, and produce camera-ready copy. The strongest interest signal is Conventional (5.7 of 7), then Artistic (4.2) and Realistic, which gives it the code CAR. The job can ask you to 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. People who want orderly work with data, records and clear procedures usually fit better here than those who need helping, teaching or caring for people.

What they do

Format typescript and graphic elements using computer software to produce publication-ready material.

Main tasks

  • Operate desktop publishing software and equipment to design, lay out, and produce camera-ready copy.
  • 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.
  • Check preliminary and final proofs for errors and make necessary corrections.
  • View monitors for visual representation of work in progress and for instructions and feedback throughout process, making modifications as necessary.
  • Enter text into computer keyboard and select the size and style of type, column width, and appropriate spacing for printed materials.
  • Prepare sample layouts for approval, using computer software.

Skills

  • Reading Comprehension
  • Critical Thinking
  • Judgment and Decision Making
  • Speaking
  • Active Listening
  • Writing

Who this career fits

May suit you if

  • You like clear rules and getting the details right.
  • You want room to make something in your own way.
  • You are willing to put in a year or two of focused training.
  • You are comfortable relying on reading comprehension and critical thinking.

May not suit you if

  • You get restless with routine, records and exact procedures.
  • You want helping people to be at the center of your work. Social rates 1.7 out of 7 here.
  • You need to start within a few months, with no training period.

Interest profile

O*NET rates each occupation from 1 to 7 on six interest types. The code CAR takes the three highest, and Conventional comes first here.

Preparation

Medium preparation. Expect vocational school, an apprenticeship, related experience or an associate’s degree, usually one or two years in total.

Most-reported requirement in the O*NET survey: Bachelor's Degree. This reflects what workers reported most often and is not a legal minimum. Licensing rules can differ by state or industry, so confirm what applies where you plan to work.

Also called

  • Advertising Associate
  • Compositor
  • Computer Typesetter
  • Design Editor
  • Desktop Operator

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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.