Desktop publisher
Also known as
Work environment
- Usually work regular business hours but may work evenings and weekends
- Usually work in offices
- Need to be methodical, accurate and creative
Salary information
Typical tasks
- Create layouts for printed documents
- Format text, images and graphics
- Proofread documents for accuracy
- Use publishing and design software
- Check documents meet quality standards
- Enter and update document information
- Read instructions for publishing projects
- Choose images, fonts and resources
- Work with people on publications
- Send finished documents to clients and printers
Outlook
Desktop publishing continues to evolve as organisations produce more digital content for websites, social media, marketing and online learning. While traditional print publishing remains important, demand is increasingly linked to digital formats and multi-platform content. Advances in cloud-based design tools, automation and AI-assisted workflows are changing how publications are created, while strong visual communication remains important across many industries.
What employers and industry want in graduates
- Strong design and layout skills
- Good written communication and language skills
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to use publishing and design software
- Creative thinking and visual awareness
- Time management and organisation skills
AUT programmes
The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.
Content is reviewed by our experts, but information can change over time. Some content is created with AI support.
This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.