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Desktop Publisher Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Arcfield

Senior Desktop Publisher Jobs

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Responsibilities Arcfield has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Desktop Publisher, who: * Collaborates with the proposal team to prepare formatted templates, writer shells, reviews, and final ...

Noblis

Proposal Editor

Reston, VA · On-site

Serve as editor and desktop publisher for proposal sections, white papers, and other content to support proposal efforts. * Review solicitations for technical requirements and ensure that those ...

Xcelerate Solutions

Proposal Manager

Fairfax, VA · Hybrid

Provide writing support as needed for proposals, as well as editing, and desktop publishing * Manage proposal writers, graphic artists, subject matter experts, teaming partners, and consultants in ...

Xcelerate Solutions

Proposal Manager

Fairfax, VA · Hybrid

Provide writing support as needed for proposals, as well as editing, and desktop publishing * Manage proposal writers, graphic artists, subject matter experts, teaming partners, and consultants in ...

ActioNet, Inc.

Desktop Technician

Rosslyn, VA · On-site

$118K/yr

Desktop Technician - Mid Level The Desktop Technician provides technical support for end-user computing devices, including desktops, laptops, and peripherals. This role is responsible for ...

ActioNet

Desktop Technician

Rosslyn, VA

$118K/yr

Desktop Technician - Mid Level The Desktop Technician provides technical support for end-user computing devices, including desktops, laptops, and peripherals. This role is responsible for ...

ActioNet

Desktop Technician

Rosslyn, VA

$118K/yr

Desktop Technician - Mid Level The Desktop Technician provides technical support for end-user computing devices, including desktops, laptops, and peripherals. This role is responsible for ...

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All JobsDesktop Publisher JobsDesktop Publisher Jobs in Virginia

Desktop Publisher information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$24

$40

How much do desktop publisher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for desktop publisher in Virginia is $24.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a desktop publisher?

A desktop publisher uses computer software to create attractive print materials, whether as an in-house employee of a company or in a graphic design firm. These materials include brochures, newsletters, magazines, business cards, books, letterheads, and more. As a desktop publisher, you typically receive the text, photographs, and visual images from either a client or coworker. It is rare for a desktop publisher to develop their own text and images. Your job duties involve arranging these words, pictures, and graphics into the correct format for publishing. Many desktop publishers also prepare materials for online and digital publication.

How much do desktop publishers make?

Desktop publishers typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $35,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled desktop publishers proficient in design software like Adobe InDesign or QuarkXPress and with a strong portfolio can earn higher wages, especially in specialized or senior roles.

What is the difference between Desktop Publisher vs Graphic Designer?

AspectDesktop PublisherGraphic Designer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree or certification in desktop publishing, graphic design, or related fieldsOften holds a degree or certification in graphic design, visual arts, or similar
Work EnvironmentWorks mainly in publishing houses, marketing firms, or corporate settings, focusing on layout and formattingWorks in design studios, advertising agencies, or freelance, focusing on creating visual concepts
Industry UsageUsed in publishing, printing, and document layout industriesUsed across advertising, branding, and digital media industries

While both roles involve visual communication, a Desktop Publisher primarily focuses on layout, formatting, and preparing documents for print or digital publishing. A Graphic Designer creates original visual concepts and designs for branding, advertising, and digital media. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a desktop publisher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Desktop Publisher, you need a solid grasp of design principles, attention to detail, and proficiency in desktop publishing or graphic design, often supported by an associate’s degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, and QuarkXPress is typically required. Strong communication, time management, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate effectively and meet tight deadlines. These skills ensure the creation of visually appealing, accurate, and professional documents that meet client or organizational needs.

What are some common challenges faced by desktop publishers when working with cross-functional teams?

Desktop publishers often collaborate closely with graphic designers, writers, and marketing professionals, which can sometimes present challenges in aligning design expectations, meeting tight deadlines, and ensuring version control. Clear communication and effective project management are essential to balance creative input with technical requirements and brand guidelines. Being proactive in seeking feedback and using collaborative tools can help mitigate misunderstandings and ensure smooth workflow across teams.

What jobs use desktop publishing?

Desktop publishers are employed in roles such as graphic designers, marketing coordinators, and publishing specialists, creating layouts for books, magazines, brochures, and digital content. They typically use software like Adobe InDesign or QuarkXPress and need strong design skills and attention to detail. These jobs are common in publishing houses, advertising agencies, corporate communications, and freelance work.
More about Desktop Publisher jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Desktop Publisher jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Desktop Publisher jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Desktop Publisher jobs in Virginia? For Desktop Publisher jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Desktop Publisher jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Desktop Publisher jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Desktop Publisher jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Desktop Publisher job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Desktop Publisher jobs in VA? For Desktop Publisher jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Desktop Publisher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Desktop Publisher job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,083 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Desktop Publisher (Secret Clearance)

Inflow-ns

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

What company will I be working for? You will be working for a national security services firm, providing cutting-edge services across DoD and other agencies. At Inflow, we believe in making it matter for every employee, every customer, and every mission we support. That means that we put employees first, providing both innovative benefits and great technology. Check out https://inflow-ns.com/inflowees to learn more about what it's like to be an Inflowee.
Who will I be working with? In support of Inflow's contract with the Government, you will be working alongside Government civilians and other Government contractors. You will be supporting the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) for the Department of Defense (DOD).
What level Clearance do I need? You must possess an active Secret clearance.
What will I be doing? In this position, you will be part of a team of professional Desktop Publishers and Public Affairs Specialists working to maintain the Government agency's internal and external branding. You will provide professional formatting of publications and reports for both print and electronic publication. You will be using Government provided tools for desktop publishing activities (Microsoft Word, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and Microsoft PowerPoint). Some additional support may be required to format and edit other communications materials (such as posters, flyers, brochures, fact sheets, exhibit displays, photographs, and website content). In addition, you will:
  • Under tight deadlines, prepare, maintain, and update reports or documents following a standardized Government process, template, and style guide.
  • Provide excellent editing services with the ability to catch spelling mistakes, punctuation errors, formatting issues, graphic alignment, and formatting issues.
  • Take large amounts of text and graphics from Microsoft Word documents and convert content to the proper format in Adobe InDesign, following the Government's approved style guide.
  • Prepare, edit, and arrange content for print or electronic publications, ensuring 508 compliancy.
  • Perform document file conversions to enable electronic publishing.
  • Take graphics created by a graphics artist and import into the final document/report.
  • Work with a team of Desktop Publishers to ensure quality products each time, without error.
  • Provide status updates on deliverables and timelines.
  • Manage projects from concept through completion for report publications.
  • Handle confidential and classified information, ensuring information is not distributed or communicated outside of approved individuals/systems.
  • Assist with developing and maintaining publications style guides, templates, instructions, and instruction manuals.

What experience, training, and education do I need?
You must meet the minimum requirements:
  • Associate's Degree or equivalent experience
  • Highly proficient in professional publishing software including Adobe Indesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator
  • Highly proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Excellent grammar and editing skills
  • Strong focus and attention to detail

The following is preferred:
  • Bachelors Degree
  • Understanding of 508 standards and principles

Where is the client site that I would be working for? You will be working in Alexandria, VA. Address disclosed after your clearance is verified. This position is onsite 5 days a week.
Inflow is an EEO/Affirmative action employer and is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
By submitting your application for a position at Inflow, you acknowledge and consent to our participation in the E-Verify program. If selected for hire, you will be required to provide specific documentation to establish your identity and eligibility to work in the United States, as required by federal law.

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