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Desktop Publisher Jobs in Springfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

Navstar

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 ...

AAR

Proposal Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Manage the schedule and oversee activities of proposal resources including the proposal coordinator, desktop publisher, graphic artist, proposal writers, and subject matter experts * Translate ...

AAR Corporation

Sr Proposal Manager

Washington, DC · Remote

Proficiency in desktop publishing, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint, and Adobe Creative Cloud applications * Understanding of government contracting processes * This position ...

AAR Corporation

Sr Proposal Manager

Washington, DC · Remote

Proficiency in desktop publishing, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint, and Adobe Creative Cloud applications * Understanding of government contracting processes * This position ...

AAR Corporation

Proposal Manager

Washington, DC · Remote

$130K - $150K/yr

Proficiency in desktop publishing, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint, and Adobe Creative Cloud applications * Understanding of government contracting processes Year One Critical ...

AAR Corporation

Proposal Manager

Washington, DC · Remote

$130K - $150K/yr

Proficiency in desktop publishing, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint, and Adobe Creative Cloud applications * Understanding of government contracting processes Year One Critical ...

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All JobsDesktop Publisher JobsDesktop Publisher Jobs in Springfield, VA

Desktop Publisher information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$12

$25

$42

How much do desktop publisher jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for desktop publisher in Springfield, VA is $25.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.35 and $28.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to start into a career as a desktop publisher?

To start a career as a desktop publisher, develop skills in desktop publishing software such as Adobe InDesign, QuarkXPress, or Microsoft Publisher. Obtain relevant education or training in graphic design, layout, and typography, and build a portfolio to showcase your work. Entry-level positions often require familiarity with design principles and attention to detail.

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 $45,000 to $55,000, 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 salaries, especially in larger markets or specialized fields.

How much does a desktop publisher earn?

The average salary for a desktop publisher varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. Skilled desktop publishers proficient in design software like Adobe InDesign or QuarkXPress and with a strong portfolio tend to earn higher salaries.

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 are desktop publishers?

Desktop publishers are professionals who use computer software to design, format, and produce documents such as brochures, books, newsletters, and advertisements. They combine text, images, and graphics to create visually appealing layouts for print or digital publication. Desktop publishers work with clients or teams to ensure that the final product meets specific design and content requirements, often using software like Adobe InDesign, QuarkXPress, or Microsoft Publisher.

What is a desktop publisher job?

A desktop publisher is a professional who uses desktop publishing software, such as Adobe InDesign or QuarkXPress, to create and design layouts for printed or digital materials like brochures, magazines, and books. The role involves combining text and images, ensuring visual appeal, and adhering to project specifications, often requiring strong attention to detail and knowledge of design principles.
More about Desktop Publisher jobs
What are popular job titles related to Desktop Publisher jobs in Springfield, VA? For Desktop Publisher jobs in Springfield, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Desktop Publisher jobs in Springfield, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Desktop Publisher jobs in Springfield, VA are:
What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Desktop Publisher jobs? Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Desktop Publisher job openings:
Desktop Publisher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Desktop Publisher job openings in Springfield, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 13% Physical, and 87% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,820 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Desktop Publisher (Secret Clearance)

Inflow-ns

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 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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