ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Desktop Publishing Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Marketing.com

Operator - 3rd Shift

Ontario, CA

$17/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Operator will complete tasks related to the accurate and timely completion of ... Uses various desktop publishing and proprietary software packages to prepare customer files for ...

Marketing.com

Operator - 2nd Shift

Ontario, CA

$17/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Operator 1 will complete tasks related to the accurate and timely completion of ... Uses various desktop publishing and proprietary software packages to prepare customer files for ...

ANCHOR GRAPHICS INC

Flexo Press operator

Pilot Point, TX · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Flexo Press Operator position will be at our facility in Denton, TX, this position ... ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Uses various desktop publishing and proprietary software packages to ...

System One

Prepress Operator

South Plainfield, NJ · On-site

$70K/yr

Working knowledge of both Mac and Windows desktop publishing environments * Strong troubleshooting skills, attention to detail, and ability to work under deadlines Preferred: * Variable data / VDP ...

System One

Prepress Operator

South Plainfield, NJ · On-site

$70K/yr

Working knowledge of both Mac and Windows desktop publishing environments * Strong troubleshooting skills, attention to detail, and ability to work under deadlines Preferred: * Variable data / VDP ...

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority

$36.12 - $52.38/hr

... Publisher, Microsoft Windows Server, and Microsoft Office. Creates and deploys Windows desktops into the operating environment. Maintains standard configuration of golden images for deployment into ...

Internet Soft

Graphic Designer

San Jose, CA · On-site

Obtains final copy and art by operating typesetting, printing, and similar equipment and by making ... Desktop publishing tools and graphic design software * Acute vision * Time-management skills

Apple

Senior AirPrint Software Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$151K - $199K/yr

... desktop publishing, and creative visual design. The team is seeking an insightful, technically ... This role requires mature software engineering skills, an understanding of modern operating system ...

Skilled Matrix

Graphic Designer

Miami, FL

Preparing finished art by operating the necessary equipment and software. * Coordinating with ... Proficiency with required desktop publishing tools, including Photoshop, InDesign Quark, and ...

Grizzly Industrial Inc

Technical Writer

Bellingham, WA · On-site

$30 - $34/hr

A typical workday can be quite varied, including writing and desktop publishing; removing a new ... Strong experience operating/servicing machinery or power tools * A college degree (or related work ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDesktop Publishing Operator Jobs

Desktop Publishing Operator information

See salary details

$11

$24

$40

How much do desktop publishing operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for desktop publishing operator in the United States is $24.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the dtp operator's salary?

The average salary for a desktop publishing (DTP) operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer. Skilled operators proficient in design software like Adobe InDesign or QuarkXPress may earn higher wages, especially with certifications or specialized skills.

What skills are needed for DTP?

A Desktop Publishing Operator needs strong skills in graphic design, layout, and typography, along with proficiency in desktop publishing software such as Adobe InDesign, QuarkXPress, or Adobe Illustrator. Attention to detail, knowledge of printing processes, and the ability to work under deadlines are also important for success in this role.

What is the difference between Desktop Publishing Operator vs Graphic Designer?

AspectDesktop Publishing OperatorGraphic Designer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications in desktop publishing softwareBachelor's degree in graphic design or related field; portfolio required
Work EnvironmentPrint shops, publishing companies, in-house marketing teamsDesign studios, advertising agencies, corporate offices
Job FocusPreparing layouts, formatting documents, ensuring print readinessCreating visual concepts, branding, and digital graphics

While both roles involve visual layout work, a Desktop Publishing Operator primarily focuses on preparing documents for printing using specific software, whereas a Graphic Designer creates original visual content and branding. The roles differ in scope, with the operator emphasizing technical document formatting and the designer emphasizing creative design.

What is the work of a desktop publishing operator?

A desktop publishing operator prepares and designs documents such as brochures, magazines, and flyers using software like Adobe InDesign or QuarkXPress. They format text, images, and graphics to create visually appealing layouts, often working under tight deadlines and requiring attention to detail.

What are some common challenges faced by Desktop Publishing Operators when working with tight deadlines?

Desktop Publishing Operators often encounter tight project deadlines, which can make balancing attention to detail with speed a challenge. They must ensure that formatting, layout, and graphics are precise while quickly accommodating last-minute edits or client feedback. Effective communication with writers, designers, and printers is essential to avoid errors and ensure timely delivery. Adopting efficient workflow practices and being proficient with publishing software can help manage these pressures.

How much does a desktop publisher make?

A desktop publishing operator typically earns a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators proficient in design software like Adobe InDesign or QuarkXPress may earn higher wages, especially with certifications or specialized knowledge.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Desktop Publishing Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Desktop Publishing Operator, you need a strong grasp of layout design, typography, and attention to detail, typically supported by a certificate or associate degree in graphic design or a related field. Proficiency in software such as Adobe InDesign, QuarkXPress, and other desktop publishing tools is essential. Strong organizational skills, creativity, and effective communication help you understand client requirements and deliver polished results. These skills ensure the timely production of professional-quality documents, meeting both aesthetic and technical standards.

What are desktop publishing operators?

Desktop publishing operators are professionals who use computer software to design, format, and prepare documents for publication. They work with text, images, and layouts to create materials such as brochures, books, newsletters, and advertisements. Their role often involves ensuring that the final product is visually appealing and meets the specific requirements of clients or publishers. They may also be responsible for proofreading, correcting errors, and preparing files for printing or digital distribution.
More about Desktop Publishing Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Desktop Publishing Operator jobs? The most popular types of Desktop Publishing Operator jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Desktop Publishing Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Desktop Publishing Operator jobs are:
Desktop Publishing Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Desktop Publishing Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 13% Physical, and 87% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,525 per year, or $24.8 per hour.
Operator - 3rd Shift

Operator - 3rd Shift

Marketing.com

Ontario, CA

$17/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

COMPANY
Marketing.com brings together people from diverse personal and professional backgrounds to create a technology-centered, people-powered culture that is constantly evolving and redefining how marketing is done. Our team members bring to work a combined history of dedication, service and being the best at what they do—everyday. With over 30 production facilities in the US (and growing!), we provide comprehensive digital marketing services, commercial printing, warehousing amp; fulfillment, direct mail marketing, sign manufacturing amp; fabrication, and promotional products. We are expanding at warp speed and are adding to our team – from our sales office and shop floor locations to our remote online team members. We are a diverse, creative, and passionate crew who is always looking to discover and implement fresh, innovative ideas and make some pretty amazing things.
JOB SUMMARY
The Operator will complete tasks related to the accurate and timely completion of orders per customer specifications using a variety of desktop publishing equipment and integrated software packages under the direction of the Prepress Lead. As an entry level on-the-job training position for skill, this may include receiving, evaluating, and modifying more complex customer files, and the learning of new techniques on specific skills and procedures.
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Uses various desktop publishing and proprietary software packages to prepare customer files for printing.
  • ​Reviews work orders to insure conformity to written and verbal instructions.
  • Coordinates customer supplied art with sales personnel for reach order.
  • Communicates order problems with supervisor, customer service representatives and sales staff.
  • Advises customer regarding format and technical issues for best quality printing.
  • Documents order actions and customer contacts clearly and concisely. Follows department procedures.
  • Provides feedback and suggestions to supervisors about current or future workflow problems or needs.
  • On-the-job training entry position for technician position.
  • Must be at work on time as scheduled. Must be willing to work nights, weekends and overtime
  • Ability to work in a busy work center performing multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Setting and Achieving Goals – Self Starter.
  • Detail Orientation - Strives to do well and continuously attempts to consistently meet set standards in manufacturing, area cleanliness and overall department success.
  • Initiative - Identifies and acts upon opportunities to increase quality of own work and maximize efficiency and productivity of the department.
  • Comply with work and safety rules.

Apply