Desktop Publishing Operators and Related Workers
(NOC 1423)
in All Business, Finance, and AdministrationDesktop publishing operators use computers with desktop publishing software to enter copy into a typesetting system or operate typesetting output equipment to produce text that is ready to print. They work for firms that specialize in typesetting, commercial printing companies, publishing and printing companies and various organizations in the public and private sectors that have in-house printing departments.
Job Outlook
Undetermined
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Compared to: All Business, Finance, and Administration
Hourly Pay
N/A
MinimumN/A
MedianN/A
MaximumAnnual Pay
N/A
Minimum$45,604
MedianN/A
MaximumCompared to: All Business, Finance, and Administration
Hourly Pay
$15.00
Minimum$23.00
Median$38.50
MaximumAnnual Pay
$6,754
Minimum$36,515
Median$70,271
MaximumAbout the job
Nature of work
Desktop publishing operators use computers with desktop publishing software to enter copy into a typesetting system or operate typesetting output equipment to produce text that is ready to print. They work for firms that specialize in typesetting, commercial printing companies, publishing and printing companies and various organizations in the public and private sectors that have in-house printing departments.
Job duties
Desktop publishing operators:
- Use desktop publishing software and equipment to design, lay out and produce camera-ready copy and may perform pre-flight operator duties.
Markup persons:
- Mark copy with computer codes and typographic instructions before it is typeset.
Typesetting input operators:
- Input copy, codes or commands and subsequent corrections into typesetting device or system.
- Use media conversion equipment to process and format copy transmitted through telecommunications.
Typesetting output operators:
- Use and tend typesetting output devices, load and process photosensitive material and perform routine maintenance.
Sample job titles
- braille data entry clerk
- copy cutter
- desktop compositor
- electronic formatter
- markup person - typesetting
- phototypesetter
- preproduction operator
- typesetting machine operator
- typographer
- videotext operator
Skills
- You need finger dexterity, the ability to sit still for long periods of time and should not mind repetitive tasks. A solid foundation in computer skills is often necessary for entry into these jobs. Good communication and interpersonal skills are also important, along with a willingness to learn and adapt to continually changing equipment and software.
Job requirements
- High school is required.
- A college program in graphic arts, or other training in typography, computer typesetting or desktop publishing, is usually required.
Other considerations
- Movement to supervisory positions is possible through experience.
By the numbers
Quick look
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Compared to: All Business, Finance, and Administration
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Where will I likely work?
Halifax
N/ANorth Shore
N/ACape Breton
N/ACompared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Manufacturing
Retail trade
Public administration
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
What is the age of Employment?
25-34
35-44
45-54
15-24
Compared to: All Business, Finance, and Administration
45-54
55-64
35-44
25-34
65+
Top levels of education
High school
N/ACompared to: All Business, Finance, and Administration
College Diploma
$36,304 median annual incomeHigh school
$32,903 median annual incomeBachelor
$41,755 median annual incomeTrade Certification
$34,807 median annual incomeLess than high school
$23,174 median annual incomeEducation & training
Graphic Communications
College, Trades, or University ProgramThese programs apply technical knowledge and skills in the manufacture and distribution or transmission of graphic communications products. They include courses in the prepress, press, and postpress phases of production operations and processes like offset lithography, flexography, gravure, letterpress, screen printing, foil stamping, digital imaging, and other reproduction methods.
Institutions providing this program
Graphic Design
College, Trades, or University ProgramThese programs prepare students to apply artistic and computer techniques to the interpretation of technical and commercial concepts. They include courses in computer-assisted art and design, printmaking, concepts sketching, technical drawing, colour theory, imaging, studio technique, still and life modelling, communication skills and commercial art business operations.
High School Diploma or Equivalent
High School ProgramAdults without a high school diploma can contact the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning (NSSAL) for tuition-free programming across the province. NSSAL oversees adult education programs in Nova Scotia. NSSAL partners with the Nova Scotia Community College, Adult High Schools, Université Sainte-Anne, and community-based learning organizations to deliver programs. NSSAL offers clear, accessible pathways from adult basic education to a high school credential or GED.
Institutions providing this program
Various, NS
Various, NS
Various, NS
Web Page, Digital/Multimedia, and Information Resources Design
College, Trades, or University ProgramThese programs apply HTML, XML, Javascript, graphics applications, and other authoring tools to the design, editing, and publishing (launching) of documents, images, graphics, sound, and multimedia products on the World Wide Web. They include courses in Internet theory, web page standards and policies, elements of web page design, user interfaces, vector tools, special effects, interactive and multimedia components, search engines, navigation, morphing, e-commerce tools, and emerging web technologies.
Institutions providing this program
Halifax, NS
Various, NS
Employment requirements & contacts
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Contacts
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