Explore Careers

Graphic Designers and Desktop Publishers

Arts, Audio/Video Technology & Communications

Service Branches

  • Marines logo
  • navy logo

Work Environment

Graphic designers and desktop publishers usually work in offices on land or aboard ships.

  • Military Status

    Officer

  • Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.

    $62,336

    Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.

    $25,775 - $250,182

Overview

Graphic designers and desktop publishers use their creativity in the areas of production, maintenance, and coordination related to visual products and presentations. They use computer software or manually develop the overall layout and production design for various media such as advertisements, brochures, magazines, and reports.

Military Training

All enlisted service members complete basic military training which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field and covers tactical and survival skills physical training military life and customs and weapons training. Graphic designers and desktop publishers develop skills through classroom and on-the-job instruction including practice in preparing graphic designs and illustrations. Training content may include:

  • Graphics lettering drawing and layout techniques
  • Illustration and television graphic techniques
  • Theory and use of color
  • Use of production equipment
  • Creation of original artwork and portfolios
  • Development of digital media and print products

Helpful Attributes

  • Ability to convert ideas into visual presentations
  • Interest in artwork or lettering
  • Neatness and an eye for detail
  • Understanding of visual communication

Related Civilian Careers

  • Camera Operators, Television, Video and Film
  • Desktop Publishers
  • Special Effects Artists and Animators
  • Editors
  • Photographers