Job Description

The InDesign Layout Assistant is an entry-level role responsible for supporting the layout and formatting of text and visual elements for print and digital publications. With the guidance and support of more senior team members, the InDesign Layout Assistant helps prepare, organize, and revise content to ensure accurate, clean, and visually consistent layouts, primarily using Adobe Creative Cloud applications. This role is ideal for individuals beginning their careers in graphic design, typography, or digital publishing who are eager to develop their skills and gain hands-on experience in production workflows.

NCCER is seeking a dedicated, detail-oriented, organized, and creative InDesign Layout Assistant who is ready to apply their skills and talents to create layouts in an educational publishing context. As an InDesign Layout Assistant at NCCER, you will help us develop materials used around the world to train construction craft professionals at high schools, vocational schools, colleges, and construction training centers.

Key Responsibilities

1. Assist in laying out and formatting text, images, tables, and other content elements according to established templates and style guidelines.
2. Apply corrections marked in page proofs to accurately reconcile feedback.
3. Import, organize, and update text and graphics in Adobe InDesign and other Adobe Creative Cloud applications.
4. Review page proofs for spacing, alignment, consistency, and basic typographic quality.
5. Make revisions based on editorial feedback or direction from senior layout staff.
6. Prepare and package files for print or digital output following department standards.
7. Support workflow processes involving XML tools, including Oxygen XML, by updating content or applying basic transformations.
8. Maintain organized project files, version control, and documentation.
9. Collaborate with writers, editors, illustrators, project managers, and other team members to meet deadlines.
10. Learn and apply best practices in typography, layout, and prepress production.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree in graphic design, Visual Arts, Digital Media, or related field OR equivalent coursework or internship experience.
• Experience with layout software through internships, class projects, or freelance work is a plus but not required.

Skills

• Foundational knowledge of Adobe InDesign; familiarity with Adobe Creative Cloud applications, especially Illustrator, Photoshop, and Acrobat.
• Familiarity with XML tools such as Oxygen XML.
• Understanding of basic graphic design and typography principles.
• Understanding of print and digital publishing workflows a plus.
• Familiarity with content management systems a plus.
• Strong attention to detail and desire to produce accurate, high-quality work.
• Ability to follow instructions, learn new tools, and adapt to feedback.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Time management skills with the ability to work on multiple tasks in a deadline-driven environment.
• Curiosity, initiative, and an eagerness to grow within the publishing or design field.

NCCER is an equal opportunity employer. No one shall be denied employment or opportunity based on race or color, sex, age, national origin, religion, physical or mental disability, veteran’s status, marital status, gender identity or sexual orientation. NCCER also provides reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and bona fide religious beliefs, provided that such accommodation does not constitute an undue hardship on the Company.