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Apprentice Graphic Design Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

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Apprentice Graphic Design information

What is an apprentice graphic designer?

Apprentice graphic designers are individuals who are learning the fundamentals of graphic design while working under the supervision of experienced designers. They typically assist with tasks such as creating layouts, editing images, and preparing graphics for print or digital use. This position allows apprentices to gain hands-on experience, develop their portfolios, and build practical skills in design software and industry standards. Apprenticeships often serve as a stepping stone to full-time graphic design roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice graphic designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Graphic Designer, you need a solid grasp of design principles, basic drawing or digital art skills, and a portfolio showcasing your creativity, often supported by a relevant diploma or coursework. Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and other design software is typically expected. Strong communication, openness to feedback, and time management are valuable soft skills that help you grow and collaborate effectively. These skills and qualities are essential for producing compelling visual work, meeting client briefs, and developing as a creative professional.

What are some common challenges apprentice graphic designers face when transitioning from study to a professional studio environment?

Apprentice Graphic Designers often find the transition to a professional studio setting challenging due to fast-paced deadlines, client feedback cycles, and the need to balance creativity with brand guidelines. Collaborating with senior designers and other departments, such as marketing or copywriting, can also be an adjustment, as strong communication and teamwork are essential. However, these challenges provide valuable learning opportunities and exposure to real-world workflows, which help apprentices quickly build practical skills and confidence.

What is the difference between Apprentice Graphic Design vs Junior Graphic Designer?

AspectApprentice Graphic DesignJunior Graphic Designer
CredentialsOften no formal degree, on-the-job trainingTypically an associate's or bachelor's degree in graphic design or related field
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised, learning-focusedProfessional setting, more independent responsibilities
Employer UsageTraining position, often in agencies or studiosFull-time staff, involved in client projects
Search/Comparison IntentLearning, entry-level roles, trainingEarly career, professional development

In summary, an Apprentice Graphic Design is a training role focused on learning the basics under supervision, while a Junior Graphic Designer is a more experienced role with greater responsibilities and independent work. Both roles are common in the industry, but they differ mainly in experience level and scope of work.

Can you do an apprenticeship in apprentice graphic design?

Yes, it is possible to pursue an apprenticeship in graphic design, including roles labeled as apprentice graphic design. These programs typically involve hands-on training, mentorship, and developing skills in design software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Apprenticeships often require a basic understanding of design principles and may be available through companies, colleges, or industry organizations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Graphic Design jobs in New York?

The most popular types of Graphic Design jobs in New York are:

What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Graphic Design jobs in New York?

For Apprentice Graphic Design jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in New York are hiring for Apprentice Graphic Design jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Apprentice Graphic Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Graphic Design job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Client Account Specialist / Apprentice Graphic Designer

East Meadow, NY • On-site


Signarama

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Recommended by parents

Respectful managers

Uninterrupted breaks


$18 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Signarama is looking for a Client Account Specialist / Apprentice Graphic Designer to join our healthy, robust, and highly motivated team in Long Island, New York.
This role is built for someone who is strong with customers, highly organized, ready to take on challenges, and serious about growing with a team that is moving forward. You will be the front-line connection between our clients and our shop while also developing into the graphic design and sign-production side of the business.
This is not a dead-end office role. It is a growth track for someone who wants to build a career in the sign industry, learn enterprise-level graphics, understand how signs are designed and produced, and advance with a team that values accountability, energy, and continuous improvement.
What makes this opportunity different
You will join a team that is:
  • Very healthy, collaborative, and growth-focused
  • Motivated, forward-looking, and ready to take on new challenges
  • Committed to helping the right person grow and advance with the team
  • Focused on building real sign-industry expertise, not just filling a seat

This role creates a pathway into Apprentice Graphic Designer responsibilities, including exposure to:
  • Enterprise-level graphic design standards
  • Large-format print and sign-production workflow
  • File setup, proofing, revisions, and layout preparation
  • Brand consistency and production-ready artwork
  • Real-world sign-making processes from intake to install

Schedule and benefits
  • Monday through Friday
  • Weekends off
  • Major federal holidays off
  • Sick leave
  • Training and development
  • Real advancement opportunity for the right person

Core responsibilities
  • Serve as the first point of contact for walk-in customers, inbound calls, emails, and follow-up communication
  • Build strong client relationships and provide professional, responsive customer service
  • Prepare quotes, work orders, invoices, and order updates
  • Support customer accounts and assist with accounts receivable follow-up
  • Coordinate project details between customers, management, production, and installation teams
  • Handle sign permitting and insurance documentation for installation-related jobs
  • Track permit packets, approvals, certificates of insurance, and related compliance paperwork
  • Assist with vendor coordination, outsourced items, delivery status, and job scheduling
  • Maintain organized records for customer files, billing, permits, and project updates
  • Learn design handoff workflow, proofs, revisions, layout basics, and production-readiness standards
  • Support the team with administrative, operational, and design-learning tasks as needed

Required qualifications
  • 2-3 years of experience in sign permitting and insurance processing for sign installations
  • 2-3 years of experience in customer service, account coordination, office administration, project coordination, or a related role
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Strong attention to detail and follow-through
  • Ability to manage multiple jobs, priorities, and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • Professional, dependable, and team-oriented mindset
  • Strong desire to learn, grow, and take on more responsibility

Preferred qualifications
  • Experience with QuickBooks
  • Experience with CoreBridge
  • Familiarity with Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, Photoshop, or other graphics software
  • Experience with job tracking, CRM, POS, or production workflow systems
  • Experience with Nassau County, Suffolk County, town, village, or landlord sign-approval processes
  • Understanding of sign shop workflow, large-format printing, or fabrication environments

What success looks like
You communicate clearly.
You stay organized under pressure.
You keep customer jobs moving.
You handle permit and insurance requirements with confidence.
You support billing and account flow accurately.
You earn trust from customers and teammates.
And over time, you grow into the graphic design and production side of the business.
Who this role is for
This role is for someone who wants more than a standard office job. It is for someone who wants to be part of a strong team, contribute in a meaningful way, and build a future in custom signs, graphics, and visual communications.
If you are motivated, detail-driven, ready to learn, and excited to grow into enterprise-level graphics and sign making, we want to hear from you.
Apply
Please send your resume along with a short note highlighting your experience in:
  • Sign permitting
  • Insurance documentation for installation
  • Customer account support
  • Billing or A/R follow-up
  • QuickBooks, CoreBridge, or graphics software
  • Any design, print, or sign industry experience

Compensation: $18.00 - $25.00 per hour
At Signarama, the world's leading sign and graphics franchise, we offer you an unparalleled opportunity to develop and enhance your career within the industry. Recognized globally, we have nearly 900 locations across over 60 countries, offering limitless opportunities for professional growth.
Whether you're passionate about sales, have a flair for design, excel in production, or are skilled in installation or administration, Signarama has a place for you. Our expansive network provides an exceptional environment where your skills can flourish and where you can make a significant impact.
Working at Signarama means joining a family of professionals who are dedicated to innovation and quality. We take pride in our collaborative culture where creativity and efficiency are rewarded. We are on the lookout for individuals who are eager to drive their careers forward and make their mark in the signage industry.
Apply today and step into a career where your work will be seen and appreciated across cities and communities worldwide. Become a part of the Signarama family-where your journey can take you anywhere!
This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go directly to the franchisee, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this franchise. All inquiries about employment at this franchise should be made directly to the franchise location, and not to Signarama Corporate.

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