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Background Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$75 - $91/hr

Background designing for AI, machine learning, or other highly technical products * Knowledge of web performance optimization and SEO best practices Additional Information Top 3 Must-Have HARD Skills

Product Designer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

Background designing for analytical or professional user bases such as financial analysts, researchers, lawyers, or clinicians, where precision and trust matter more than simplicity alone * A track ...

Product Designer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

Background designing for analytical or professional user bases such as financial analysts, researchers, lawyers, or clinicians, where precision and trust matter more than simplicity alone * A track ...

Lead Product Designer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site +1

$211K/yr

Background designing consumer apps, consumer software, or marketplace products * Strong design tool fluency -- you can move from sketch to high-fidelity quickly * Comfort with design tools for ...

... Background & Qualifications · 5+ years of plumbing design experience, preferably on large multifamily projects · Experience designing 200+ unit developments · Strong knowledge of California ...

Product Designer

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$70 - $140/hr

Product Designer Location: Remote PST (preference Bay Area) Duration: 7 months Compensation: $70 ... Strong background in mobile design (not desktop or enterprise-focused). * Experience with payment ...

Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Designer POSITION PURPOSE: Responsible for combining design and research to bring clarity to the ... background, and experience for the specified role. GUESS? Corporate employees are eligible for ...

Designer

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Designer Location: Remote US Duration: Quarterly Extensions Compensation: $70-90/hr Work ... background in brand identities, design systems, and template-driven creative programs Proficiency ...

Designing and/or drafting complete DAS and ERRCS (Emergency Responder Radio Communication Systems ... Strong computer skills including a solid background in AutoCAD is required; Revit experience is ...

DAS / ERRCS Designer

Ontario, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Designing and/or drafting complete DAS and ERRCS (Emergency Responder Radio Communication Systems ... Strong computer skills including a solid background in AutoCAD is required; Revit experience is ...

Designing and/or drafting complete DAS and ERRCS (Emergency Responder Radio Communication Systems ... Strong computer skills including a solid background in AutoCAD is required; Revit experience is ...

DAS / ERRCS Designer

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Designing and/or drafting complete DAS and ERRCS (Emergency Responder Radio Communication Systems ... Strong computer skills including a solid background in AutoCAD is required; Revit experience is ...

DAS / ERRCS Designer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Designing and/or drafting complete DAS and ERRCS (Emergency Responder Radio Communication Systems ... Strong computer skills including a solid background in AutoCAD is required; Revit experience is ...

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Background Designer information

See California salary details

$35K

$82.1K

$108.6K

How much do background designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for background designer in California is $82,059.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,200.00 and $107,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a background designer do?

A background designer creates the visual environments and settings for animations, films, or video games, establishing the mood and atmosphere of scenes. They use tools like Photoshop or digital painting software and collaborate with art directors and animators to ensure consistency with the project's style. Attention to detail and understanding of perspective and color are essential skills in this role.

What is the highest paid designer job?

The highest paid design roles are often senior or executive positions such as Creative Director or Design Director, with salaries reaching six figures or more. Specialized fields like UX/UI design, industrial design, and architectural design can also command high salaries, especially with extensive experience and advanced skills in industry-standard tools. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and level of expertise.

How much does a background designer make?

The average salary for a background designer ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level designers typically earn less, while experienced professionals with strong skills in digital tools like Photoshop or After Effects can earn higher salaries.

What is the difference between Background Designer vs Environment Artist?

AspectBackground DesignerEnvironment Artist
Required SkillsConcept art, 2D/3D design, illustration3D modeling, texturing, scene creation
Work EnvironmentFilm, animation, video gamesVideo game development, film, VR
Common CertificationsArt or design degrees, portfolio3D modeling certifications, portfolio

Background Designers focus on creating visual backgrounds and environments primarily for animation, film, and 2D projects, emphasizing illustration and concept art. Environment Artists typically work in 3D space, building detailed, immersive environments for video games and films. While both roles require strong artistic skills, Background Designers lean more toward 2D art and concept design, whereas Environment Artists specialize in 3D modeling and scene construction.

How does a Background Designer typically collaborate with animators and other artists during a production?

Background Designers work closely with animators, layout artists, and art directors to ensure that environments support the story and visual style of a project. Communication is key, as designers must adapt their work based on feedback and evolving animation needs. It’s common to participate in regular team meetings, share progress, and make revisions, ensuring backgrounds integrate seamlessly with character animation and overall scene composition. This collaborative environment helps maintain consistency and enhances the visual storytelling of the production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Background Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Background Designer, you need strong drawing skills, a solid understanding of perspective and composition, and often a degree in art, illustration, or animation. Familiarity with digital painting software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and sometimes 3D modeling tools is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with other artists and directors are crucial soft skills. These abilities ensure that visual environments enhance storytelling and meet the artistic vision of animation or gaming projects.

What is the highest paid art career?

In the field of art, careers such as art directors, concept artists, and senior visual effects supervisors tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These roles typically require extensive experience, strong technical skills, and proficiency with industry-standard tools like Adobe Creative Suite or 3D modeling software.

What are background designers?

Background designers are artists responsible for creating the visual environments and settings in animation, film, video games, and other media productions. They design and illustrate the scenery, such as landscapes, interiors, and exteriors, that characters interact with. Their work helps establish the mood, style, and atmosphere of a scene, supporting the storytelling by providing context and depth. Background designers often collaborate closely with art directors, layout artists, and other team members to ensure their backgrounds fit seamlessly into the overall visual style of the project.
What are the most commonly searched types of Background Designer jobs in California? The most popular types of Background Designer jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Background Designer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,059 per year, or $39.5 per hour.
Menswear Designer( Associate or Designer)

Menswear Designer( Associate or Designer)

24 Seven Talent

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description


About the Company



An established private label apparel team is looking for a Men’s Sportswear / Workwear Designer to support the Senior Designer in a highly hands-on role. This position is geared toward someone with solid experience across men’s outdoor, hiking, casual, and workwear categories, along with a strong eye for product that balances function, durability, and everyday wearability.



About the Role



The ideal candidate is comfortable working as an individual contributor in a collaborative office setting and enjoys creating well-built, performance-minded product from concept through execution.



Responsibilities



  • Design men’s sportswear, outdoor, hiking, and workwear styles in partnership with the Senior Designer
  • Build seasonal concepts, silhouettes, fabric narratives, and color direction that align with the overall brand vision
  • Prepare flats, technical sketch packages, and design documentation in Adobe Illustrator
  • Assist in taking product from initial idea through development and production
  • Work cross-functionally with Technical Design, Merchandising, and Production
  • Evaluate samples and provide clear feedback on fit, functionality, quality, and durability
  • Monitor trends, competitor product, and material innovation within outdoor and workwear markets



Qualifications



  • Background designing men’s sportswear, outdoor apparel, and/or workwear
  • Private label experience is strongly preferred
  • Strong knowledge of garment construction, performance materials, and utility-driven design
  • Advanced proficiency in Adobe Illustrator
  • Highly organized, detail-focused, and able to thrive in a fast-moving team environment
  • Able to take direction well while contributing creative ideas within an established design aesthetic



Location & Schedule



On-site five days per week. Must be ok to work in house mid city, LA area.



Pay range and compensation package



[Pay range or salary or compensation]



Equal Opportunity Statement



[Include a statement on commitment to diversity and inclusivity.]