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Background Illustrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Book Illustrator

Olympia, WA · On-site

$29.63/hr

Must Successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check. PREFERRED ... Knowledge of: • Illustration principles, visual storytelling, and composition techniques. • ...

Book Illustrator

Olympia, WA · On-site

$29.63/hr

Must Successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check. PREFERRED ... Knowledge of: · Illustration principles, visual storytelling, and composition techniques. · ...

An Illustrator II has a strong artistic background and an eye for appealing visual images. They're responsible for creating an image that matches what the client wants and their desired outcome.

The Multimedia Illustrator is an entry-to-mid-level creative role responsible for conceiving and ... Integrate generative AI tools into concepting, asset generation, upscaling, background extension ...

Multimedia Illustrator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

The Multimedia Illustrator is an entry-to-mid-level creative role responsible for conceiving and ... Integrate generative AI tools into concepting, asset generation, upscaling, background extension ...

Multimedia Illustrator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

The Multimedia Illustrator is an entry-to-mid-level creative role responsible for conceiving and ... Integrate generative AI tools into concepting, asset generation, upscaling, background extension ...

To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background checks for all new employees prior to their ... Strong facility with graphic applications such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign

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Background Illustrator information

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$32.5K

$59.3K

$96K

How much do background illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for background illustrator in the United States is $59,345.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $68,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Background Illustrator vs Concept Artist?

AspectBackground IllustratorConcept Artist
Primary RoleCreates detailed backgrounds and environments for projectsDesigns characters, environments, and overall visual concepts
Skills & ToolsIllustration, painting, digital tools like PhotoshopSketching, digital painting, storytelling
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, game development, filmGame studios, film, advertising
CredentialsArt degree or portfolio in illustrationArt or design background, portfolio of concept art

While both roles involve digital illustration skills, Background Illustrators focus on creating detailed backgrounds for visual projects, whereas Concept Artists develop overall visual ideas and character designs. The two roles often collaborate but serve different functions within creative teams.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by background illustrators when working on animated projects?

Background illustrators often need to balance creative vision with the practical demands of animation, such as maintaining consistency in style and perspective across multiple scenes. They frequently collaborate with art directors, animators, and layout artists to ensure their backgrounds support the storytelling and character action. Tight deadlines and changing project requirements can also present challenges, making adaptability and strong communication skills essential. Additionally, background illustrators must remain attentive to color theory and lighting to enhance mood and cohesion throughout the project.

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

To thrive as a Background Illustrator, you need strong drawing and painting skills, a solid grasp of color theory, perspective, and composition, often supported by a relevant art degree or portfolio. Proficiency with digital illustration tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or Procreate is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective collaboration make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure the creation of visually compelling environments that enhance storytelling and align with the overall artistic vision of a project.

What are background illustrators?

Background illustrators are artists who create the visual environments and settings for animation, video games, films, and other visual media. They design and paint the scenery that appears behind the main characters and action, helping to establish the mood, atmosphere, and context of each scene. Their work is essential for immersing viewers in the story and bringing fictional worlds to life. Background illustrators often collaborate closely with art directors, storyboard artists, and animators to ensure a cohesive visual style.
More about Background Illustrator jobs
What cities are hiring for Background Illustrator jobs? Cities with the most Background Illustrator job openings:
What states have the most Background Illustrator jobs? States with the most job openings for Background Illustrator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Background Illustrator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,345 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

$29.63/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Please note: NSORNA Nisqually's Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act requires all individuals who have ever been convicted of a sex offense to register with our Public Safety Department. This is true whether or not you have to register with another jurisdiction.
This position has regular contact with or control over Indian Children and Vulnerable Adults. In compliance with Federal Law, this position will not be filled by an applicant with any felonious offense or any of two or more misdemeanor offenses under Federal, State, or Tribal law involving crimes of violence; sexual assault, molestation, exploitation, contact, or prostitution; crimes against persons; or offenses committed against children.
GENERAL SUMMARY
The Book Illustrator is responsible for collaborating with the Language Team to create engaging and visually appealing illustrations for Nisqually language and cultural materials.
This position ensures the confidentiality, security, and accuracy of records, and promotes positive employee, customer, and community relations. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required and outstanding customer service to fellow employees, customers, vendors, etc. is expected. Regular attendance is required, and on occasion, later hours or weekend time may be required with project deadlines and a neat well-groomed professional appearance is essential at all times.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Primary responsibilities are the basic job duties that an employee must be able to perform. This list of responsibilities is intended to be representative of the duties performed within this classification. The omission of a function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed if such duties relate to the position.
  • Create original illustrations for assigned projects.
  • Collaborate with the Language Team, project team, and editors to ensure illustrations align with project goals, story themes, and target audiences.
  • Develop illustrations that capture the essence of characters, settings, and storylines.
  • Utilize a variety of mediums, including pencil, ink, and digital tools.
  • Provide creative input and feedback to enhance content and project outcomes.
  • Participate in community events and workshops to share knowledge of illustration and cultural perspectives.
  • Maintain a professional portfolio of illustration work.
  • Adhere to project timelines and maintain a high level of professionalism.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
  • Minimum of one (1) to two (2) years of experience as an illustrator or a strong portfolio demonstrating relevant work.
  • Proficiency in a variety of illustration techniques and mediums.
  • Experience with Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) or related applications.
  • Must Successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience working with remote teams and collaborating across disciplines.
  • Experience leading, pitching and collaborating on creative projects.
  • Knowledge of the Nisqually Indian Tribe's history, customs, traditions, and ability to demonstrate cultural sensitivity.
  • Experience working with Federally Recognized Tribes.

SUPERVISION
This position does not have supervisory responsibilities. This position reports to the Language Resource Center Manager.
COMPETENCIES
Possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the primary responsibilities of the position.
Knowledge of:
• Illustration principles, visual storytelling, and composition techniques.
• Traditional and digital illustration methods, tools, and software.
• Culturally appropriate representation, particularly in relation to Indigenous/Nisqually language and cultural materials.
• Project development processes, including concept development and editorial collaboration.
Skill in:
• Creating original illustrations that effectively convey narrative, tone, and character.
• Using a variety of artistic mediums, including pencil, ink, and digital platforms (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite).
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams, including language specialists, editors, and providing constructive creative input and incorporating feedback into revisions.
• Presenting and sharing artistic knowledge in community or workshop settings.
• Time management and organizing multiple projects to meet deadlines.
Ability to:
• Translate written or oral concepts into engaging visual representations.
• Maintain consistency in artistic style across projects.
• Adapt illustrations to meet diverse audience needs and project goals.
• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Work independently while maintaining accountability to project timelines.
• Maintain a high level of professionalism and confidentiality.
• Engage respectfully with community members and represent cultural perspectives appropriately.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger; handle; feel; or grip objects, stretch and/or reach with hands and arms; stoop; crouch or work in cramped or awkward positions; repetitive motions. This person may regularly lift and/or move up to 30+ pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust to focus.