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Background Illustrator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (The following statements are intended as general illustrations of the work in ... Strong background and in-depth knowledge of the gaming industry and betting process preferred.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (The following statements are intended as general illustrations of the work in ... Strong background and in-depth knowledge of the gaming industry and betting process preferred.

Description ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (The following statements are intended as general illustrations of ... Strong background and in-depth knowledge of the gaming industry and betting process preferred.

Adobe Suite proficiency (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) * Attention to detail * Strong ... background helps other brands connect with and cultivate audiences on a deeper level. We offer it ...

Adobe Suite proficiency (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) * Attention to detail * Strong ... background helps other brands connect with and cultivate audiences on a deeper level. We offer it ...

Proficiency in Adobe Suite (Photoshop, Fireworks, Illustrator, InDesign, Dreamweaver) * Attention ... background helps other brands connect with and cultivate audiences on a deeper level. We offer it ...

Proficiency in Adobe Suite (Photoshop, Fireworks, Illustrator, InDesign, Dreamweaver) * Attention ... background helps other brands connect with and cultivate audiences on a deeper level. We offer it ...

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Background Illustrator information

See Iowa salary details

$30.5K

$55.7K

$90.2K

How much do background illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for background illustrator in Iowa is $55,741.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,200.00 and $63,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a background illustrator?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a background illustrator?

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Background Illustrator jobs in Iowa?

For Background Illustrator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Background Illustrator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Background Illustrator jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Background Illustrator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Background Illustrator job openings:

Prepress Graphic Technician

Inovar Packaging Group LLC

Ames, IA โ€ข On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description


Prepress Technician

This is a technical production role focused on file preparation, compliance, and print readiness — not creative design.


First shift 8am-4:30pm, Monday-Friday.


Inovar Packaging Group, a leader in labeling, promotional, and identification solutions, is one of North America’s premier label printing and flexible packaging companies. We have industry-leading resources, innovation, and operational excellence while maintaining our strong legacy of customer service and product quality. Serving industries such as automotive, food and beverage, health and beauty, agriculture, and retail, we are committed to delivering high-quality products and services.


Why Join Us?

 • Competitive pay and company equity
 • Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short/long-term disability, 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match!
 • Paid Time Off (PTO) and company holidays
 • Opportunities for career growth within a rapidly expanding company
 • A collaborative and innovative work environment



Position Overview:

The Prepress Technician plays a critical role in ensuring high-quality print production by preparing customer files for Flexographic and Digital printing. This position requires technical expertise in file preparation, proofreading, and barcode verification, as well as strong collaboration with management, prepress, production, and customer service teams. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, and capable of managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Prepare customer files for Flexographic and Digital printing, including trapping, stepping, and distortion.
  • Edit and create artwork using graphic design software such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop
  • Maintain clear communication with Management, Prepress, Production, and Customer Service teams.
  • Proofread all content for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and consistency.
  • Conduct hard copy proofing and ensure accuracy in variable data and sequential numbering.
  • Collaborate with clients to understand design needs and provide proofs for approval
  • Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to the graphics prepress process


Basic Qualifications:

  • Associate degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
  • Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, including Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat, and InDesign.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel).
  • Strong time management, organization, and multitasking skills.
  • Ability to think critically, solve problems proactively, and deliver within deadlines.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a client-focused approach.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in graphics or an industry-related field.
  • Experience with Esko Workflow.
  • Background in Flexographic printing or label manufacturing prepress.
  • Familiarity with general manufacturing and pre-production graphics manipulation.


At Inovar, our values of Customer Focused, Partnership Driven, and Team Engagement guide how we work with our customers and with one another.