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Children'S Illustrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Macmillan

Associate Director, Art (MCPG)

$90K - $100K/yr

... knowledge of the children's book marketplace, and a keen eye for illustration, typography ... S. trade company that is part of the Holtzbrinck Publishing Group, a large family-owned group of ...

Macmillan

Associate Director, Art (MCPG)

Manhattan, NY

$90K - $100K/yr

... knowledge of the children's book marketplace, and a keen eye for illustration, typography ... S. trade company that is part of the Holtzbrinck Publishing Group, a large family-owned group of ...

Haddad Brands

Graphic Designer

Manhattan, NY

$75K - $125K/yr

... the children's apparel & accessories industry. A leader in the industry, Haddad Brands is the ... Designer(s) * Brand appropriate aesthetic * Illustration skills a plus Consistent in-office ...

Haddad Brands

Graphic Designer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$75K - $125K/yr

... the children's apparel & accessories industry. A leader in the industry, Haddad Brands is the ... Designer(s) * Brand appropriate aesthetic * Illustration skills a plus Consistent in-office ...

Macmillan

Designer - Celadon

Manhattan, NY · On-site +1

$60K - $65K/yr

Collaborate with freelancers, illustrators, photographers, and agents * Identify, hire, and manage ... for children and adults in all categories and formats. U.S. publishers include Celadon Books ...

Macmillan

Designer - Celadon

Manhattan, NY · On-site +1

$60K - $65K/yr

Collaborate with freelancers, illustrators, photographers, and agents * Identify, hire, and manage ... for children and adults in all categories and formats. U.S. publishers include Celadon Books ...

Paramount

Designer, Publishing

Los Angeles, CA

$65K - $100K/yr

Art direct illustrators, photographers, and other freelance creative partners from concept through ... S. television audience and boasts one of the industry's most important and extensive libraries of ...

Paramount

Designer, Publishing

Manhattan, NY

$65K - $100K/yr

Art direct illustrators, photographers, and other freelance creative partners from concept through ... S. television audience and boasts one of the industry's most important and extensive libraries of ...

Paramount

Designer, Publishing

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$65K - $100K/yr

Art direct illustrators, photographers, and other freelance creative partners from concept through ... S. television audience and boasts one of the industry's most important and extensive libraries of ...

Macmillan

Assistant Managing Editor

Manhattan, NY

$55K - $60K/yr

Working knowledge of illustrated book process. * Excellent computer skills and verbal and written ... for children and adults in all categories and formats. U.S. publishers include Celadon Books ...

Macmillan

Assistant Managing Editor

$55K - $60K/yr

Working knowledge of illustrated book process. * Excellent computer skills and verbal and written ... for children and adults in all categories and formats. U.S. publishers include Celadon Books ...

Washington State University

Graphic Designer

Pullman, WA · On-site

$4.0K - $6.0K/mo

Available Title(s): 1112-YN_ADMINPRO - Graphic Designer Business Title: Graphic Designer Employee ... illustration. * Experience working in a higher education or similar institutional setting.

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Children S Illustrator information

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$32.5K

$59.3K

$96K

How much do children's illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for children's 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 Children's Illustrator vs Children's Book Illustrator?

AspectChildren's IllustratorChildren's Book Illustrator
CredentialsPortfolio, artistic skillsPortfolio, artistic skills, possibly publishing experience
Work EnvironmentFreelance, publishing houses, agenciesFreelance, publishing houses, agencies
Industry UsageBroadly used for various children's mediaPrimarily for children's books
Common Search IntentGeneral children's illustration workIllustrating children's books specifically

Children's Illustrator is a broad term covering various media for children, while Children's Book Illustrator specifically focuses on creating artwork for children's books. Both roles require artistic skills and portfolios, but Children's Book Illustrators often have experience with publishing and storytelling. The main difference lies in the scope: one may work on animations, games, or educational materials, whereas the other specializes in book illustrations.

Is there a demand for illustrators?

Children's illustrators are in steady demand as publishers, educational companies, and authors seek engaging visuals for books and materials. Success often depends on building a strong portfolio, mastering digital illustration tools, and networking within the publishing industry.

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

To thrive as a Children's Illustrator, you need strong drawing and storytelling abilities, a solid understanding of color theory, and often a degree in illustration or a related field. Proficiency with digital illustration tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Procreate is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate with authors and publishers are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure engaging, age-appropriate artwork that brings stories to life and resonates with young audiences.

How do children's illustrators typically collaborate with authors and publishers during the book development process?

Children's illustrators often work closely with authors, editors, and art directors throughout the book development process. Collaboration usually begins with a briefing to understand the story and target audience, followed by sharing concept sketches and receiving feedback. Illustrators may attend meetings or communicate regularly to ensure their artwork aligns with the narrative and publisher's vision. Flexibility and strong communication skills are important, as revisions and adjustments are common to achieve the best possible final product.

How to become a children's illustrator?

To become a children's illustrator, develop strong drawing skills and a portfolio showcasing your work, especially in styles suitable for children. Obtain relevant education such as a degree in illustration, art, or a related field, and gain experience through internships, freelance projects, or self-publishing. Familiarity with digital illustration tools like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator is also beneficial.

What does a Children's Illustrator do?

A children's illustrator creates visual images to accompany and enhance stories, poems, and educational materials for children. Their work involves interpreting text and bringing characters, settings, and events to life in a way that is engaging and age-appropriate. They may work with authors, publishers, or educational organizations, using traditional or digital art techniques. A children's illustrator must understand child psychology, storytelling, and design principles to create illustrations that capture a child's imagination and support the narrative.

Is AI taking over illustration jobs?

AI is increasingly used to assist with illustration tasks, but children’s illustrators still rely on human creativity, storytelling, and unique artistic skills that AI cannot replicate fully. Many employers value original artwork and personal style, making human illustrators essential in children’s publishing and education. AI tools can serve as aids but are unlikely to replace the need for skilled children’s illustrators entirely.

How much do children's illustrators make?

Children's illustrators typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, portfolio quality, and whether they work freelance or for a publisher. Entry-level illustrators may start lower, while experienced professionals with a strong reputation can command higher rates or salaries. Many illustrators also supplement income through licensing, workshops, or creating their own books.
More about Children S Illustrator jobs
What job categories do people searching Children'S Illustrator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Children'S Illustrator jobs are:
Children S Illustrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Children'S Illustrator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 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.

Associate Director, Art (MCPG)

Macmillan

Remote

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Macmillan Children's Publishing Group is seeking an Associate Art Director to join our 1C team, designing covers and interiors for fiction and non-fiction chapter book, middle grade, and young adult titles. The ideal candidate will conceive and art direct creative book designs for children, and will have a strong sense of commercial & literary design, branding, knowledge of the children's book marketplace, and a keen eye for illustration, typography, photography, and how they influence new ideas and trends.
What You'll Do:
  • Manage, mentor, and art direct designers and freelancers.
  • Coordinate multiple projects concurrently for yourself and your direct reports, ensuring adherence to deadlines and the maintenance of design excellence.
  • Design and manage all stages of book packaging (covers, jackets, interiors), from early concept to final bound book
  • Deliver original, effective cover comps and polished final covers that are visually compelling and fresh for the market
  • Conduct thorough research and recommend talented illustrators and photographers for various projects.
  • Route material for approval, maintain schedules and budgets, prepare files for output, and manage the proofing process
  • Closely collaborate on book projects with the editorial team, creative director, and production department to ensure materials requests are met in a timely and effective manner
  • Support the Senior Art Director in optimizing departmental processes and defining industry-leading best practices.

What You'll Bring:
  • Exceptional portfolio displaying strong typographic skills. The work you present should demonstrate creative talent and a powerful sense of communication.
  • Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat), Google Suite, and Mac Platform.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience in print production processes.
  • Expertise in color theory and design fundamentals.
  • A team player who is able to receive constructive feedback and is motivated to learn from and collaborate with colleagues.
  • Knowledge of and an interest in the book publishing industry.
  • A passion for storytelling through art and design.
  • Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in bookmaking, ideally in children's publishing.
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in graphic design or another related field, or equivalent work experience.

This salary range for this role is $90,000-$100,000.
This position is classified as remote but is tied to our New York, NY office located at 120 Broadway. Employment is subject to New York State tax withholding under applicable regulations.
Macmillan Publishers is the U.S. trade company that is part of the Holtzbrinck Publishing Group, a large family-owned group of media companies headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany. Holtzbrinck Publishing Group's publishing companies include prominent imprints around the world that publish a broad range of award-winning books for children and adults in all categories and formats.
U.S. publishers include Celadon Books, Farrar, Straus and Giroux, Flatiron Books, Henry Holt & Company, Macmillan Audio, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, The St. Martin's Publishing Group, and Tor Publishing Group. In the UK, Australia, India, and South Africa, companies in the Holtzbrinck Publishing Group publish under the Pan Macmillan name. The German publishing company, Holtzbrinck Deutsche Buchverlage, includes among its imprints S. Fischer, Kiepenheuer & Witsch, Rowohlt, and Droemer Knaur.
Macmillan is proud to be an equal opportunity employer consistently striving to foster a culture where everyone belongs. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and identities. Qualified applicants are evaluated without regard to race, color, religion, age, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability status, physical ability, neurodiversity, genetic information, protected veteran status, family and economic status and background or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We prohibit discrimination of any kind and will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable law.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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