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Contract Artist Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

We're looking for a Production Artist to support our screenprint production floor and help ensure ... contract or guarantee of employment. Employee may perform other related duties as needed based on ...

We're looking for a Production Artist to support our screenprint production floor and help ensure ... contract or guarantee of employment. Employee may perform other related duties as needed based on ...

We're looking for a Production Artist to support our screenprint production floor and help ensure ... contract or guarantee of employment. Employee may perform other related duties as needed based on ...

Sandwich Artist

Milaca, MN · On-site

$11.50 - $14.25/hr

This does not constitute a contract for employment and either the incumbent or the Company may terminate employment at any time, for any reason, with or without notice. Hiring Range: $13.50 to $16.00 ...

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Contract Artist information

See Minnesota salary details

$8

$24

$39

How much do contract artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract artist in Minnesota is $24.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $27.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract artist?

A Contract Artist is a freelance or temporary visual artist hired to create artwork for specific projects. They work with clients or companies across various industries, such as gaming, advertising, publishing, and entertainment. Contract Artists typically specialize in areas like illustration, graphic design, animation, or concept art. Their responsibilities may include designing characters, environments, branding materials, or promotional visuals. Since they work on a contract basis, they may juggle multiple projects simultaneously and must manage deadlines and client expectations efficiently.

What types of projects and collaboration can a contract artist expect?

As a Contract Artist, you may work on a wide variety of creative projects, such as illustrations, character designs, concept art, or digital assets for games and marketing materials, depending on the industry and client needs. Most contract roles involve collaborating closely with creative directors, project managers, or marketing teams to align your work with overall project goals. Communication is key, as you’ll typically discuss project briefs, receive feedback, and iterate on your artwork remotely or as part of a distributed team. Being able to effectively incorporate feedback and adapt to different artistic styles or brand guidelines is essential for success and client satisfaction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the contract artist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Artist, you need a strong portfolio demonstrating artistic skill, creativity, and proficiency in your chosen medium (such as illustration, 3D modeling, or graphic design), often supported by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Suite, Autodesk Maya, or Blender is typically required, and certifications or specialized training can be advantageous. Strong communication, time management, and adaptability are crucial for collaborating with clients, meeting deadlines, and adjusting to shifting project needs. These skills ensure you can deliver high-quality work on schedule and maintain positive, professional relationships with clients and teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Artist jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Artist jobs in Minnesota are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Artist jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Artist jobs in Minnesota are:

Infographic showing various Contract Artist job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,207 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Production Artist

Lakeshirts

Detroit Lakes, MN • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

BRING DESIGNS TO LIFE. SUPPORT THE FLOOR. KEEP GREAT ART MOVING.

THE OPPORTUNITY

At Lakeshirts, we're in the memory-making business, creating bold designs for apparel and accessories people love to wear. We're looking for a Production Artist to support our screenprint production floor and help ensure artwork is accurate, production-ready, and aligned with Lakeshirts standards.

This is an onsite position in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, where you'll work closely with artists, leads, and production teams to problem-solve, update artwork, and keep orders moving efficiently through production. If you're detail-oriented, comfortable in Adobe Illustrator, and excited to support a team producing high-volume, high-quality products, you'll fit right in.

Working at the center of our screenprint production environment means no two days are exactly alike. You'll balance multiple priorities, communicate across departments, and help identify opportunities to improve quality and consistency while supporting our customers and production teams.

PAY + SCHEDULE

Location: Detroit Lakes, MN (Onsite)

Shift: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM

Pay: $17.00/hour

Growth: Build hands-on production art experience while partnering with artists, production teams, and department leads to improve quality, efficiency, and production-ready artwork.

BENEFITS

Lakeshirts offers a fun, creative, team-focused culture where employees are encouraged to learn, grow, and contribute. Eligible team members enjoy competitive pay, daily pay options, paid time off, employee assistance resources, merchandise discounts, paid holidays, insurance benefit options, profit sharing opportunities, and a 401(k) program with company match based on plan eligibility requirements. Team members also enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, onsite amenities, and the opportunity to be part of one of the largest screenprint manufacturers in the United States.

A TYPICAL DAY

  • Review and prepare artwork using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
  • Apply creative design skills to fulfill customer requests.
  • Create concept visuals tailored to customer needs.
  • Maintain a comprehensive understanding of regional icons, licensed product and landscapes.
  • Maintain a low error rate through attention to detail and quality checks.
  • Demonstrate strong spelling and proofreading skills.
  • Use shortcuts, quick keys, and efficient processes to support productive design work.
  • Adjust task schedules based on leadership direction and changing priorities.

SKILLS

  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design preferred.
  • Proficient in Adobe Illustrator, with experience preparing digital artwork.
  • Detail-oriented and highly organized, with the ability to stay focused through interruptions.
  • Effective verbal and written communicator.
  • Self-motivated team player who collaborates across departments.
  • Able to work independently while contributing to a fast-paced team environment.

WHY LAKESHIRTS IS THE PLACE YOU WANT TO BE

OUR CULTURE is one-of-a-kind and truly sets us apart. We are proud of our humble beginnings and non-corporate style. We offer a unique atmosphere, unlike any other manufacturer. We work hard to be the best and we seek only committed individuals that will help move our company forward and embrace our values and culture. Lakeshirts | Blue 84 is one of the largest privately owned screenprint manufacturers in the United States, responsible for decorating and distribution of a wide variety of garments for the resort, college and K-12 markets. At our headquarters in Detroit Lakes, MN, we employ over 1000 great people, proudly producing 35,000+ garments daily. It's not just a job but a lifestyle. Our job descriptions help support and guide you in the role you play in making our company successful. LIFE'S BETTER IN A T-SHIRT. IT REALLY IS.

COGNITIVE OR MENTAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE JOB

Employee must be able to see, hear, read, write, communicate clearly, use good judgment, stay organized, adapt to changing priorities, and work with patience, professionalism, reliability, flexibility, and a helpful team-first attitude.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

CONTINUOUSLY: Sit.

FREQUENTLY: Walk and carry under 10 pounds.

OCCASIONALLY: Stand, push, pull, climb, balance, bend, twist, crawl, reach, lift and carry up to 50 pounds, and reach above shoulder height, at shoulder height, and below shoulder height.

NEVER: Lift or carry over 50 pounds.

NOTE / DISCLAIMER

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive and should in no way be considered a contract or guarantee of employment. Employee may perform other related duties as needed based on the ongoing needs of the business. Minnesota is an Employment-At-Will state and implies no specific length of employment.