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Contract Graphic Designer Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Contract Graphic Designer information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$5

$21

How much do contract graphic designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract graphic designer in Santa Rosa, CA is $21.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.01 and $21.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract graphic designer?

Contract graphic designers are creative professionals hired on a temporary or project basis to design visual content such as logos, marketing materials, websites, and more. Unlike full-time employees, they typically work for multiple clients or agencies, often remotely or on-site as needed. Their work scope is defined by a contract, which outlines the project deliverables, timeline, and payment terms. This arrangement allows businesses to access specialized design skills for specific projects without committing to a long-term hire.

What does a contract graphic designer do?

A contract graphic designer works on design projects on a freelance basis. As an independent contractor, your duties include communicating with clients to define their needs for each project. You create the visual elements for websites, advertisements, marketing materials, or any visual asset required by the client. You can also work on branding campaigns or help a company rebrand or enhance its image with new logos and images. Your responsibilities involve using design software such as Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, or Adobe InDesign. You may need to deliver completed assets in predefined formats or resolutions, particularly if they are to be used in print. As a contractor, you must market your services to attract new clients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract graphic designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Graphic Designer, strong visual design skills, proficiency in typography, color theory, and a relevant degree or portfolio are essential. Expertise in industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and familiarity with project management tools are typically required. Excellent communication, creativity, and time management skills help set top designers apart, especially when collaborating remotely or on tight deadlines. These competencies ensure the delivery of high-quality, client-focused designs within specified timeframes, driving client satisfaction and repeat business.

How do contract graphic designers typically manage workflow and communication with multiple clients simultaneously?

Contract graphic designers often juggle several projects at once, requiring strong organizational and communication skills. Most use project management tools and clear documentation to keep track of deadlines, feedback, and revisions for each client. Regular check-ins, status updates, and timely responses are important to maintain client satisfaction and ensure all project requirements are met. Establishing clear expectations at the outset helps prevent misunderstandings and streamlines collaboration.

What is the difference between Contract Graphic Designer vs Freelance Graphic Designer?

AspectContract Graphic DesignerFreelance Graphic Designer
CredentialsPortfolio, design skills, possibly some certificationsPortfolio, design skills, self-marketed credentials
Work EnvironmentTypically works for a company or agency on short-term projectsWorks independently, often remotely, with clients directly
Employer/Industry UsageHired by companies or agencies for specific projectsHired directly by clients or businesses on a project basis

Contract Graphic Designers usually work for organizations on temporary assignments, often through agencies, while Freelance Graphic Designers operate independently, managing their own clients. Both roles require strong design skills and portfolios, but their work settings and client relationships differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Graphic Designer jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

The most popular types of Graphic Designer jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Contract Graphic Designer jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Contract Graphic Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Graphic Designer job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,733 per year, or $21 per hour.

Instructional Systems Designer

DirectViz Solutions, LLC

Petaluma, CA • On-site

$75K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

DirectViz Solutions (DVS) is a dynamic and rapidly growing government contractor committed to delivering innovative IT solutions that address the mission-critical needs of our government clients. Through the expertise and dedication of our talented team, we provide cutting-edge technology services designed to achieve success and exceed expectations.
At DVS, we prioritize our employees as our greatest asset. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive medical benefits, a 401(k) match, generous PTO accrual, professional development reimbursement, corporate-funded technology certifications, and robust employee recognition and appreciation programs.
DVS is actively seeking an Instructional Systems Designer (ISD) to support our team in Petaluma, CA.
Job Summary:
The Instructional Systems Designer (ISD) shall provide instructions design and development support in accordance with client-specific requirements and standard operating procedures.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Provide design documents in accordance with SOPs and other requirements as specified in the task order under this contract.
  • Prepare storyboards and/or outlines for content development in accordance with SOPs and other requirements as defined in the task order under this contract.
  • Select appropriate delivery methods and media to support development of human performance and testing of competencies.
  • Prepare and structure tests and practical application exercises so these are reliable indicators that a learned has learned to perform the tasks identified in the objectives.
  • Perform formative and summative evaluations, including pilot studies.
  • Revise versions in accordance with feedback from reviews and data obtained in pilot testing.
  • Develop plans for piloting training experiences developed under task orders.
  • Develop reports of pilot studies usable in finalizing the training products.
  • Participate in reviews.
  • Ensure work and processes conform to TRASYS SOPs, standards, and other requirements stipulated in task orders under this contract.
  • Members shall demonstrate effective communication, collaboration, and teamwork with all government and contract team members.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
  • Work independently or as part of a team to complete assigned tasks.
  • Oversee the successful completion of ISD projects in accordance with Training System Standard Operating Procedures and Training Center specific policies.
  • ISD professionals shall work effectively in a team environment.

Required Qualifications:
  • A master's degree in Instructional Systems, Instructional Systems Technology, Instructional & Performance Technology, or Education (with a concentration in Educational Technology) preferred, or five years' documented experience in a related field may be substituted for the educational requirement.
  • Must possess a minimum of two years' experience using the Instructional Systems Development (ISD) process in the development of courses and training interventions.
  • Must be proficient in using the following software applications: Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and computer graphics programs.
  • Task Orders under this contract may include physical requirements related to the work to be conducted, especially those at Government facilities or on vessels and platforms, persons conducting the task orders must be able to physically observe performance and climb ladders and/or other physical requirements associated with the work environment.
  • Successful SSBI background investigation (required).
  • Must submit resume and OF-306.

Physical and Mental Qualifications:
  • Maintain focus and awareness throughout scheduled working hours.
  • Perform tasks requiring prolonged periods of sitting or standing at a desk, utilizing a computer, mouse, and keyboard.
  • Lift and move objects weighing up to 15 pounds as needed.
  • Exhibit excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a strong command of the English language.
  • Demonstrate the ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively as part of a team.
  • Quickly learn and retain routine tasks and processes.
  • Possess strong organizational skills, attention to detail, business correspondence proficiency, and self-management capabilities.
  • Perform the essential functions of the role satisfactorily; reasonable accommodation will be provided for employees with disabilities upon request.
  • Accept and adapt to additional responsibilities or changes to assigned duties as determined by DirectViz Solutions (DVS).

If you thrive on solving complex problems and building meaningful connections, we'd love to hear from you. Join our team and make an impact today!
DirectViz Solutions, LLC (DVS) is an equal opportunity employer who prohibits discrimination and harassment against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, , sex (including pregnancy), age, gender identity, creed, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.
DVS has a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, threats, coercion, discrimination, and intimidation. Employees may file a complaint or exercise any right protected by Executive Order 11246, Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, Section 4212 of the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, or the Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998.