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Creative Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

New Level Resources

Creative Manager

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Creative Manager As Creative Manager, you'll help bring the Visit Santa Barbara brand to life through thoughtful design, creative project management, and visual storytelling. This role serves as both ...

New Level Resources

Creative Manager

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Creative Manager As Creative Manager, you'll help bring the Visit Santa Barbara brand to life through thoughtful design, creative project management, and visual storytelling. This role serves as both ...

Visit Santa Barbara

Creative Manager

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

Creative Manager As Creative Manager, you'll help bring the Visit Santa Barbara brand to life through thoughtful design, creative project management and visual storytelling. This role serves as both ...

Dr. Squatch

TikTok Creative Manager

Marina Del Rey, CA · On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

Squatch as a TikTok Creative Manager ! We're looking for a strategic, creative, and highly driven individual who knows how to build and scale a brand on TikTok, with a focus on in-feed content ...

Dr. Squatch

TikTok Creative Manager

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$100K - $115K/yr

Squatch as a TikTok Creative Manager ! We're looking for a strategic, creative, and highly driven individual who knows how to build and scale a brand on TikTok, with a focus on in-feed content ...

Dr. Squatch

TikTok Creative Manager

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$100K - $115K/yr

Squatch as a TikTok Creative Manager ! We're looking for a strategic, creative, and highly driven individual who knows how to build and scale a brand on TikTok, with a focus on in-feed content ...

Omnicom

Project Manager, Creative Management

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$88K - $119K/yr

Media Planning and Buying Manager, Creative Management About the job Position Summary In this role, you will manage creative assets and launches for paid digital media campaigns for Cross-Channel ...

Nen Creative

Creative Producer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Help improve how we approach intake, scoping, and client management What We're Looking For * 3-6 years of experience in creative production, account management, or client services * Strong ...

Jobtailor

Manager, Creative

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Ensure all creative work aligns with brand standards while pushing the work forward in fresh, relevant ways. * Manage multiple projects, timelines, and feedback cycles with exceptional organization ...

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All JobsCreative JobsCreative Manager JobsCreative Manager Jobs in California

Creative Manager information

See California salary details

$22.7K

$85.2K

$145.1K

How much do creative manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for creative manager in California is $85,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,200.00 and $107,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a creative manager?

Creative Managers are professionals who oversee the creative direction and output of a company or team, often within advertising, marketing, or design environments. They lead creative projects from concept to completion, manage creative teams, and ensure that visual, written, and multimedia content aligns with brand strategy and goals. Creative Managers collaborate with clients, stakeholders, and other departments to deliver effective and innovative campaigns. They are responsible for maintaining high-quality standards and meeting deadlines, often juggling multiple projects at once.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a creative manager?

To thrive as a Creative Manager, you need a strong background in design principles, project management, and marketing strategy, often supported by a degree in design, marketing, or a related field. Proficiency in creative software like Adobe Creative Suite, project management tools, and familiarity with digital marketing platforms is typically required. Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help Creative Managers inspire teams and articulate a clear vision. These skills are crucial for delivering innovative campaigns on time and ensuring the creative output aligns with business objectives.

How does a creative manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams on large projects?

Creative Managers often serve as the bridge between creative teams and other departments, such as marketing, product development, and sales. They are responsible for translating project goals into actionable creative strategies, ensuring alignment with brand guidelines, and facilitating clear communication across teams. This involves regular meetings, feedback sessions, and collaborative planning to deliver cohesive campaigns or products. Effective Creative Managers are skilled at balancing creative vision with business objectives, making adaptability and strong interpersonal skills essential for success.

What is the difference between Creative Manager vs Graphic Designer?

AspectCreative ManagerGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in marketing, advertising, or related field; experience in project managementBachelor's degree in graphic design, visual arts, or related field; portfolio showcasing design work
Work EnvironmentOversees creative teams, manages projects, collaborates with clientsCreates visual content, works independently or in small teams, often in design studios or agencies
Employer & Industry UsageAdvertising agencies, marketing departments, media companiesDesign firms, advertising agencies, in-house marketing teams

The main difference is that a Creative Manager oversees creative projects and teams, focusing on strategy and coordination, while a Graphic Designer primarily creates visual content. Both roles require relevant education and experience, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

How much does a creative manager earn?

A creative manager's average salary varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually. Factors such as industry, company size, and skill level in project management and creative tools influence earnings.
More about Creative Manager jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Creative jobs in California?

The most popular types of Creative jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Creative Manager jobs in California?

For Creative Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Creative Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Creative Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Creative Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Creative Manager job openings:

Creative Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Creative Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,220 per year, or $41 per hour.

Creative Manager

New Level Resources

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Title: Creative Manager
As Creative Manager, you'll help bring the Visit Santa Barbara brand to life through thoughtful design, creative project management, and visual storytelling. This role serves as both our lead in-house designer and the primary coordinator for larger creative initiatives, partnering with internal departments and external agencies to ensure every project reflects the quality, personality, and beauty of the Santa Barbara South Coast.
From developing presentations and marketing collateral to overseeing advertising campaign creative, managing photography and video assets, and supporting organization-wide initiatives, you'll play a key role in shaping how Visit Santa Barbara is experienced across digital, print, and in-person touchpoints.
Community Engagement: This role is ideal for someone who lives in or has strong ties to the Santa Barbara community. The Creative Manager will build relationships with local businesses, tourism partners, community organizations, local photographers, and videographers, so familiarity with the area and its culture is highly valued.
Work Location: This is a hybrid position based in Santa Barbara, California. You will be required to work in person three days a week to support community events, local productions, and collaborate with the team.
What You'll Do:
  • Lead creative projects from concept through completion, developing project timelines, creative briefs, and production schedules while coordinating internal stakeholders and external creative agencies.
  • Manage agency relationships, creative deliverables, revisions, and approvals to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and aligned with Visit Santa Barbara's strategic objectives.
  • Design and produce a wide variety of in-house creative materials, including presentations, reports, brochures, signage, digital advertising, social media graphics, event collateral, and other branded communications.
  • Collaborate with the Digital Marketing Manager to implement integrated marketing campaigns across digital, print, email, social media, and other marketing channels.
  • Maintain and evolve Visit Santa Barbara's visual identity by developing templates, style guides, and creative systems that ensure consistency across all marketing and organizational communications.
  • Review creative produced both internally and externally to ensure quality, brand consistency, accessibility, and production readiness.
  • Serve as administrator for Visit Santa Barbara's digital asset management system, maintaining photography, video, and graphic libraries while coordinating asset requests and usage rights.
  • Design and build branded email communications while maintaining visual consistency across consumer, partner, and organizational campaigns.
  • Develop creative materials supporting board meetings, annual reports, strategic plans, presentations, organizational events, and cross-department initiatives.
  • Evaluate emerging creative technologies, workflows, and AI-assisted design tools that improve efficiency while maintaining Visit Santa Barbara's creative standards.

What You'll Need to Succeed:
  • Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Marketing, Advertising, Communications, or a related field.
  • Three or more years of professional experience in graphic design, creative marketing, or creative project management.
  • Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud, including InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat, and Lightroom.
  • Strong understanding of typography, layout, branding, color theory, and visual storytelling.
  • Experience preparing artwork for both print and digital production.
  • Working knowledge of HTML email development and digital marketing best practices.
  • Excellent project management, organizational, and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
  • Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality creative work.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively across departments, vendors, and agency partners.
  • Self-motivated with sound judgment, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Familiarity with social media platforms and digital advertising creative specifications.
  • Valid California driver's license, auto insurance, and access to a vehicle for work-related travel.
  • Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends, as needed.
  • Ability to travel, as needed.

Additional Skills That Make an Impact:
  • Experience designing integrated marketing campaigns across multiple channels.
  • Strong understanding of typography, layout, branding, color theory, and visual storytelling.
  • Experience collaborating with creative agencies, freelancers, and production vendors.
  • Experience with digital asset management platforms.
  • Experience with website content management systems and a working knowledge of HTML, email development, and digital marketing best practices.
  • Experience with website content management systems, such as Simpleview.
  • Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud, including InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat, and Lightroom.
  • Experience in artwork for both print and digital production.
  • Photography direction or photo editing experience.
  • Knowledge of accessibility standards and best practices for digital communications.
  • Familiarity with AI-assisted creative workflows and responsible implementation of emerging design technologies.
  • Working knowledge of Associated Press (AP) Style and editorial best practices.
  • Experience in destination marketing, tourism, hospitality, or lifestyle brands.
  • Familiarity with the Santa Barbara South Coast tourism product.

What Visit Santa Barbara Offers You:
  • Comprehensive medical insurance fully covered by the employer
  • Voluntary dental and vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching contributions
  • Paid vacation and sick leave
  • Ten paid holidays
  • Cell phone reimbursement
  • Opportunities to explore and engage with local hospitality businesses
  • Flexible work options, including up to two remote workdays per work week (minimum three workdays in the office)

Please note that these are representative examples of benefits and may vary based on organizational policies.
Compensation:
Hourly Rate: $35.00-$40.00 per hour
Compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and overall fit for the position.
About Visit Santa Barbara
Visit Santa Barbara is a nonprofit destination marketing organization (DMO) primarily funded by the South Coast Tourism Business Improvement District, along with grants and membership dues. Through tourism marketing, public relations, group sales, and community partnerships, Visit Santa Barbara works to generate overnight visitation, increase business and tax revenue, and support jobs throughout the Santa Barbara South Coast.
To learn more, visit SantaBarbaraCA.com.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Visit Santa Barbara is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Please note that we are not accepting phone inquiries regarding application status. Only candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted. We are not working with third-party recruiters or staffing agencies for this position.

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