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Custom Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Dark Horse Framing West Bay Showroom

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Custom Framing Designer & Craftsperson

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Dark Horse Framing is seeking a creative and skilled Custom Framing Designer & Craftsperson to join our San Mateo studio on a Part-Time or Full-Time basis. Pay is commensurate with experience

Michaels Stores

Custom Framing Designer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Embrace and execute personal designer by using Elevated ABC Deliver to build relationships with all customers while creating Custom Framing solutions. * deliver sales and production results

Archinect

Senior Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $128K/yr

Skurman Architects is a renowned classical architecture firm located in San Francisco, acclaimed both nationally and internationally for our custom-designed homes. Position Overview We are seeking a ...

Closet Factory, Inc.

In-Home Sales Designer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$70K - $150K/yr

From custom closets and home offices to entertainment centers, pantries, garages, wall units, and more, every project is individually designed and custom-built for our clients. We are looking for ...

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All JobsCustom Designer JobsCustom Designer Jobs in California

Custom Designer information

See California salary details

$35K

$82.1K

$108.6K

How much do custom designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for custom designer in California is $82,059.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,200.00 and $107,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a custom designer?

A Custom Designer is a professional who creates unique and personalized designs tailored to a client's specific needs and preferences. This can include designing clothing, interiors, graphics, products, or other items, depending on the designer's area of expertise. Custom Designers work closely with clients to understand their vision and requirements, then use their creativity and technical skills to bring those ideas to life. The process usually involves consultations, sketches or prototypes, and revisions to ensure the final design meets the client's expectations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a custom designer?

To thrive as a Custom Designer, you need a strong background in design principles, creativity, and proficiency in CAD software, often supported by a degree in design or a related field. Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite, 3D modeling tools, and sometimes specific industry certifications is typically required. Exceptional communication, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate with clients and teams are important soft skills. These skills are crucial for creating tailor-made solutions that meet client specifications while ensuring feasibility and high-quality outcomes.

How do custom designers typically collaborate with clients and other team members during a project?

Custom Designers often work closely with clients to understand their vision, preferences, and requirements, which involves regular communication and feedback sessions. They also collaborate with other professionals such as project managers, engineers, and fabricators to ensure that designs are practical, feasible, and meet quality standards. Effective teamwork and adaptability are essential, as the design process may require revisions based on client input or technical constraints. Maintaining clear documentation and managing expectations throughout the project helps ensure successful outcomes.

What is the difference between Custom Designer vs Graphic Designer?

AspectCustom DesignerGraphic Designer
CredentialsPortfolio, design skills, sometimes specialized softwarePortfolio, design skills, often certifications in design software
Work EnvironmentCustom projects, client-specific, often in fashion, interior, or product designAdvertising, branding, print, digital media
Industry UsageFashion, interior design, product customizationMarketing, publishing, media

Custom Designers focus on creating tailored, client-specific designs for products, fashion, or interiors, often working closely with clients. Graphic Designers develop visual content for branding, advertising, and media, typically working on projects like logos, posters, and digital content. While both roles require strong design skills and portfolios, Custom Designers often specialize in personalized, physical or bespoke items, whereas Graphic Designers focus on visual communication across various media.

What are popular job titles related to Custom Designer jobs in California?

For Custom Designer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Custom Designer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Custom Designer jobs in California are:

Custom Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Custom Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,059 per year, or $39.5 per hour.

Custom Framing Designer & Craftsperson

San Mateo, CA • On-site

Dark Horse Framing West Bay Showroom
See more jobs at Dark Horse Framing West Bay Showroomexternal

$22 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

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Job description

Dark Horse Framing is seeking a creative and skilled Custom Framing Designer & Craftsperson to join our San Mateo studio on a Part-Time or Full-Time basis. Pay is commensurate with experience.

  • Lead one-on-one design consultations with clients to select mats, frames, and glass.
  • Measure artwork precisely and calculate accurate project quotes.
  • Perform framing production, including cutting, joining, matting, mounting, and assembly.
  • Deliver friendly, white-glove customer service for retail and corporate orders.

What We’re Looking For

  • 2+ years of custom picture framing or art handling experience.
  • Strong eye for color, scale, and design.
  • Detail-oriented with precise measuring skills.
  • Outgoing personality with exceptional customer service skills.

Apply today to join our team!

Company Description

Dark Horse Framing is a family-owned custom framing studio in San Mateo built on nearly 50 years of master craftsmanship. We create bespoke frames, mirrors, and displays for local art lovers and top Bay Area companies like Google and Facebook.