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Design Intern Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Overview Join our growing data security company as a Marketing Design Intern. In this role, you'll support our marketing team by creating visually arresting images and videos that communicate complex ...

New

$14.25 - $19/hr

Graphic Design & Branding Event materials, social assets, sponsor decks, brand consistency * Apparel Design Merchandise concepts, wearable branding, and product design * Animation / Motion Short-form ...

New

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Graphic Design & Branding Event materials, social assets, sponsor decks, brand consistency * Apparel Design Merchandise concepts, wearable branding, and product design * Animation / Motion Short-form ...

New

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Graphic Design & Branding Event materials, social assets, sponsor decks, brand consistency * Apparel Design Merchandise concepts, wearable branding, and product design * Animation / Motion Short-form ...

New

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Design Intern information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$18

$34

How much do design intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for design intern in Iowa is $18.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $20.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 22 too old for an internship?

A design intern position is typically open to individuals of various ages, including those who are 22. Age is generally not a barrier, and employers often value skills, portfolio quality, and enthusiasm over age when hiring interns. Many companies welcome diverse age groups for internships to bring different perspectives and experiences.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Design Intern typically expect during their internship?

As a Design Intern, you can expect to work on a variety of tasks such as assisting with concept development, creating digital and print assets, and supporting the design team with research and brainstorming sessions. Interns often have the opportunity to contribute to real client projects under the guidance of experienced designers, allowing for both skill development and portfolio growth. You may also collaborate closely with other departments like marketing or product teams, gaining insight into how design supports broader business objectives. The workload is usually a mix of independent assignments and team-based projects, providing a well-rounded internship experience.

How much do design interns make?

Design interns typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on the company, location, and level of experience. Some internships may be unpaid or offer stipends, especially for students or in competitive markets. Internships often provide opportunities to develop skills in design tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Figma.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Design Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Design Intern, you need a basic understanding of design principles, creativity, and proficiency in graphic design or visual arts, typically supported by coursework or a portfolio. Familiarity with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and collaborative tools like Figma is usually expected. Strong communication, openness to feedback, and time management are soft skills that help you excel and learn quickly. These abilities are crucial for contributing effectively to design projects, adapting to team workflows, and building a foundation for a future design career.

What is the difference between Design Intern vs Graphic Designer?

AspectDesign InternGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed a degree in design or related fieldFormal education often preferred; professional experience valued
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often part-time or temporary, in creative agencies or companiesFull-time or freelance roles in various industries, including advertising, publishing, and digital media
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies to train and evaluate potential future employeesEstablished role for creating visual content across multiple platforms

In summary, a Design Intern is typically a student or recent graduate gaining practical experience, while a Graphic Designer is a professional responsible for creating visual content with more independence and expertise.

Is 20 an hour good for an internship?

For a design intern, earning $20 an hour is generally considered above average, as many internships pay between minimum wage and $15 per hour. However, pay rates vary depending on location, company size, and required skills such as proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite or Figma. Interns should also consider the experience gained and potential for future opportunities when evaluating compensation.

What does a design intern do?

A design intern assists with creating visual content, such as graphics, layouts, and prototypes, often using tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Figma. They support the design team by conducting research, gathering feedback, and learning industry best practices, gaining hands-on experience in the design process.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Design jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Design Intern jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Design Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Design Intern job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,857 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Athletics Graphic Design Intern

Athletics Graphic Design Intern

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA • On-site

$16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 hours ago

New


University Of Iowa rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

427th of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The University of Iowa Department of Athletics seeks applications for an Athletics Graphic Design Intern. This is a full-time (at-will and FLSA-non-exempt) position. Fringe benefits are not included. Salary is set at $16.00 an hour.The University of Iowa is an NCAA Division I institution and a member of the Big Ten Conference. The Department of Athletics manages 22 varsity sports programs and related events with a workforce of approximately 250 regular employees and 300 temporary employees. Athletics is a people-centric organization that operates under a "Win. Graduate. Do It Right." philosophy. For more information regarding Athletics, please click here.
Responsibilities: The Athletics Department Graphic Design Intern will contribute to the activities of the External Relations Unit, of the UI Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, to advance the outreach efforts of the department and its 22 varsity sports programs. Will create digital/print graphics for social media, marketing, and communications. Edit photos using appropriate software to achieve the desired creative image. Assist and direct studio photography shoots for use on video boards, social media, and hawkeyesports.com. Assist in scanning and archiving historical photos and media into the Libris platform. Provide content for the department's numerous websites and existing social and new media presences. May work up to forty hours per week, which may include evening, weekend, and holiday hours.
Benefits Highlights: The University of Iowa is a Big Ten, nationally ranked research university with 30,000 students located in Iowa City. A vibrant community boasting excellent public schools, safe, comfortable neighborhoods, affordable housing, a highly educated population, and numerous cultural, recreational, and sporting opportunities and events contribute to the Iowa City area frequently appearing high on the best-places-to-live listings. Go to "Working at Iowa" to learn more.
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree (or international equivalent) in graphic design, or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience;
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills;
  • Ability to work effectively with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills and ability to build trusting relationships;
  • Working knowledge of and ability to:
    • Utilize Adobe Creative Suite
    • Operate effectively within a highly regulated team environment.
  • Ability to work 40 hours per week which may include evening, weekend, and holiday hours.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Basic knowledge and understanding of the professionalism and intensity necessary to successfully contribute to Division I athletics program;
  • Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suites or other graphic design programs;
  • Knowledge of photo editing;

Application Process: Visit our website at http://jobs.uiowa.edu and search for keywords "Graphic Design". Only applications submitted at https://jobs.uiowa.edu will be accepted.
  • Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended.
  • Applicants must upload a resume and cover letter and mark them as a relevant file to the submission. Applications without both a cover letter and resume will be considered incomplete and ineligible for consideration.
  • Applicants will be asked to supply access to examples of produced creative content projects.
  • Successful candidates will be subject to a credential/education verification and criminal background check and be required to self-disclose any conviction history.
  • Five professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.
  • As a part of the University of Iowa's review of your application and consistent with its policies and practices, the University may access and/or view information about you that is job-related and publicly available on the internet, including but not limited to information on social media sites. The access, viewing and/or use of such information is governed by the University's Policy on Human Rights, as well as state and federal law.
  • For questions or additional information, please contact athletics chloe-schmidt@uiowa.edu.

About Iowa:
  • Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success.
  • Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance.
  • Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation.
  • Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.

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