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Design Intern Jobs in Springfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

For the Development Intern: · Assist with assigned outreach initiatives · Support record keeping as assigned · Assist with special projects to help fulfill development goals For the Communications ...

For the Development Intern: Assist with assigned outreach initiatives Support record keeping as assigned Assist with special projects to help fulfill development goals For the Communications Intern:

Design/Graphics Intern

Arlington, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

Grab an internship with the design team at Red Edge! Red Edge, a digital advocacy firm that serves leading organizations defending free enterprise, is looking for a young whippersnapper to come in ...

Design/Graphics Intern

Arlington, VA

$17.25 - $23/hr

Grab an internship with the design team at Red Edge! Red Edge, a digital advocacy firm that serves leading organizations defending free enterprise, is looking for a young whippersnapper to come in ...

Showing results 21-40

Design Intern information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$9

$20

$38

How much do design intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for design intern in Springfield, VA is $20.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

What does a design intern do?

A design intern assists with creating visual concepts, layouts, and prototypes for projects using tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Figma. They support the design team by conducting research, preparing drafts, and gaining hands-on experience in the design process, often under supervision and within a structured internship program.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Springfield, VA?

The most popular types of Design jobs in Springfield, VA are:

What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Design Intern jobs?

Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Design Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Design Intern job openings in Springfield, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,099 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Fall 2026 Creative Design Intern (DC)

Invariant LLC

Washington, DC

$24/hr

Full-time, Internship

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description

Invariant, a bipartisan government relations and communications firm providing strategic advice to companies, trade associations, nonprofits, and individuals, seeks a Creative Design Intern for fall 2026. Preference will be given to candidates able to commit to a full-time internship. This is a hands-on role where you'll be working directly with our Art Director on real client work from day one.


Responsibilities

  • Execute design production across client accounts - social graphics, presentation decks, digital assets, and print collateral.
  • Jump into existing Figma, Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign files to make edits, updates, and versioned exports.
  • Support the development and build-out of branded PowerPoint templates.
  • Manage and track your own workload-logging requests, updating statuses, and flagging blockers proactively.
  • Conduct light research as needed to support creative briefs and campaign concepts.
  • Collaborate closely with the Art Director and broader digital team on active accounts.

Qualifications

  • Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite-Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
  • Working knowledge of Figma-ability to navigate files, make edits, and export assets. We use Figma for digital asset creation more than UI web projects.
  • Strong attention to detail-pixel-perfect matters here.
  • A proactive, self-starting attitude-you follow up, check in, and ask the right questions without being asked. You flag when you're stuck and keep things moving.
  • Ability to manage multiple requests simultaneously without losing track of anything.
  • Copywriting or content skills are a bonus, but not required.

Nice to have: 

  • Experience with PowerPoint template design.
  • Familiarity with project management tools like Basecamp.
  • Interest in public affairs, communications, or political strategy.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Interns will begin their term with Invariant in person on August 31, 2026. The compensation for this position is $19/hour for undergraduate candidates and $24/hour for graduate candidates.


Invariant is committed to creating a diverse culture and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.