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Designer Illustrator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

This includes designing graphics, illustrations, diagrams, and other visual materials for technical reports, manuals, presentations, and publications. The Graphic Designer will ensure that all visual ...

Graphics Designer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$95K - $160K/yr

Designs and develops graphics and illustrations for use in technical materials, manuals, and publications. Operates computer hardware and software to prepare, revise, print and store text ...

This includes designing graphics, illustrations, diagrams, and other visual materials for technical reports, manuals, presentations, and publications. The Graphic Designer will ensure that all visual ...

Graphics Designer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$95K - $160K/yr

Designs and develops graphics and illustrations for use in technical materials, manuals, and publications. Operates computer hardware and software to prepare, revise, print and store text ...

Multimedia Designer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$110K - $175K/yr

Working with modern industry software such as Adobe Creative Suite's Photoshop, Illustrator ... The Multimedia Designer will have at a minimum a bachelor's degree in multimedia design, graphic ...

New

Multimedia Designer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$110K - $175K/yr

Working with modern industry software such as Adobe Creative Suites Photoshop, Illustrator ... The Multimedia Designer will have at a minimum a bachelors degree in multimedia design, graphic ...

New

Graphic Designer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Develops design concepts and implement designs for new web pages, mobile applications, newsletters, ads, infographics, banners, illustrations, logos, and other types of digital content that will be ...

Graphic Designer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Develops design concepts and implement designs for new web pages, mobile applications, newsletters, ads, infographics, banners, illustrations, logos, and other types of digital content that will be ...

Graphic Designer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Develops design concepts and implement designs for new web pages, mobile applications, newsletters, ads, infographics, banners, illustrations, logos, and other types of digital content that will be ...

Graphic Designer, Mid

Arlington, VA · On-site

$53 - $108/hr

Experience with Adobe Creative Cloud, including Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, or Acrobat Pro ... Graphic Designer, Mid The Opportunity: Produces graphic designs, using a variety of techniques and ...

Graphic Designer

Mclean, VA · On-site +1

$160K - $200K/yr

As a Graphic Designer, you will work in a dynamic production environment and assist with defining ... Adobe Illustrator (charting and vector illustrations) * Photoshop (photo editing and composition ...

Develops design concepts and implements designs for new web pages, mobile applications, newsletters, ads, infographics, banners, illustrations, logos, and other types of digital content that will be ...

Experience illustrating concepts by designing rough layout of art and copy, obtaining concept approval, and preparing finished copy and art for typesetting and printing. * Ability to prepare final ...

Showing results 21-40

Designer Illustrator information

See Virginia salary details

$35.2K

$82.4K

$109.1K

How much do designer illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for designer illustrator in Virginia is $82,435.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $108,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a designer illustrator?

Designer Illustrators are creative professionals who combine artistic skills with design principles to create visual content for various media, such as books, advertisements, websites, packaging, and more. They use illustration techniques to communicate ideas, concepts, or stories, often working closely with clients, art directors, or marketing teams. Their work involves both traditional drawing and digital tools, and they may specialize in areas like fashion, editorial, technical, or children's book illustration.

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

To thrive as a Designer Illustrator, you need strong artistic ability, a solid understanding of design principles, and proficiency in visual storytelling, often supported by a degree in graphic design, illustration, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop) and experience with digital drawing tablets are essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you interpret briefs and collaborate with clients or creative teams. These skills ensure you can produce compelling, high-quality visuals that meet project objectives and client expectations.

How do designer illustrators typically collaborate with other team members during a project?

Designer Illustrators often work closely with creative directors, graphic designers, marketing teams, and clients to ensure that their illustrations align with the overall vision and objectives of a project. Collaboration usually involves participating in brainstorming sessions, providing concept sketches, incorporating feedback, and revising artwork based on input from stakeholders. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as projects may require quick adjustments to meet changing requirements. This collaborative environment helps ensure that the final visual assets are cohesive and meet both aesthetic and strategic goals.

What is the difference between Designer Illustrator vs Graphic Designer?

AspectDesigner IllustratorGraphic Designer
Primary FocusCreating original illustrations and artworkDesigning visual content for branding, marketing, and print
Skills & ToolsDrawing, painting, digital illustration software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop)Layout, typography, branding, Adobe Creative Suite
Work EnvironmentFreelance, publishing, advertising, entertainmentAdvertising agencies, corporate in-house teams, design studios
CredentialsPortfolio, artistic skills, sometimes art or design degreesDesign degrees, portfolio, proficiency in design software

While both Designer Illustrators and Graphic Designers create visual content, Designer Illustrators focus on original artwork and illustrations, often for books, products, or entertainment. Graphic Designers typically work on branding, marketing materials, and layouts. The roles overlap in skills and tools but differ in primary output and application.

Are designers illustrators still in demand?

Designers and illustrators continue to be in demand across various industries, especially with the growth of digital media, branding, and marketing. Skills in graphic design software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, along with a strong portfolio, are important for securing opportunities in this field.

Is illustrator a high paying job?

Illustrator is a creative profession with salaries that vary based on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level illustrators typically earn lower wages, while experienced professionals working in advertising, publishing, or with specialized skills can earn higher incomes. Overall, it can be a well-paying career for those with strong portfolios and technical skills in digital tools like Adobe Illustrator.

What are the most commonly searched types of Designer Illustrator jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Designer Illustrator jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Designer Illustrator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,435 per year, or $39.6 per hour.

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

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Imperative Systems is a privately owned company established in 2017 to enable the National Security Community to achieve their critical missions effectively, efficiently, and securely. We provide expeditionary mission support, critical infrastructure protection, and strategic advisory services on a worldwide basis to support the National Security Community. We are adaptive and agile in order to meet the emerging needs of our specialized clientele. We strive for a culture of excellence, to build a team of the best people, equipped with the best skills and technical support to deliver results that exceed expectations, even in the most difficult circumstances.
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Imperative is seeking a talented Graphic Designer<\/b> to support the work of the Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service. This position will be a subcontractor to Parsons (formerly Xator) in support of the Overseas Security Installation Services II (OSIS II) program.
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The Graphic Designer<\/b> will be responsible for creating, editing, and producing visual content in support of Counter\-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C\-UAS) operations conducted on a worldwide basis. This includes designing graphics, illustrations, diagrams, and other visual materials for technical reports, manuals, presentations, and publications. The Graphic Designer<\/b> will ensure that all visual content adheres to Department of State style guides and templates, maintains consistency across related documents, and communicates complex technical information clearly to a wide audience of readers.
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The Graphic Designer<\/b> will work closely with technical writers, engineers, and subject matter experts to translate complex technical concepts into clear, professional visual formats. The Graphic Designer<\/b> will also collaborate with Program Coordinators to track deliverables, incorporate feedback from contractor and U.S. Government reviewers, and prepare final visual materials for approval.
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Additional special projects may include developing branded templates, creating infographics, designing visual aids for training materials, producing content for PowerPoint presentations, and supporting other program operations as needed.
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Work will be conducted on\-site Monday through Friday in Kingstowne, Virginia. Normal business hours run from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM with a one\-hour unpaid lunch break. This position is generally ineligible for telework.
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While an active clearance is required, work will generally be unclassified or Sensitive But Unclassified (SBU). Because of the nature of the Department of State's global operations, meetings may be scheduled at early hours to accommodate overseas time zones.
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Requirements<\/h3>

Candidates must possess a minimum SECRET clearance or higher.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Proficiency in industry\-standard graphic design software such as the Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) or equivalent tools (e.g., Affinity Designer, CorelDRAW, Figma).
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience designing graphics, illustrations, diagrams, and visual layouts for technical materials, manuals, and publications.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience with style guides, branding standards, and formatting requirements for professional documentation.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Familiarity with interpreting engineering drawings, technical diagrams, and system schematics to develop accurate visual representations.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience creating and editing PowerPoint presentations with professional design standards.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Ability to collaborate effectively with departmental and technical staff across multiple disciplines.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Ability to manage multiple design projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail and meeting tight deadlines.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Strong portfolio demonstrating the ability to translate complex information into clear, visually compelling designs.
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Other Requirements<\/b>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Bachelor's degree in graphic design, visual communications, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>2+ years of experience in graphic design, visual communications, or a related creative role.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience working with government organizations.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Previous experience or a strong understanding of the Department of State is a plus.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience with video editing or motion graphics is a plus.
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Benefits<\/h3>\n
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\n Imperative Systems offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our team members and their families:<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Choice of Platinum or Gold level PPO or High\-Deductible health insurance plans
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Dental & Vision Insurance
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>401(k) with employer matching contributions
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Paid Time Off
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Life Insurance & Disability
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Continuing Education
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Performance Recognition
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Salary:<\/span><\/span> <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b>Competitive compensation commensurate with experience.<\/span><\/span> <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>
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\n Imperative Systems, LLC is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences who share our commitment to excellence and mission success.
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