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Designer Illustrator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a talented and creative Mid-Level Graphic Designer to join our remote team. The ... Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) * Strong understanding of ...

This is a flexible, remote role ideal for a designer with strong illustration skills who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. Interested in learning more? Take a peek at the key ...

Work with the CD and fellow designers to conceptualize based on design briefs, execute the work, be it illustration, 2D or 3D design. * Create, design and animate where necessary, in collaboration ...

Work with the CD and fellow designers to conceptualize based on design briefs, execute the work, be it illustration, 2D or 3D design. * Create, design and animate where necessary, in collaboration ...

Proficiency in Figma, Photoshop, and Illustrator. * Strong understanding of UX/UI principles and responsive design. * Experience designing for email marketing platforms (e.g., Marketo, HubSpot)

About the Role We are seeking a Motion Designer who can bring ideas to life through engaging ... Create animations using typography, icons, illustrations, video, and audio. * Edit and animate ...

Motion Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

About the Role We are seeking a Motion Designer who can bring ideas to life through engaging ... Create animations using typography, icons, illustrations, video, and audio. * Edit and animate ...

About the Role We are seeking a Motion Designer who can bring ideas to life through engaging ... Create animations using typography, icons, illustrations, video, and audio. * Edit and animate ...

Develops creative concepts and designs consistent with brand identity standards established by the ... Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop required). • Familiarity with generative AI as it relates to ...

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Designer Illustrator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$36.6K

$85.7K

$113.3K

How much do designer illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for designer illustrator in Chicago, IL is $85,655.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,700.00 and $112,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 are Designer Illustrators?

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 is an Illustrator's salary?

The average salary for an illustrator varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $40,000 to $75,000 annually. Entry-level illustrators may earn less, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or a strong portfolio can earn higher salaries, especially in freelance or agency settings.

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.

Infographic showing various Designer Illustrator job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 61% Physical, 17% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,655 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

The Graphic Designer is responsible for following through on all customer graphics orders and will help with volume copying. In addition to effective conceptualization abilities, strong design skills, and technical expertise, the Graphic Designer must be highly collaborative by nature and must have demonstrated strengths in graphics design, project management, and communication.
The ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s degree in visual communication, graphic design, or a related field; at least two years of experience in graphic design or in the print industry, and is skilled in copyediting/proofreading and desktop publishing. He or she must have full mastery of various software design programs including Adobe-based platforms (Acrobat, InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop) for both Mac and PC.

RESPONSIBILITIES          

  • Prepares and assembles images and illustrative material and copy and manages layout for publication
  • Develops creative concepts and builds graphic solutions for customers
  • Prepares/completes the creative concepts, graphic design, pre-press work, and technical specifications necessary to complete projects
  • Completes pre-press set up in Adobe based platforms (Acrobat InDesign, Pagemaker, Illustrator, Photoshop) for both Mac and PC
  • Communicates effectively with customers
  • Develops and maintains accurate customer files based on production work flow
  • Produces/designs, proofs, and updates materials for customer projects
  • Develops as a team player and is critical to the production process
  • Consistently follows up on production activity using various communication methods (telephone, email, etc.)
  • Performs other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS            

  • Bachelor’s degree in visual communication, graphic design, or a related field preferred
  • Two years of experience in graphic design or the print industry
  • Strong computer and internet skills (multiple platforms)
  • Expertise with Adobe based platforms (Acrobat, InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop)
  • Able to manage and optimize workload, prioritize multiple projects, and streamline the production flow
  • Must demonstrate extreme attention to detail in design work
  • Skilled in copyediting/proofreading and desktop publishing
  • Must be an energetic self-starter who is driven to succeed
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Neat, clean, and professional appearance