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Editorial Illustrator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Schmidt Entities

Graphic Designer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$64K - $92K/yr

... • Editorial Design: Collaborate with our research panels to design and format reports ... Illustrator, InDesign) and other relevant design software. • Excellent communication and ...

Parsons

Communication Specialist - Mid

Springfield, VA · On-site

$74K - $130K/yr

Design and create high-quality visual products such as infographics, publications, and presentations using tools like Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop). * Provide editorial ...

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All JobsEditorial Illustrator JobsEditorial Illustrator Jobs in Virginia

Editorial Illustrator information

See Virginia salary details

$32.2K

$58.8K

$95.2K

How much do editorial illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for editorial illustrator in Virginia is $58,836.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $67,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an editorial illustrator do?

An Editorial Illustrator creates visual artwork to accompany written content in newspapers, magazines, online publications, and other media. Their illustrations help clarify, enhance, or add artistic interpretation to articles and stories. They work closely with editors and art directors to ensure their artwork aligns with the publication's tone and message. Editorial Illustrators often use digital tools, traditional media, or a combination of both to produce compelling visuals.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an editorial illustrator?

As an Editorial Illustrator, your daily responsibilities usually involve collaborating with writers and editors to interpret article concepts, developing initial sketches or drafts, and refining illustrations based on feedback. You'll frequently manage multiple projects with tight deadlines, ensuring artwork aligns with editorial guidelines and publication standards. In addition to creating original illustrations, you may also attend editorial meetings, research visual trends, and prepare files for print or digital platforms. The role is often multidisciplinary and requires effective communication to ensure that your visuals enhance the storytelling and message of the publication.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the editorial illustrator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Editorial Illustrator, you need strong drawing skills, a refined understanding of visual storytelling, and a portfolio demonstrating your ability to communicate complex ideas through art, often supported by a degree in illustration, graphic design, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard digital illustration software such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop is essential, and knowledge of print and digital publishing processes can be beneficial. Excellent time management, creativity, open communication, and adaptability to editorial feedback set top illustrators apart. These skills and qualities enable Editorial Illustrators to create compelling visuals that enhance published content and meet fast-paced editorial deadlines.

How do you become an editorial illustrator?

To become an editorial illustrator, you typically need a strong portfolio showcasing your illustration skills, often with a focus on editorial or journalistic work. A background in fine arts, graphic design, or illustration, along with proficiency in digital tools like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator, is important. Gaining experience through internships or freelance projects can also help build a professional network and improve your chances of securing editorial illustration roles.

How much do editorial illustrators make?

Editorial illustrators typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Freelance illustrators may have variable income based on workload and client rates, often charging per project or hour. Strong skills in digital tools like Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop can influence earning potential.

What are popular job titles related to Editorial Illustrator jobs in Virginia?

For Editorial Illustrator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Editorial Illustrator jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Editorial Illustrator jobs in Virginia are:

Editorial Illustrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Editorial Illustrator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,836 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Visuals & Graphics Editor

Middle East Broadcasting Networks

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Announcement
Visuals & Graphics Editor
The Visuals & Graphics Editor is responsible for creating dynamic visual and motion graphic content that enhances MBN's storytelling across video, digital, and social platforms. This role develops high-quality graphics, animations, and reusable templates while leveraging modern design technologies, including AI-powered tools, to streamline production, improve efficiency, and maintain editorial integrity.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • The following tasks are considered essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions:
  • Collaborate closely with creative, editorial, and production teams to design impactful, content-driven visuals and motion graphics optimized for multiple screen sizes and digital platforms
  • Design motion graphics packages aligned with MBN's visual identity across shows, digital products, and social media
  • Develop reusable motion graphic templates (e.g., MOGRT files or any backend coding) for efficient production in Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects and similar tools.
  • Create high-quality 2D animations and motion graphics to support editorial storytelling
  • Produce basic 3D animations and visual elements when needed
  • Integrate overlays, lower thirds, explainers, and data visualizations directly into video timelines
  • Collaborate with editors and video producers to align graphics with story beats, pacing, and transitions
  • Design thumbnails, carousels, infographics, and visual assets optimized for mobile-first and social platforms
  • Design and produce visually engaging newsletter and web layouts in PDF format, ensuring consistency with brand guidelines, strong visual hierarchy, and readability across digital platforms.
  • Apply and maintain brand guidelines to ensure visual consistency across all platforms and products
  • Leverage AI-powered design tools for asset generation, animation assistance, rapid prototyping, ideation, and workflow automation
  • Use AI tools responsibly to accelerate production while maintaining editorial accuracy and visual quality
  • Manage multiple design projects simultaneously in a fast-paced production environment
  • Maintain organized design systems, templates, and asset libraries
  • Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, including AI-driven creative tools, and digital storytelling best practices
  • Contribute to a collaborative, cross-functional creative environment

Other Duties:
Perform additional job-related duties and take on new responsibilities as needed based on organizational requirements and circumstances.
Qualifications and Requirements:
Required:
  • 3-5 years of professional experience in motion graphics, visual design, or digital content creation
  • Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, including After Effects, Illustrator, Photoshop, and Premiere Pro
  • Experience creating motion graphic templates (MOGRTs) and reusable design systems
  • Strong understanding of typography, layout, color theory, composition, and visual hierarchy
  • Demonstrated portfolio of professional 2D motion graphics work
  • Ability to translate editorial narratives into clear, compelling visuals and animations
  • Experience producing graphics in fast-paced digital or newsroom environments
  • Strong collaboration, communication, and time management skills.
  • Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred
  • Basic 3D animation skills (Cinema 4D, Blender, or similar tools)
  • Experience using AI-powered creative tools (e.g., Runway, Adobe Firefly, generative design platforms, or similar technologies)
  • Familiarity with social-first storytelling for platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and others
  • Experience in broadcast, media, or news organizations

MBN is an equal opportunity employer committed to workforce diversity.

Apply