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Entry Level Artist Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

GHR Engineers & Associates, INC.

Be Seen First

Plumbing Designer - Entry Level

Springfield, IL · On-site

$50K - $75K/yr

Parks & outdoor spaces, Museums, galleries, & performing arts * Family-friendly activities and attractions Company Description GHR Engineers & Associates, Inc. is a mechanical, electrical, plumbing ...

All JobsArtist JobsEntry Level Artist JobsEntry Level Artist Jobs in Springfield, IL

Entry Level Artist information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$9

$24

$40

How much do entry level artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level artist in Springfield, IL is $24.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level artist?

Entry level artists are individuals who are beginning their professional careers in the art field, often having recently graduated from art school or completed relevant training. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced artists or art directors and may assist with various creative tasks, such as creating illustrations, graphics, or concept art. Entry level artists are expected to have foundational skills in drawing, painting, or digital art, and they often use this period to build their portfolios, gain industry experience, and establish professional connections. This role provides valuable learning opportunities and serves as a stepping stone to more advanced positions in the art industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level artist?

To thrive as an Entry Level Artist, you need a solid understanding of art fundamentals such as drawing, color theory, and composition, often demonstrated through a portfolio or relevant education. Familiarity with industry-standard digital tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Procreate is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and openness to feedback are vital soft skills that help you grow and adapt within collaborative environments. These skills and qualities are important to produce high-quality work, meet project requirements, and develop professionally in the competitive art industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Artist vs Junior Graphic Designer?

AspectEntry Level ArtistJunior Graphic Designer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree, basic art skillsBachelor's degree in graphic design, art, or related field
Work EnvironmentCreative studios, advertising agencies, freelance projectsDesign firms, marketing departments, advertising agencies
Industry UsageUsed across entertainment, gaming, illustration, and fine artsPrimarily in marketing, branding, and advertising sectors

Entry Level Artists and Junior Graphic Designers often share similar foundational skills and work environments. However, Entry Level Artists typically focus on traditional or digital art creation with a broader scope, while Junior Graphic Designers specialize in visual communication and branding within marketing contexts. Both roles serve as starting points in creative industries, with career progression leading to more specialized or senior positions.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level artists when starting their first professional role?

Entry level artists often encounter challenges such as adapting to tight deadlines, receiving constructive feedback, and learning to balance creative vision with client or project requirements. Navigating industry-standard tools and workflows can also be a learning curve, especially when collaborating with more experienced team members. However, most organizations provide mentorship and training to help new artists grow, and actively seeking feedback can accelerate both skill development and confidence.

How can I get a job as an entry level artist?

The qualifications needed to get a job as an entry-level artist include artistic skills, a portfolio of past work, and a degree or equivalent experience. You can pursue an associate or bachelor’s degree in graphic design, illustration, or fine arts. Most degree programs include portfolio-building courses, which can help you showcase your creative abilities to potential employers or clients. Most employers expect you to digitize your artwork using the Adobe Creative Suite or similar software. Internships are available for students and novice artists who want to gain experience in a professional setting.

More about Entry Level Artist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Artist jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Artist jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Artist jobs in Springfield, IL? For Entry Level Artist jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Entry Level Artist jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Entry Level Artist job openings:
Entry Level Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Artist job openings in Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,807 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Plumbing Designer - Entry Level

GHR Engineers & Associates, INC.

Springfield, IL • On-site

$50K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

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Job description

About the Role

We are seeking a Plumbing Designer to join our MEP team. You will design and coordinate plumbing and fire protection systems across a wide variety of project types, where your contributions are visible and your work gets built.


Responsibilities

  • Designing plumbing and fire protection systems — domestic water, sanitary, storm drainage, medical gas, fire suppression, and more
  • Producing construction documents in Revit and AutoCAD
  • Coordinating with our MEP team across disciplines
  • Assisting with site surveys and field verification
  • Applying and staying current with relevant codes — Illinois Plumbing Code, IPC, and NFPA


Qualifications

  • Familiarity with CAD, drafting, or design software — professional experience, trade background, or technical coursework all count
  • A talent for spatial and systems thinking
  • Someone who takes ownership of their work and stays on top of their own workload
  • A clear, collaborative communicator
  • Genuine interest in building a long-term career in plumbing design
  • Transferable skills from nontraditional backgrounds are welcome — aptitude and potential matter more to us than a conventional career path.

Helpful but Not Required

  • Revit or AutoCAD experience specifically
  • Background in construction, trades, engineering, or a related technical field
  • Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field
  • Certified Plumbing Designer (CPD) certification or interest in pursuing certification is a plus

Benefits

  • Year-end bonus: Discretionary, reflecting company performance and individual factors including merit, seniority, and expertise
  • Hybrid work schedule, negotiable
  • Flexible hours
  • Health, dental, & vision insurance
  • FSA: Pre-tax dollars for medical & dependent care
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • PTO: Vacation time that grows with tenure, paid holidays, parental leave
  • Professional development: Employees who choose to pursue certifications are reimbursed for exam fees and renewals

Life in Champaign-Urbana

Not local? Champaign-Urbana is a small city with big-city amenities and culture — salaries go a lot further here than they would in a larger market.

  • Not local? Champaign-Urbana is a small city with big-city amenities and culture — salaries go a lot further here than they would in a larger market.
  • Named one of Livability’s 2024 Best Places to Live in the U.S.
  • 2 hours to Chicago & St. Louis but 29% lower cost of living than Chicago
  • Nightlife, music, dining, Big Ten sports
  • Parks & outdoor spaces, Museums, galleries, & performing arts
  • Family-friendly activities and attractions

Company Description

GHR Engineers & Associates, Inc. is a mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP) consulting firm. Since 1949, we have built our reputation through quality work, integrity, and service.

We design the systems that make buildings functional, sustainable, and safe, working across healthcare, K–12, commercial, municipal, and specialty building types.

We’re a close-knit team of about 20 people. We treat our employees like people with lives and commitments outside the office, and our retention speaks to that. Our team includes people who have been with us from one to thirty years.
We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and identities. We benefit from the many perspectives our people bring, and we’re committed to continuing to grow.