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Entry Level Artist Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

NPR

Petra Mayer Memorial Fellowship

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$30.05/hr

Intro To Position NPR's Society & Culture Desk offers news, discovery and analysis of arts and culture to curious audiences on digital, radio, podcasts, social platforms and video. We also cover the ...

Wegmans Food Markets

Lead Cook

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$21.75 - $22.50/hr

This is an entry-level structured training program designed to be completed within 6 months with ... Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Culinary Arts * Experience working in a multi-faceted food ...

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All JobsArtist JobsEntry Level Artist JobsEntry Level Artist Jobs in Washington, DC

Entry Level Artist information

See Washington, DC salary details

$10

$27

$44

How much do entry level artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level artist in Washington, DC is $27.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $30.58 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.

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.

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 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.

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.

More about Entry Level Artist jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Artist jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Artist jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Artist jobs in Washington, DC?

For Entry Level Artist jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Artist jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Artist jobs in Washington, DC are:

Entry Level Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Artist job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,225 per year, or $27 per hour.

Student Performing Arts Assistant I _On-Campus FWS

GW Student Employment Center for Career Services

Washington, DC • On-site

$18.40/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Fill out your application carefully and completely, including attaching the correct documents as requested. You will NOT be able to withdraw and reapply if you make a mistake.
Positions may close unexpectedly if they reach a high number of applicants. It is in your best interest to apply promptly to any positions that interest you.
If this position title includes the label On-Campus FWS or Off-Campus FWS, it is for students with a Federal Work Study (FWS) award for the current school year ONLY. Applicants to these positions will be required to verify this by attaching their FWS Program Student Statement as a required document. Do not apply unless you meet this criterion.
Position Title
Student Performing Arts Assistant I _On-Campus FWS
Level of Support
Student Support I
Position Type
On-Campus FWS
Number of Openings
4
Work Hours
During Standard Business Hours (M-F 8am-5pm)
Wage Per Hour
18.40
Division/School
Columbian College of Arts and Sciences
Department Name
627253 CORCORAN SCH TREATRE DANCE PROGRAMS
Department Bio
The Costume Lab is in Samson Hall on the Foggy Bottom Campus and is part of the Theatre and Dance Program (CTAD).
Other occasional work locations include our performance venue The Betts Theatre in the University Student Center, along with our costume storage located in Lisner Auditorium.
Position Specific Summary
Join our team and contribute to the vibrant and dynamic world of costume production
at George Washington University!
The Department of Theatre and Dance (CTAD) Costume Shop at GWU is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Federal Work Study Student Assistant to support the Costume Shop Manager and costume department in managing the operations of the costume shop. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in costume management, inventory organization, sewing, and problem-solving within a creative and collaborative environment.
Duties include but are not limited to assisting in managing the inventory of costumes, accessories, and supplies, ensuring that they are properly organized, labeled, and accounted for. You may support costume designers with costume fittings, alterations, and repairs, and work with other students to help meet deadlines to ensure costumes are prepared on time for performances. You should be able to manage multiple tasks while having strong communication and interpersonal skills. The ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and a proactive and positive approach to problem-solving are essential. Preferred qualifications include an interest or background in theater, as well as previous leadership or management experience.
Sewing skills are a plus but not necessary.
Standard Position Description
The student will assist with administrative, design, and production functions for performing arts productions. Tasks may include: assisting with costume construction and alteration as well as maintaining the department's costume stock, scenic construction, painting, props construction, lighting, and installation and strike of production elements, assist in promotions and other production support duties. Special projects or other duties may be assigned related to specific departmental needs.
Professional Outcomes
Critical Thinking, Communication, Teamwork, Professionalism, Inclusion
Required Qualifications
This is an entry level position, little to no experience required, all training will be provided.
Preferred Qualifications
Basic sewing skills and organizational skills preferred. This is an entry level position, little to no experience is required. Training will be provided.
Posting Detail Information
Job Open Date
08/01/2026
Job Close Date
12/01/2026
Campus Location
Foggy Bottom
Work Type Designation
In-Person
Hiring Manager Name
Emily Vallozzi
Special Instructions Summary
EEO Statement
The university is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action (EEO/AA) employer committed to maintaining a nondiscriminatory, harassment-free, diverse work and education environment. The university does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law in any of its programs, activities, or employment practices.
For more information on this policy and its purpose, please read the Equal Employment Opportunity Policy Statement.
Background Check
The student employee will:
In this position, the student will not perform any functions and/or have access to any financially, safety, or security sensitive items listed above. - Background check not required.

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