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Entry Level Background Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Title Entry-Level Urban Designer/Planner Location Santa Ana, CA - US (Primary) Category Urban ... You are adept at collecting background documents, researching and summarizing information for ...

Introduction We are seeking a creative and collaborative Designer to join our product team. In this ... background. Our IBMers are growth minded, always staying curious, open to feedback and learning new ...

We're looking for a kick-ass entry level graphic designer to join our growing agency. The perfect ... background helps other brands connect with and cultivate audiences on a deeper level. We offer it ...

We're looking for a kick-ass entry level graphic designer to join our growing agency. The perfect ... background helps other brands connect with and cultivate audiences on a deeper level. We offer it ...

Duties may also include the review of MEP systems designed by others, interface with code officials ... These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background vendor of choice and will be conducted ...

Duties may also include the review of MEP systems designed by others, interface with code officials ... These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background vendor of choice and will be conducted ...

The Sign Designer Level I is responsible for creating designs for the sign design department ... QUALIFICATIONS: · Entry-level design position, graphic design and creative background encouraged ...

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Entry Level Background Designer information

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$31K

$56.7K

$86K

How much do entry level background designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level background designer in the United States is $56,698.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $65,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level background designer?

Entry level background designers are creative professionals who assist in designing and illustrating backgrounds for animation, video games, films, or other visual media. They typically work under the supervision of senior designers or art directors, helping to establish the setting and mood of scenes. Their tasks may include creating concept art, digital paintings, or layout sketches. This role is ideal for those starting their careers in visual arts and looking to gain experience in the entertainment or gaming industries.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Background Designer, you need a solid understanding of art fundamentals, composition, color theory, and a portfolio demonstrating your design abilities, typically supported by an art or design-related degree. Familiarity with digital illustration tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and sometimes 3D software like Blender is often required. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to take feedback and collaborate with a team are crucial soft skills. These skills ensure that background designs enhance storytelling and meet the visual standards of animation or gaming projects.

What are the typical challenges faced by entry level background designers when working on animated projects?

Entry level background designers often face the challenge of balancing creative expression with the established visual style of a project. They must quickly adapt to different art directions, work within tight deadlines, and collaborate closely with art directors, animators, and other team members. Additionally, beginners may need to develop skills in digital painting and learn how to use industry-standard software efficiently. Feedback and revisions are common, so resilience and a willingness to learn are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Background Designer vs Entry Level Concept Artist?

AspectEntry Level Background DesignerEntry Level Concept Artist
Required Skills2D design, environment creation, basic illustrationCharacter and environment sketches, basic illustration
Work EnvironmentGame studios, animation companies, film productionGame studios, animation, film, advertising
Typical CertificationsArt or design degree, portfolioArt or design degree, portfolio

Entry Level Background Designers focus on creating detailed backgrounds and environments for games, films, or animations, while Entry Level Concept Artists develop initial character and scene concepts. Both roles require strong artistic skills, portfolios, and work in similar industries, but their focus areas differ—backgrounds versus characters and scenes.

More about Entry Level Background Designer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Background Designer jobs?

The most popular types of Background Designer jobs are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Background Designer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,698 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Entry-Level Urban Designer/Planner

PlaceWorks

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$27.88 - $41.83/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Job Title
Entry-Level Urban Designer/Planner
Location
Santa Ana, CA - US (Primary)
Category
Urban Design
Job Type
Full-time Non-exempt
Career Level
Entry Level
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Travel
Job Description
Job Description:
PlaceWorks is seeking a full-time Urban Designer/Planner to join our team in the Orange County (Santa Ana) office. We are looking for an entry-level individual or someone with a few years of urban design or planning experience within urban or urbanizing settings for public-sector and/or private-sector clients. Relevant experience includes familiarity with site planning and urban design for areas such as, but not limited to, development along corridors, within downtowns, near transit, and other areas in transition. Experience with planning documents such as specific plans, general plans, and master plans are a plus.
Working in a collaborative and casual work environment under the guidance of principals, project managers and other senior staff, this designer/planner would work on a variety of design-related projects, providing support to both our Southern and Northern California offices and working with team members across the state. Our firm is deeply involved throughout California in the acceleration of housing development and the revitalization of our built-out communities.
The pay range for this position is $27.88 - $41.83 per hour, dependent upon experience and other relevant factors.
Job Requirements:
You may be a great fit if some of the following describe you:
  • You love planning for the future of communities and making a difference with your work.
  • You want to learn more about urban building/development types, including commercial, mixed-use, and residential in an infill setting.
  • You are adept at collecting background documents, researching and summarizing information for existing conditions analysis.
  • With guidance, you can write and/or illustrate design standards and guidelines; how-to-guides and/or toolkits for both residential and non-residential development; and design-based zoning standards for specific plans or focused municipal code revisions.
  • You have some experience with opportunities/constraints mapping, site planning, and urban design framework plans.
  • With guidance, you can support preparation of build-out scenarios to test and illustrate draft standards/codes.
  • You're able to travel to and perform site visits as a project requires and attend client meetings with the project team.
  • Supporting authentic engagement with diverse communities excites you and you're willing to jump in to help with/participate in public outreach efforts, including evening, weekend, and multi-day design charrettes. You may be asked to coordinate events or meetings, prepare and assemble materials/supplies for workshops.
  • You're interested in assisting with and actively participating in marketing, business development, and proposal efforts to support our design team.
  • You can work both independently and in a highly collaborative environment with team members across the state.
  • You have a bachelor's degree or master's degree in architecture, urban design, planning or landscape architecture.
  • You are proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint), Adobe Creative Suite, and SketchUp. Proficiency with AutoCAD, Rhino and/or ArcGIS is desired, but not required. Hand drawing is a plus.
  • You have a reliable means of transportation to and from work, and to perform site visits and attend meetings when needed.
  • You can be in the office at least two days a week.

Application Instructions:
When applying, attach your cover letter, resume, and design portfolio as three (3) separate PDF attachments (may include written and design work for school projects). Each attachment must be under 500KB. Alternatively, you may include a link to your design portfolio if it exceeds 500KB.
Job Requirements
(see above job description)
We are equal opportunity/affirmative action employers, committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under state or local law.