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Entry Level Book Illustrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... book editors to produce maps for print travel guides. You will use Adobe Illustrator equipped with ... This is not an entry-level role * Strong communication skills with the aptitude to communicate ...

Senior Cartographer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$65K - $68K/yr

... book editors to produce maps for print travel guides. You will use Adobe Illustrator equipped with ... This is not an entry-level role * Strong communication skills with the aptitude to communicate ...

Senior Cartographer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$65K - $68K/yr

... book editors to produce maps for print travel guides. You will use Adobe Illustrator equipped with ... This is not an entry-level role * Strong communication skills with the aptitude to communicate ...

Description As an entry-level editor at the National Center for Education and Research (NCCER), you ... illustrators, and designers. You will directly influence the quality and clarity of multiple ...

Entry Level Book Illustrator information

See salary details

$32.5K

$59.3K

$96K

How much do entry level book illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level book illustrator in the United States is $59,345.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $68,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level book illustrator?

Entry level book illustrators are artists who create visual images to accompany the text in books, often at the beginning of their careers. They work closely with authors, editors, and publishers to design illustrations that enhance the storytelling and appeal to the target audience. Entry-level illustrators may be responsible for drawing characters, scenes, and cover art, typically under the guidance of more experienced professionals. Their work helps bring stories to life, making books more engaging, especially for children and young readers.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Book Illustrator, you need strong drawing abilities, a good sense of visual storytelling, and a portfolio that demonstrates your style and versatility. Familiarity with digital illustration tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or Procreate is often required, and a degree or coursework in illustration or fine arts can be beneficial. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication with authors and editors are key soft skills that set you apart. These skills ensure you can consistently deliver engaging, high-quality illustrations that bring stories to life and meet client expectations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level book illustrators when working with authors and publishers?

Entry-level book illustrators often face challenges such as interpreting authors' visions, managing feedback from multiple stakeholders, and adhering to tight deadlines. Communication skills are crucial, as illustrators need to clarify expectations, present drafts, and incorporate revisions efficiently. Additionally, balancing creative expression with the specific requirements of publishers can be challenging, but it provides valuable experience in collaboration and professional growth. Understanding these dynamics early helps illustrators build lasting industry relationships and a strong portfolio.

What is the difference between Entry Level Book Illustrator vs Entry Level Graphic Designer?

AspectEntry Level Book IllustratorEntry Level Graphic Designer
Required CredentialsPortfolio, basic illustration skills, possibly a degree in art or illustrationPortfolio, design skills, degree in graphic design or related field
Work EnvironmentPublishing houses, freelance, educational publishersAdvertising agencies, media companies, freelance
Industry UsageChildren's books, educational materials, comicsMarketing, branding, digital media

Entry Level Book Illustrators focus on creating visual artwork specifically for books, especially children's and educational books, requiring strong illustration skills. Entry Level Graphic Designers work on visual communication across various media, emphasizing design principles. While both roles require a portfolio and creative skills, their industries and outputs differ significantly.

More about Entry Level Book Illustrator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Book Illustrator jobs?

The most popular types of Book Illustrator jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Book Illustrator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Book Illustrator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Book Illustrator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Book Illustrator jobs are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Book Illustrator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,345 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

$65K - $68K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Hachette Book Group rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 19 rated publishing


Job description

SUMMARY:

The Senior Cartographer works closely with the cartography crew, production department, and book editors to produce maps for print travel guides. You will use Adobe Illustrator equipped with Avenza MAPublisher to acquire data, design, and prepare map assets.

LOCATION: Oakland, CA (onsite 3 days/week)

ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Design & Layout: Prepare and refine digital map files primarily using Adobe Illustrator and MAPublisher.
  • Data Acquisition & Software Management:
    • Utilize dedicated data acquisition sites and mapping software to source and organize reliable geographic data.
  • Map Production:
    • Design and compile accurate, visually compelling maps tailored for print travel guides using Avenza MAPublisher for Adobe Illustrator.
    • Maintain consistent file and asset organization for each map project.
    • Organize and prepare map projects for junior employees and freelancers.
  • Cross-Departmental Collaboration:
    • Work directly with editorial and production departments to ensure map layouts align with text and publishing deadlines.
    • Oversee multiple simultaneous projects on different schedules and timelines.
REQUIRED SKILLS and KNOWLEDGE to SUCCEED within CARTOGRAPHY at AVALON:
    • Software Expertise:
      • Advanced proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and MAPublisher is essential.
      • Adobe suite applications also used: Bridge, Photoshop, and InDesign.
      • Proficiency in Geographic Imager plugin for Adobe Photoshop.
      • Proficiency, or familiarity with, Google maps engine.
        • KML/KMZ and shapefile formats.
      • Proficiency with Excel.
      • MacOS platform
  • Industry Experience: Demonstrated background in cartography in print production.
  • This is not an entry-level role
  • Strong communication skills with the aptitude to communicate effectively in both individual and group settings regardless of audience.
  • Attention to Detail: A meticulous eye for geographic accuracy, color grading, typography, topology, spacing, and graphic design.
  • Ability to deliver timely, accurate work product and demonstrate good follow up and follow through.
  • Excellent organizational skills with the ability to multi-task, prioritize and manage time effectively while also ensuring accuracy of work through attention to detail.
APPLICATION PROCESS

To be considered, please submit both a 1 page resume AND a cover letter. Unconventional experience including personal projects/content creation are all very welcome.

Want to read up on us before you apply? Visit our imprint website at MoonTravelGuides.com, or find us @moonguides on Instagram. You can learn more about the Hachette Book Group at hachettebookgroup.com.

Please submit a resume, cover letter, and portfolio to be considered for this position.

This role is based in our New York office. Employees are expected to work on-site three days per week in accordance with our hybrid work model. Candidates must be able to reliably commute to the office.

The compensation for this position is $65,000-$68,000. Salary can vary based on a number of factors including skills, experience, and location - talk with your recruiter to learn more. There may be times that you will be required (or requested) to work overtime due to the nature of your role or exceptional workload issues or special projects.

As a leading book publisher, we believe that including and representing diverse voices in all aspects of our business is fundamental to what we do. Our publishing programs must reflect the broad range of backgrounds, experiences, political views and ideas that shape our society and publish books for all readers.

Hachette Book Group provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

The following benefits are offered by the company: medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life, short-term and long-term disability, accidental death and dismemberment, critical illness, hospital indemnity, long-term care, health and dependent care FSA, commuter benefit plan, employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement, travel assistance, 401(k), discretionary bonus program, PTO (15 vacation days, 3 personal days, 10 holidays and generous sick leave) and group discounts on auto and home insurance and legal services. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification, hours worked and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms.

Employment Type: Full-Time

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