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Entry Level Color Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

International Paper

Structural Designer

Aurora, IL

$57K - $76K/yr

... entry-level Structural Designer to join our Retail Display & Packaging team at the Aurora Customer ... color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other ...

International Paper Company

Structural Designer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$57K - $76K/yr

... entry-level Structural Designer to join our Retail Display & Packaging team at the Aurora Customer ... color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other ...

Glantz

Junior Graphic Designer

Evanston, IL · On-site +1

$19.50 - $26/hr

This entry-level role offers diverse project experiences across global B2B and B2C clients, as well ... Color theory * Layout principles * Print and digital design * Branding projects Desired Skills:

Glantz

Junior Graphic Designer

Evanston, IL · Remote

$20.75 - $27.75/hr

This entry-level role offers diverse project experiences across global B2B and B2C clients, as well ... Color theory * Layout principles * Print and digital design * Branding projects Desired Skills:

New

dbHMS

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$60K - $70K/yr

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision ... and designing system components under supervision. Candidates must be able to perform basic ...

dbHMS

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision ... and designing system components under supervision. Candidates must be able to perform basic ...

Alfred Conhagen Inc

Entry-Level Machinist

Joliet, IL

$21 - $28.75/hr

This position is designed for individuals who are interested in developing a career in machining ... to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic ...

Conhagen

Entry-Level Machinist

Joliet, IL · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

This position is designed for individuals who are interested in developing a career in machining ... to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic ...

Ovation Holdings, Inc.

Entry-Level Machinist

Joliet, IL · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

This position is designed for individuals who are interested in developing a career in machining ... to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic ...

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All JobsColor Designer JobsEntry Level Color Designer JobsEntry Level Color Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Color Designer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$58.4K

$88.6K

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

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level color designer in Chicago, IL is $58,407.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,900.00 and $67,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get into design with no experience?

Entry level color designers can start by building a portfolio with personal projects or freelance work to showcase their skills. Learning industry-standard tools like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator and gaining basic knowledge of color theory and design principles can improve employability. Internships, online courses, and networking also help gain relevant experience and entry into the field.

What does an entry-level designer do?

An entry-level color designer assists in developing color schemes and palettes for various projects, often supporting senior designers and creative teams. They use design software like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator and may learn about color theory, branding, and client preferences to contribute to visual concepts and designs.

How to get a job as a graphic designer with no experience?

Entry level color designers can start by building a strong portfolio with personal projects or freelance work to showcase their skills. Gaining proficiency in design tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and obtaining relevant certifications or courses, can improve employability. Internships or volunteering opportunities also provide practical experience and industry connections.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Color Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Color Designer, you need a solid understanding of color theory, design principles, and a relevant degree in graphic or industrial design. Familiarity with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) and digital rendering tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication skills help you collaborate and bring fresh ideas to projects. These skills ensure that color choices enhance product aesthetics and align with brand identity, which is crucial for market success.

What are some typical daily tasks for an Entry Level Color Designer and how do they contribute to larger projects?

As an Entry Level Color Designer, your daily tasks often include assisting in the creation and application of color palettes, preparing color samples, and supporting senior designers with color matching and quality checks. You may also collaborate closely with product development teams, marketing, and manufacturing to ensure color consistency across different materials and media. These responsibilities are crucial, as they help maintain brand standards and ensure the final product aligns with the project's creative vision.

Is AI replacing graphic designers?

AI tools are increasingly used in graphic design to automate repetitive tasks and generate ideas, but they do not fully replace the creative and strategic skills of graphic designers. Entry-level color designers and other design professionals still rely on human creativity, understanding of client needs, and artistic judgment, making AI a complement rather than a substitute. Developing proficiency with design software and staying updated on technological advances remain important for job success.

What does an Entry Level Color Designer do?

An Entry Level Color Designer assists in developing and applying color schemes for products, branding, or design projects under the supervision of more experienced designers. Their work involves selecting color palettes, creating visual mockups, and ensuring color consistency across various platforms or materials. They often collaborate with design, marketing, and production teams to help bring creative visions to life while learning industry-standard color theory and digital tools. This position is a great starting point for those interested in a career in design, offering opportunities to build practical skills and a professional portfolio.
What are the most commonly searched types of Color Designer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Color Designer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Entry Level Color Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Color Designer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,407 per year, or $28.1 per hour.
Structural Designer

Structural Designer

International Paper

Aurora, IL

$57K - $76K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

International Paper rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 291 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

320th of 535 rated manufacturers

Job description

Structural Designer I - Retail Display & Packaging

Position Summary

International Paper is seeking a talented and detail-oriented entry-level Structural Designer to join our Retail Display & Packaging team at the Aurora Customer Commitment Center. This role is responsible for supporting and working under the guidance of the Creative Services Manager, Lead and Senior Designers, and Account Managers. This role assists with the development of display and packaging prototypes, documentation, palletization, and preparing for ISTA testing.

This position has an anticipated salary range of $57,200 - $76,300 annually, based on qualifications, experience, and business needs

This position offers an excellent opportunity for emerging professionals to develop technical expertise, gain exposure to retail design and construction processes, and grow within a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Structural Design & Documentation

  • Assist in the design of corrugated retail displays, packaging, and merchandising solutions using CAD design software.
  • Assist in developing innovative structural concepts that meet customer branding, product protection, retail compliance, and supply chain requirements.
  • Create prototypes, samples, engineering drawings, and specifications for customer review and approval.
  • Assist in optimizing designs for manufacturability, assembly efficiency, transportation, and cost performance.
  • Help ensure designs meet quality, safety, and retailer requirements
  • Participate in project meetings and document action items as required.
  • Review drawings for accuracy, quality, and adherence to company standards.
  • Help maintain project files and ensure documentation is organized and up to date.

Qualifications

Education

  • Bachelor's degree in Package Engineering, Packaging Science or Industrial Design, or related degree
  • Recent graduates encouraged to apply.

Experience

  • 0 to 2 years of relevant design packaging, display or engineering experience.
  • Internship or cooperative education experience in relevant industry.
  • Basic knowledge in ArtiosCAD, TOPS or CAPE
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Basic knowledge of corrugated materials and industry standards including ISTA testing.

Preferred

  • Knowledge of retailer display requirements and merchandising standards.
  • Familiarity with ISTA testing standards and package performance testing.
  • Experience with 3D visualization and prototyping technologies.
  • Knowledge of sustainable packaging principles and material optimization.

Professional Skills

  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
  • Ability to work effectively within a collaborative team environment.
  • Willingness to learn, receive feedback, and develop professionally.
  • Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet project deadlines.
The Benefits You Will Enjoy:
International Paper offers a benefits package that includes health, welfare and retirement plans including Medical, Dental, Life insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Short-term and Long-term Disability, 401(k), Company-funded retirement contributions, Paid Time Off, Education & Development (including Tuition Reimbursement), Student Loan Repayment Assistance, and Voluntary Benefits including insurance for home, auto, vision and pets

The Career You Will Build:
Leadership training, promotional opportunities
The Impact You Will Make:
We continue to build a better future for people, the planet, and our company! IP has been a good steward of sustainable practices across communities around the world for more than 125 years. Join our team and you'll see why our team members say they're Proud to be IP.
The Culture You Will Experience:
International Paper promotes employee well-being by providing safe, caring and inclusive workplaces. We have team members all around the world with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. These are our strengths. We are committed to creating a culture where all individuals are respected, valued, engaged and have an opportunity to do their best work every day. We invite you to bring your uniqueness, creativity, talents, experiences, and safety mindset to be a part of our increasingly inclusive and diverse culture.
The Company You Will Join:
International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) creates sustainable packaging solutions that enable our customers, teammates and shareowners to thrive in an ever-changing world. We are a leader in corrugated packaging, partnering with customers across industries to protect what matters most, strengthen supply chains and create lasting value. Learn more at internationalpaper.com.

International Paper is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.  International Paper complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact reasonable.accommodations@ipaper.com or (877) 973-3919.

What International Paper employees say

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Benefits

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About International Paper

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

International Paper is a leading global supplier of renewable fiber-based products. We produce corrugated packaging products that protect and promote goods, and enable worldwide commerce, and pulp for diapers, tissue and other personal care products that promote health and wellness. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 38,000 colleagues globally. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2021 were $19.4 billion.

Industry

Paper manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Memphis, TN, US

Year founded

1898

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