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

Salas O'Brien

Entry Level Technology Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Technology Designer I Job Summary The technology designer will immediately put to practice the technical documentation and problem-solving skills acquired during their undergraduate studies and ...

PULSE STUDIO, LLC

Be Seen First

Entry Level Scenic & Event Designer / Production Artist 2026

Lisle, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Entry-Level Scenic & Event Designer Pulse Studio LLC is a design previsualization firm based in Lisle, Illinois. Our designs allow clients to experience what their event or product will look and feel ...

BVM Agency Inc

Entry Level Manager

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$43K - $52K/yr

Our Entry-Level Management Trainee program provides hands-on experience designed to prepare future leaders from the ground up. You'll begin by learning our customer acquisition and sales process ...

New

BVM Agency Inc

Entry Level Manager

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$43K - $52K/yr

Our Entry-Level Management Trainee program provides hands-on experience designed to prepare future leaders from the ground up. You'll begin by learning our customer acquisition and sales process ...

New

BVM Agency Inc

Entry Level Manager

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$43K - $52K/yr

Our Entry-Level Management Trainee program provides hands-on experience designed to prepare future leaders from the ground up. You'll begin by learning our customer acquisition and sales process ...

New

International Paper

Structural Designer

Aurora, IL

$57K - $76K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

International Paper Company

Structural Designer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$57K - $76K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Wold Architects Inc

Architectural Designer

Palatine, IL · On-site

$55K - $62K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Staff work in integrated teams of interior designers, architects, mechanical and electrical ... The team environment provides entry-level candidates with the chance to actually design, while ...

EFK Moen

Entry-Level Civil Engineer - Transportation

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Entry-Level Civil Engineer - Transportation | Join a dynamic team shaping the future of ... Proficiency in Microstation as well as a related transportation design package (OpenRoads Designer ...

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All JobsDesigner JobsEntry Level Designer JobsEntry Level Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Designer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$58.4K

$88.6K

How much do entry level designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level designer in Chicago, IL is $58,394.00, 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.

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

AspectEntry Level DesignerGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant coursework, portfolioBachelor’s degree in graphic design or related field, portfolio
Work EnvironmentDesign agencies, corporate marketing teams, freelanceAdvertising agencies, publishing, corporate branding
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in creative and marketing industriesWidely used across various industries including advertising, media, and corporate sectors

Entry Level Designers and Graphic Designers often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. The main difference is that 'Entry Level Designer' typically refers to those just starting their careers with limited experience, focusing on learning and supporting projects. 'Graphic Designer' is a broader term that can include more experienced professionals, but at the entry level, both roles involve creating visual content for various media.

What types of projects can an entry level designer expect to work on, and how much creative input will they typically have?

As an Entry Level Designer, you'll often assist with a variety of projects such as creating layouts, developing visual assets, and supporting branding or marketing campaigns. While you may start by following established guidelines and executing tasks set by senior designers, there are usually opportunities to contribute ideas during brainstorming sessions and design reviews. Over time, as you demonstrate your skills and initiative, you may be entrusted with greater creative responsibility and more independent projects. Collaboration with other team members, including writers, marketers, and developers, is common and provides valuable learning experiences.

What is an entry level designer?

Entry level designers are professionals who are just beginning their careers in design, typically after completing relevant education or training. They assist senior designers with tasks such as creating layouts, selecting colors, and preparing design drafts. Entry level designers often work in fields like graphic design, interior design, web design, or industrial design. They use design software, follow project guidelines, and collaborate with other team members to bring creative ideas to life. This role allows them to build experience, develop their portfolios, and learn industry best practices.

What does an entry level designer do?

An entry-level designer helps more experienced designers with concept design, product development, and other essential duties within their industry. Designers work in a multitude of industries, including manufacturing, technology, fashion, engineering, decorating, marketing and advertising, software, and web design. As a junior designer, your specific responsibilities differ depending on your industry. For example, you may help design specific pieces of apparel or focus on men’s or women’s fashion. As an entry-level web designer, you may help improve the visual design and user experience features for a client site.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Designer, you need a solid understanding of design principles, a portfolio showcasing creative work, and a relevant degree or coursework in graphic or visual design. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to accept and implement feedback are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure you can translate ideas into effective visual solutions and collaborate successfully with clients and team members.
More about Entry Level Designer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Designer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Designer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Designer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Designer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Designer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Designer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Designer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Designer job openings:

Entry Level Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Designer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,394 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Entry Level Technology Designer

Salas O'Brien

Chicago, IL • On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Salas O'Brien rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

158th of 449 rated engineering

Job description

Technology Designer I
Job Summary
The technology designer will immediately put to practice the technical documentation and problem-solving skills acquired during their undergraduate studies and previous job roles. The technology designer is responsible for the production of project deliverables under the direction of senior engineers and senior designers. The first phase of each project involves translating client requirements into non-technical program documents identifying locations and use cases of system. The next phase involves translating the program requirements into construction drawings and specifications. Each project design includes floor plan drawings, wiring schematics, elevations, and details to describe a fully functional system. The technology designer will coordinate with electrical and mechanical engineers as systems overlap.
The technology designer will work on a variety of project types within the construction industry. Projects will include new building construction and existing building renovations of commercial, retail, multi-dwelling residential, hotel, education, and hospital properties.
The technology designer will be eager to learn more about some or all aspects of technology and may choose to pursue an elevated level of expertise in Structured Cabling, Networking, Wi-Fi, Security Systems, Audiovisual Systems, or Smart Buildings. In pursuit of expertise, the technology designer should be working toward (or accomplished with) industry certification through BICSI, AVIXA or ASIS.
The technology designer must also strive to be an expert in AutoCAD and Revit production tools.
Job Duties
  • Review notes from senior engineers and document in programming guide
  • Setup drawings and complete markups by senior engineers
  • Prepare equipment schedules with attention to detail
  • Develop knowledge of building codes and industry standards
  • Develop ability to read plans and specifications
  • Develop ability to edit specifications
  • Survey existing buildings and identify technology systems and components
  • Review submittals of equipment for compliance with the contract documents
  • Observe and report upon technology construction work in progress
  • Interact with project team members
  • Complete assigned work on time with instruction from senior designers & engineers

Qualifications and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree preferred
  • 0 - 3 years' experience
  • Interest in Electrical and Technology Systems
  • AutoCAD and Revit experience preferred
  • Ability to take verbal and written direction
  • Excellent notetaking and documentation skills with attention to detail
  • Superior time management skills
  • Not afraid to ask questions and learn

Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid)
Travel: None
Compensation & Benefits:
The expected base salary range for this role is $50,000 to $70,000 per year. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.
This role is also eligible for performance-based bonuses and a comprehensive U.S. based benefits package, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
  • Professional development support

For more information, visit our full benefits overview here.
About Us:
Founded in 1975, Salas O'Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow's requirements are today's opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.
We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.
Equal Opportunity Employment Statement
Salas O'Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, colour, 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/provincial, or local laws. Salas O'Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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