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Entry Level Graphic Design Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

ZGF Architects

Entry-Level Urban Designer

Portland, OR · On-site

$69K - $70K/yr

ZGF is seeking an Entry-Level Urban Designer to be based in our Portland office. At ZGF, we thrive ... Produce design drawings, construction documents, presentation drawings, graphic design work, and ...

ZGF Architects

Entry-Level Urban Designer

Portland, OR · On-site

$69K - $70K/yr

ZGF is seeking an Entry-Level Urban Designer to be based in our Portland office. At ZGF, we thrive ... Produce design drawings, construction documents, presentation drawings, graphic design work, and ...

All JobsGraphic Design JobsEntry Level Graphic Design JobsEntry Level Graphic Design Jobs in Portland, OR

Entry Level Graphic Design information

See Portland, OR salary details

$13

$28

$45

How much do entry level graphic design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level graphic design in Portland, OR is $28.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.06 and $33.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectEntry Level Graphic DesignJunior Graphic Designer
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant courseworkAssociate degree or similar
Work EnvironmentInternships, freelance, or entry-level positionsDesign agencies, in-house teams, or freelance
Employer UsageOften used for initial job roles or internshipsCommonly used for early-career roles in design teams

Entry Level Graphic Design and Junior Graphic Designer are often used interchangeably, but 'Entry Level' emphasizes the beginner status, while 'Junior' indicates a slightly more experienced role. Both require similar credentials and are found in similar work environments, serving as stepping stones in a graphic design career.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an entry level graphic designer?

As an entry level graphic designer, you’ll typically assist with a variety of design projects such as creating social media graphics, marketing materials, basic layouts for print or digital campaigns, and updating branded assets. You may also be responsible for resizing images, formatting files, and supporting senior designers with brainstorming or production work. Collaboration is common, as you’ll often work closely with marketing teams, copywriters, and other designers to ensure your work aligns with brand guidelines and project goals.

What is an entry level graphic designer?

Entry level graphic designers are professionals who are new to the graphic design field, typically with little to no prior work experience. They assist in creating visual content for digital and print media, such as logos, advertisements, social media graphics, and brochures. These designers usually work under the supervision of senior designers or art directors, helping bring creative concepts to life while learning industry standards and software like Adobe Creative Suite. Entry level roles are ideal for recent graduates or those transitioning into graphic design from another field.

How do I get into entry level graphic design with no experience?

Entry level graphic design positions often require a strong portfolio demonstrating design skills, proficiency in tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and a basic understanding of design principles. Gaining experience through personal projects, internships, or freelance work can help build your portfolio and improve your chances of securing an entry-level role.

How do I start a career in entry level graphic design?

To start a career in entry level graphic design, develop a strong portfolio showcasing your work, learn industry-standard tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and gain foundational knowledge through online courses or a relevant degree. Internships or freelance projects can provide practical experience and help build professional connections.

What are entry-level graphic design jobs?

Entry-level graphic design jobs typically include roles such as junior designer, design assistant, or production artist, where individuals support senior designers and work on tasks like creating layouts, editing images, and preparing files for print or digital use. These positions often require proficiency in design software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator and may involve a learning curve to develop skills and a portfolio.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Graphic Designer, you need a solid grasp of design principles, a relevant degree or coursework, and a strong portfolio showcasing your work. Proficiency in industry-standard tools like Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) is essential, and familiarity with basic web design platforms can be advantageous. Creativity, attention to detail, time management, and strong communication skills will help you stand out in collaborative and deadline-driven environments. These skills ensure you can effectively translate ideas into engaging visuals and meet the needs of clients or employers.
What are the most commonly searched types of Graphic Design jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Graphic Design jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Graphic Design jobs in Portland, OR? For Entry Level Graphic Design jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Graphic Design jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Graphic Design jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Entry Level Graphic Design jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Entry Level Graphic Design job openings:
Entry Level Graphic Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Graphic Design job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,116 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Entry-Level Urban Designer

ZGF Architects

Portland, OR • On-site

$69K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

ZGF is seeking an Entry-Level Urban Designer to be based in our Portland office. At ZGF, we thrive on multi-disciplinary engagement at the intersection of architecture and urban design and are distinguished by creative and intellectual curiosity. We are looking for thoughtful individuals with excellent communication and design skills.

As an Entry-Level Urban Designer, you will…

  • Be part of a community focused on design excellence and innovation.
  • Collaborate with the design team for generating and developing design ideas.
  • Perform elementary planning or landscape assignments and work collaboratively with others toward design solutions, compile data, develop elementary design studies and option, consider material and assembly cost data, prepares reports, plans and renderings, and inspect existing conditions and work in the field
  • Work on projects from concept design through construction administration.
  • Produce design drawings, construction documents, presentation drawings, graphic design work, and digital and physical modeling in support of Urban Design, as well as marketing efforts.
  • Research products and materials, observe existing projects and those under construction to inform the production of reports and design documentation
  • Help us tell the story of our projects through various media.
  • Work under design supervision and receive instruction and mentoring.
  • Perform fundamental planning and urban design tasks and work collaboratively with others toward design solutions for our projects.

Qualifications:

  • You have a Landscape Architecture, Architecture Degree and/or Urban Design Degree.
  • A basic understanding of design and construction principles and building types
  • A creative problem solver with well-rounded Urban Design skills and the ability to work independently, with multi-disciplined teams, and balance multiple projects, often with short schedules and quick deadlines.
  • Experience with complex multi-phased higher education, large transit, healthcare, civic and/or commercial development projects is desired.
  • You are interested in honing your technical ability with materials and constructability.
  • Proficient in Adobe Suite, Revit, Rhino, AutoCAD, Sketch-Up, and Microsoft Office.
  • Ability to illustrate urban planning and design concepts graphically in a clear and effective manner.
  • Organizational and critical thinking skills to create materials for engaging and creative presentations through storytelling.

Base Salary Range: 

$69,250/yr - $70,787/yr 

Benefits 

ZGF Employees Enjoy Medical, Dental and Vision coverage with a generous employer contribution, HSA with employer contribution, 401k with employer match, 4 weeks of PTO and 10 paid holidays per year, paid parental and family leave programs.

Apply With:  

  • Cover letter 
  • Resume 
  • Portfolio 

We know that great projects take more than a design team to become a reality. Studies show that women and people from underrepresented groups are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification. We encourage you to apply even if you don’t check every box—your skills and experiences may be exactly what we need.

ZGF Architects is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. As an equal opportunity employer, we celebrate the unique qualities and perspectives that each individual brings to our team. We encourage applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities to apply. Regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law, we are excited to consider qualified candidates.

If you're ready to contribute to meaningful work, we invite you to submit your cover letter and resume online.

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