2

Entry Level Graphic Design Jobs in Rochester, NY

Entry Level Graphic Design information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$12

$26

$42

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

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level graphic design in Rochester, NY is $26.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $30.82 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 are entry level graphic designers?

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.

Is AI replacing graphic designers?

AI tools are increasingly used in graphic design to automate repetitive tasks and generate ideas, but they do not replace the creativity, critical thinking, and artistic judgment that graphic designers bring. Entry level graphic designers need to develop skills in software like Adobe Creative Suite and understanding of visual communication to stay competitive, as AI serves as a supplement rather than a substitute for human design expertise.

How do I get into graphic design with no experience?

Entry level graphic design positions often require a strong portfolio demonstrating your skills with design tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Gaining experience through online courses, personal projects, or internships can help build your portfolio and improve your chances of securing a role without prior professional experience.

What is an entry level graphic design job?

An entry level graphic design job is a position suitable for individuals starting their careers in graphic design, often requiring basic skills in design software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. These roles typically involve assisting with projects, creating simple designs, and gaining practical experience under supervision, with a focus on developing a portfolio and understanding client needs.

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.

Which AI is best for designing?

For entry-level graphic design roles, AI tools like Adobe Sensei, Canva's AI features, and DALL·E are popular for automating tasks and generating creative content. These tools can enhance productivity and support design workflows, but they should complement foundational design skills and software proficiency. Staying updated on AI advancements can help new designers incorporate innovative solutions into their work.
What are the most commonly searched types of Graphic Design jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Graphic Design jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Graphic Design jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Graphic Design jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Entry Level Graphic Design jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Entry Level Graphic Design job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Graphic Design job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,205 per year, or $26.5 per hour.
Career Services Coordinator

Career Services Coordinator

Rochester Institute of Technology

Rochester, NY • Hybrid

$62K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Rochester Institute Of Technology rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

251st of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Develops and delivers customized instruction regarding job search strategies, career trends, and workplace success through seminars, workshops, designated classes, and class-based presentations
  • Communicates with students and alumni regarding employment opportunities, instructional program/services offerings, employer recruiting events, and career trend information
  • Markets students, academic programs, and university and office programs and services to prospective employing organizations. Identifies employment opportunities, establishes new employer recruiting partnerships, and supports related university corporate outreach and partnership goals
  • Ensures positive and effective university and employer recruiting and hiring partnerships. Participates in employer hiring strategy development and recruiting activities and programs
  • Partners with various divisions to support university initiatives in admissions, alumni relations, global partnerships, research development, and institutional fundraising
  • Counsels students regarding the employment process and employment related issues
  • Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

  • Knowledge of career development and planning theory, practices, and techniques
  • Skill in written, verbal, and interpersonal communication to influence and articulate a variety of topics to different and diverse audiences
  • Skill in multi-tasking, project management, prioritization, and organization
  • Ability to handle sensitive situations with empathy, cultural awareness, and confidentiality
  • Ability to work independently and with a team in a fast-paced environment

Minimum Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in related field
  • 3 years of relevant experience
  • Equivalent combination of experience and education may be considered

Job Level Overview

Specialized Contributor Level 2 - A fully functional role requiring established knowledge of the profession or field of work. Responsible for completing substantive assignments and projects. Problems are varied and non-routine, and resolution requires exercising judgment, analysis, advisement, creativity, and understanding broader sets of issues. May provide assistance to entry level staff.

This position will support the following colleges in a shared Career Service Model.

College of Art and Design (CAD): Graphic Design, Industrial Design, Film & Animation, Illustration, Photography, Studio Arts, New Media Design. Focus on portfolio-based careers and creative industries.

College of Liberal Arts (COLA): Humanities, social sciences, communication, public policy, and exploratory majors. Focus on career exploration, storytelling, and public sector careers.

College of Science (COS): Biology, biochemistry, chemistry, environmental science, and computational fields. Focus on research, lab roles, and healthcare pathways.

College of Health Sciences & Technology (CHST): Diagnostic medical sonography, nutrition sciences, and pre-health pathways. Focus on clinical experience and healthcare employment.

School of Individualized Study (SOIS): Interdisciplinary customized degrees aligned to career goals.

FLSA Category

Exempt

Work Location

Hybrid

Compensation

$62,353.20 Annual

Application Materials

When you are ready to complete an application for this position please be prepared to submit the below requested information. This will be required to ensure your application is processed in a timely manner.

Cover Letter, Curriculum Vitae or Resume

Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States.


Additional Details

In compliance with NYS's Pay Transparency Act, the salary range for this position is listed above. Rochester Institute of Technology considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The hiring process for this position may require a criminal background check and/or motor vehicle records check. Any verbal or written offer made is contingent on satisfactory results, as determined by Human Resources. RIT provides equal opportunity to all qualified individuals and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, age, marital status, sex, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, veteran status or disability in its hiring, admissions, educational programs and activities. RIT provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities under the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the New York Human Rights Law, or similar applicable law.


If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please contact the Human Resources office at 585-475-2424 or email your request tocareers@rit.edu. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.


What Rochester Institute Of Technology employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Rochester Institute of Technology logo

About Rochester Institute of Technology

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is a preeminent institution in the education services industry, located in Rochester, NY, US. Renowned globally for its innovative and industry-aligned education, RIT was established in 1829 and has since then been committed to offering academic rigor in fields of study with an emphasis on applied learning. This is evidenced by their broad spectrum of undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as engineering, science, business, and fine arts. RIT's mission centers on providing technology-based educational programs for career-minded students.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, NY, US

Year founded

1829

Social media