2

Entry Level Graphic Designer Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Entry-Level Urban Designer

Portland, OR ยท 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 ...

Entry-Level Urban Designer

Portland, OR ยท 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 ...

Sales & Marketing Assistant

Lake Oswego, OR ยท On-site

$41K - $51K/yr

... homes designed principally for the entry-level and first time move-up markets. The Company also ... Ability to create graphic illustrations and marketing flyers in Illustrator and Canva * Strong ...

New

Sales & Marketing Assistant

Lake Oswego, OR ยท On-site

$41K - $51K/yr

... homes designed principally for the entry-level and first time move-up markets. The Company also ... Ability to create graphic illustrations and marketing flyers in Illustrator and Canva * Strong ...

New

Sales & Marketing Assistant

Lake Oswego, OR ยท On-site

$41K - $51K/yr

... homes designed principally for the entry-level and first time move-up markets. The Company also ... Ability to create graphic illustrations and marketing flyers in Illustrator and Canva * Strong ...

New

Entry Level Graphic Designer information

See Oregon salary details

$13

$28

$45

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

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level graphic designer in Oregon is $28.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $33.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become a graphic designer with no experience?

To become an entry-level graphic designer with no experience, focus on building a portfolio by creating personal projects or volunteering for non-profit organizations. Learning industry-standard tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and gaining basic knowledge of design principles, can improve your skills and make you more competitive for internships or junior roles.

What Does an Entry-Level Graphic Designer Do?

Graphic designers help organizations form their brand and express a particular identity or idea for promotional and advertising material. An entry-level graphic designer is just starting out in their career, and typically assists or shadows veteran graphic designers in their job duties before being assigned their own projects. Their primary goal is to learn how to create visual concepts to communicate a message that informs, inspires, or captivates customers. Entry-level graphic designers train to become skilled in the manipulation of colors, shapes, fonts, images, photography, print design, logos, and animation, and may use computer software or draw by hand. Examples of their work include layout and design for brochures, magazines, advertisements, corporate reports, and billboards.

What are Entry Level Graphic Designers?

Entry Level Graphic Designers are creative professionals who use visual elements like images, typography, and color to communicate ideas and messages. Typically, they are recent graduates or individuals new to the field, working under the supervision of senior designers or art directors. Their responsibilities often include creating layouts, assisting with branding projects, designing marketing materials, and preparing files for print or digital use. Entry Level Graphic Designers play a vital role in supporting design teams while gaining experience and building their portfolios.

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 understanding of design principles, typography, color theory, and a relevant degree or coursework in graphic design. Proficiency with industry-standard tools like Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with teams and understand client needs. These skills ensure the production of visually compelling and effective designs that meet project objectives and client expectations.

Are there entry-level graphic design jobs?

Yes, entry-level graphic design jobs are available and typically require basic skills in design software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. These positions often involve assisting with projects, creating simple designs, and gaining experience to build a professional portfolio.

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 creative and strategic skills of entry-level graphic designers. Designers who adapt by learning to work with AI and develop their unique design skills remain valuable in the industry. AI serves as a complement rather than a substitute for human creativity and expertise in graphic design.

What are the 3 C's of graphic design?

The 3 C's of graphic design are Contrast, Consistency, and Composition. These principles help create visually effective and balanced designs, which entry-level graphic designers should understand to develop strong visual communication skills. Mastery of these concepts is essential for producing clear and engaging graphics using tools like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator.

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

AspectEntry Level Graphic DesignerJunior Graphic Designer
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant certificationSimilar; often the same educational background
Work EnvironmentInternships, freelance, or entry-level positions in design firms or companiesSame; typically in design teams or agencies
Employer UsageEntry-level roles for recent graduates or beginnersOften used interchangeably, but may imply slightly more experience
Search & Comparison IntentYes; common search for beginners entering the fieldYes; often compared with entry level roles for clarity

The terms 'Entry Level Graphic Designer' and 'Junior Graphic Designer' are frequently used interchangeably. Both roles typically require similar educational backgrounds and are found in similar work environments. The main difference is often in employer preference or regional terminology, but generally, they represent beginner-level positions suitable for recent graduates or those new to the industry.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level graphic designers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level graphic designers often encounter challenges such as balancing creative vision with client expectations, managing tight deadlines, and adapting to feedback from multiple stakeholders. To succeed, it's important to develop strong communication skills, be open to constructive criticism, and proactively seek clarification when project requirements are unclear. Additionally, learning to manage time effectively and staying organized will help you deliver quality work consistently, while collaborating with more experienced team members can provide valuable mentorship and learning opportunities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Graphic Designer jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Graphic Designer jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Entry Level Graphic Designer jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Entry Level Graphic Designer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Graphic Designer job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Locum Tenens, 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,156 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Entry-Level Urban Designer

ZGF Architects

Portland, OR โ€ข On-site

$69K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 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.