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Entry Level Graphic Designer Jobs in Portland, OR

Entry Level Interior Designer

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$59K - $69K/yr

ZGF is seeking an Entry Level Interior Designer for the Portland office. We are looking for ... Produce design drawings, presentation drawings, graphic design work, and digital and physical ...

New

Entry Level Interior Designer

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$59K - $69K/yr

ZGF is seeking an Entry Level Interior Designer for the Portland office. We are looking for ... Produce design drawings, presentation drawings, graphic design work, and digital and physical ...

New

Entry-Level Urban Designer

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$59K - $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

$59K - $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

$60 - $80/hr

Overview ZGF is seeking an Entry-Level Urban Designer based in our Portland office. We thrive on ... Produce design drawings, construction documents, presentation drawings, graphic design work, and ...

Entry Level Graphic Designer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$13

$28

$45

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level graphic designer in Portland, OR is $28.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $33.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level graphic designer?

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 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 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.

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 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.

How do you become an entry level graphic designer with no experience?

To become an entry level graphic designer with no experience, focus on building a strong portfolio by creating personal projects or freelance work, and learn industry-standard tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Gaining relevant skills through online courses or certifications can also improve your chances of securing an entry-level position.

What are entry-level graphic designer jobs?

Entry-level graphic designer jobs involve creating visual content such as logos, advertisements, and digital media under supervision. These roles typically require proficiency in design software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator and may involve tasks like layout design, branding, and image editing. They often serve as a starting point for building a portfolio and gaining industry experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Graphic Designer jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Graphic Designer jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Graphic Designer jobs in Portland, OR?

For Entry Level Graphic Designer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Graphic Designer jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Graphic Designer jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Entry Level Graphic Designer jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Entry Level Graphic Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Graphic Designer job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 78% In-person, 11% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,336 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Entry Level Interior Designer

ZGF Architects

Portland, OR โ€ข On-site

$59K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

ZGF is seeking an Entry Level Interior Designer for the Portland office. We are looking for creative, motivated and curious design talent with a passion for interior design and the built environment. We are offering a position within the Interiors Group for an individual who will work under the direction of experienced professional design staff on a diversity of project opportunities. If you have a passion and a desire to exercise your design skills, we are interested in talking with you.
As an Entry Level Interior Designer, you will...
  • Will be part of a community focused on design excellence and innovation.
  • Collaborate with the design team for generating and developing design ideas.
  • Produce design drawings, presentation drawings, graphic design work, and digital and physical modeling in support of Interior Design projects, as well as marketing efforts.
  • Work under close supervision and receive instruction and mentoring regarding tasks and management.
  • Perform interior design assignments and work collaboratively with others toward design solutions.

Qualifications:
  • Applicants should have graduated from a professional Interior Design program.
  • Professional experience is beneficial but not required - but creative curiosity is required.
  • Previous experience with the production of design documentation would be valuable.
  • Basic understanding of design and construction principles.
  • What we do is all about design - having good communication and graphic skills along with physical and digital modeling and rendering ability is desired.
  • Knowledge of Revit, Rhino, Sketch-Up, and Adobe Suite (or similar programs) is required.

Base Salary Range:
$59,960/yr - $69,948/yr based on skills and experience level.
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. Whether you're a finance professional, project manager, or specialist in another field, your expertise helps create a healthier, more equitable built environment. 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 and works samples online