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Entry Level Graphic Designer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Distro

Junior Graphic Designer

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$40K - $55K/yr

... Solutions is seeking a Junior Graphic Designer to support a federal public affairs and ... This is an entry-level to early-career position, but the role requires professionalism, attention ...

Distro

Junior Graphic Designer

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$40K - $55K/yr

... Solutions is seeking a Junior Graphic Designer to support a federal public affairs and ... This is an entry-level to early-career position, but the role requires professionalism, attention ...

New

Hitachi, Ltd.

Marketing Coordinator

Washington, DC · On-site

$48K - $66K/yr

This is an entry-level position ideal for a recent graduate or an early-career professional ... Coordinate with internal teams, outside vendors, agencies, and graphic designers to ensure projects ...

Leidos

Junior Visual Information Specialist

Reston, VA · On-site

You will deliver cutting-edge designs, interactive presentations, and engaging digital experiences ... Experience may be considered in lieu of a degree. * Entry-level experience or internship in graphic ...

All JobsGraphic Designer JobsEntry Level Graphic Designer JobsEntry Level Graphic Designer Jobs in Reston, VA

Entry Level Graphic Designer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$13

$28

$44

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

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level graphic designer in Reston, VA is $28.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.82 and $32.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the entry-level for a graphic designer?

Entry-level graphic designers typically have little to no professional experience and often possess a relevant associate's or bachelor's degree in graphic design, visual arts, or a related field. They usually start with basic skills in design software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator and may be required to complete internships or portfolio work before securing full-time positions.

How do I become a graphic designer with no experience?

Entry-level graphic designers can start by building a portfolio with personal projects or freelance work to showcase their skills. Learning design software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, gaining basic knowledge of design principles, and pursuing online courses or certifications can help improve qualifications and increase job prospects.

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.

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 essential in the industry. AI serves as a complement rather than a substitute for human creativity in graphic design roles.

Was Alan Rickman a graphic designer?

Alan Rickman was a British actor and not a graphic designer. Entry level graphic designers typically focus on creating visual content using tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, often building a portfolio to start their careers. Rickman's profession was in acting, not graphic design.

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.
More about Entry Level Graphic Designer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Graphic Designer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Graphic Designer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Graphic Designer jobs in Reston, VA? For Entry Level Graphic Designer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Graphic Designer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Graphic Designer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Entry Level Graphic Designer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Entry Level Graphic Designer job openings:
Entry Level Graphic Designer jobs near you

Junior Graphic Designer

Distro

Washington, DC • Hybrid

$40K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Location: Washington, DC Region Work Arrangement: Hybrid, primarily remote Required Location Radius: Candidate must reside within approximately 75 miles of Washington, DC Salary Range: $40,000 to $55,000 annually Clearance: Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance Employment Type: Full-Time
Position Overview
BI-SI Solutions is seeking a Junior Graphic Designer to support a federal public affairs and communication strategy contract supporting the Marine Corps. This position will provide graphic design, digital media, and visual communication support for a fast-paced customer environment focused on strategic communication, public affairs, senior leader messaging, internal communication, and stakeholder engagement.
This is an entry-level to early-career position, but the role requires professionalism, attention to detail, responsiveness, and the ability to follow direction in a formal federal customer environment. The ideal candidate will have strong graphic design fundamentals, working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, an understanding of Section 508 accessibility requirements for graphics and digital products, and the ability to support quick-turn communication products while maintaining quality and accuracy.
The position is hybrid and will be mostly remote. However, the candidate must live within approximately 75 miles of Washington, DC and be available for occasional on-site meetings, customer support, or mission requirements in the National Capital Region.
Key Responsibilities
Develop graphic design products in support of federal public affairs, communication strategy, and stakeholder engagement requirements.
Create visual communication products for digital, print, presentation, social media, web, and briefing use.
Support the development of graphics, layouts, templates, infographics, visual summaries, briefing materials, handouts, social media graphics, and other communication products.
Assist with multimedia products that may include still graphics, motion graphics, text overlays, image formatting, and platform-specific visual content.
Ensure graphics and digital products align with customer direction, brand standards, style guides, and approved messaging.
Apply basic Section 508 accessibility principles to graphics, documents, presentations, and digital communication products.
Edit, resize, crop, format, and optimize images and graphics for use across multiple platforms.
Support fast-turn revisions based on feedback from the Program Manager, customer, and senior communication staff.
Maintain organized project files, source files, and final deliverables.
Work within formal review and approval processes before products are finalized or released.
Communicate clearly with the Program Manager and team regarding task status, deadlines, issues, and required clarification.
Accept direction professionally and apply feedback accurately and quickly.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in graphic design, digital media, visual communication, communications, marketing, or a related field; or at least three years of directly relevant graphic design or digital graphics experience.
Experience using Adobe Creative Suite, especially Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Experience with Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, or motion graphics tools is a plus.
Strong portfolio demonstrating clean, professional design work.
Ability to create graphics for presentations, social media, web, print, and executive-level communication products.
Basic understanding of Section 508 compliance and accessibility considerations for graphics and digital products.
Strong attention to detail, including layout accuracy, spelling, formatting, alignment, image quality, and consistency.
Ability to follow detailed instructions and apply customer feedback without repeated correction.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities and short deadlines.
Strong communication skills and professional conduct in a federal customer support environment.
Must reside within approximately 75 miles of Washington, DC.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
Prior experience supporting a federal government customer.
Prior experience supporting the Department of Defense, Department of the Navy, Marine Corps, or other military/public affairs environment.
Familiarity with Marine Corps, DoD, or federal communication products, branding, public affairs, or strategic communication support.
Experience creating graphics for senior leader briefings, communication campaigns, talking point products, social media campaigns, public affairs materials, or executive presentations.
Experience applying brand books, style guides, communication playbooks, or formal visual identity standards.
Experience working in a government contractor environment.
Knowledge of visual information standards, digital asset organization, captioning, file naming, and archival practices.
Understanding of accessibility best practices, including alt text, color contrast, readable typography, and accessible layout choices.
Candidate Profile
The right candidate does not need to be a senior designer, but they must be dependable, coachable, detail-oriented, and mature enough to work in a demanding federal support environment. This person must be able to take direction, produce clean work, receive feedback professionally, and make corrections quickly. The role requires someone who understands that graphic design in this environment is not only about creativity. It is about supporting the customer's message, meeting deadlines, following standards, and producing accurate, professional products.
Work Environment
This position is primarily remote, with occasional on-site support required in the Washington, DC region. The customer environment is fast-paced and formal. Tasks may come with short deadlines and require multiple revisions based on customer or leadership feedback. The successful candidate must be comfortable supporting structured review processes and maintaining a professional tone in all communications.
 
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$40,000 - $55,000 a year

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