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Entry Level Graphic Designer Jobs in Rochester, NY

Entry Level Graphic Designer information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$12

$26

$42

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

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level graphic designer 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 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Graphic Designer jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Graphic Designer jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Graphic Designer jobs in Rochester, NY? For Entry Level Graphic Designer jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Entry Level Graphic Designer jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Entry Level Graphic Designer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Graphic Designer job openings in Rochester, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,205 per year, or $26.5 per hour.
Project Designer

$62K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Project Designer
Department: Architecture
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Victor, New York
Reporting To: Architecture
Compensation: $62,500 - $65,000 / year
Description
Join the APD family - where passion meets purpose!
APD is on the hunt for an Architectural Designer with a blend of confidence, self-motivation, and keen attention to detail. If you're a dynamo experienced in commercial/retail projects on a national scale and can seamlessly juggle various tasks, we're eager to meet you! We're seeking candidates who have experience with tools like AutoCAD and Revit. Our team thrives on collaboration, so the ability to manage responsibilities while co-creating solutions in a team-based environment is crucial. You'll be asked to tackle challenges with your proactive problem-solving approach and communication abilities. You'll be a relationship builder with your communication and interpersonal talents, fostering bonds with team members, clients, and stakeholders. If you exhibit a robust work ethic, an appetite for learning, and adaptability in a brisk design setting, there will be ample room for your career growth.
If you're excited about chiseling meaningful spaces and love immersing yourself in innovative projects, APD awaits your touch! Let's design horizons together.
Elevate Your Career at APD
Passionate Community
: Be a part of the APD family, where every team member's passion fuels the collective purpose.
Dynamic Growth: Thrive in a bustling Architectural Department on an exciting growth trajectory.
Diverse Portfolio: Dive into designing for a myriad of projects, with a special spotlight on retail design.
Industry Leadership: Take pride in being part of a national front-runner in multi-site retail design.
Autonomy & Support: Revel in a role that values your independent spirit, clear communication, and tech expertise.
Upward Mobility: Climb the ladder with ample opportunities for growth and advancement. With access to mentorship, the AXP Program, and continuous learning, your growth journey is limitless.
End-to-End Involvement: From conceptualization to completion, be involved in every step, crafting iconic spaces that resonate with clients' visions.
Key Responsibilities
  • Independently performs a variety of assignments requiring skills in all conventional aspects of architectural designs for projects of moderate size and complexity.
  • Performs design, planning, occupancy studies, and limited design layout analyses.
  • Prepares project specifications, compiling and analyzing relevant data.
  • Writes draft copies of reports and specifications.
  • Collaborate with clients, colleagues, and multi-discipline design teams to define project objectives, scope, and design criteria.
  • Develop and refine design concepts through hand sketches, digital drawings, 3D modeling, and presentations.
  • Create detailed and comprehensive architectural drawings, including floor plans, elevations, sections, and construction details.
  • Utilize advanced software tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp to produce high-quality design documentation and presentations.
  • Research and select appropriate materials, finishes, and construction methods to ensure feasibility, sustainability, and aesthetic coherence.
  • Contribute to design charrettes, brainstorming sessions, and design reviews to facilitate idea exchange and refinement.
  • Provide mentorship and guidance to interns, fostering their professional growth and development.
  • Collaborate with Project Leads and Architects to enable them to establish and manage project schedules, budgets, and resources.
  • Engage in effective communication with clients, contractors, and consultants to address design inquiries and modifications during the construction phase.
  • Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in architecture and design.

Skills Knowledge and Expertise
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture or a related field from an ABET-accredited school.
  • Entry-level or Internship experience in architectural design.
  • Preliminary understanding of building systems, codes, regulations, and construction processes.
  • Graphic and visualization skills to back up and effectively communicate design concepts.
  • Experience with architectural software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Revit.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Completion of internship at an Architecture or Engineering firm.
  • Commencement of AXP Program.

Benefits
A Great Place to Belong!
We know it...what makes APD truly great is our people.
And we appreciate them. We have a true team atmosphere, where we work to improve constantly.
APD was formed with a new vision of the future - powerful professional design and consulting services without the often-associated large company corporate bureaucracy. Managing partners are always open to suggestions to improve the office environment and processes. We support our staff with training and mentoring.
We are highly dedicated to our employees and invest in them from day one. We value happy employees - both personally and professionally. So around here, family comes first - we recognize that no one can give their best until their family is cared for.
If you desire to grow, be challenged, and be rewarded for your efforts, we invite you to consider a career with us.
APD offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, professional development, paid time off, 401(k), etc.
APD Engineering & Architecture, PLLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.