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Entry Level Illustrator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Illustrator information

See Alabama salary details

$29.5K

$53.8K

$87K

How much do entry level illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level illustrator in Alabama is $53,790.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,900.00 and $61,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level illustrator?

Entry level illustrators are professionals at the beginning of their careers who create visual artwork for books, magazines, advertisements, digital media, and more. They typically work under the guidance of senior illustrators or art directors and may use traditional or digital tools to produce illustrations. Entry level illustrators often focus on building their portfolios, learning industry standards, and gaining experience with different styles and techniques. Their work helps communicate ideas, tell stories, or enhance the visual appeal of various projects.

What does an entry level illustrator do?

Illustrators use multimedia and graphic design software to create logos and other creative elements like infographics and diagrams, which companies publish in conjunction with articles, sales collateral, and other materials. As an illustrator, your work could appear in a book or as a visual component of a website. Your responsibilities likely include frequent interaction with clients and collaboration with other design team members. You must be able to translate imaginative ideas and visual solutions into clear, readable imagery, accept feedback from your client, and then refine your illustrations to meet their specifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level illustrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Illustrator, you need strong drawing skills, a solid understanding of color theory and composition, and a relevant portfolio or degree in illustration or a related field. Familiarity with digital illustration tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (especially Photoshop and Illustrator) is commonly expected. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to accept feedback are valuable soft skills that help you grow in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for producing high-quality artwork that meets client or employer expectations and for developing professionally in a competitive field.

What types of projects and tasks can an entry level illustrator expect to work on in their first year?

As an entry level illustrator, you’ll typically work on a variety of projects such as creating basic illustrations for marketing materials, social media content, and internal presentations. You may also assist more senior illustrators with larger projects, help refine existing artwork, and handle revisions based on client or team feedback. Early on, you'll gain hands-on experience with digital illustration tools and collaborate closely with graphic designers, writers, and marketing teams. This exposure helps you build a versatile portfolio and develop a strong understanding of industry workflows.

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

AspectEntry Level IllustratorJunior Graphic Designer
Required CredentialsPortfolio, basic design skills, some art or design educationPortfolio, design skills, relevant education or coursework
Work EnvironmentCreative agencies, publishing, advertisingMarketing firms, media companies, advertising agencies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industries requiring custom illustrations and artworkUsed in industries needing visual branding and layout design

Both roles often require a strong portfolio and basic design skills. An Entry Level Illustrator focuses on creating original artwork and illustrations, while a Junior Graphic Designer typically handles layout, branding, and visual content. The roles overlap in creative environments, but illustrators emphasize artistic skills, whereas graphic designers focus on visual communication and design principles.

More about Entry Level Illustrator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Illustrator jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Illustrator jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Illustrator jobs in Alabama?

For Entry Level Illustrator jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Illustrator jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Illustrator jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Entry Level Illustrator jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Entry Level Illustrator job openings:

Entry Level Illustrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Illustrator job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,790 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Graphic Designer II - 530259

The University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, AL • On-site

$48K - $60K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 5 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

University Of Alabama rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

414th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Graphic Designer II - 530259
Job no: 530259
Work type: Regular Full-time (Benefits eligible)
Location: Tuscaloosa
Categories: Graphic Design/Web Design, Research/Scientific
Pay Grade/Pay Range: Minimum: $48,600 - Midpoint: $60,800 (Salaried E7)
Department/Organization: 701106 - Office for Research Communication
Normal Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm
Note to Applicants: Position is eligible for hybrid work subject to University policy.
Job Summary: The Graphic Designer II creates and implements moderately-complex graphic design projects for a department or the University under moderate supervision. Produces graphic designs and illustrations using computer and traditional methods. Formats and edits text. Prepares layouts and specifications for pre-print publications and other promotional media. May provide guidance and training to entry-level Graphic Designers.
Additional Department Summary: Supports the Division for Research's visual communication and brand strategy by creating accessible, audience-centered materials for digital and print channels. Designs web and email graphics, social media content, publications, presentations, signage, event materials and other communications using established university brand standards. Translates research information, data and institutional impact into clear visual communications. Develops templates and visual standards that strengthen the division's visual identity while improving consistency and efficiency across recurring communications. Produces visual materials for major research proposals, executive communications and other high-priority strategic initiatives. Collaborates with division leadership, research institutes and communications colleagues to develop effective visual solutions for a range of audiences and objectives.
Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and two (2) years of art, commercial art, graphic design, or visual communication experience; OR master's degree and some art, commercial art, graphic design, or visual communication experience.
Skills and Knowledge: Excellent visual, written and verbal communication skills. Strong command of typography, layout, composition, color and brand application. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud, particularly InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator. Ability to translate complex information, data and research concepts into clear, audience-appropriate visual formats. Knowledge of web design principles and digital accessibility standards. Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in graphic design, fine arts or a related field and three (3) or more years of professional graphic design experience. Experience designing in a higher education, research, science communication or related setting. Ability to provide a strong design portfolio.
Background Investigation Statement: Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.
Equal Employment Opportunity: The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment or volunteer status without regard to any legally protected basis and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases. More information is available in the EEOC's Know Your Rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal poster.
The University of Alabama affirms its longstanding commitment to institutional neutrality, free speech, and academic freedom.
Advertised: 11 Aug 2026 Central Daylight Time
Applications close: 25 Aug 2026 Central Daylight Time

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