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Entry Level Illustrator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Cartographer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$65K - $68K/yr

You will use Adobe Illustrator equipped with Avenza MAPublisher to acquire data, design, and ... This is not an entry-level role * Strong communication skills with the aptitude to communicate ...

Senior Cartographer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$65K - $68K/yr

You will use Adobe Illustrator equipped with Avenza MAPublisher to acquire data, design, and ... This is not an entry-level role * Strong communication skills with the aptitude to communicate ...

Technical Design Assistant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$40K - $47K/yr

... Adobe Illustrator and Microsoft Excel Strong communication, organization, and time management ... Seniority level Entry level Employment type Temporary Job function Design Industries Retail Apparel ...

Design Shipping Coordinator

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $26.50/hr

Experience: 1+ years of experience in apparel design (internship or entry-level experience will be considered). * Technical Skills: * Proficiency in MS Office, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and ...

Technical Design Assistant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$40K - $47K/yr

... Adobe Illustrator and Microsoft Excel Strong communication, organization, and time management ... Seniority level Entry level Employment type Temporary Job function Design Industries Retail Apparel ...

Jr. Graphic Designer

Buena Park, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

... * Entry-level with relevant experience; 0-2 years of agency or in-house experience preferred ... Expert-level proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) and Canva; Figma ...

... or entry-level roles included) in print, textile, or graphic design * Strong creative sensibility ... Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop * Experience or interest in using generative AI ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Illustrator information

See California salary details

$32.1K

$58.6K

$94.7K

How much do entry level illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level illustrator in California is $58,568.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $67,100.00 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.

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

The most popular types of Illustrator jobs in California are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Illustrator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 4% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $58,568 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

$74K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Langan rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 450 rated engineering


Job description

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major developers, renewable energy producers, energy companies, corporations, healthcare systems, colleges/universities, and large infrastructure programs throughout the U.S. and around the world. Our employees collaborate seamlessly among 50+ offices and gain valuable hands-on experience that fosters career growth. Langan culture is entrepreneurial from advancing innovative technical solutions, to participating in robust training and knowledge sharing, to making progressive change within the communities we live and work.

Consistently ranked among the top ten "Best Firms to Work For" and Engineering News-Record's top 50 firms worldwide, Langan attracts and retains the best talent in the industry. Employees thrive at Langan, a firm that fosters an inclusive and supportive work environment for all; prioritizes wellbeing, health, and safety; encourages volunteerism and philanthropy; offers workplace flexibility, along with carbon-neutral office spaces; and empowers individuals to contribute their skills and knowledge to make impactful contributions.

 Job Summary

Langan is seeking an Entry-Level Landscape Architect to join its collaborative team in Irvine, CA. This individual will serve a key function in providing assistance with the planning, design and permitting of landscape architecture, land development and planning projects. In this role, you will have the opportunity to work on integrated design services for both public and private sector clients at sites located throughout the United States and abroad. Our current project list includes a diverse portfolio of urban revitalization and streetscape, retail and commercial projects, school and university design, healthcare clients, smart growth planning, community design, rooftop and courtyard projects, and brownfield redevelopment assignments.

Job Responsibilities
  • Assist with the planning, design and permitting of landscape architecture, civil engineering, land development and infrastructure projects using design, engineering and graphic software (AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Sketch Up, Photoshop, Illustrator, and equipment to prepare landscape architecture and design documents;
  • Perform zoning, ordinance and permit assessments, and assist with determining the feasibility of projects based on the analysis of collected data;
  • Assist with the preparation and modification of various design and engineering documents including reports, specifications, plans, construction schedules, cost estimates and design plans for projects;
  • Assess soil composition, terrain, hydrological characteristics, and topographical and geologic data and their impact on the planning and design of projects using reports, maps, drawings, design and engineering plans, tests, and aerial photographs;
  • Provide field inspection services, as needed; and
  • Perform other duties as requested.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Landscape Architecture;
  • 0-2 years of work related experience; 
  • Demonstrated passion for design excellence and the challenges of creating inspiring places in urban environments;
  • Individual must be highly creative and possess exceptional computer skills in Adobe Suite, Sketchup, and AutoCAD;
  • Strong interpersonal, organizational, verbal and written communication skills;
  • Demonstrated ability to follow direction and work in a team environment; and
  • Possess reliable transportation to access job sites and a valid driver's license in good standing.

 

Please provide portfolio of work samples with application.

Langan provides a rich array of programs and benefits to help its employees advance their careers and enhance the quality of their lives. Our comprehensive compensation package includes: full-time employment company paid medical, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, and paid pregnancy disability leave; 401(k)/Roth with company match; paid time off including parental and military leave; employee referral and professional license bonuses; and educational reimbursement.

Langan offers employee resource groups; flexible work schedules; extensive training; wellness programs; buddy and mentoring programs; and much more!

Langan is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. We believe that an inclusive workplace is essential for the well-being and success of our employees.


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