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Entry Level Visual Communication Design Jobs in Chicago, IL

Industrial Design Intern

Niles, IL · On-site

$23 - $43/hr

Experience with 3D modeling and visual communication tools. Rhino 3d, Keyshot, & Adobe Creative Suite is a plus. * Knowledge of design methodology. * An interest in consumer and professional audio ...

Industrial Design Intern

Niles, IL · On-site +1

$23 - $43/hr

Experience with 3D modeling and visual communication tools. Rhino 3d, Keyshot, & Adobe Creative Suite is a plus. * Knowledge of design methodology. * An interest in consumer and professional audio ...

Industrial Design Intern

Niles, IL · On-site +1

$23 - $43/hr

Experience with 3D modeling and visual communication tools. Rhino 3d, Keyshot, & Adobe Creative Suite is a plus. * Knowledge of design methodology. * An interest in consumer and professional audio ...

Industrial Design Intern

Niles, IL · On-site +1

$23 - $43/hr

Experience with 3D modeling and visual communication tools. Rhino 3d, Keyshot, & Adobe Creative Suite is a plus. * Knowledge of design methodology. * An interest in consumer and professional audio ...

... latest design and technological advancements for heightened guest experiences, we're not just ... Communications * Relationship Management * Inventory Management This Visual Merchandising Analyst ...

Drawing Tutor

Highland Park, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes seeing like an artist through careful observation and connects drawing to visual communication, design careers, and creative expression across artistic disciplines. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Drawing Tutor

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes seeing like an artist through careful observation and connects drawing to visual communication, design careers, and creative expression across artistic disciplines. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Visual Communication Design information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$40

$62

$84

How much do entry level visual communication design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level visual communication design in Chicago, IL is $62.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.03 and $74.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level visual communication design?

An entry level visual communication design job involves creating visual content to communicate messages effectively. Designers at this level work under supervision to produce graphics, layouts, and other visual materials for print, digital, and social media platforms. Responsibilities often include assisting with branding, advertising, and marketing projects while learning industry-standard design tools and techniques. Entry level designers collaborate with senior team members and gain experience in applying design principles to real-world projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level visual communication designer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Visual Communication Designer, you need a strong foundation in design principles, typography, color theory, and a relevant degree or coursework in graphic or visual design. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and basic knowledge of digital design tools are typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, time management, and strong communication skills set standout candidates apart. These competencies are essential for producing compelling, effective visual solutions that clearly convey messages and meet client or organizational needs.

What types of projects can an entry level visual communication designer expect to work on, and how are assignments typically managed within a design team?

As an entry-level visual communication designer, you can expect to work on a variety of projects such as creating digital graphics, social media assets, marketing materials, and presentations. Assignments are often managed through collaborative project management tools, and you'll frequently receive direction from senior designers or creative leads. You'll likely participate in brainstorming sessions and feedback reviews, which help you develop your skills and understand the team's workflow. This collaborative environment offers valuable opportunities to learn industry standards and gain exposure to different design processes.

What is the difference between Entry Level Visual Communication Design vs Graphic Designer?

AspectEntry Level Visual Communication DesignGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant certificationAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign agencies, corporate marketing teams, freelance projectsAdvertising agencies, in-house marketing, freelance work
Industry UsageCommonly used in marketing, branding, digital mediaPrimarily in branding, advertising, print and digital media

Entry Level Visual Communication Design and Graphic Designer roles often overlap, especially at the start of careers. Both require similar credentials, such as degrees or certifications, and are employed in similar environments like agencies or corporate teams. The main difference lies in scope: visual communication design emphasizes conveying messages visually across various media, while graphic design focuses more on creating visual content primarily for print and digital media. Understanding these nuances helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and interests.

What are the most commonly searched types of Visual Communication Design jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Visual Communication Design jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Visual Communication Design job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $129,099 per year, or $62.1 per hour.

Sr Associate, New Business, Visual Designer

Quad

Chicago, IL • On-site

$69K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Quad rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

424th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

The Sr Associate, New Business, Visual Designer will bring a passion for storytelling and a sharp eye for design to join our New Business Team. In this role, you won't just make things look good; you'll help ideas come alive. You'll transform complex strategies into compelling visual narratives that captivate potential clients and bring content to life. 

You'll work closely with strategists, planners, and business leaders to develop presentations, proposals, and case studies that clearly communicate ideas and strategies. From concept to execution, you'll shape the visual identity of our new business efforts, ensuring every touchpoint is engaging, polished, and on-brand. 

This is a role for a designer who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and loves the challenge of turning abstract ideas into bold, beautiful visuals that win hearts and business. 

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Bring ideas to lifeby designing visually compelling presentations, pitch decks, and creative assets that tell a clear, engaging story. 

  • Collaborate closelywith strategists, business leads, and creatives to translate complex ideas into simple, beautiful visual narratives. 

  • Own the visual identityof new business efforts-ensuring consistency, polish, and innovation across all materials. 

  • Design with purposeusing PowerPoint, Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, and other tools to create high-impact visuals that resonate with clients. 

  • Lead the visual developmentof RFPs, proposals, and case studies-tailoring each to the prospect's brand, tone, and business needs. 

  • Manage timelines and workflowsfor multiple concurrent projects, ensuring on-time delivery without compromising quality. 

  • Iterate quickly and thoughtfullybased on feedback from internal stakeholders, always pushing for stronger, smarter design. 

  • Maintain and evolve templates, icon libraries, and visual systemsto streamline future work and elevate the team's creative output. 

  • Stay ahead of design trendsand bring fresh thinking to how we present our work and our agency. 

  • Contribute to a culture of creativity and excellence, offering feedback, inspiration, and support to teammates across disciplines. 

Job Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Media Arts, or a related field-or equivalent professional experience. 

Experience:

  • 0-2 years of professional experience in visual design, presentation design, or a related creative field. 

A portfolio that demonstrates strong visual storytelling, layout, and presentation design skills is required. 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

  • Business level proficiency in English - both written and oral communication.

  • Proficiency in PowerPoint and a strong understanding of presentation design principles. 
  • Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (especially Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop); familiarity with Figma or similar tools is a plus. 
  • Strong visual storytelling skills-able to translate abstract ideas into clear, engaging visuals. 
  • Excellent attention to detail, layout, typography, and brand consistency. 
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and timelines in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. 
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills-you're comfortable giving and receiving feedback. 
  • A proactive, curious mindset with a desire to learn, grow, and contribute creatively to a team.

Employees can be expected to be paid an annualized salary range of $69,620-$80,000, based on variations in knowledge, skills, experience and market conditions. 

#LI-MW1

Rise is an award-winning, full-service Media Agency of Record that is backed by data and powered by people. We create omnichannel experiences using our proprietary tech stack and advanced analytics capabilities to help solve the unique struggles brands face today. This approach, with transparency at its core, specializes in omnichannel media, commerce and retail media, advanced in-home media, as well as content and creator marketing.  

We offer "Risers" the opportunity to work in an ever-evolving industry that will foster learning and development, provide an innovative work environment with diverse projects and clients, career advancement paths a collaborative team environment, corporate social responsibility initiatives, an inclusive and diverse culture, plus association with a reputable media agency.  We're looking for talent like you who can continue to elevate our work and culture.  
We offer comprehensive benefits for eligible employees including medical, prescription, dental and vision insurance, 401(k) retirement savings, paid time off, holidays and additional benefits.

Rise and Quad are proud to be equal opportunity employers. We are committed to creating a place of belonging - a space where employees do not need to sacrifice who they are to exist and grow in our workplace. Rise and Quad do not discriminate on any unlawful basis including race, religion, color, national origin, disability, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable federal, state, or local laws.  Rise and Quad also prohibit harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories.

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