Entry Level Visual Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) US Water Program is seeking a creative and motivated entry-level graphic designer for a 10-month contract working 20 hours per week. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to meaningful environmental research and science communication at a globally recognized policy research institute.
The primary focus of this role is scientific illustration in support of two active water resources projects with state and municipal water agencies in the Western United States. Both projects involve translating complex water systems - including hydrology, infrastructure, water rights, and management trade-offs - into clear, compelling visual models for use with diverse audiences ranging from technical experts to elected officials and the general public.
In addition to illustration work, we are looking for someone to support SEI's visual identity more broadly. This includes contributing to our website, logos, promotional materials, and research posters, and potentially supporting social media content and short written copy for outreach purposes.
The SEI-US Center has three offices: Somerville, MA, Davis, CA, and Seattle, WA; you will be joining our eleven-person team based primarily in Davis, CA. The job location is in Davis, California.
Key Responsibilities
• Develop scientific illustrations, infographics, and diagrams depicting water systems, hydrologic processes, and infrastructure at multiple scales (watershed, basin, river/habitat)
• Work iteratively with scientists to refine drafts based on technical feedback
• Produce final illustration files in English and Spanish-ready formats where applicable
• Support graphic design needs across SEI US, including website visuals, logos, promotional materials, and research posters
• Assist with preparation of social media posts and short written copy for outreach and communications as needed
Requirements
The ideal candidate will have a proven background in graphic design, illustration, fine arts, or a related creative field. A science background is not required but is a meaningful plus.
Required:
• Diverse portfolio of illustration and/or graphic design work (submitted with application)
• Proficiency with professional design tools (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Figma)
• Ability to work independently, manage deadlines, and incorporate iterative feedback from a multidisciplinary team
• Excellent visual communication skills and attention to detail and consistency
Preferred:
• Experience in science communication, environmental illustration, or technical drawing (highly preferred)
• Background or coursework in environmental science, water resources, ecology, or a related field
• Familiarity with geospatial or data visualization tools (e.g., ArcGIS, Tableau, Python, R)
• Ability to write clear, accessible copy for general audiences
• Experience with social media content creation
• Spanish language skills
• Experience with video creation and editing
SEI US values the wide variety of backgrounds and experiences of our research staff, and key elements in the consideration of qualified candidates include excellence; diversity of talents, backgrounds, and viewpoints; and a good fit with the institute's mission, values, and goals.
Location, Compensation, and Time on Project
This is a 10-month, part-time contract position at 20 hours per week. Compensation is determined by experience.
Work will be conducted in person at the SEI US Davis office in downtown Davis, California. The office provides desk space and computing resources for specialized needs.
Applications should be written in English, and any artistic materials generated with the assistance of AI should be clearly indicated.
No phone calls please.
Benefits
SEI has a welcoming work environment and flexible work schedules. This position will receive 10 holidays, 20 days of vacation and 10 days of sick leave each year, prorated to half based on a 20 hour/week work schedule.
SEI US is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and an inclusive work culture. We do not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, creed, color, religion, alienage or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, medical conditions related to pregnancy and childbirth, breastfeeding, or reproductive health decision-making), marital status, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, past or present status as a workers' compensation or whistleblower claimant, use of a service animal, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. We are dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities and general treatment during employment. This policy and the law prohibit employment discrimination against any employee or applicant on the basis of any legally protected status outlined above.