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Freelance Designer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Designer

Muskegon, MI · On-site

$28.85 - $43.27/hr

DESIGNER *Position Description * **Shift: **1st Shift Only **Pay Range: **$60,000-90,000/year **Purpose of the Job ** The Designer is responsible for creating functional, aesthetic, and ...

Interpret schematics to develop complete system designs * Apply SMACNA general air handling system calculations to determine proper duct and component sizes and configurations * Travel to customer ...

In this role, the Pipeline Designer will develop drawings and exhibits for design, permitting, land acquisition, operation, maintenance, and construction of natural gas distribution systems. Typical ...

Signs Designs in Beachwood, NJ is looking for a creative and organized Graphic Designer / Office Person to join our team! This is a dynamic dual role where you'll bring designs to life while keeping ...

In this role, the Pipeline Designer will develop drawings and exhibits for design, permitting, land acquisition, operation, maintenance, and construction of natural gas distribution systems. Typical ...

In this role, the Pipeline Designer will develop drawings and exhibits for design, permitting, land acquisition, operation, maintenance, and construction of natural gas distribution systems. Typical ...

Hardware Designer Location: Wixom, MI (Fully Onsite) Job Type: Contract Experience: Mid to Senior Level Our client's Wixom, MI engineering team is experiencing an uptick in projects and is looking ...

Designer II plays a pivotal role in creating visually stunning 3D and 2D graphics for control projects submitted by our field offices. By leveraging their expertise in digital tools, they help bring ...

Designer II plays a pivotal role in creating visually stunning 3D and 2D graphics for control projects submitted by our field offices. By leveraging their expertise in digital tools, they help bring ...

Industrial Designer

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$119K/yr

The Industrial Designer will work independently and as a member of the team, developing designs from concept to reality. Additionally, the Industrial Designer will provide design leadership to the ...

Our designers help set the pace for the company by developing concepts for new and exciting driving experiences. Designers at Stellantis are encouraged to think bigger, push harder, continually ...

The Industrial Designer will work independently and as a member of the team, developing designs from concept to reality. Additionally, the Industrial Designer will provide design leadership to the ...

Sr Designer

Muskegon, MI · On-site

$94K - $100K/yr

The Senior Designer role is an experienced level position responsible for the design and development of 3D models and 2D drawings for components and subsystems for diesel engines, transmissions and ...

Industrial Designer

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$119K/yr

The Industrial Designer will work independently and as a member of the team, developing designs from concept to reality. Additionally, the Industrial Designer will provide design leadership to the ...

The Creative Designer helps to build upon the creative strategy and vision by designing and/or creating materials for both internal and external projects, new business and creative presentations. The ...

Creative Designer

Sterling Heights, MI · On-site +1

$50K - $58K/yr

The Creative Designer helps to build upon the creative strategy and vision by designing and/or creating materials for both internal and external projects, new business and creative presentations. The ...

Showing results 21-40

Freelance Designer information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$41

$115

How much do freelance designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance designer in Michigan is $41.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $53.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance designer?

A freelance designer is a self-employed creative professional who offers design services to clients on a project-by-project basis, rather than working as a full-time employee for a single company. Freelance designers often specialize in areas like graphic design, web design, branding, or illustration. They have the flexibility to choose their clients, set their own rates, and manage their schedules. Freelance designers are responsible for finding clients, managing contracts, and delivering high-quality design work.

What is a freelance designer?

A freelance designer is a type of self-employed freelancer that works on design projects for business clients. Most freelance designers specialize in a specific field, such as graphic design or web design. While your responsibilities vary from gig to gig, they always revolve around carefully managing your time to complete and deliver client projects by a deadline, and to their exact specifications. You must communicate directly with your clients to figure out the scope of the project and decide on the payment specifics. As with all self-employed jobs, being a freelance designer requires self-motivation and basic knowledge of how to run your own business, along with technical skills in your chosen specialty.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance designer?

To thrive as a Freelance Designer, you need a strong portfolio showcasing proficiency in design principles, creativity, and expertise with visual communication, typically supported by relevant education or self-taught skills. Mastery of industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, or Sketch is essential, and certifications in these tools can be advantageous. Excellent time management, client communication, and adaptability help freelancers deliver quality work and build lasting relationships. These skills are crucial for consistently meeting client expectations, managing multiple projects, and sustaining a successful freelance career.

How do freelance designers typically manage client relationships and project expectations?

Freelance designers often juggle multiple clients and projects, making clear communication and expectation-setting essential. They usually establish project scopes, deadlines, and deliverables upfront, often using contracts to formalize agreements. Regular check-ins and updates help maintain transparency and foster trust, while tools like project management software or shared documents can keep both parties aligned. Building strong client relationships not only ensures smoother projects but can also lead to repeat business and referrals.

What is the difference between Freelance Designer vs Graphic Designer?

AspectFreelance DesignerGraphic Designer
CredentialsPortfolio, design skills, sometimes certificationsDegree in Graphic Design or related field, portfolio
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote or client-siteIn-house or agency setting, remote or on-site
Employer & Industry UsageSelf-employed, freelance platforms, clientsDesign firms, marketing agencies, companies
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for freelance opportunities or projectsSeeking full-time or part-time employment

Freelance Designers work independently on various projects for multiple clients, often remotely, and manage their own schedules. Graphic Designers are typically employed by companies or agencies, working on branding, advertising, or print materials within a structured environment. Both roles require strong design skills and portfolios, but their work settings and employment types differ significantly.

How much does a freelance designer get paid?

Freelance designers typically earn between $25 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, specialization, and project complexity. Many also charge fixed project rates or retainers, with annual earnings varying widely based on workload and client base.

What are the most commonly searched types of Designer jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Designer jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Freelance Designer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Freelance Designer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Designer jobs in MI?

For Freelance Designer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Freelance Designer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,489 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

$28.85 - $43.27/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

DESIGNER

*Position Description

• **Shift: **1st Shift Only

**Pay Range: **$60,000-90,000/year

**Purpose of the Job

**

The Designer is responsible for creating functional, aesthetic, and manufacturable furniture and woodworking designs that align with brand, customer requirements, and production capabilities. This role bridges creativity and practicality, translating concepts into detailed drawings and specifications that support efficient manufacturing while maintaining high standards of craftsmanship and design excellence.

**Essential Duties and Responsibilities

**

  • Develop furniture and product designs that meet customer, market, and brand requirements.
  • Create detailed design drawings, renderings, and specifications for production.
  • Collaborate with engineering, production, and sales teams to ensure designs are manufacturable and cost-effective.
  • Modify existing designs based on customer feedback, production needs, or material availability.
  • Select materials, finishes, and hardware in alignment with design intent and performance requirements.
  • Ensure designs meet quality, safety, and durability standards.
  • Support prototype development and review samples for design accuracy and quality.
  • Maintain organized design files, drawings, and revision documentation.
  • Participate in design reviews and cross-functional meetings.
  • Stay current with furniture design trends, materials, and manufacturing methods.
  • Assist with customer presentations, approvals, and design-related communication.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives related to design efficiency and product performance.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
**Education and Experience

**

  • Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Furniture Design, Interior Design, or related field preferred.
  • Experience in furniture, cabinetry, or woodworking design preferred.
  • Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, SketchUp, or similar.
  • Strong understanding of materials, finishes, and construction methods.
  • Excellent attention to detail and creative problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to communicate design intent clearly to production and engineering teams.
**Physical Requirements

**

  • Primarily office-based with extended computer use.
  • Occasional standing, walking, or bending during shop floor visits or prototype reviews.
**Personal Protective Equipment

**

  • PPE required when visiting production or shop areas (safety glasses, hearing protection, closed-toe shoes).
**Work Environment

**

  • Office and production environment with frequent collaboration across departments.
  • Occasional exposure to manufacturing noise, wood dust, and equipment during shop visits.
  • Fast-paced environment requiring adaptability and creative problem-solving.
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