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Freelance Production Designer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

You'll collaborate with our graphic designer, video production partners, photographers, and freelancers, but your primary responsibility is determining what should be created and why, not necessarily ...

A Creative Director for a new digital banking platform designed to move nimbly into the future and ... and productivity. * Maintain an extensive network of creative resources for freelance and ...

Freelance Production Designer information

See Indiana salary details

$14

$45

$125

How much do freelance production designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance production designer in Indiana is $45.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.12 and $58.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance production designer?

A Freelance Production Designer is a creative professional who works on a project-by-project basis to design the visual elements of a production, such as films, television shows, commercials, or theater. They are responsible for establishing the visual concept and overseeing the creation of sets, locations, graphics, props, lighting, and costumes to ensure a cohesive look and feel. Unlike full-time production designers, freelancers are self-employed and often work with multiple clients or production companies. Their work is crucial for bringing the director's vision to life and ensuring the project’s aesthetic aligns with the intended mood and style.

How does a freelance production designer typically collaborate with other creative professionals during a project?

As a Freelance Production Designer, collaboration is a central aspect of the role. You'll frequently work with art directors, set decorators, costume designers, and directors to ensure the visual elements of a production align with the overall creative vision. Communication skills are vital, as you'll participate in meetings, share design concepts, and adjust plans based on feedback. Flexibility and adaptability are important since each project may involve different teams and workflows, requiring you to quickly build rapport and integrate into new environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance production designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Production Designer, you need a solid background in visual design principles, set design, and production processes, often supported by a degree in design, fine arts, or a related field. Proficiency in design software like Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp, and CAD tools is crucial, as are skills in budgeting and project management. Creativity, attention to detail, flexibility, and strong communication are standout soft skills that help manage client expectations and collaborate with diverse teams. These competencies are essential for delivering visually compelling environments on time and within budget, ensuring successful productions.

What is the difference between Freelance Production Designer vs Freelance Graphic Designer?

AspectFreelance Production DesignerFreelance Graphic Designer
Primary FocusCreating visual concepts for media productions, set designs, and physical environmentsDesigning visual content for print, digital media, branding, and marketing materials
Required SkillsDesign software, understanding of production processes, spatial awarenessDesign software, branding, layout, and visual communication skills
Work EnvironmentFilm/TV sets, photo shoots, event spacesOffices, client meetings, remote work for digital projects
Industry UsageMedia production, entertainment, advertisingMarketing, advertising, publishing, digital media

While both roles involve visual design, Freelance Production Designers focus on physical and media production environments, whereas Freelance Graphic Designers primarily create visual content for digital and print media. Understanding these differences helps clients find the right professional for their project needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Production Designer jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Production Designer jobs in Indiana are:
Infographic showing various Freelance Production Designer job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,424 per year, or $45.4 per hour.

$70K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Company Description

TheIndiana University Foundation (IUF)advances the mission of Indiana University by inspiring philanthropy that fuels student success, pioneering research, and transformational impact across Indiana and beyond. 

At IUF, we connect donors to the causes they care about most-turning passion into purpose and generosity into lasting impact. Our team values collaboration, innovation, data informed strategy, and meaningful relationships, all within a culture that supports professional growth and missiondriven work. 

Job Description

The Indiana University Foundation is seeking a talented Senior Graphic Designer to join our Advancement Marketing & Communications team. This role is ideal for an experienced creative professional who excels at transforming strategy into compelling visual communications that engage alumni, donors, and supporters.

As a member of the Creative Services team, you will develop innovative, brand-aligned designs across print and digital platforms while helping shape the visual identity of Indiana University Advancement.

What You'll Do

  • Collaborate with the Art Director to support the visual direction of Advancement marketing and communications.
  • Design compelling creative assets for print, digital, email, social media, web, and campaign materials.
  • Translate marketing and fundraising strategies into effective visual communications.
  • Manage the visual direction of projects from concept through final production and delivery.
  • Ensure all work aligns with IU Advancement's brand standards and creative strategy.
  • Partner with marketing, communications, and other IU Advancement stakeholders to achieve project goals.
  • Mentor and collaborate with internal and freelance designers as needed.
  • Stay current on design trends, tools, and best practices.
  • Utilize advanced expertise in typography, including hierarchy, readability, and visual impact.
  • Apply a strong command of color theory and its application across brand, print, and digital experiences.
  • Create exceptional layout, composition, and visual storytelling.
  • Provide cohesive, audience-focused designs across multiple channels.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Fine Arts, or a related field.
  • 7-10 years of professional graphic design experience.
  • Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud applications
  • Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Portfolio Required: Candidates should submit a portfolio demonstrating excellence in typography, color usage, branding, and multi-channel design.

Additional Information

The compensation range for this position is $70,000 - $75,000 annually, commensurate with experience. This is a Hybrid Role (Remote Tuesdays & Thursdays).

Ready to help connect alumni and donor passion with the future of Indiana University? This posting will be open for a minimum of 10 days with the potential to extend. Apply today and join the Indiana University Foundation.

The IUF is committed to providing a safe, respectful and professional work environment that is free of Discrimination and Harassment. The IUF will not tolerate any form of Discrimination or Harassment based on an individual's race, ethnicity, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, genetic information, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity or expression, ancestry, marital status, protected veteran status, pregnancy, or any other basis prohibited by law.