1

Graduate Graphic Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Graphic Designer

Carson, CA · Hybrid

$75K - $80K/yr

Bolstered by our International Dermal Institute - the apex of post-graduate skin and body therapy ... We are looking for a talented Graphic Designer who thrives in a dynamic, collaborative environment ...

Graphic Designer

Carson, CA · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Bolstered by our International Dermal Institute the apex of post-graduate skin and body therapy ... We are looking for a talented Graphic Designer who thrives in a dynamic, collaborative environment ...

Graphic Designer

Carson, CA · Hybrid

$75K - $80K/yr

Bolstered by our International Dermal Institute the apex of post-graduate skin and body therapy ... We are looking for a talented Graphic Designer who thrives in a dynamic, collaborative environment ...

The Turner's Outdoorsman Graphic Designer Associate is responsible for preparing advertisements ... High school graduate (or GED) required, college graduates preferred * 3+ years of strong graphic ...

Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a related field, or equivalent ... Tuition Reimbursement (up to graduate degree) EEO Statement Starz is an equal employment ...

The graphic designer will play an important role in the growth of our design team, and will be ... Must be currently enrolled in a graduate or undergraduate program. Education: Candidate must be ...

The graphic designer will play an important role in the growth of our design team, and will be ... Must be currently enrolled in a graduate or undergraduate program. Education: Candidate must be ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Graduate Graphic Designer information

See California salary details

$12

$26

$42

How much do graduate graphic designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate graphic designer in California is $26.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $30.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate graphic designer?

A Graduate Graphic Designer is an entry-level role for individuals who have recently completed a degree in graphic design or a related field. They assist in creating visual content for digital and print media, working under the guidance of senior designers or creative directors. Responsibilities typically include designing marketing materials, branding assets, and social media graphics while refining technical skills in software like Adobe Creative Suite. This role provides hands-on experience and helps build a professional portfolio, paving the way for career growth in the design industry.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a graduate graphic designer typically expect in their first role?

As a Graduate Graphic Designer, you can expect to work on a variety of design projects such as creating digital graphics, layouts for print or web, social media assets, brand materials, and assisting in larger campaigns. Entry-level designers often collaborate closely with senior designers, copywriters, and marketing teams, taking direction while also contributing fresh ideas. Responsibilities may also include supporting administrative tasks like file management and preparing artwork for production. Over time, as you gain experience and confidence, you'll likely be given more creative autonomy and the opportunity to take ownership of entire projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the graduate graphic designer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Graphic Designer, you need a solid grounding in design principles, image editing, and layout, usually supported by a relevant degree or diploma. Proficiency in industry-standard design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and an up-to-date digital portfolio are typically expected. Strong communication, creativity, time management, and receptive attitude to feedback enable collaboration and ongoing improvement. These skills and qualities are essential for delivering effective visual solutions that meet client or organizational objectives while developing professionally in the field.

How much does a graduate graphic designer make?

A graduate graphic designer typically earns between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and level of experience. Entry-level positions often start at the lower end of this range, with salaries increasing as skills and portfolios develop.

How to become a graduate graphic designer after graduation?

To become a graduate graphic designer, individuals should complete a relevant degree such as a Bachelor's in Graphic Design or a related field, build a strong portfolio showcasing their work, and gain experience through internships or entry-level positions. Proficiency in design software like Adobe Creative Suite and understanding of design principles are essential for entry into the profession.

What all can you do with a graduate graphic designer degree?

A graduate graphic designer degree prepares individuals for roles in visual communication, branding, advertising, and digital media. Graduates can work as graphic designers, art directors, or visual content creators, utilizing tools like Adobe Creative Suite and developing skills in layout, typography, and color theory. The degree also provides a foundation for freelance work or further specialization in areas such as UI/UX design.

What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Graphic Designer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Graduate Graphic Designer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Graduate Graphic Designer jobs in California?

For Graduate Graphic Designer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Graduate Graphic Designer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Graphic Designer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Graduate Graphic Designer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Graduate Graphic Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Graduate Graphic Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,218 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Lead Graphic Designer

San Luis Obispo, CA

Associated Students, Inc.
Non-Profits • 11 - 50 employees

$18.40/hr

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Definition and Purpose 

The Lead Graphic Designer reports to the Assistant Coordinator-Marketing (Creative Operations). The Lead Graphic Designer is responsible for creating and supporting the graphics needs for ASI promotional, collateral, and digital materials. In addition, the Lead Graphic Designer will provide scheduling assistance, review concepts or campaigns to ensure brand standards, prepare and revise training materials, create, and monitor daily or weekly task lists, and support the technical needs of the other graphic designers. The team of designers must deliver creative solutions while still maintaining a consistent ASI branded appearance that is attentive to the Cal Poly brand in the design, layout, artwork, and color for all promotional print and digital materials. 

ASI is committed to supporting the aspirations of the university learning objectives. Our employees are expected to make reasoned decisions based on ethics, respect for diversity, and an awareness of issues of sustainability. Additionally, they will work productively as individuals and in groups while communicating effectively.

This position is based at the Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, CA.

Requirements

Educational Requirements and Qualifying Experience 
  • Must be a currently enrolled student at Cal Poly with a minimum of 6 units. Graduate students must carry 4 units. 
  • Knowledge and experience in creation of original artwork. 
  • Knowledge and experience in the study of typography. 
  • Excellent working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite and Mac computers. 
  • Working knowledge of video or motion graphics preferred. 
  • Ability to be highly organized, work independently, and have good planning skills. 
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills. 
  • Working knowledge of Windows and Microsoft Office. 
  • Ability to initiate, establish, and foster communication and teamwork bymaintaining a positive, cooperative, productive work atmosphere.  
  • Ability to establish and maintain effectiveworking relationships within a diverse population and with those fromvarious cultural backgrounds, specific needs, or limitations. 
Supervisory Responsibilities 
  • None 
Essential Duties and Responsibilities 
  • Ability to use graphic creation skills. 
  • Prepare graphics for print and digital marketing materials, such as fliers, brochures, posters, T-shirts, web advertisements, social media posts, etc. 
  • Coordinate photography or video graphics as needed for assignments. 
  • Plan and implement print layouts for multi-page publications, integrated marketing campaigns, and individual collateral pieces. 
  • Adhere to established project deadlines and maintain an up-to-date work calendar. 
  • Establish and monitor daily and/or weekly priorities and task lists.  
  • Work with on- and off-campus vendors to obtain quotes, set production timeline, send product to print, check proofs, and receive final product. 
  • Maintain consistent communication directly with clients to coordinate project details to ensure deadlines and the most appropriate design applications, including but not limited to scheduling, assessing photography or video needs, original artwork creation, and revisions.  
  • Maintain archives of individual project specifications, drafts, and final proofs. 
  • Adhere to ASI style and branding guidelines.  
  • Adhere to Cal Poly brand guidelines as required by project. 
  • Attend all mandatory meetings, workshops, and retreats. 
  • Provide quality customer service for all staff and customers. 
  • Willing to learn new technology and provide training to the other graphic designer staff. 
  • Give attention to detail. 
  • Conduct inventory of supplies and communicate needs to supervisor. 
  • Provide leadership and guidance to the other graphic designer staff. 
  • Awareness of safety concerns and risk management. 
  • Maintain prompt hours and follow absence procedures. 
  • Maintain a working relationship with staff and co-workers. 
  • Adhere and enforce all ASI departmental policies and procedures. 
  • Ensure a safe environment for all participants. 
  • Commitment to student development and leadership. 
  • Work well with others and be self-motivated. 
  • Other duties as assigned.  
Period of Employment 

Employment with this organization is of an "at will" nature, which means that the employee may resign at any time and ASI may discharge the employee at any time with or without cause. 

Benefits

Compensation and Hours 
  • Hourly Pay Rate: $18.40 per hour 
  • Hourly Pay Range: $18.40 per hour - $18.40 per hour 

Requires a minimum of two consecutive terms of work availability

Location: Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, CA.

The Associated Students, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.Â