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Graduate Illustrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The typical and preferred level of education is a post graduate degree in the field of Medical Illustration, requiring at least two years of full-time study after a college degree. The terminal ...

The typical and preferred level of education is a post graduate degree in the field of Medical Illustration, requiring at least two years of full-time study after a college degree. The terminal ...

The typical and preferred level of education is a post graduate degree in the field of Medical Illustration, requiring at least two years of full-time study after a college degree. The terminal ...

The typical and preferred level of education is a post graduate degree in the field of Medical Illustration, requiring at least two years of full-time study after a college degree. The terminal ...

Graduate Assistant forOutdoor Adventure Full or Part Time: Part time Hours: 20 Exempt: No ... The use of a particular expression or illustration describing duties shall not be held to exclude ...

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Graduate Illustrator information

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$32.5K

$59.3K

$96K

How much do graduate illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate illustrator in the United States is $59,345.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $68,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Graduate Illustrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Illustrator, you need a solid foundation in drawing, visual storytelling, and design principles, usually backed by a relevant degree or portfolio. Familiarity with digital illustration tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) and a strong online portfolio are typically expected. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to accept feedback and collaborate make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for producing compelling artwork, meeting client needs, and succeeding in a competitive creative industry.

What are Graduate Illustrators?

Graduate Illustrators are individuals who have recently completed a degree in illustration or a related field and are starting their professional careers. They use artistic skills to create images for books, magazines, advertisements, digital media, and other visual communication projects. Graduate Illustrators often work on a freelance basis or as part of a creative team, building their portfolios and gaining experience in various industries. Their work helps visually communicate ideas, stories, or concepts to diverse audiences.

Is AI taking over illustration jobs?

AI is increasingly used in illustration to assist with tasks like generating concepts and automating repetitive work, but it has not replaced the need for skilled illustrators. Many employers value human creativity, artistic judgment, and the ability to customize work, making AI a tool rather than a substitute in the illustration profession.

Is an illustration degree worth it?

For a graduate illustrator, earning a degree can provide foundational skills, industry knowledge, and networking opportunities that may improve job prospects. However, success in illustration often depends on a strong portfolio, technical skills, and experience, which can sometimes be gained through self-study or apprenticeships instead of formal education.

What is the difference between Graduate Illustrator vs Junior Graphic Designer?

AspectGraduate IllustratorJunior Graphic Designer
Required CredentialsDegree in Illustration, Fine Arts, or related fieldDegree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, or related field
Work EnvironmentCreative studios, freelance projects, publishingAdvertising agencies, corporate branding, media companies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in publishing, entertainment, and art sectorsCommon in marketing, advertising, and digital media

Both roles often require a relevant degree and strong portfolio. While Graduate Illustrators focus on creating visual art and illustrations, Junior Graphic Designers work on broader visual communication projects. The roles overlap in creative environments, but their primary focus and industry applications differ slightly.

What types of projects can a Graduate Illustrator expect to work on in their first role?

As a Graduate Illustrator, you can expect to contribute to a variety of projects, such as creating illustrations for books, magazines, marketing materials, websites, and social media campaigns. Early-career illustrators often collaborate closely with art directors, graphic designers, and writers to ensure that their artwork aligns with the overall vision and message of each project. The work environment may be fast-paced and deadline-driven, requiring adaptability and effective communication skills. Over time, you'll gain exposure to different styles and mediums, helping you build a strong portfolio and develop your unique artistic voice.

Are illustrators still in demand?

Illustrators are still in demand in various industries such as publishing, advertising, and digital media, especially with the growth of online content and visual communication. Success often depends on skills in digital tools like Adobe Illustrator and a strong portfolio, as well as adaptability to new media and trends.

What jobs can I get with a degree in illustration?

A degree in illustration can lead to careers such as a professional illustrator, concept artist, storyboard artist, or visual designer. These roles often involve creating artwork for books, advertising, animation, video games, and film, requiring skills in digital tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Additional certifications or a strong portfolio can enhance job prospects in this field.
More about Graduate Illustrator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Illustrator jobs? The most popular types of Graduate Illustrator jobs are:
What states have the most Graduate Illustrator jobs? States with the most job openings for Graduate Illustrator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Graduate Illustrator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,345 per year, or $28.5 per hour.
Medical Illustrator

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 688 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

105th of 880 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Why Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.

Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.

Responsibilities

The medical illustrator develops and produces a variety of medical illustrations for commercial, editorial, and medical applications for Mayo Foundation. Duties include all aspects of illustration development: research, conceptualizing, sketching, and rendering.

This position is dedicated to Health Information and Content Services (HECS), the division responsible for delivering best-in-class consumer health & patient education content across a variety of channels and languages. The medical illustrator will partner with writers and education specialists to create clear, accurate, and engaging visuals that simplify and distill complex medical information for digital and print patient education materials and consumer-facing products.

This position is a combination of remote and on-site work; individual must live within a 100 mile driving distance to the Rochester Mayo Clinic campus.

**Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.  Also, Mayo Clinic DOES NOT participate in the F-1 STEM OPT extension program.


Qualifications

Requires a BFA, BA, or BS degree in Medical Illustration or Fine Art (drawing) from an accredited university, college, or school of design. A Bachelor's degree in biology is the minimum acceptable program of study. The typical and preferred level of education is a post graduate degree in the field of Medical Illustration, requiring at least two years of full-time study after a college degree. The terminal degree is an MS, MFA, or MA. At least 10 - 15 years of successful, professional experience in the field of medical illustration is required to offset lack of graduate level degree. A portfolio is required for review.


Exemption Status
Exempt
Compensation Detail
$80,516.80 - $120,827.20/ year
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Schedule
Full Time
Hours/Pay Period
80
Schedule Details
8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. or 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Weekend Schedule
Some nights or weekends as needed
International Assignment
No
Site Description
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is. 

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the 'EOE is the Law'.  Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

Recruiter
Pam SivlyQualifications:

Requires a BFA, BA, or BS degree in Medical Illustration or Fine Art (drawing) from an accredited university, college, or school of design. A Bachelor's degree in biology is the minimum acceptable program of study. The typical and preferred level of education is a post graduate degree in the field of Medical Illustration, requiring at least two years of full-time study after a college degree. The terminal degree is an MS, MFA, or MA. At least 10 - 15 years of successful, professional experience in the field of medical illustration is required to offset lack of graduate level degree. A portfolio is required for review.


What Mayo Clinic employees say

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About Mayo Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919