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Graduate Illustrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DePaul

Adjunct Faculty in Illustration

Chicago, IL · On-site

The School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs ... Illustration courses are affiliated with the Storyboarding and Character Design concentration ...

24 Seven Talent

Assistant Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Recent fashion design graduate or someone with entry-level Assistant Designer experience * Strong Adobe Illustrator skills required * Ability to create CADs quickly and accurately * Experience ...

Biostate AI

Be Seen First

Motion Graphics Designer

Houston, TX · Remote

$55K - $75K/yr

Recent graduate in design, animation, film, or a related field * A portfolio demonstrating both motion or video work and illustration or visual design * Proficiency in Adobe After Effects (required ...

New

Biostate AI

Be Seen First

Motion Graphics Designer

Houston, TX · Remote

$55K - $75K/yr

Recent graduate in design, animation, film, or a related field * A portfolio demonstrating both motion or video work and illustration or visual design * Proficiency in Adobe After Effects (required ...

New

Point Loma Nazarene University

$5.0K - $6.6K/mo

Provide instruction in the area of the graduate programs including some general education and ... deliver illustrated lectures. * Successful candidate will work strategically with diverse ...

TekSky

Senior Graphic Designer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$67K - $92K/yr

... School graduate or equivalent • Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design, Illustration, Visual Communications, or related field preferred • 10+ years of professional graphic design experience ...

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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 Sep 2, 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 is a graduate illustrator?

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.

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.

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 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.

Are graduate illustrators still in demand?

Graduate illustrators are still in demand as visual communication remains essential across industries such as publishing, advertising, and digital media. Success often depends on developing a strong portfolio, mastering digital tools like Adobe Creative Suite, and staying updated with industry trends.

Is a degree in illustration worth it?

For a graduate illustrator, a degree in illustration can provide foundational skills, industry knowledge, and networking opportunities that may enhance job prospects. However, success in the field also depends on a strong portfolio, technical skills, and experience with digital tools like Adobe Creative Suite. Practical experience and a compelling portfolio often weigh heavily in hiring decisions.

What can I do with a master's in illustration?

A master's in illustration prepares graduates for roles such as professional illustrator, concept artist, or visual designer in industries like publishing, advertising, and entertainment. It enhances skills in digital tools, creative development, and project management, enabling work in freelance, studio, or corporate environments.

What jobs can I get with a degree in graduate illustration?

A graduate illustrator can pursue roles such as children's book illustrator, concept artist for video games and films, editorial illustrator, or freelance artist. These positions typically require strong drawing skills, proficiency with digital tools like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator, and a portfolio showcasing diverse work.
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:

What job categories do people searching Graduate Illustrator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Illustrator jobs are:

Graduate Illustrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Illustrator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Internship, 84% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $59,345 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Adjunct Faculty, Visual Communications & Design (Illustration & Interactive Media)

Tri-C

Westlake, OH • On-site

$942/wk

Part-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Adjunct Faculty, Visual Communications & Design (Illustration & Interactive Media)
Special Note: This is a part-time (adjunct) faculty position. Candidates will be interviewed and hired on an as-needed basis throughout the academic year.
Department: Creative Arts
Location: College-Wide
Reports To: Associate Dean
Recruitment Type: External/Internal
Requisition ID: req7028
Employment Type: Part-Time Faculty
Union Position: Non-Union
Work Schedule: To be determined based on business unit needs. Classes may be offered during the day, evening and/or weekend. Please indicate your availability when applying for this position.
Job Description:
Teaches a full range of courses invisual communications and design for print, web and interactive media.
  • Prepares and delivers learning activities in order to achieve course outcomes
  • Prepares course materials such as syllabi, homework assignments and handouts
  • Evaluates and grades students' class work, laboratory work, assignments, papers, and examinations
  • Maintains and submits student attendance records, grades and other required documentation by specified deadlines
  • Be available to students for coaching
  • Periodic meetings with supervisors, division, or College, relative to teaching duties and training and development

RequiredQualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Design or related field.
  • Ability to teach Digital Illustration, Visual Communication and Interactive Media courses
  • Proficiency in communication and presentation
  • 2 years industry experience
  • Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (or equivalent)
  • Advanced communication (verbal, written and interpersonal) and organizational skills
  • Appropriately responds to the needs of the community
  • Proficiency in industry standard design software

PreferredQualifications:
  • 18 graduate-level course hours in Visual Communications & Design
  • Teaching experience

In order to be considered for an Adjunct faculty position, these additional documents are required to be uploaded: Unofficial transcript & license/certifications (Based on requirements outlined in posting).
Special Note: This is a Part-Time Faculty position, with the following set rate of pay: $942.00/Equated Semester Unit (ESU)
Special Instructions to Applicants: During the application process, you may be required to attach a cover letter and/or resume. It is recommended that you have these documents ready to be attached electronically to the online application. This system accepts only MS Word or PDF attachments. Any employment with the College is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check.
Adjunct only: If hired, you must reside in the state of Ohio and be within commuting distance of this work location/campus to respond to onsite work demands from your employment start date and throughout the duration of your employment with the College, as outlined inAdjunct Faculty, Visual Communications & Design (Illustration & Interactive Media)
Special Note: This is a part-time (adjunct) faculty position. Candidates will be interviewed and hired on an as-needed basis throughout the academic year.
Department: Creative Arts
Location: College-Wide
Reports To: Associate Dean
Recruitment Type: External/Internal
Requisition ID: req7028
Employment Type: Part-Time Faculty
Union Position: Non-Union
Work Schedule: To be determined based on business unit needs. Classes may be offered during the day, evening and/or weekend. Please indicate your availability when applying for this position.
Job Description:
Teaches a full range of courses invisual communications and design for print, web and interactive media.
  • Prepares and delivers learning activities in order to achieve course outcomes
  • Prepares course materials such as syllabi, homework assignments and handouts
  • Evaluates and grades students' class work, laboratory work, assignments, papers, and examinations
  • Maintains and submits student attendance records, grades and other required documentation by specified deadlines
  • Be available to students for coaching
  • Periodic meetings with supervisors, division, or College, relative to teaching duties and training and development

RequiredQualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Design or related field.
  • Ability to teach Digital Illustration, Visual Communication and Interactive Media courses
  • Proficiency in communication and presentation
  • 2 years industry experience
  • Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (or equivalent)
  • Advanced communication (verbal, written and interpersonal) and organizational skills
  • Appropriately responds to the needs of the community
  • Proficiency in industry standard design software

PreferredQualifications:
  • 18 graduate-level course hours in Visual Communications & Design
  • Teaching experience

In order to be considered for an Adjunct faculty position, these additional documents are required to be uploaded: Unofficial transcript & license/certifications (Based on requirements outlined in posting).
Special Instructions to Applicants: During the application process, you may be required to attach a cover letter and/or resume. It is recommended that you have these documents ready to be attached electronically to the online application. This system accepts only MS Word or PDF attachments. Any employment with the College is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check and drug screen.
Adjunct only: If hired, you must reside in the state of Ohio and be within commuting distance of this work location/campus to respond to onsite work demands from your employment start date and throughout the duration of your employment with the College, as outlined in 3354:1-40-01.2 Adjunct Faculty Hiring and Employment Procedure.
Affirmative Action Statement: Cuyahoga Community College is committed to attaining excellence through the recruitment and retention of a qualified and diverse workforce. Cuyahoga Community College is an equal employment/educational opportunity institution.
"> 3354:1-40-01.2 Adjunct Faculty Hiring and Employment Procedure.
Equal Opportunity Statement: Cuyahoga Community College is committed to attaining excellence through the recruitment and retention of a qualified workforce. Cuyahoga Community College is an equal employment/educational opportunity institution.

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