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Graphic Design Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Finity Inc

Graphic Designer

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$65K/yr

... * Assist with maintaining design systems, components, and digital design standards Requirements ... of professional graphic, visual, or digital design experience * Professional portfolio ...

NBBJ

Architectural Project Manager

Portland, OR · On-site

$84K - $113K/yr

Lead decision making process with fiscal accountability and responsibility * Assist with proposal ... Architecture, Environmental Graphic Design, Interior Design, Lighting Design, Workplace Consulting ...

SERA Architects Inc

Architectural Project Assist

Portland, OR · On-site

$84K - $113K/yr

Create graphic presentations such as design review, client presentations and marketing collateral. * Coordinate specific details or work scope with sub consultants with supervision. * Work with ...

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All JobsGraphic Design JobsGraphic Design Assistant JobsGraphic Design Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

Graphic Design Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$27.6K

$42.5K

$59.9K

How much do graphic design assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for graphic design assistant in Portland, OR is $42,515.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,000.00 and $46,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a graphic design assistant do?

As a graphic design assistant, it is your job to help the lead graphic designer complete all print, online, and electronic media projects. You prepare marketing materials, create print layouts, give creative input, develop logos and images, and design promotional tools. The career requires graphic design experience, often gained in internships, and a bachelor’s degree in design or a closely related field. Other than a degree, there are few formal qualifications required for a career in graphic design, although you may pursue skills certifications in web development, print technology, or some other adjacent specialization to be more competitive in your job search.

What does a graphic design assistant do?

A Graphic Design Assistant supports graphic designers and creative teams by helping with the creation and editing of visual content. They may assist in designing graphics for print, web, or social media, preparing files for production, and organizing project assets. Typical tasks include resizing images, updating layouts, conducting image research, and ensuring brand guidelines are followed. This role is ideal for individuals looking to gain hands-on experience in graphic design and learn about the creative process in a professional setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graphic design assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graphic Design Assistant, you need a solid understanding of design principles, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), and often a relevant degree or coursework in graphic design. Familiarity with digital asset management systems, file preparation for print and web, and basic project management tools is typically expected. Strong attention to detail, time management, and effective communication help you collaborate with designers and meet project deadlines. These skills ensure that design projects are executed efficiently, accurately, and in alignment with creative direction.

What are some common challenges faced by graphic design assistants and how can they be addressed?

Graphic Design Assistants often juggle multiple projects with tight deadlines, which can lead to time management challenges. They may also need to adapt quickly to shifting client preferences or feedback from senior designers. To address these challenges, it’s helpful to develop strong organizational skills, maintain open communication with the team, and be proactive in seeking clarification on project requirements. Embracing constructive criticism and being willing to learn new design tools can also help assistants grow and excel in the role.

What is the difference between Graphic Design Assistant vs Graphic Designer?

AspectGraphic Design AssistantGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant certificationBachelor's degree in Graphic Design or related field
Work EnvironmentSupport role in design teams, often in agencies or corporate settingsLead projects, create original designs, and client interaction
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level support in marketing, advertising, and media companiesDesigning branding, advertising, and digital content for clients

The main difference between a Graphic Design Assistant and a Graphic Designer lies in their responsibilities and experience level. The assistant supports the design team with tasks like preparing files and minor edits, while the designer creates original concepts and manages projects. Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds, but the designer typically has more experience and a broader scope of work.

More about Graphic Design Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Graphic Design jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Graphic Design jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Graphic Design Assistant jobs in Portland, OR?

For Graphic Design Assistant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Graphic Design Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Graphic Design Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Graphic Design Assistant jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Graphic Design Assistant job openings:

Graphic Design Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graphic Design Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,515 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Design Assistant - Gear

Portland, OR • On-site

Perry Ellis International
Apparel and Accessories Stores • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Perry Ellis Internationalexternal

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

SUMMARY: 
Responsible for administration and follow up of the product design process. Assists in the conceptual development of the accessories product line. Assist the Sr. Product Line Manager in the product creation process from concept to finished goods. The Design Assistant supports the team by managing color, print, techsheets, CADS, and print & graphic schematics. Additionally the Design Assistant maintains PLM system integrity, tracks milestones, ensuring that brand positioning, and performance metrics are met before production approval. For individuals entering a creative field, this role provides essential hands-on exposure to the industry flow.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Responsible for administration and follow up of the product design process, with a focus on adobe Illustrator, photoshop and indesign programs to assist in the overall design process.
  • Drive product relevance by synthesizing global market trends and color concepts into commercially viable, brand-right narratives.
  • Drive the visual execution of design concepts by owning the creation of trend and color boards, while providing critical asset and presentation support for key milestone reviews and partner presentations.
  • Champion product integrity by maintaining a meticulous library of accurate Illustrator CADs.
  • Collaborate seamlessly with the Sr. 3D Apparel Designer to review, audit, and perfect all 3D product renderings for cross-functional presentation.
  • Own and deliver clear, highly detailed tech sheets that streamline the development process from initial prototype to final product. Own clear communication of all tech sheet updates to Technical Designers and Product Developers.
  • Work with the Print & Pattern team on print & graphic development - creating concept artwork, assisting with rework of print layouts and schematics, and maintaining color pitch forms, ensuring final print & colorways are correct for development.
  • Create and maintain material and trim development forms.
  • Assist with reviewing product design concepts and prototypes, helping to ensure the product meets all specifications & requirements. Own comparison of prototypes back to mechanicals, and documentation of any variance. Assist with validation of prototypes prior to tooling approval.
  • Attend fitting sessions and/or wear-test sessions, capture necessary revisions to sketches/CADS and tech packs as needed. Partner with Associate Merchandiser & Sr. Product Line Manager to support the communication of updates out to cross-functional partners and vendor partners.
  • Attend development meetings to monitor development progress. Ensure a detailed recap of progress and any issues is provided to the lead PLM when he or she cannot attend meetings.
  • Responsible for updating the team of any style changes and uploading images to the PLM system.
  • Responsible for creating and maintaining all pack & fold instructions.
  • Assists Product Developer & Sr. Product Line Manager in approving lab dips, strike offs, print repeats, etc. and capturing any relevant notes / share out of revisions needed.
  • Responsible for maintaining seasonal overview of all print, fabric, material and trim development.
  • Responsible for maintaining all benefits and details information. Owns the integrity of the PDP pipeline, translating complex product attributes into accurate, consumer-facing verbiage.
  • Supports product development with proofing all new seasonal packaging layouts. Ensures final approved mechanicals are uploaded to the PLM system. Supports Sr. Product Line Manager with any necessary visuals to support the seasonal package briefing process.

SKILLS: 

  • Working knowledge of adobe illustrator, photoshop, and InDesign. Any experience in 3D modeling software (Rhino, etc) is a plus.
  • Foundational knowledge of accessories products, materials, and manufacturing methods.
  • Foundational knowledge and understanding of accessories & softgoods construction.
  • Foundational knowledge of general design principles, and color theory.
  • Ability to create basic 2D product sketches (in Illustrator).
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to prioritize and multitask.

REQUIREMENTS: 

  • BA or BS Degree in Product Design.
  • One year design experience (may include summer jobs, internships, etc.).
  • Proficient in Google suite, Adobe Suite, and working knowledge of Product Lifecycle Management Software.
  • A passion for product.

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