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Graphic Design Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Graphic Designer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

This role is responsible for leading and executing creative design projects, mentoring Jr. and Associate level Graphic designers, and collaborating with various stakeholders to develop visually ...

This role is responsible for leading and executing creative design projects, mentoring Jr. and Associate level Graphic designers, and collaborating with various stakeholders to develop visually ...

This role is responsible for leading and executing creative design projects, mentoring Jr. and Associate level Graphic designers, and collaborating with various stakeholders to develop visually ...

ASSOCIATE GRAPHIC DESIGNER Madhappy is a Los Angeles-based clothing brand made for a community of ... Interpret trend boards and design direction in order to develop graphics and textiles for all ...

ASSOCIATE GRAPHIC DESIGNER Madhappy is a Los Angeles-based clothing brand made for a community of ... Interpret trend boards and design direction in order to develop graphics and textiles for all ...

ASSOCIATE GRAPHIC DESIGNER Madhappy is a Los Angeles-based clothing brand made for a community of ... Interpret trend boards and design direction in order to develop graphics and textiles for all ...

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Graphic Design Associate information

See California salary details

$12

$26

$42

How much do graphic design associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for graphic design associate 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.

How does a graphic design associate typically collaborate with other team members on projects?

As a Graphic Design Associate, you will frequently collaborate with other designers, copywriters, marketing specialists, and project managers to bring creative projects to life. Collaboration often involves participating in brainstorming sessions, sharing drafts for feedback, and revising designs based on input from both the creative team and stakeholders. Effective communication and openness to constructive criticism are key, as projects may require quick turnarounds and multiple rounds of revisions. This team-oriented environment offers valuable learning opportunities and helps develop both your creative and interpersonal skills.

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

AspectGraphic Design AssociateGraphic Designer
CredentialsAssociate degree or equivalent in graphic design or related fieldBachelor’s degree in graphic design or related field often preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting design teams in agencies or in-house departmentsCreative roles with more independence, often leading projects
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with design tasks, preparing files, basic layoutsCreating original designs, managing projects, client interaction

Graphic Design Associates typically support senior designers with foundational tasks and have entry-level credentials, while Graphic Designers take on more complex projects and often hold a bachelor’s degree. Both roles are common in creative agencies and corporate settings, but the Designer role usually involves more responsibility and creative independence.

What does a graphic design associate do?

A Graphic Design Associate assists in creating visual content for various media, such as advertisements, websites, social media, and print materials. They work under the supervision of senior designers or art directors, helping to develop concepts, layouts, and designs that communicate a brand’s message effectively. Their tasks may include editing images, selecting colors and fonts, and preparing files for print or digital publication. This role often requires proficiency in design software like Adobe Creative Suite and strong attention to detail.

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

To thrive as a Graphic Design Associate, you need a solid understanding of design principles, proficiency in typography, color theory, and a portfolio showcasing creative work, often supported by a degree in graphic design or a related field. Expertise in industry-standard tools like Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and familiarity with digital asset management systems are typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication, and time management skills help you collaborate effectively and meet project deadlines. These competencies ensure high-quality visual output that aligns with brand identity and client objectives in a fast-paced environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Graphic Design jobs in California? The most popular types of Graphic Design jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Graphic Design Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Graphic Design Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Graphic Design Associate job openings in California 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 $55,218 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Part-Time Graphic Design Instructor (Pool)

West Valley-Mission CCD

Saratoga, CA

$36K - $52K/yr

Part-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Position Information
Position Title Part-Time Graphic Design Instructor (Pool) Position ID Campus Mission College
Position Summary Information
Definition
PART-TIME, ASSOCIATE FACULTY POOL
Applications for Part-Time, Associate Faculty pools are continually accepted (unless otherwise specified) by the District and will be added to the application pool for review by hiring authorities on an as-needed basis. Should you be invited for an interview, you will be contacted by a District representative.
Assignment
Teaching assignments are available in multiple areas, including Graphic Design, Web Design, Web Development, 3D Animation, Video Production and Editing, Interface Design, User Experience Design, and more.
This position is a part-time position as an Associate Instructor. The teaching assignment may require teaching lecture-discussion courses during day, evening or on Saturday and/or in an on-line/distance education format. The assignments are as needed, during Spring, Summer, and/or Fall semesters. This position is represented by the West Valley-Mission Federation of Teachers (WVMFT / AFT Local 6554).
Work location: Mission College, Santa Clara, CA
Salary and Benefits
Salary is based on a percentage of workload, up to a maximum of 67% of a full-time load. Salary is prorated based on an initial hiring salary range of $36,191 - $52,297 per semester; and is based on academic achievement, teaching and related experience.
Minimum Qualifications
1. Education & Experience - Possess one of the following:
  • Any bachelor's degree AND two years of graphic design, or related, professional experience; OR
  • Any associate's degree AND six years of graphic design, or related, professional experience; OR
  • A valid California Community College Instructor's Credential in the discipline; OR
  • The equivalent of the above.

AND
2. Demonstrated ability to effectively work with persons of diverse socioeconomic, cultural, disability, and ethnic backgrounds.
Desired Qualifications
The ideal candidate will also demonstrate the following desired qualification(s):
  • Master's degree related to Graphic Design and Multimedia preferred.
  • Teaching, training, and/or cultural life experiences which enable one to teach, tutor, and mentor students from diverse language, cultural, ethnic, socio-economic, or educational backgrounds.
  • Ability to take an active role in working with faculty, student groups, and college support services, particularly within the Department and Division.
  • Professional background in print and web design or video work is desirable.
  • Two to five years experience in the graphic design/multimedia industry.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
  • Experience in interacting with advisory boards and other community leaders.
Examples of Duties and Responsibilities
Instructional duties and assignments may consist of one or more of the following:
  • Provide instruction for assigned courses. This includes preparation for in-class or on-line/distance education activities, evaluation of students' work, consultation with students outside of class and/or on-line, maintenance of currency in the subjects taught.
  • Maintain accurate class and other records required by the college.
  • Submit, when due, attendance rosters and grade reports.
  • Follow course outlines as filed in the instruction offices.
  • Maintain office hours each week, at .5 hours per week per section.
  • Observe, support and enforce the regulations, policies and programs of the District and college.
  • Provide each student with a written course syllabus at the beginning of the course, as per instructions in the Faculty Handbook.
  • Refer students to appropriate college sources for information on counseling and other student services.
  • Assist students by providing advice on requirements for successful achievement in the members' area of expertise.
  • Work cooperatively within the college community.
  • Foster an environment that protects academic freedom within the college community.
  • Foster a positive working environment that is free from harassment, prejudice and/or bias.
  • Demonstrate a respect for the dignity of each individual.
Other Duties Application Information
APPLICATION INFORMATION:
  • Interested applicants must submit online all materials requested, including: (1) A completed online West Valley-Mission Community College District application; (2) Resume; (3) Unofficial copies of transcripts; (4) District Equivalency Application, if applicable; and (5) Any requested licenses or certificates, if applicable.
  • All sections of the online application, including Education and Educational Work History, must be completed thoroughly.
  • Supervisor(s) name(s) and telephone numbers must be included in the application.
  • Incomplete applications will not be considered.
  • Do NOT send unrequested materials. Unrequested materials will be removed from your application and will not be used for consideration of employment.
  • The employment application and supporting documents represent you; it is to your advantage to fill out the application form carefully and completely.

ABOUT TRANSCRIPTS:
  • If a minimum requirement is possession of a degree, then a copy of transcripts is required to be included with your application to verify the degree being awarded. If no transcripts are included or the transcript does not show a degree conferred AND degree conferred date, the application may be screened as not meeting minimum requirements.
  • Degrees must have been awarded by a college or university accredited by an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Council on Post-Secondary Accreditation and/or the U.S. Department of Education.
  • Candidates with degrees earned outside of the United States must provide official certification of equivalency to U. S. degrees by a certified U. S. credential review service, must have a U.S. evaluation (course by course of the transcripts) and must be submitted with this online application.
  • If you do not have an electronic version of the transcript, you can get it scanned at an office supply or copy store, then attach the electronic version of your transcript to this online application.
  • Copies of diplomas, grade reports, graduation petitions, transcript evaluations requests, or similar documents WILL NOT be accepted in lieu of transcripts.
  • When uploading transcripts, please ensure they are NOT encrypted, secured, or password-protected or they will be rejected by the system.

EQUIVALENCY INFORMATION:
Applicants applying under equivalency bear the responsibility of submitting the District's Equivalency Application form with details and evidence of the factors (academic preparation and/or experience) that they believe to be equivalent of the required qualifications for this position. Application(s) for equivalency are required if degrees are not in exact discipline required.
The Equivalency Application is included in the online application as an OPTIONAL form to complete.
  • ONLY complete the Request for Equivalency application if degree does not match discipline(s) stated in the Minimum Qualifications.
  • List accurately and completely the courses taken that match requirements of the required degree.
  • Do NOT attach documents such as course evaluations.

For reasonable accommodations and assistance, contact:
Office of Human Resources, Attn: Recruitment
14000 Fruitvale Ave, Saratoga, CA 95070
Phone: (408) 741-2174 Fax: (408) 741-2564
Email: Jobs@wvm.edu
Selection Process
SELECTION PROCESS INFORMATION:
  • Applications will be screened by appropriate department representatives on an as-needed basis. Qualified applicants who best meet the needs of the division will be contacted for an interview.
  • Travel expenses to attend the interview are the responsibility of the candidate.
  • Applications will remain in our online system for 1 year. Each year, part-time pools will be refreshed and applicants will be notified of the opportunity to re-submit application.
  • Application materials become the property of the District and will not be returned or duplicated.
  • The district reserves the right to contact former, current, the most recent employers, and others to investigate past employment records of applicants.
  • Upon hire the successful candidate must provide the required documents of identity and authorization to work and attest he/she is authorized to work in the United States.
  • The district does not provide visa sponsorship.

EEO STATEMENT:
West Valley-Mission Community College District is an Equal Opportunity Employer that seeks to employ a diverse workforce who will contribute to an inclusive and welcoming educational and employment environment. The District is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of ethnic group identification, race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, physical disability, mental disability, ancestry, sexual orientation, language, accent, citizenship status, transgender status, parental status, marital status, economic status, veteran status, and medical condition consistent with applicable federal and state laws.
Special Instructions to the Applicant
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number FY14/15-009POOL Open Date 05/22/2025 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes