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Graphic Design Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Graphic Design & Branding Event materials, social assets, sponsor decks, brand consistency ... Top-performing interns may be invited to continue beyond the initial term as Associates within the ...

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Graphic Design & Branding Event materials, social assets, sponsor decks, brand consistency ... Top-performing interns may be invited to continue beyond the initial term as Associates within the ...

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Graphic Design & Branding Event materials, social assets, sponsor decks, brand consistency ... Top-performing interns may be invited to continue beyond the initial term as Associates within the ...

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Graphic Design & Branding Event materials, social assets, sponsor decks, brand consistency ... Top-performing interns may be invited to continue beyond the initial term as Associates within the ...

$14.25 - $19/hr

Graphic Design & Branding Event materials, social assets, sponsor decks, brand consistency ... Top-performing interns may be invited to continue beyond the initial term as Associates within the ...

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Graphic Design & Branding Event materials, social assets, sponsor decks, brand consistency ... Top-performing interns may be invited to continue beyond the initial term as Associates within the ...

Associate's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Digital Media, or related field, or equivalent portfolio experience * Minimum of 5 years of professional graphic design experience ...

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

From photography and journalism to graphic design and videography, Navy MCs can do it all. We're ... College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate degree through the American Council on ...

$19 - $26.25/hr

From photography and journalism to graphic design and videography, Navy MCs can do it all. We're ... College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate degree through the American Council on ...

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

From photography and journalism to graphic design and videography, Navy MCs can do it all. We're ... College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate degree through the American Council on ...

$19 - $26.25/hr

From photography and journalism to graphic design and videography, Navy MCs can do it all. We're ... College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate degree through the American Council on ...

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

From photography and journalism to graphic design and videography, Navy MCs can do it all. We're ... College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate degree through the American Council on ...

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Graphic Design Associate information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$25

$40

How much do graphic design associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for graphic design associate in Iowa is $25.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $29.38 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.

Is AI replacing graphic designers?

AI tools are increasingly used in graphic design to automate repetitive tasks and generate ideas, but they do not fully replace graphic designers. The role of a graphic design associate involves creativity, client collaboration, and technical skills that AI cannot replicate entirely. Human judgment and artistic sensibility remain essential in producing unique and effective designs.

What is the 70/30 rule in graphic design?

The 70/30 rule in graphic design suggests that 70% of a design should be whitespace or background, allowing 30% for focal content or visuals. For a Graphic Design Associate, understanding this balance helps create clear, effective layouts and improves visual hierarchy using tools like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator.

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 is an associate graphic designer?

An associate graphic designer is an entry-level or junior position in the graphic design field, responsible for creating visual content under the supervision of senior designers. They typically use design software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator and may work on projects such as branding, marketing materials, and digital media. This role often requires a relevant associate degree or certification and developing skills in layout, color theory, and visual communication.

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 can an associate's degree in graphic design get you?

An associate's degree in graphic design prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as graphic design assistant or junior designer, focusing on skills like Adobe Creative Suite and visual communication. It can lead to opportunities in advertising, marketing, or media companies, often requiring a portfolio and proficiency with design tools.
What are the most commonly searched types of Graphic Design jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Graphic Design jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Graphic Design Associate jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Graphic Design Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Graphic Design Associate job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,553 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Artist - Graphic Designer

Competitive Edge Advertising Specialty Mfg. Co.

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Competitive Edge Advertising Specialty Mfg. Co. (Competitive Edge) is a large promotional products manufacturer and distributor located in Des Moines, Iowa and our extensive use of cutting edge technology makes us industry leaders. We have several websites and specialize in a wide variety of imprinted advertising specialty and promotional products. The Art Department is charged with enhancing the image of our company, as well as that of our clients.

We are seeking an Experienced Graphic Designer to join our Art Department in the design and layout of a variety of creative materials, including logos, t-shirts, catalogs, websites, marketing collateral and more. In this dynamic role you will apply your creative expertise to conceptualize, articulate, and present concepts.

Duties include, but are not limited to:

· Develop effective designs and layouts including logos, t-shirts, print and digital publications, catalogs, space ads, direct mail pieces, insert pieces, sample boxes, brochures, etc.

· Design and preparation of digital promotions including e-newsletters/e-blasts, websites, banners, social media, marketing collateral, etc.

· Create, clean up, or resize customer’s art and/or logos for various types of ad specialties and promotional products including artwork required for catalog orders.

· Create artwork for film output related to textile screen printing and digitizing of artwork for embroidery.

· Produce the artwork specifications for all ad specialty orders as described on art specification sheets or according to requirements described by salespersons or members of the management team.

· Prepare final original artwork to accompany purchase orders to vendors of imprinted ad specialty products.

Qualifications:

· Technical art or graphic design training or instruction; Associate Degree in Applied Arts, Graphic Design, or Commercial Art.

· At least 3 years experience of professional graphic design experience working with print, web, and digital media.

· Expertise in using Adobe Creative Suite

· Thorough knowledge of print, web, and digital production processes.

· Must have production skills including trapping color, textile color separation, etc.

· Capacity to work in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment.

· Ability to juggle multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines while paying impeccable attention to detail.

· Self-starter who works well independently and in a team environment with a strong interest in graphic design.

· Positive outlook and professionalism in all aspects of daily tasks.

We offer a competitive compensation package commensurate with knowledge and experience level. For consideration, please send resume with salary history and requirements. Please reference “Graphic Designer” in the subject line. EOE.


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