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Graphic Design Associate Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Graphic Design Associate information

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$11

$24

$39

How much do graphic design associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for graphic design associate in Tennessee is $24.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $28.37 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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Graphic Design jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Graphic Design Associate jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Graphic Design Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Graphic Design Associate job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,782 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Digital Print Specialist / Center Associate

The UPS Store Belle Meade #3679

Nashville, TN

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

The Digital Print Specialist / Center Associate delivers world-class customer service to all retail customers, including business owners, corporate professionals, and busy families. He or she packs and processes shipments for local, national, and international delivery using a variety of carriers and also manages and produces graphics and print orders. In addition, he or she operates copiers, fax machines, binding equipment, laminators, and cash registers, among other daily tasks. The Associate expertly advises our valued customers by providing accurate information on our array of products, services, and best-value options and exhibits confidence by knowing best practices related to the industry.
The ideal candidate has at least one year of customer service experience, one to two years of experience in a print production/graphic design role or a two-year degree in graphic design or a related field, experience with Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office, knowledge of printing concepts, a friendly and genuinely helpful demeanor, and a professional appearance. He or she is driven to succeed and is an energetic self-starter and team-player who is trustworthy and a fast learner.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Understands and fulfills the needs of walk-in customers and telephone/email inquiries
  • Communicates effectively and continuously practices good listening with customers, co-workers, vendors, and leadership
  • Empathizes and manages demanding, impatient, and/or frustrated customers to turn a stressful event into a positive experience
  • Takes ownership of customers’ packing, shipping, and/or print problems and offers viable solutions
  • Packages shipments for safe arrival, including assembling stock boxes, building custom boxes, and properly cushioning contents
  • Manages the logistics of small to medium projects, follows through to completion, and updates all parties as needed
  • Produces/designs, proofs, and updates materials for print projects using Adobe and Microsoft Suites for both Mac and PC
  • Operates all equipment, software, and devices in an expert fashion and is willing to teach others
  • Prioritizes and optimizes the work load to streamline the production flow
  • Frequently multi-tasks while maintaining extreme attention to detail and high quality control
  • Maintains a clean, organized, and safe working environment
  • May open and/or close the store and perform end-of-day accounting, etc.
  • Takes action to learn NEW products, services, alternative solutions, and industry trends as well as occasionally reviewing/retraining on lesser used services
  • Performs other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

  • High school diploma or GED required
  • One year of customer service experience required (more preferred)
  • One to two years of experience or a two-year degree in graphic design or a related field
  • Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Suites
  • Knowledge and application of printing concepts
  • Good communication and people skills
  • Strong analytical and math skills
  • Highly organized and detail oriented
  • Good project and time management skills
  • Able to work and complete tasks independently in a quick turn environment
  • Able to work collaboratively
  • High energy level
  • Prompt, reliable, and responsible
  • Able to lift 40+ pounds