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Illustration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ILLUSTRATION PORTFOLIO IS REQUIRED WITH APPLICATION. All illustrations, designs, and other work products created under this engagement are the sole property of Spire or the client for whom the work ...

Make illustrations for animation * Work closely with other illustrator on same project * Manage your time and meet deadlines * Great at collaborating with our animators * Create awesome storyboards ...

Gather illustration requirements from the technical publications team, product managers, and subject matter experts (such as engineers, quality assurance, software developers) across many departments.

Medical Illustration & Visual Communication * Create medically accurate illustrations and visual assets for patient education materials. * Translate complex medical, anatomical and scientific ...

New

Principal Duties and Responsibilities Illustration & Creative Production • Create and prepare illustrated graphics for customization needs used in stores and on the web. • Illustrate and develop ...

Make illustrations for animation * Work closely with other illustrator on same project * Manage your time and meet deadlines * Great at collaborating with our animators * Create awesome storyboards ...

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Graphic Illustrator

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Hand-draw original art for retail packaging -- characters, caricatures, scenes, label and wrap illustration * Take work from rough sketch to print-ready file * Present concepts and sketch live in ...

Technical Illustrator

Elk River, MN · On-site

$27 - $31/hr

Associates degree or equivalent experience with an emphasis in Technical Illustration, Communication, and/or writing, or a related field with an emphasis on written communication. * Minimum of 1 year ...

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Illustration information

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$32.5K

$59.3K

$96K

How much do illustration jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for illustration 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 illustration and what does an illustrator do?

Illustration is the creation of visual imagery to explain, decorate, or clarify text and ideas. Illustrators use their artistic skills to produce drawings, paintings, or digital images for books, magazines, advertisements, packaging, and various media. Their work helps convey messages, tell stories, or enhance information in a visually engaging way. Illustrators may specialize in areas such as children's books, editorial illustration, concept art, or technical drawing, depending on their interests and skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an illustrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Illustrator, you need strong drawing ability, a solid grasp of design principles, and proficiency in color theory, often supported by a degree or coursework in art or design. Familiarity with digital illustration tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Procreate, or CorelDRAW is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help illustrators interpret briefs and collaborate with clients or teams. These skills are essential to produce compelling visual content that meets project objectives and resonates with target audiences.

What are some common challenges illustrators face when working on client projects, and how can they be managed?

Illustrators often encounter challenges such as unclear client briefs, shifting project scopes, and tight deadlines. Effective communication is key—clarifying expectations and regularly sharing progress can help avoid misunderstandings. Additionally, using contracts that outline deliverables and revision limits protects both the illustrator and the client. Building flexibility into your workflow and being open to feedback also ensures smoother collaborations and successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Illustration vs Graphic Designer?

AspectIllustrationGraphic Designer
CredentialsPortfolio, art skills, sometimes art or design degreesDesign degrees, software proficiency, portfolio
Work EnvironmentFreelance, studio, publishing, advertisingAgency, corporate, freelance, digital media
Industry UsageCreating visual art, book illustrations, concept artBranding, marketing materials, digital content

Illustration and graphic design share skills like creativity and visual communication, but illustration focuses on creating original artwork for books, products, or media, while graphic design emphasizes visual branding and layout for marketing and digital content. Both roles often collaborate but serve different primary purposes in the visual arts industry.

Do illustrators make good money?

Illustrators' earnings vary based on experience, specialization, and client base. Freelance illustrators often set their own rates, which can range from modest to high, while those working for companies or agencies typically have steady salaries that can range from entry-level to six figures annually. Success in the field often depends on skill, portfolio quality, and networking.

Is it hard to get illustration jobs?

Securing illustration jobs can be competitive, especially for freelance or entry-level positions, as many illustrators seek similar opportunities. Building a strong portfolio, developing specific skills, and networking can improve chances of obtaining work in this field.

What jobs are there for illustration?

Jobs for illustration include roles such as book illustrators, concept artists, character designers, and storyboard artists. These positions often require proficiency in digital tools like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator and may involve working in publishing, advertising, entertainment, or gaming industries.

What jobs can illustrators get?

Illustrators can work in various fields such as publishing, advertising, animation, video game design, and product packaging. They create visual content for books, magazines, websites, and media, often using tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Many roles require a strong portfolio and proficiency in digital or traditional art techniques.

What cities are hiring for Illustration jobs?

Cities with the most Illustration job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Illustration jobs?

The most popular types of Illustration jobs are:

What states have the most Illustration jobs?

States with the most job openings for Illustration jobs include:

Infographic showing various Illustration job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,345 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Scientific Illustrator

Spire Communications

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$60 - $90/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Spire Communications is hiring a full-time, highly skilled scientific illustrator to translate complex scientific and research concepts into accurate, visually compelling illustrations for the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). This role works closely with researchers to ensure scientific accuracy while producing original artwork across traditional, digital, and 3‑D formats for use in press materials, presentations, and public-facing content.

ILLUSTRATION PORTFOLIO IS REQUIRED WITH APPLICATION.

All illustrations, designs, and other work products created under this engagement are the sole property of Spire or the client for whom the work is performed.

Spire Communications is a woman‑owned strategic communications and creative firm based in Alexandria, VA that supports science, technology, and engineering organizations within the government and private sectors.

This position is hybrid, with the potential to be fully onsite, based at the client site in Alexandria, VA.

Benefits
  • Medical (United Healthcare), dental (CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield), and vision (United Concordia) plans paid at 100% (employee premium) plus 30% contribution to family premium
  • Monthly $50 wellness stipend for gym memberships, spa services, etc.
  • Life and disability insurance (short‑ and long‑term)
  • 18 days PTO and 8 federal holidays per year (+Veterans Day for those who have served)
  • Home office expense reimbursement
  • 401(k) plan with automatic 3% of salary employer contribution
  • Annual stipend for employee and/or job‑related training
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