1

Illustrator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Senior Graphic Designer

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$66K - $91K/yr

Produce illustrations and support visual storytelling across campaigns * Collaborate with internal teams to ensure cohesive messaging and design execution * Manage multiple projects simultaneously ...

Graphic Designer

Lafayette, CO ยท On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Adobe Illustrator * Adobe Acrobat * Document Layout & Formatting * Print Production * Digital Publishing * MacOS Environment * Microsoft Office Suite * Attention to Detail * Project Management ...

... Illustrator โ€ข Adobe Acrobat โ€ข Document Layout & Formatting โ€ข Print Production โ€ข Digital Publishing โ€ข MacOS Environment โ€ข Microsoft Office Suite โ€ข Attention to Detail โ€ข Project ...

Ability of illustrating complex technical concepts in easy-to-use illustrations is a plus. * Experience in the use of Solid Works, Corel Designer, Adobe Illustrator is a plus. * Ability to ...

Technical Writer

Loveland, CO ยท On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Ability of illustrating complex technical concepts in easy-to-use illustrations is a plus. * Experience in the use of Solid Works, Corel Designer, Adobe Illustrator is a plus. * Ability to ...

Production Manager

Loveland, CO ยท On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

Proficiency with Adobe Illustrator and confidence working with vector artwork and file preparation. * Working knowledge of AutoCAD or the ability to interpret technical drawings accurately. * Strong ...

Design and propose creative elements for visual purposes in marketing collateral, infographics, identity development, illustrations and photography layout for website articles * Develop and execute ...

Print Production

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$20/hr

Strong knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) * Experience with EFI Fiery + Fiery Impose preferred * Eye for detail, accuracy, and time management * Ability to multitask ...

Familiarity with contract negotiations for freelance designers, illustrators, photographers, and stock photo house and working with AE's * Assists in the guidance, training and mentoring of other ...

Product Designer

Cortez, CO ยท On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Proficiently build product specification / technical packages (tech-packs) in Adobe Illustrator for product sampling. * Conceptualize innovative solutions for future pack designs, pack features ...

Familiarity with contract negotiations for freelance designers, illustrators, photographers, and stock photo house and working with AE's * Assists in the guidance, training and mentoring of other ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Illustrator information

See Colorado salary details

$34.2K

$62.4K

$100.9K

How much do illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for illustrator in Colorado is $62,403.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $71,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are illustrators still in demand?

Illustrators continue to be in demand across various industries such as publishing, advertising, entertainment, and digital media. The growth of online content and the need for visual storytelling keep illustration skills relevant, especially for those proficient in digital tools like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.

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 skills, a solid understanding of color theory and composition, and often a degree or coursework in art or design. Proficiency in industry-standard software like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and digital tablets is crucial for producing professional work. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help an illustrator interpret briefs and collaborate with clients or teams. These abilities ensure the creation of compelling visual work that meets client objectives and stands out in a competitive market.

What jobs can an illustrator get?

An illustrator 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 using tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, often requiring a strong portfolio and artistic skills. Many illustrators work freelance or as part of creative teams in agencies or companies.

How does an illustrator typically collaborate with writers and art directors during a project?

Illustrators often work closely with writers and art directors to ensure that their visuals effectively complement the intended message or story. Early in a project, illustrators may attend brainstorming sessions to discuss concepts and receive briefs outlining the desired style and tone. Throughout the creative process, they share drafts and sketches for feedback, adapting their work based on input from the team. This collaborative dynamic means strong communication skills and flexibility are essential for illustrators to successfully bring ideas to life and meet client expectations.

What is the difference between Illustrator vs Graphic Designer?

AspectIllustratorGraphic Designer
Primary FocusCreating original artwork and illustrationsDesigning visual content for branding, marketing, and communication
Skills & ToolsDrawing, digital illustration, Adobe IllustratorLayout, typography, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign
Work EnvironmentFreelance, publishing, advertising, entertainmentAdvertising agencies, corporate in-house teams, design studios
CredentialsPortfolio, artistic skills, sometimes art or design degreesDesign degrees, portfolio, understanding of branding and marketing

While illustrators focus on creating original artwork and detailed illustrations, graphic designers develop visual concepts for branding, advertising, and communication. Both roles require creativity and proficiency in Adobe tools, but their end goals and daily tasks differ significantly.

What does an illustrator do?

An illustrator is a professional artist who creates visual images to accompany or explain text, convey ideas, or tell stories. Illustrators work in a variety of fields such as publishing, advertising, fashion, and entertainment, producing artwork for books, magazines, advertisements, packaging, and digital media. They may use traditional drawing techniques, digital tools, or a combination of both to create their illustrations. Illustrators often collaborate with writers, designers, and clients to achieve the desired visual outcome. Their work helps to engage audiences, clarify information, and enhance the overall impact of the content.

Is being an illustrator a good career?

Being an illustrator can be a rewarding career for those with strong artistic skills, creativity, and proficiency in digital tools like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. It often involves freelance work or employment in publishing, advertising, or entertainment industries, with income varying based on experience, specialization, and workload.
What are the most commonly searched types of Illustrator jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Illustrator jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Illustrator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Illustrator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Illustrator jobs in CO? For Illustrator jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Illustrator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,403 per year, or $30 per hour.

Adjunct Faculty, Illustration - Figure and Landscape Painting (On Campus)

Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design

Lakewood, CO โ€ข On-site

$3.3K/day

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Adjunct Faculty, Illustration - Figure and Landscape Painting (On Campus)
Salary: $3340 (studio) per 8 week class, per term
Location: Lakewood, CO
Target Fill Date: Open Until Filled
Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design seeks qualified applicants to teach Figure and Landscape Painting on our historic campus in Lakewood, CO. RMCAD is a premier college certified by HLC and offering degrees in fine and applied arts, including Illustration. RMCAD's academic calendar consists of eight-week courses offered 6 times a year. Adjunct faculty are assigned courses based on availability and student enrollment. Courses taught may include Figure Painting and Landscape Painting. Individuals with traditional painting skills are encouraged to apply.
Primary Responsibilities:
  • Teaching and Instructional Activities: the practice and art of teaching, including evaluation by students, supervisor(s), and self. Faculty must also comply with all administrative and classroom management policies, procedures and instructional deadlines.
  • Regularly record class attendance in Faculty Portal and submit midterm/final grades by the due date specified.
  • Provide timely, periodic, and meaningful feedback to students on assignments and participation.
  • Successfully complete online Faculty Certification Course, a faculty online orientation and certification class administered through RMCAD's Learning Management System.

Qualifications:
  • MFA and/or professional experience as an illustrator/designer, 18 graduate credit hours in the posted field or a related discipline. Degree can be a Master's Degree (or Equivalent) in Art, Fine Art, Illustration, Painting, etc.
  • This is a campus based position, candidate must reside in the Denver area
  • Teaching experience at the college level is preferred
  • Submit a portfolio or web link showing professional illustrative work.

How to Apply:
Review of applicants will begin immediately. Please use the online application link to submit your cover letter, CV, as well as examples of your professional work and student work (optional). PDF format is preferred, however the size limit for individual files is 5MB.
About RMCAD:
Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) is an innovative, rigorous, and community-oriented global learning environment that inspires passion for critical thinking and prepares learners to be forces of change in the creative industries, our communities, and the world. RMCAD was established in 1963 by Philip J. Steele, who had a vision to provide students with a quality higher education in art and design. RMCAD continues to experience growth since its comparatively modest beginnings and now thrives on a lush, historic campus including more than 23 acres of land and 16 buildings. We are also pioneers in the online learning environment for art and design. RMCAD currently has over 2,000 students enrolled.
RMCAD is dedicated to living its mission and values, specifically that "Our students come first." The college continuously works with faculty and staff towards developing an evolving student-ready paradigm. RMCAD is dedicated to diversity and inclusion and maintains a policy of inclusiveness that recognizes values and reflects the diversity of the community it serves. The college fosters a dynamic learning and working environment that encourages multiple perspectives and the free exchange of ideas. We welcome people from a multitude of backgrounds who are committed to creativity, academic excellence, societal and cultural evolution and betterment, civility, mutual respect, social justice, and the free and open exchange of ideas.
Working Conditions and Physical Demands:
The work environment is a typical office environment which may include moderate noise, some evening or weekend hours, confined workspaces, fast work pace with unscheduled interruptions, the need to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and extensive time sitting and working with computers. Occasional overnight travel required.
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Management retains the right to add or change the duties of the position at any time.
Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design is an Equal Opportunity Employer.