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Illustrator Jobs in Encinitas, CA (NOW HIRING)

Certified Employment Group

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Creative Product Illustrator

San Diego, CA · Remote

$74K - $78K/yr

Creative Product Illustrator Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent Location: Remote - California preferred. MUST reside in US and work Pacific hours. Salary Range: $74,000 - $78,000 Position Summary ...

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Jobsbridge

Graphic Designer

San Diego, CA

... Illustrator compositions, editing and color correcting images Filing, faxing, emailing, running errands and coordinating printing Performing internet research as assigned Additional graphic design or ...

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All JobsIllustrator JobsIllustrator Jobs in Encinitas, CA

Illustrator information

See Encinitas, CA salary details

$34.9K

$63.7K

$103.1K

How much do illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for illustrator in Encinitas, CA is $63,742.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,400.00 and $73,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Is being an illustrator a good career?

Being an illustrator is a viable career that involves creating visual artwork for various media such as books, advertising, and digital platforms. Success often depends on developing strong artistic skills, proficiency with tools like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator, and building a professional portfolio. The field can be competitive and may require freelance work or self-promotion to secure steady income.

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 studios or companies.
More about Illustrator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Illustrator jobs in Encinitas, CA?

The most popular types of Illustrator jobs in Encinitas, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Illustrator jobs in Encinitas, CA?

For Illustrator jobs in Encinitas, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Illustrator jobs in Encinitas, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Illustrator jobs in Encinitas, CA are:

What cities near Encinitas, CA are hiring for Illustrator jobs?

Cities near Encinitas, CA with the most Illustrator job openings:

Illustrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Illustrator job openings in Encinitas, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,742 per year, or $30.6 per hour.

Creative Product Illustrator

Certified Employment Group

San Diego, CA • Remote

$74K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 3 days ago

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Job description

Title: Creative Product Illustrator

Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Location: Remote - California preferred. MUST reside in US and work Pacific hours. 

Salary Range: $74,000 - $78,000


Position Summary

Our client is seeking a Creative Product Illustrator to join its growing creative team. This role is ideal for a creative professional who can develop product concepts and illustrations within a collaborative, fast-paced environment for seasonal consumer products. Experience in Halloween, Christmas, characters, or other seasonal product categories is highly preferred.


This is a primarily remote position, though candidates in San Diego or the San Francisco Bay Area may be requested to work on-site occasionally. Travel to the San Diego office is required 2–4 times a year for all staff. Must work West Coast hours.


Responsibilities:

  • Develop original product illustrations, concepts, and visuals for seasonal consumer products, including Halloween and Christmas.
  • Collaborate closely with the creative team throughout the concept development process.
  • Create and refine concepts based on creative direction, feedback, and multiple rounds of revisions.
  • Utilize 3D software and other digital creative tools to develop and communicate product concepts.
  • Incorporate AI-assisted tools into the creative process.
  • Create concepts that align with current product trends, retailer requirements, and overall creative direction.
  • Participate in team meetings and collaborative creative reviews.
  • Work with the creative team to meet project timelines and deliverables in a fast-paced environment.
  • Maintain flexibility as projects and priorities evolve.
  • Communicate effectively regarding concepts, revisions, and project status.
  • Handle creative materials and equipment responsibly.
  • Maintain a high level of attention to detail while balancing creativity, efficiency, and production requirements.


Qualifications:

  • 2–4 years' experience in product illustration, product design, concept development, or a related creative field.
  • Strong portfolio.
  • Experience with seasonal products, particularly Halloween, Christmas, characters, or similar.
  • Proficient experience with Photoshop and 3D sculpting.
  • Familiarity with AI-assisted creative tools and the ability to work within established AI usage guidelines.
  • Ability to work West Coast hours.
  • Ability to attend occasional in-person meetings.
  • BA in Graphic Design or a similar field.
  • MUST have a portfolio of work to share for review.
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About Certified Employment Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Certified Employment Group started in San Francisco in 1963. Our cornerstone mission was, and remains, to provide ethical, caring service to each of our clients and employees. These values mean using technology to create efficiencies for our clients, expand our service offerings and enhance the level of service we can provide. As Northern California businesses have prospered, Certified has responded by opening branches to serve high-growth areas. We have expanded our services to include on-site management for major accounts, developing a web based interface and opening specialized divisions in Legal, Renewable Energy and Accounting. Certified remains independently owned, responsive, flexible and wholly committed to our original values. We believe this is the reason for our success. Industry rankings continually place Certified in the top ten percent based on sales!

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Emeryville, CA, US

Year founded

1963

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