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Illustrator Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

VTG

Graphics Designer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$95K - $160K/yr

Designs and develops graphics and illustrations for use in technical materials, manuals, and publications. Operates computer hardware and software to prepare, revise, print and store text ...

MANTECH

Graphics Specialist

Quantico, VA · On-site

At least 3 years of experience in Graphics Design using Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Acrobat) and Microsoft PowerPoint. * Proven ability to multitask and manage tight ...

VTG

Graphics Designer

Chantilly, VA

$95K - $160K/yr

Designs and develops graphics and illustrations for use in technical materials, manuals, and publications. Operates computer hardware and software to prepare, revise, print and store text ...

MANTECH

Graphics Specialist

Quantico, VA · On-site

At least 3 years of experience in Graphics Design using Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Acrobat) and Microsoft PowerPoint. * Proven ability to multitask and manage tight ...

Meso Scale Discovery

Industrial Designer

Rockville, MD

$88K - $134K/yr

This position develops high-quality 2D and 3D visual assets, animations, technical illustrations, and graphics for promotional, training, and instructional materials. Responsibilities also include ...

MSD

Industrial Designer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$88K - $134K/yr

This position develops high-quality 2D and 3D visual assets, animations, technical illustrations, and graphics for promotional, training, and instructional materials. Responsibilities also include ...

MANTECH

Graphics Specialist

Quantico, VA · On-site

At least 3 years of experience in Graphics Design using Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Acrobat) and Microsoft PowerPoint. * Proven ability to multitask and manage tight ...

Synertex LLC

Graphics Designer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

Develops design concepts and implements designs for new web pages, mobile applications, newsletters, ads, infographics, banners, illustrations, logos, and other types of digital content that will be ...

The Atlantic

Senior Art Director

Washington, DC

$105K - $135K/yr

They will also focus on creating original illustrations for daily coverage and digital features, while commissioning and art directing from a network of contributors. The role will occasionally ...

The Atlantic

Senior Art Director

Washington, DC

$105K - $135K/yr

They will also focus on creating original illustrations for daily coverage and digital features, while commissioning and art directing from a network of contributors. The role will occasionally ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsIllustrator JobsIllustrator Jobs in Reston, VA

Illustrator information

See Reston, VA salary details

$33.8K

$61.7K

$99.9K

How much do illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for illustrator in Reston, VA is $61,740.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,100.00 and $70,700.00 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 Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Illustrator jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Illustrator jobs in Reston, VA?

For Illustrator jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Illustrator jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Illustrator jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Illustrator jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Illustrator job openings:

Illustrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Illustrator job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, and 32% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,740 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Graphics Designer with Security Clearance

VTG

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$95K - $160K/yr

Other

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Overview VTG is looking for a Graphics Designer in Chantilly, VA. What will you do? Designs and develops graphics and illustrations for use in technical materials, manuals, and publications. Operates computer hardware and software to prepare, revise, print and store text, illustrations, graphs, charts, etc. May include operation of equipment, such as still and video cameras, for the design and production of photos and videotape. Formulates concept and renders illustration and detail from models, sketches, memory, written or verbal instructions, and imagination. Selects type, draws lettering, lays out material, or performs related duties. Determines style, technique, and medium best suited to produce desired effects and conform to reproduction requirements, or follows specific instructions regarding these variables Has developed expertise in a variety of work processes or activities typically developed through a combination of job-related training and/or considerable on-the-job experience. Typically seen as a "go-to" individual, and routinely shares experience and knowledge with peers. Works autonomously within established procedures and practices. Has developed expertise of skills in a range of processes, procedures and systems. Uses knowledge of how disciplines relate to one another and related teams to create impact and the achievement of objectives beyond those of the team. May mentor and serve as a lead for the specified job, may allocate work and provide technical guidance to more junior team members. Gathers and analyzes data to identify and solve problems that arise with little or no precedent. May present data or recommendations for review, approval or implementation. Impacts own team and other teams whose work activities are closely related; suggests improvements to existing processes and solutions to improve the efficiency of the team. Evaluates and communicates in a clear manner. Professionally facilitates the exchange of ideas and information in a concise and logical way. Consistently interacts with others outside of the team, with customers, and with all levels of the organization as necessary. Do you have what it takes? High School Diploma or equivalent is a minimum. 6+ years minimum of related experience. TS/SCI with Poly Required BS + 4-8 years OR Bachelor degree with 4-8 years; in lieu of HS + 10 or Associates + 8 or Bachelors + 5 or Masters + 3 Pay Range: VTG's estimated starting pay range is $95,000 - $160,000 annually, which is a general guideline for the geographic location. When extending an offer, VTG also considers work experience, education, skill level, market considerations and may possibly include contractual requirements which may cause an offer to fall outside of this range.

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