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Illustrator Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

VTG

Graphics Designer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

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 ...

VTG

Graphics Designer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

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 ...

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 ...

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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 Jun 9, 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 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 Do Illustrators Do?

An illustrator is an artist who creates commercial designs and images. Some illustrators work with traditional media, utilizing watercolors or oil paint to produce their designs. They often produce works for publications such as children's books, newspapers, and magazines to highlight the text. Others may use illustration and editing software to create digital images. These kinds of illustrators work in a variety of industries; their job duties may include designing images for apparel, accessories for toys, or sketching interior design or architectural prints. Manufacturers also use illustrators to create product packaging, while advertising companies hire illustrators to work on marketing materials.

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.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 81% In-person, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,740 per year, or $29.7 per hour.
Graphics Designer with Security Clearance

Graphics Designer with Security Clearance

VTG

Chantilly, VA

Other

Posted 5 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

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