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Illustrator Jobs in San Rafael, CA (NOW HIRING)

Spellbrush

AI Infrastructure Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

Spellbrush is an illustration platform that enables artists, illustrators, and animators to complete projects more quickly. Founded in 2016, the company is headquartered in San Francisco, USA, with a ...

Ōura

Principal Art Director, Product

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$274K - $287K/yr

Build and steward illustration systems (style rules, usage guidance, levels of abstraction, emotional tone, and governance) that stay cohesive as products and narratives evolve. Partner closely with ...

Oura

Principal Art Director, Product

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$274K - $287K/yr

Build and steward illustration systems (style rules, usage guidance, levels of abstraction, emotional tone, and governance) that stay cohesive as products and narratives evolve. Partner closely with ...

Dolls Kill

Freelance Apparel Designer

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

Sketch original designs by hand or digitally (Illustrator/Procreate) and translate concepts into clear, detailed design specs * Research trends across alternative fashion, festival wear, rave, goth ...

Dolls Kill

Freelance Apparel Designer

Oakland, CA · Remote

Sketch original designs by hand or digitally (Illustrator/Procreate) and translate concepts into clear, detailed design specs * Research trends across alternative fashion, festival wear, rave, goth ...

Dolls Kill

Freelance Apparel Designer

Oakland, CA

Sketch original designs by hand or digitally (Illustrator/Procreate) and translate concepts into clear, detailed design specs * Research trends across alternative fashion, festival wear, rave, goth ...

Spellbrush

AI Anime Researcher

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Spellbrush is an illustration platform that enables artists, illustrators, and animators to complete projects more quickly. Founded in 2016, the company is headquartered in San Francisco, USA, with a ...

Hachette Book Group

Senior Cartographer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$65K - $68K/yr

You will use Adobe Illustrator equipped with Avenza MAPublisher to acquire data, design, and prepare map assets. LOCATION: Oakland, CA (onsite 3 days/week) ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:

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All JobsIllustrator JobsIllustrator Jobs in San Rafael, CA

Illustrator information

See San Rafael, CA salary details

$36.2K

$66.2K

$107K

How much do illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for illustrator in San Rafael, CA is $66,153.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,900.00 and $75,800.00 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 popular job titles related to Illustrator jobs in San Rafael, CA?

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

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

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

What cities near San Rafael, CA are hiring for Illustrator jobs?

Cities near San Rafael, CA with the most Illustrator job openings:

Illustrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Illustrator job openings in San Rafael, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,153 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

VIRTUAL INTERNSHIP: Graphic Illustrator

Harold Jean-Louis, Inc.

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Internship

Re-posted 4 hours ago

Job description

Company Description

Harold Jean-Louis, Inc. is part of a network that works on E-learning solutions. Within this network, employees get exposed to different industries and experiences. Industries that the teams will have access to are- podcasting, e-learning, manufacturing, and consulting.

INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

This fast-paced environment creates the perfect conditions to challenge everyone and provides a conducive space for each intern to get the most out of their time with the company.

Job Description

*** PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS AN UNPAID INTERNSHIP***

Ability to create and produce graphic artwork to support marketing efforts as well as video animation team.

Good project and workflow management skills in order to meet tight deadlines.

Obsessive attention to detail at all levels of graphic design and preparation.

Exceptional skills in current versions of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.

Ability to work on special projects when assigned (i.e infographics, logo design, etc)

Qualifications

BA in Graphic Design or current student preferred.

Additional Information

We are seeking an intern that can work independently. The position will require a 10 - 15 hr. per week commitment. Students from any state within the United States are encouraged to apply.

This internship will be done remotely- so all you need is an internet connection and you can do the work.

Duration : [3-4 months ]  - let us know your exam schedule. We can conclude before finals.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply