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Layout Artist Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

krg technology inc

Proof Reader

Lake Forest, IL · On-site

... copy layout, formatting, and spacing, as compared to the change request, red-lined artwork, drawings, template and specifications. Assist the graphic artists with the proofreading of drawing ...

Hasana, Inc.

Advisory Board Member

Chicago, IL · On-site

... arts and culture. Featuring ultra luxe fashion profiles, restaurants, and the season's must-have ... Familiarity with publication layout and production procedures. * Strong interviewing skills, as ...

Hasana, Inc.

Advisory Board Member

Chicago, IL · On-site

... arts and culture. Featuring ultra luxe fashion profiles, restaurants, and the season's must-have ... Familiarity with publication layout and production procedures. * Strong interviewing skills, as ...

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All JobsLayout Artist JobsLayout Artist Jobs in Chicago, IL

Layout Artist information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$25

$54

How much do layout artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for layout artist in Chicago, IL is $25.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $25.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a layout artist?

A layout artist is in charge of the design or visual presentation of a publication or project. Their duties are to assemble photographs, charts, or other graphics and combine these elements with text. Their goal is to create a visually interesting spread that will attract an audience. This job requires using specialized graphic design and page layout programs. A layout artist often works closely with editors or clients to determine their needs or goals for the design.

What does a layout artist do?

Layout artists are professionals who design the visual structure and arrangement of elements on a page or screen, whether in print, digital media, animation, or advertising. Their main role is to ensure that images, text, and other visual components are organized in a way that is aesthetically pleasing and effective in communicating the intended message. They often use design software to create templates and mockups, working closely with graphic designers, writers, and other creative professionals. In animation, layout artists establish the background, camera angles, and the positioning of characters for each scene. Their work is crucial for guiding the viewer’s eye and enhancing the overall impact of a project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a layout artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Layout Artist, you need a strong understanding of design principles, composition, and visual storytelling, often supported by a degree in graphic design or a related field. Proficiency in industry-standard software such as Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, and sometimes digital drawing tablets is typically required. Attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with clients and team members. Mastery of these skills ensures visually compelling, accurate layouts that effectively communicate the intended message and meet project requirements.

How does a layout artist typically collaborate with other departments in a creative project?

Layout Artists frequently work closely with illustrators, animators, directors, and editors to ensure visual consistency and storytelling clarity. They translate storyboards and scripts into visually engaging layouts, adjusting their designs based on feedback from art directors or animation leads. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as revisions are common and deadlines can be tight. Collaboration often happens through digital platforms, regular team meetings, and iterative review sessions.

What is the difference between Layout Artist vs Character Designer?

AspectLayout ArtistCharacter Designer
Primary RoleCreates backgrounds, scene compositions, and visual layouts for animation or filmDesigns and develops characters' appearance, costumes, and personality traits
Required SkillsDrawing, composition, perspective, background designDrawing, character anatomy, costume design, creativity
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, film production, gamingAnimation studios, gaming, film
Common Industry UsageUsed in animation and film production to establish scene layoutsUsed in character development for animation, gaming, and film

While both roles involve strong artistic skills, Layout Artists focus on scene composition and backgrounds, whereas Character Designers specialize in creating the visual look of characters. Both collaborate closely in animation projects but serve distinct functions in the production process.

How much do layout artists make?

The average salary for a layout artist varies depending on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 per year. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced layout artists working in film, animation, or gaming can earn higher salaries. Skills in design software like Adobe Photoshop and strong understanding of visual storytelling are often required.
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For Layout Artist jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Layout Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Layout Artist job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,388 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Graphics Prepress Artist (Trade Shows & Events)

Jack Morton Worldwide

Addison, IL

$127K - $152K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Do you thrive on making every detail perfect before it goes to print? Are you passionate about transforming creative concepts into flawless, large-format graphics for trade shows, live events, and immersive brand experiences?

We're looking for an experienced Graphics Prepress Artist (Trade Shows & Events) to join our Graphics Prepress team. In this role, you'll play a critical part in preparing production-ready artwork for custom exhibits and experiential marketing events, ensuring every graphic is accurate, color-perfect, and ready for installation. If you're highly organized, collaborative, and enjoy solving technical challenges, we'd love to meet you.

What You'll Do
  • Prepare, optimize, and preflight digital artwork for large-format print production.
  • Create and maintain graphic layout proofs using Adobe InDesign.
  • Review files for resolution, color accuracy, bleeds, trims, fonts, sizing, and print readiness.
  • Perform color corrections, CMYK conversions, and embed PMS colors to meet brand standards.
  • Resize, reformat, typeset, and adjust artwork while maintaining client brand integrity.
  • Verify image quality and coordinate replacement artwork when files don't meet production standards.
  • Manage small to medium-sized projects from kickoff through installation and event completion.
  • Collaborate closely with Account Managers, Project Managers, Creative Designers, Production teams, and external print vendors.
  • Organize and maintain digital assets, version control, and cloud-based file structures.
  • Troubleshoot production files and provide technical support throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Prioritize multiple projects while consistently meeting tight production deadlines.
  • Participate in project launch meetings, ask thoughtful questions, and ensure all project requirements are clearly understood.
What You Bring
  • 8+ years of experience in Graphic Prepress, Production Art, or Graphic Design.
  • Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and Acrobat).
  • Strong Mac OS experience.
  • Extensive knowledge of preflight processes, print production, color management, and file preparation.
  • Experience preparing graphics for large-format printing.
  • Strong understanding of CAD scaling and graphic output specifications.
  • Exceptional attention to detail with outstanding organizational and time management skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced production environment.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with a collaborative, solutions-focused mindset.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Bonus Points If You Have
  • Experience in the trade show, events, exhibits, or experiential marketing industry.
  • Ability to read and interpret CAD graphic elevations.
  • Experience working directly with large-format print vendors and production teams.
Why You'll Love Working Here
  • Be part of a team that creates memorable brand experiences seen by thousands of people.
  • Work on exciting trade shows, exhibits, and live events across a wide variety of industries.
  • Collaborate with talented creative, production, and project management professionals.
  • Enjoy a fast-paced environment where no two projects are the same.
  • Make a direct impact on the successful execution of high-profile client events.

If you're passionate about precision, love solving production challenges, and enjoy seeing your work come to life on the show floor, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help create extraordinary event experiences from the ground up.

Last but not least, we believe in diversity, equity and inclusion.

Jack Morton is an equal opportunity employer; we strongly value diversity at our companies. We do not discriminate on race, religion, color, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law. 

#LI-WK

Requisition #: 2142

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