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Magazine Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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The Experienced Magazine Graphic Designer will play a key role in producing visually compelling layouts for new magazine issues, collaborating closely with a small design team and reporting directly ...

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... magazine ads, banners, brochures etc. * Communicate directly with franchise owners to deliver ... Experience designing print and digital advertisements * Understanding of digital content including ...

... print magazine. Each to celebrate us as works-in-progress, and the personal and collective ... Partner with Designers to ensure a cohesive collection for each season * Prepare print-ready ...

... print magazine. Each to celebrate us as works-in-progress, and the personal and collective ... Partner with Designers to ensure a cohesive collection for each season * Prepare print-ready ...

... print magazine. Each to celebrate us as works-in-progress, and the personal and collective ... Partner with Designers to ensure a cohesive collection for each season * Prepare print-ready ...

Designs art and copy layouts for material to be presented by visual communications media such as books, magazines, newspapers, Internet websites, television, and packaging. Typical Functions Develops ...

Designs art and copy layouts for material to be presented by visual communications media such as books, magazines, newspapers, Internet websites, television, and packaging. Typical Functions Develops ...

Landscape Designer II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Landscape Designer II Location: San Diego, CA Who We Are: We design places where people love to be ... Design magazine's Top 100 Giants No. 1 Architecture Firm in Cultural Facilities by BD+C No. 1 ...

New

Interior Designer II

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$87K - $96K/yr

Interior Designer II Location: San Francisco, CA Who We Are: We design places where people love to ... Design magazine's Top 100 Giants No. 1 Architecture Firm in Cultural Facilities by BD+C No. 1 ...

Instructional Designer

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$96K - $121K/yr

Inc. Magazine has recognized Cornerstone Research five times as a Best Workplace for its ... Experience designing for multiple devices (mobile, tablet and desktop). * Ability to communicate ...

Inc. Magazine has recognized Cornerstone Research five times as a Best Workplace for its ... Experience designing for multiple devices (mobile, tablet and desktop). * Ability to communicate ...

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Magazine Designer information

See California salary details

$5

$22

$27

How much do magazine designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for magazine designer in California is $22.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $26.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Magazine Designer, you need strong graphic design skills, an eye for layout and typography, and a relevant degree or diploma in design or visual communications. Proficiency with design software such as Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective collaboration skills help designers create visually compelling and cohesive publications. These skills ensure that magazines are both aesthetically appealing and functionally effective in communicating their content to readers.

How to get a job designing magazines?

To become a magazine designer, develop strong skills in graphic design, layout, and typography using tools like Adobe InDesign and Photoshop. Build a portfolio showcasing your work, gain experience through internships or freelance projects, and stay updated on industry trends to improve your chances of securing a position in magazine publishing.

How do you become a magazine designer?

To become a magazine designer, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in graphic design, visual communication, or a related field. Developing skills in design software such as Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator is essential, along with building a strong portfolio that showcases layout and editorial work. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions helps develop industry-specific skills and understanding of magazine production processes.

How does a magazine designer typically collaborate with editors and photographers during the production process?

Magazine designers work closely with editors to understand the theme and tone of each issue, ensuring that the visual layout complements the written content. They frequently collaborate with photographers to select and position images that enhance the articles and maintain visual consistency throughout the publication. Regular meetings and feedback sessions are common, making strong communication skills and adaptability essential for this role. This collaborative environment fosters creativity and ensures that both visual and editorial elements are aligned for the best reader experience.

What is the difference between Magazine Designer vs Graphic Designer?

AspectMagazine DesignerGraphic Designer
CredentialsDesign degree or related certificationDesign degree or related certification
Work EnvironmentPublishing houses, magazines, media companiesAdvertising agencies, corporate offices, freelance
Industry UsageSpecific to publishing and print mediaBroad, including print, digital, branding
Common Search IntentFocus on magazine layout and publication designGeneral visual communication and branding

Magazine Designers specialize in creating layouts and visual content specifically for magazines, focusing on print and digital publication aesthetics. Graphic Designers have a broader scope, working across various media including branding, advertising, and digital content. While both roles require similar skills and education, Magazine Designers focus on publication-specific design, whereas Graphic Designers work on diverse projects across industries.

What does a magazine designer do?

A magazine designer is responsible for creating the visual layout and design of magazines, including arranging text, images, and graphics in an attractive and readable format. They work closely with editors, photographers, and writers to ensure each issue aligns with the magazine’s brand and editorial vision. Magazine designers use design software to create eye-catching covers, feature spreads, and advertisements, balancing aesthetics with readability. Their work helps engage readers and enhances the overall experience of the publication.
What are the most commonly searched types of Magazine Designer jobs in California? The most popular types of Magazine Designer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Magazine Designer jobs? Cities in California with the most Magazine Designer job openings:
Infographic showing various Magazine Designer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,891 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Experienced Magazine Graphic Designer

Hollywood Weekly Magazine LLC

Northridge, CA • On-site

$18/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

The Experienced Magazine Graphic Designer will play a key role in producing visually compelling layouts for new magazine issues, collaborating closely with a small design team and reporting directly to the Publisher. This role requires proficiency with the latest Adobe software and the ability to work onsite in our Northridge office using your own laptop. Regular interaction with clients ensures design solutions effectively meet their needs and publication standards.

Responsibilities

  • Create engaging and high-quality layout designs for new magazine issues
  • Collaborate with a small design team to ensure consistency and creativity
  • Use Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator to execute design projects
  • Manage design files and adhere to project deadlines
  • Maintain regular client communication to incorporate feedback and requirements

Required Qualifications

  • 2+ years of experience in graphic design
  • Expertise with Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator
  • Proven skills in layout design for magazines or similar publications
  • Able to work onsite in Northridge with own laptop equipped with current Adobe software

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or a related field