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Science Illustrator Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

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Science Illustrator information

See Alberta salary details

$22K

$65.7K

$159.5K

How much do science illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for science illustrator in Alberta is $65,654.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are science illustrators in demand?

Science illustrators are in steady demand due to the need for clear visual communication in education, research, and publishing. Opportunities often require proficiency in digital illustration tools and a strong understanding of scientific concepts, with employment available in academic, scientific, and media organizations.

What is a science illustrator?

A Science Illustrator creates detailed and accurate visual representations of scientific subjects, such as anatomy, wildlife, ecosystems, and technical processes. Their work helps communicate complex information in an understandable and engaging way for textbooks, research papers, museums, and digital media. They often collaborate with scientists, educators, and publishers to ensure accuracy and clarity in their illustrations. Science Illustrators may use traditional drawing techniques, digital tools, or a combination of both to create their work.

How hard is it to be a science illustrator?

Becoming a science illustrator requires strong artistic skills, knowledge of scientific concepts, and proficiency with digital illustration tools. The job can be competitive, and building a portfolio and gaining specialized knowledge can take several years of education and experience.

What does a typical workday look like for a science illustrator?

A typical day for a Science Illustrator involves collaborating closely with scientists, researchers, or educators to understand the subject matter and determine the best way to visualize complex concepts. You might spend time researching reference materials, sketching initial concepts, revising drafts based on stakeholder feedback, and creating final digital illustrations. Many Science Illustrators work as part of multidisciplinary teams in environments like universities, publishing houses, or museums, while others may freelance and manage multiple projects simultaneously. Regular communication with clients and team members is essential to ensure the scientific accuracy and clarity of each illustration. Over time, the role can offer opportunities to specialize in certain scientific fields or move into leadership positions within communications or design teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the science illustrator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Science Illustrator, you need a strong background in visual arts combined with a thorough understanding of scientific concepts, typically supported by a degree in scientific illustration, biology, or a related field. Proficiency with digital illustration tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, CorelDRAW, or specialized scientific visualization software is commonly required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate with scientists are key soft skills that distinguish top-performing professionals. These abilities ensure that complex scientific information is accurately and clearly communicated through engaging visuals, supporting education and research efforts.

What do you need to be a science illustrator?

To become a science illustrator, you typically need a strong foundation in both science and art, often demonstrated through a degree in biology, science, or fine arts. Proficiency in illustration tools such as Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop and a portfolio showcasing scientific drawings are essential. Attention to detail, good communication skills, and knowledge of scientific concepts are also important for success in this field.

How much money do science illustrators make?

Science illustrators typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, with experienced professionals or those working in specialized fields earning higher salaries. Income can vary based on skill level, portfolio quality, geographic location, and whether they work freelance or for organizations.

What are popular job titles related to Science Illustrator jobs in Alberta?

For Science Illustrator jobs in Alberta, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Science Illustrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Science Illustrator job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,654 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Junior GUI Designer - Human Factors Engineering

General Dynamics Mission Systems - Canada

Calgary, AB

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Build bold. Deliver impact. Win together.

At General Dynamics Mission Systems–Canada, we’re not just engineering technology. we’re shaping the future of defence and security. Our teams design and deliver advanced, mission-critical solutions that enhance national security, strengthen communities, and protect the people we serve.

If you’re looking for meaningful work that contributes to a safer, more secure world, you’ll find purpose here. Every day, your skills will directly impact programs that matter.

Job Description

GDMS-C currently has a number of requirements for an Operator Interface and Graphical User Interface (GUI) Designer within the Land & Joint Solutions Business Area.

Typical Duties

The responsibilities and range of activities will vary, but in general will include:

  • Participate in an interdisciplinary integrated project team environment.
  • Work within the UX, Human Factors + Design group to develop specialized Graphical User Interface (GUI) firmware on military embedded hardware devices or software designs for complex applications using the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) development process.
  • Focus on providing functional and innovative designs for complex operations as part of integrated product teams including interfacing with development teams.
  • Identify and create software user interface requirements and analysis of implementation.
  • Prepare and review design documents.
  • Document the analysis, design and test activities in accordance with development standards.
Qualifications

Required Skills & Experience

  • Visible and expressive passion and experience with Graphical User Interface design, UX and/or Human Computer Interaction of products and applications.
  • Experience designing front end user interfaces for software and firmware products/applications in an iterative manner from low to high fidelity design ideally working with human factors and human systems at the forefront.
  • Experience using GUI prototyping tools such as Axure, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, etc .
  • Able to translate, and coordinate a GUI experience to the development team, including the creation of assets to facilitate development.
  • Detailed oriented in the creation and communication of front-end user interface design, interaction and behaviour.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Strong and innovative problem solving and analysis skills.
  • Enthusiastic contributor, willing to learn new skills and takes on ownership of work.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and in a team environment, with minimum supervision.

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Human Computer Interaction, Software Engineering, Industrial Design or applicable scientific discipline is required.

Other

Minimum 10 year consecutive residence in Canada – for Canadian Secret Security Clearance

Applicants will be required to obtain/hold a valid and current Canadian security clearance to gain access to the classified spaces, information and equipment in order to perform the work associated with this position.


Additional Information

The hiring range for this position is $75,000 - $85,000. Our goal is to provide a fair and competitive offer based on an assessment of internal equity and your qualifications, including:

  • Relevant experience
  • Technical and non-technical skills
  • Education and certifications

Benefits

As a full-time employee at General Dynamics Mission Systems–Canada, you’ll enjoy a competitive total rewards package that supports your professional and personal well-being:

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and eligible dependents from day one (no cost), including flexible benefits options (HCSA) emergency travel insurance, and 24/7 virtual care services.
  • Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP), onsite fitness facilities, and employee resource groups.
  • Defined Contribution Pension Plan with employer contributions after 3 months, RRSP access from day one, and financial planning support.
  • Flexible time off including vacation, holidays, parental leaves with top-up options, sick leave, and disability programs.
  • Career development through learning platforms, educational assistance, mentoring, and reimbursement of professional memberships.
  • Additional perks such as employee discounts, free onsite parking, social clubs, and an annual scholarship program for employees’ children.

Why join us?

  • Purposeful Innovation: You’ll work on innovations that genuinely make a difference. You’ll apply advanced thinking, design expertise, and practical problem-solving to help equip military and allied forces with leading-edge systems. You’ll be surrounded by some of the brightest minds in the defence sector, contributing to next-generation technologies in an environment that celebrates creativity, new ideas, and modern solutions.
  • Connection: We believe people do their best work when they feel they belong, and their ideas can flourish. Different perspectives, experiences, and ways of thinking help us innovate and grow. Strong relationships with our teammates help us unite, overcome challenges, and deliver the world-class quality we’re known for. Here, we are committed to inclusivity and ensure every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered.
  • Challenging and Rewarding Career Pathways: Your career path matters to us. From mentorship and regular check-ins with your leader to educational support, professional certifications, and continuous training, you’ll have the resources you need to thrive. You’ll work on high-profile, impactful projects that challenge your skills, expand your expertise, and provide opportunities to learn from experienced mentors and grow as an early-career professional. We encourage internal mobility so you can explore different business areas, broaden your skillset, and expand your network.

Accommodation 
If you require accommodation during any stage of the application process, please contact Human Resources via recruitment@gd-ms.ca.

Closing Date
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.