1

Scientific Illustration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Senior Scientific Writer will demonstrate Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Core Attributes ... Proficiency with Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and MatLab preferred. * Advanced ...

About you: * You're an expert in some scientific domain. That doesn't necessarily mean you have a ... Relevance: our goal is to make science engaging, the primary way to do that is by illustrating how ...

With experts in biomedical science, software engineering, and program management, we focus on ... The role also creates illustrations, graphics, and charts for web resources, PowerPoint slides, and ...

Adobe Illustrator Tutor

Reno, NV · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... illustration work. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching vector drawing ... science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Scientific Illustration information

See salary details

$13

$31

$52

How much do scientific illustration jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for scientific illustration in the United States is $31.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $40.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is scientific illustration?

Scientific illustration is the practice of creating detailed and accurate visual representations of scientific subjects, such as plants, animals, anatomy, or processes. These illustrations are used to communicate complex information clearly in textbooks, research papers, museum exhibits, and educational materials. Scientific illustrators combine artistic skill with scientific knowledge to ensure their work is both visually appealing and scientifically accurate. Their work helps make scientific concepts accessible to experts and the general public alike.

What are scientific illustration jobs?

The responsibilities of someone in science illustration are to draw accurate representations of scientific information. They may focus on natural sciences and create depictions of things like different species or cell structure for textbooks. Other illustrators may concentrate on anatomy and medical images. Some professionals in biological and other types of scientific illustration may draw illustrations with input from a scientist for inclusion alongside research information in a scientific journal. Qualifications vary, but artistic skill and the ability to accurately depict scientific concepts is important in this career.

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

To thrive as a Scientific Illustrator, you need a solid foundation in both art and science, often supported by a degree in scientific illustration, biology, or a related field. Proficiency in digital illustration tools such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and 3D modeling software is typically required. Strong attention to detail, visual communication, and the ability to collaborate with scientists are essential soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate, clear, and visually engaging representations of complex scientific concepts for education, research, and publication.

How do scientific illustrators typically collaborate with researchers and scientists during a project?

Scientific illustrators frequently work closely with researchers and scientists throughout a project to ensure accuracy and clarity. Collaboration often involves attending discussions to understand complex concepts, reviewing drafts for scientific correctness, and revising illustrations based on expert feedback. This partnership helps translate intricate data and findings into visual formats that are both accessible and precise, making communication skills and adaptability key strengths in this role. Effective teamwork not only enhances the final product but also fosters professional growth through exposure to diverse scientific disciplines.

What is the difference between Scientific Illustration vs Medical Illustration?

AspectScientific IllustrationMedical Illustration
Required CredentialsArt degree, specialized training in scienceArt degree, medical or biological training
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, publishingHospitals, medical publishers, educational institutions
Industry UsageBiology, ecology, geology, general sciencesMedicine, surgery, anatomy, healthcare

Scientific Illustration and Medical Illustration share similar artistic and scientific skills, but Medical Illustration focuses specifically on healthcare and anatomy, often requiring additional medical knowledge. Both roles are essential for education, research, and publication, but they serve different specialized fields within the scientific community.

How much do scientific illustrators make?

Scientific illustrators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, with experienced professionals or those working in specialized fields earning higher salaries. Salaries can vary based on experience, education, geographic location, and whether they work freelance or for institutions, often requiring proficiency in tools like Adobe Illustrator and a strong understanding of scientific concepts.

How to work as a scientific illustrator?

To work as a scientific illustrator, develop strong skills in drawing, anatomy, and scientific concepts, often through formal education in biology, art, or related fields. Proficiency in digital illustration tools like Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop is essential, and building a portfolio showcasing scientific accuracy and detail can help secure employment or freelance opportunities. Attention to detail, understanding of scientific terminology, and the ability to communicate complex ideas visually are key for success in this field.

Is scientific illustration a good career?

Scientific illustration is a specialized field that combines art and science to create accurate visual representations of scientific subjects. It often requires strong drawing skills, knowledge of biology or other sciences, and proficiency with digital tools; job prospects depend on industry demand and individual skill level. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in both art and science, with opportunities in research institutions, publishing, and education.

What jobs use scientific illustration?

Scientific illustrators work in fields such as biology, medicine, geology, and environmental science to create detailed visual representations of complex concepts. They often collaborate with researchers, educators, and publishers, using tools like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, and may work in laboratories, universities, or publishing companies.

What cities are hiring for Scientific Illustration jobs?

Cities with the most Scientific Illustration job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Scientific Illustration jobs?

The most popular types of Scientific Illustration jobs are:

What states have the most Scientific Illustration jobs?

States with the most job openings for Scientific Illustration jobs include:

Infographic showing various Scientific Illustration job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,473 per year, or $31.5 per hour.

Lecturer - Science Illustration

California State University

Monterey, CA • On-site

$6.6K - $7.4K/mo

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


California State University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

213th of 629 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Lecturer - Science Illustration

Apply now Job no: 536533
Work type: Instructional Faculty - Temporary/Lecturer
Location: Monterey Bay
Categories: Unit 3 - CFA - California Faculty Association, Temporary, Part Time, Faculty - Natural Sciences

Classification:  Academic Year Faculty 
Priority Screening Date:  Open until filled
Recruitment Status:  This position will remain open until filled. Qualified applicants who are not hired at this time will remain in the pool for future consideration.

ABOUT CSUMB

California State University, Monterey Bay is a mid-sized university in California's Central Coast that grants undergraduate and graduate degrees. Powered by an inspiring Founding Vision Statement, CSUMB is part of the nation's largest four-year public university system, California State University, which educates nearly 460,000 students every year. 

With a vibrant, diverse student body of over 7,000 students, CSU Monterey Bay is both a Minority Serving Institution and a Hispanic Serving Institution. Our staff and faculty transform students' lives with a focus on student success and engagement through experiential learning, service learning, and a strong emphasis on multicultural and global perspectives. CSUMB's sustainability goal is to be carbon neutral by 2030. 

The university's Strategic Plan prioritizes inclusive excellence through recruiting and investing in developing a diverse body of faculty, staff and administrators. Many appreciate living and working close to the shores of beautiful Monterey Bay, with easy access to recreational areas from Big Sur to Santa Cruz. Nearby opportunities for collaborative research include working in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and Silicon Valley, and with colleagues at local research universities, including UC Santa Cruz and Stanford University.

As one of the 23 campuses in the CSU system, CSUMB offers excellent benefits, including access to below-market-rate rental housing on East Campus, and competitive salaries for faculty and staff. With proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area and San Jose, opportunities for faculty, staff and students are as endless as the shores of the nearby Pacific Ocean.

Candidates for this position are expected to demonstrate a commitment to teaching excellence and student success at the university level. The successful candidate must have the ability to work effectively with students, faculty, and staff from diverse ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Lecturers are required to maintain additional hours outside the classroom to provide assistance to students. Specific assignments are dependent upon department needs. Candidates may be called upon to teach in a distance education mode.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum qualifications include a master's degree in a related field, or equivalent, in accordance with University guidelines.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

A terminal degree and evidence of effective teaching with a variety of methodologies is preferred. Demonstrated understanding and commitment to CSUMB's Vision.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check (including a criminal records check).

The person holding this position will have a duty to report to the Campus Title IX Officer information pertaining to discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct, sexual exploitation, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and retaliation and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order EO 1095, EO 1096, and EO 1097 as a condition of employment. 

The incumbent is required to maintain confidentiality as outlined in the Department of Education's Family Educational Rights and Privacy and California's Educational Code Chapter 13 regarding sensitive student issues.

Working in the State of California is a condition of employment.

COMPENSATON:

The full-time (15 units per semester) monthly base salaries are prorated to the number of units worked and are paid in six monthly payments for each full semester. For a three-unit assignment, typical starting compensation ranges from $6,608 to $7,465 per semester.

CSU Salary Schedule
*CSUMB provides pay scales representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for this position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, and CSU systemwide pay for comparable jobs.

BENEFITS:

CSUMB offers a premium benefit package that includes outstanding health, dental & vision plans; a fee waiver education program; and membership in the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS).  For more information, visit: Employee Benefits Summary.  Additionally, the University Corporation at CSU Monterey Bay provides access to affordable campus housing based on availability, visit:  Schoonover Employee Housing for more information.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

This is a pool of part-time lecturers for the department to draw on as necessary. The number of positions varies from semester to semester, depending on the needs of the Department. Appointments from the pool are temporary and do not confer tenure. The pool will remain in place for two academic years; those interested in remaining in the pool beyond that time must reapply.

For full consideration, applicants must complete the required online application and submit required documents by the priority screening date found at csumb.edu/jobs. Application submissions received after the application screening date will be reviewed at the discretion of the University. Materials submitted become the property of CSUMB and will not be returned.

Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified applicants with disabilities who self-disclose by contacting Human Resources at (831) 582-3389 or humanresources@csumb.edu.

GENERAL INFORMATION:

CSUMB hires only individuals lawfully authorized to work in the United States and is an E-Verify employer. In compliance with state and federal crime awareness and campus security legislation, including The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act, California Education Code section 67380, and the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA), the Cal State University, Monterey Bay Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available at: https://csumb.edu/clery

The health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff remain our highest priority. While on campus, students, faculty, staff, and the community will be expected to follow all campus safety mandates.  

CSUMB is a smoke and tobacco-free campus. 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:

CSUMB is an Equal Opportunity employer seeking to recruit and support a broadly diverse community of faculty and staff. We value and celebrate diversity in all its forms and strive to foster an inclusive culture built on respect that affirms inter-group relations and builds cohesion. We consider qualified applicants for employment for their anticipated contributions and without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, marital status, veteran status, or disability.

Advertised: November 06, 2024 (10:00 AM) Pacific Standard Time
Applications close:

Back to search results Apply now Refer a friend

Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App

What California State University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


California State University logo

About California State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Long Beach, CA, US