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Senior Technical Illustrator Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

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Senior Technical Illustrator information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$4

$26

$34

How much do senior technical illustrator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior technical illustrator in Rio Rancho, NM is $26.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $31.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior technical illustrator do?

A Senior Technical Illustrator is responsible for creating detailed and precise visual representations of complex technical information, such as machinery, products, or processes. They work closely with engineers, product designers, and technical writers to produce illustrations for manuals, instructional guides, and technical documents. Their expertise ensures that technical concepts are communicated clearly and accurately, often using specialized software and tools. Senior Technical Illustrators may also oversee junior illustrators and contribute to establishing illustration standards for their organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior technical illustrator?

To thrive as a Senior Technical Illustrator, you need advanced drawing abilities, a strong understanding of engineering or scientific concepts, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Proficiency in illustration software such as Adobe Illustrator, AutoCAD, and 3D modeling tools, along with familiarity with publishing or content management systems, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to interpret complex information set standout professionals apart in this role. These competencies ensure precise, clear, and effective visual documentation that supports user understanding and technical communication.

How do senior technical illustrators typically collaborate with engineers and product teams during a project?

Senior Technical Illustrators work closely with engineers, product managers, and subject matter experts to ensure that complex technical information is accurately and clearly visualized. They often participate in project meetings to gather requirements, review drafts with technical teams for accuracy, and iterate on illustrations based on feedback. Effective communication and a collaborative mindset are essential, as these professionals frequently bridge the gap between highly technical concepts and user-friendly visuals. This collaborative process helps ensure that final illustrations support product documentation, training materials, or marketing assets effectively.

What is the difference between Senior Technical Illustrator vs Technical Illustrator?

AspectSenior Technical IllustratorTechnical Illustrator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in illustration, graphic design, or related field; experience often requiredBachelor's degree in illustration, graphic design, or related field; entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesDesign studios, engineering firms, manufacturing companies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across engineering, aerospace, manufacturing, and technical documentationCommonly employed in similar industries for technical visuals

The main difference between a Senior Technical Illustrator and a Technical Illustrator lies in experience and responsibility. Senior Technical Illustrators typically have more years of experience, take on complex projects, and may mentor junior staff. Both roles are vital in creating detailed technical visuals used in manuals, manuals, and product documentation within engineering and manufacturing industries.

What are popular job titles related to Senior Technical Illustrator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM?

For Senior Technical Illustrator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Senior Technical Illustrator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Technical Illustrator job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,591 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

FRDO Sr Graphic Designer

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

University of New Mexico

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Great coworkers

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Learn more about University of New Mexicoexternal

$62K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

The University of New Mexico is seeking a highly motivated, dynamic, detail-oriented, and organized individual to join the Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) team as a Graphic Designer, Sr to support various programs within the OVPR, including the Grand Challenges Program.

The Faculty Research Development Office (FRDO), a unit of UNM's Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR), is seeking a Graphic Designer, Sr to contribute to our mission to support research development and enhance the diversity, quality, volume, and success rates of external funding proposals. The primary role of this position is to consult with researchers to produce technical and scientific illustrations for grant proposals (e.g. tables, charts, figures) that effectively communicate research concepts, methods or processes. Responsibilities also include support brand development, creating presentation templates, graphics, or other visual communications that support research programs and activities. The Graphic Designer is expected to maintain a record of work created and faculty/proposals supported. May also perform other related duties as assigned.

Key duties and responsibilities

1. Conceptualizes, plans, designs, and produces a wide range of specialized graphic, typesetting and/or illustrative material, to include multimedia concepts; writes and edits basic copy.

2. Works with clientele to ascertain needs and to develop graphic directions, concepts, and specifications for assigned projects.

3. Plans production schedules for the various steps in the design process; analyzes project development costs and develops project budgets and workflow for multiple concurrent projects; participates in production and/or marketing planning group sessions and meetings.

4. Identifies, selects, and coordinates vendors for printing and publication services, as appropriate to the project; may write and process requests for proposals for printing requisitions; identifies and recommends contractors, such as typesetters, printers, illustrators, photographers, and/or cartographers.

5. Oversees and coordinates the production process; develops and writes printing and/or other production specifications, and selects appropriate production media and materials, such as ink and paper; inspects proofs for accuracy and adherence to appropriate production standards.

6. Provides creative and technical advice and guidance, and serves as liaison with production personnel, authors, publishers, clients, and/or printing representatives on permission information, design and technical graphics issues.

7. May coordinate a graphics or photographic library and/or maintain digital records.

8. May create and produce animated videos and animated portions of live videos using computers and video production equipment.

9. May supervise and/or lead lower graded staff and/or student employees.

10. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

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