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Sign Writer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Strong written and verbal communication skills * Professional, dependable, and discreet * Prior experience in the signage, printing, or manufacturing industry is a plus, but not required What This ...

Be Seen First

Strong written and verbal communication skills * Professional, dependable, and discreet * Prior experience in the signage, printing, or manufacturing industry is a plus, but not required What This ...

Showing results 21-40

Sign Writer information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$23

$41

How much do sign writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for sign writer in Illinois is $23.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $27.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sign writer?

A Sign Writer designs, creates, and installs signs for businesses, vehicles, and public spaces. They use various techniques, including hand-painting, digital printing, and vinyl application, to produce visually appealing signage. Sign Writers may work with different materials such as wood, metal, glass, and plastic. Their job requires creativity, precision, and knowledge of design software and tools.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sign writer?

To thrive as a Sign Writer, you need strong artistic ability, keen attention to detail, and proficiency in graphic design or hand lettering, often supported by a relevant diploma or apprenticeship. Familiarity with design software like Adobe Illustrator, vinyl cutting machines, and large-format printers is typically required, along with knowledge of safety standards. Creativity, effective communication, and time management are important soft skills for meeting client needs and managing multiple projects. These skills and qualifications ensure high-quality, visually appealing signage that meets client specifications and project deadlines.

What are the typical challenges a sign writer may face on the job?

Sign Writers often encounter challenges such as working with tight deadlines, adapting designs to various materials and installation environments, and meeting customer specifications while maintaining high quality. They may also need to balance multiple projects at once and collaborate closely with clients, printers, or installation teams. Additionally, working on-site can involve exposure to weather conditions or heights, depending on the signage location. Successful Sign Writers thrive by being flexible, detail-oriented, and able to troubleshoot issues that arise during the design or installation process.

How do you become a sign writer?

To become a sign writer, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and develop skills in graphic design, lettering, and the use of tools like paint, vinyl cutters, or digital design software. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training is common, and some sign writers pursue certifications in graphic design or sign making to enhance their skills.

What does a sign writer do?

A sign writer designs, creates, and installs signs for businesses, organizations, or public spaces. They often use tools like paint, vinyl, or digital printing equipment and may need skills in graphic design and knowledge of safety standards. The role involves attention to detail and adherence to client specifications to produce effective signage.

What qualifications do you need to be a sign writer?

To become a sign writer, relevant qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent, and skills in graphic design, lettering, and the use of sign-making tools and materials. Some employers may prefer candidates with vocational training or certifications in sign writing or related fields.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sign Writer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Sign Writer jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Sign Writer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,955 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

SUBSTITUTE EDUCATIONAL SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER

Northwest Suburban Special Education Organization

Mount Prospect, IL • On-site

$32.54/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Substitute
Date Posted:
8/19/2025
Location:
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program
Date Available:
2025-2026
GENERAL INFORMATION:
Title................................................................ Educational Sign Language Interpreter
Licensure....................................................... Illinois State Board of Education Interpreter Approval
Endorsement................................................. No Endorsements Required
Classification.................................................. Substitute - hourly
FLSA Status................................................... Exempt
Reports to...................................................... Program Coordinator
Salary Classification...................................... Hourly Rate $32.54
Benefits......................................................... Substiutte - no benefits
PURPOSE:
The Educational Sign Language Interpreter transmits messages and environmental cues via a language or code that best meets the needs of the receiver in both academic and non-academic settings. The interpreter is expected to establish and maintain effective, appropriate working relationships with students, parents, and staff. The position calls upon the interpreter to exercise initiative, independent judgment, and discretion in performance of duties. The Educational Interpreter is guided by best practice and by codes of ethics that are outlined by his or her professional organizations.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
• Interprets teacher's and other students' comments to program students during classroom activities.
• Interprets program students' comments to teachers during classroom activities.
• Reviews coursework materials in advance so that classroom activities can be conveyed clearly and accurately.
• Researches and chooses signs to convey clear meanings in all settings.
• Provides note taking or arranges note taking services.
• Facilitates academic and personal communication for program students by providing interpreting services during tutoring sessions, counseling sessions, annual reviews, school assemblies, and after school activities.
• Provides information about students' communication and language needs consistent with the team's direction to teachers in mainstream classes.
• Exhibits knowledge of the language and communication needs of students who are deaf/hard of hearing and the ability to communicate with students who are deaf/hard of hearing.
• Exhibits knowledge of the unique nature of educational interpreting/transliterating.
• Exhibits exemplary interpersonal skills in dealing with students, staff, and parents
• Projects a positive image of the district to students, staff, and parents as well as exhibiting a positive and collaborative attitude on the job.
• Educates students and staff in the strategies, processes, and protocol for using an Interpreter.
• Advocates for communication access and models self-advocacy skills.
• Participates in professional growth activities.
• Participates in staff and building meetings as appropriate and as requested by teachers or by Program Supervisor.
OTHER FUNCTIONS:
• Act as a positive role model for students.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding work with special needs student.
• Support NSSEO policy, NSSEO and governing board goals and objectives, and The School Code of Illinois.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
• To perform the physically demanding job functions, strength and/or endurance for lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling are occasionally required.
• To perform the most physically demanding job functions, the physical capabilities of climbing and balancing are seldom required.
• To perform the most physically demanding job functions, the physical body movement of stooping, kneeling, crouching and/or crawling is seldom required.
• To perform the most physically demanding job functions, the upper extremity physical capabilities reaching, handling, and/or fine motor dexterity are constantly required.
• Exposure to temperature extremes is seldom or not present.
• Exposure to hazardous conditions (e.g. mechanical, cuts, burns, infectious disease, high decibel noise, etc.) is seldom or not present.
• Frequency of exposure to injury to self and/or others is seldom or not present.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
• Have or obtain the Illinois State Board of Education Educational Interpreter Approval
• Proficient in American Sign Language
• Ability to read, write and communicate in English to understand directions and communicate with students and staff.
• Ability to physically move about the building.
• Ability to make minor decisions in accordance with established procedures.
• Ability to participate in NSSEO approved behavior management procedures, Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) and to apply training in crisis situations including student restraints as needed.

Attachment(s):
  • EDUCATIONAL SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER.pdf