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Visual Artist Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

Arts Director

Gig Harbor, WA · On-site

$23.70 - $28.67/hr

If hired, you will provide leadership and support for performing arts productions, visual arts exhibitions, and events. Compensation: $23.70 to $28.67 per hour (Compensation is determined based on ...

YMCA of Greater Kansas City

Arts Director

Gig Harbor, WA · On-site

$23.70 - $28.67/hr

Appreciation and passion for visual and performing arts. * Positive attitude and previous experience with diverse populations. * Demonstrated skills in customer service, public relations ...

PUBG Seattle

Senior Environment Artist

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$143K - $171K/yr

We pride ourselves on pushing the boundaries of creativity, storytelling, and visual artistry. Our team of talented artists, designers, and developers work collaboratively to build immersive worlds ...

PUBG Seattle

Senior Environment Artist

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$143K - $171K/yr

We pride ourselves on pushing the boundaries of creativity, storytelling, and visual artistry. Our team of talented artists, designers, and developers work collaboratively to build immersive worlds ...

Komodo Co., Ltd.

VFX Artist (Bellevue)

Bellevue, WA · On-site

The Opportunity KOMODO is seeking a VFX Artist to define the visual identity of Nanos, the codename for a competitive PvP game built in Unreal Engine. You will create high-quality, stylized real-time ...

Komodo Co., Ltd.

VFX Artist (Bellevue)

Bellevue, WA · On-site

The Opportunity KOMODO is seeking a VFX Artist to define the visual identity of Nanos, the codename for a competitive PvP game built in Unreal Engine. You will create high-quality, stylized real-time ...

Hardsuit Labs

Technical Artist (Mid - Senior)

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$144K - $173K/yr

Visual Development & Shaders: Develop advanced, optimized materials via node graphs using 3D/vector ... Artistic Foundation: Strong understanding of lighting, color theory, composition, visual balance ...

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All JobsVisual Artist JobsVisual Artist Jobs in Seattle, WA

Visual Artist information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$41.5K

$122.7K

$173.5K

How much do visual artist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for visual artist in Seattle, WA is $122,709.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,700.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can you get as a visual artist?

A visual artist can pursue various roles such as fine artist, illustrator, graphic designer, concept artist, muralist, or art director. These jobs often require skills in drawing, painting, digital tools, and a strong portfolio, and may involve working in studios, advertising agencies, or freelance settings.

What is the difference between Visual Artist vs Graphic Designer?

AspectVisual ArtistGraphic Designer
CredentialsArt degrees, portfoliosDesign degrees, software skills
Work EnvironmentStudios, galleries, public spacesOffices, agencies, client sites
Industry UsageFine arts, exhibitions, installationsAdvertising, branding, marketing

While both Visual Artists and Graphic Designers create visual content, Visual Artists focus on personal or fine art projects often showcased in galleries or public spaces. Graphic Designers typically work on commercial projects like branding and advertising, using specific software tools. The roles overlap in creativity and visual communication but differ in purpose, environment, and industry focus.

How much money does a visual artist make?

The average salary for a visual artist varies widely depending on experience, location, and specialization, but typically ranges from $20,000 to $70,000 annually. Many visual artists supplement income through commissions, gallery sales, or teaching, and success often depends on portfolio quality and networking skills.

What does a visual artist do?

A visual artist creates works of art using a variety of materials. As a visual artist, your duties may be to draw images, work with paint, develop murals, design in 3D, or create art with mixed media. While many visual artists create art solely to display in galleries and sell to collectors, you can also work in a variety of other fields. Your responsibilities vary with the position, but you can work as an advertising specialist, marketing director, CAD designer, product designer, and more. Visual artists can also work in the movie industry, develop video games, or create brand images for a company. Social media is another growing area where visual artists can create content.

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

To thrive as a Visual Artist, you need a strong foundation in drawing, color theory, composition, and art history, often supported by a degree in fine arts or a related field. Familiarity with digital design tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Procreate, as well as traditional media, is typically expected. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective self-promotion are essential soft skills for standing out in a competitive field. These abilities enable artists to produce compelling work, adapt to evolving media, and build a sustainable career.

What are 5 careers in visual artist?

Five careers for a visual artist include becoming a fine artist, graphic designer, illustrator, art director, or muralist. These roles often require proficiency with tools like Adobe Creative Suite and a strong portfolio to showcase artistic skills. Opportunities exist in galleries, advertising agencies, publishing, and public art projects.

What is a visual artist?

Visual artists are creative professionals who use various mediums—such as painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, and digital art—to express ideas, emotions, or concepts visually. Their work can be displayed in galleries, public spaces, online platforms, or commercial settings. Visual artists may work independently or collaborate with organizations, and they often develop unique styles or techniques. The field encompasses a wide range of specializations, including fine arts, illustration, graphic design, and more.

How do visual artists typically collaborate with other creative professionals during a project?

Visual artists often work closely with graphic designers, art directors, writers, and marketing teams to bring creative concepts to life. Collaboration usually involves participating in brainstorming sessions, interpreting briefs, and providing sketches or drafts for feedback. Clear communication and openness to constructive critique are essential, as projects may go through multiple revisions. This teamwork not only enhances the final product but also helps artists expand their creative network and skill set.
More about Visual Artist jobs
What are popular job titles related to Visual Artist jobs in Seattle, WA? For Visual Artist jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Visual Artist jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Visual Artist jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Visual Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Visual Artist job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,709 per year, or $59 per hour.

Visual Arts Instructor

YMCA of Greater Kansas City

Puyallup, WA • On-site

$17.13 - $20.36/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Position: Visual Arts Instructor
Wage: $17.13 to $20.36 per hour (Compensation is determined based on relevant experience, skills, and qualifications, with most new hires starting between the minimum and midpoint of the posted wage range)
Hours: Part-Time, Up to 25 hours per week
Location: Mel Korum Family YMCA, Puyallup, WA
As a Visual Arts Instructor, you will lead engaging visual and/or digital art classes, inspiring creativity while guiding participants through artistic techniques and projects. This role creates a supportive, hands-on environment where artists of all skill levels can explore, learn, and express themselves
You'll also be able to use your skills to teach classes like:
  • Drawing
  • Painting
  • Preschool Arts
  • Ceramics and MORE!

Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 18 years of age or older.
  • 5+ years of formal performing arts training or comparable experience (preferred).
  • 1-2 years of experience as a performing arts teacher and/or teaching assistant (preferred).
  • Positive attitude and previous experience with varying ages and diverse populations.
  • Possess the knowledge and skills to teach preschool and beginning-level visual arts classes. Multiple disciplines preferred.
  • Ability to create engaging lesson plans that reflect appropriate level, ability, and classroom management.
  • Must be able to pass Background and Reference checks (in accordance with the WA State Fair Chance Act).
  • Committed to valuing and promoting diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
  • Able and willing to complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day, and other online and in-person training as required.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Teach and demonstrate sound technical and artistic principles to program participants.
  • Create class lesson plans within the allotted budgeted hours with a natural progression that relates to the abilities and ages of the classes being taught, as well as reflect YMCA dance curricula and YMCA core values.
  • Attend and contribute to art exhibitions and other YMCA events as assigned.
  • Effectively communicate program information and student progress to the youth and/or arts director and members each session.
  • Attend center and association visual art staff training and meetings as required.
  • Assist the youth and/or arts director in reaching campaign goals by telling the Y story, making personal asks, and supporting center events.
  • Maintain a clean and organized classroom environment by thoroughly cleaning program areas and properly storing all art supplies after each class.

Benefits:
All YMCA Employees receive the below benefits:
  • A Personal YMCA membership and YMCA360 virtual streaming membership
  • Flexible scheduling around school and extracurricular activities Paid Sick Leave accrued at 1.23 hours for every 40 hours worked per year
  • Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), Digital mental health counseling platform, Wellness program, and LifeMart employee discount center
  • Professional training, education, and certification opportunities
  • 20% discount on YMCA programs, childcare services and merchandise

Part-Time employees who work more than 20 hrs./week are eligible for the below voluntary benefit options:
  • HealthiestYou: by Teladoc (24/7 virtual general medical care access for non-emergency conditions)
  • Willamette Dental Plan
  • VSP Vision Plan

At the Y, we're all about empowering people, inspiring action, and strengthening the communities we call home. Join our team and support our vision of creating opportunity to all can thrive in every season of life. To apply, visit our website at www.ymcapkc.org.
The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is committed to diversity and inclusion throughout our organization and is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Women/Minority/Veteran/Disabled

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