Graphic Designer Salary: Pay, Resume Tips, & How to Draw for a Living
Welcome to the Creative Careers Series. In this series, we discuss creative positions, pay, skillsets, and how you can land a job. Today we’re discussing graphic design: the salary, job description, and more.
When it comes to marketing and advertising, there are a number of fields you can pursue. Last time, we covered paid search and the steps a person could take to become a paid search specialist. Today, we’ll be focusing on graphic design. Specifically, we’ll look at the average graphic designer salary and how you can enter this field.
What is a graphic designer?
A graphic designer typically works for a company to create digital (and sometimes print) collateral. For instance, a graphic designer may work on ads, infographics, emails, physical mailers, and even video.
On the other hand, some graphic designers are primarily freelancers, meaning they’re self-employed and work in contracted roles for clients. Freelance graphic designers often have specialties, like hand-lettering, illustration, or type design.
No freelancing gigs are the same, but it’s safe to assume that, as a freelancer, you’ll only work with point people on your projects.
Full-time graphic design employees, however, may have to work with numerous people on numerous teams. Copywriters, content writers, art directors, creative directors, and marketing specialists are just some of the roles graphic designers can expect to work with.
How much can I expect with a graphic designer salary?
So, how much does a graphic designer make each year? That depends on different aspects of the job, like location and experience.
Many employees can now work from home, which could offer better pay, even if you live in a less urban location. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect on average:
Average graphic designer salary:
According to Glassdoor, the average graphic designer in the United States, including all industries and years of experience, is ~$46,000 - $47,000/year. (This includes benefits.)
Beginner or jr. graphic design salary:
According to Glassdoor, the average salary for graphic designers with 0-1 years of experience, including all industries, is $45,272/year. (This includes benefits.)
Senior graphic designer salary:
The more senior a person becomes, the more their title and responsibilities change. Graphic designers can start in junior roles and eventually become senior, eventually moving up to art director, assistant creative director, or creative director roles.
According to Glassdoor, the average senior graphic designer in the United States, including all industries and years of experience, is $69,648/year (including benefits).
Paid search skills for a resume:
Trying to decide what to put on your graphic design resume? While you’ll need a portfolio to show your work, there are also some skills you’ll need to have for browsing hiring managers and recruiters. Below we’ve listed the graphic design skills and programs that could make your resume stand out.
Acrobat
Adobe Creative Suite (After Effects, Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, etc.)
Animation
Communication skills
Digital media
Figma
Illustration
Photography
Print media
Sketch
Suitcase
Typography
Video editing
Graphic design job description example: what you can expect
Most companies will require a few key abilities when hiring graphic designers. In addition to the skills listed above, the skill-sets listed below may help you appeal to hiring managers:
Ability to develop high-quality, on-brand collateral and concepts
Creates graphics or images to efficiently communicate ideas
Proficiency in design software
Collaborates with clients/stakeholders to reach goals
Clearly communicates and presents design concepts
A keen eye for detail and a knowledge of color theory
Works well under pressure to meet tight deadlines
A problem-solver who can adapt as needed
How to become a graphic designer
Many people become graphic designers right out of college, but you don’t necessarily have to attend college to become one. Here are some ways to become a graphic designer:
Teach yourself and/or learn with teachers
Apply for an internship or volunteer
Teach yourself and/or learn with teachers
The good news is, graphic design classes aren’t difficult to find. You can take them at university in-person, or you can go the online route with free videos, paid bootcamps, and e-learning services like Udemy or LinkedIn Learning.
Here’s a list of graphic design classes to check out:
Illustrator Full Course Tutorial
Free on YouTube
6+ hours of content
Available files you can practice with
InDesign for Beginners for Beginners
Free on YouTube
2.5 hours of content
Forum linked in description
Master Photoshop in 30 Days Playlist
Free on YouTube
32 videos so you can break up learnings
Covers a wide range of abilities
Classes start at $14.99 for new students
Various classes to choose from
LinkedIn Learning graphic design courses
1-month free trial
Price ranges from $39.99/month - $240/year
Access to LinkedIn’s full library of courses
Certificate of completion
Graphic Design Bootcamp Courses from American Graphics Institute
Courses start at $495; tuition is $3,000 (tuition payment plans available)
Rolling admission
Attend online or in-person
Highly experienced instructors
Apply for an internship or volunteer
Student internships are excellent ways to gain experience in school. You can use the projects you work on to leverage positions later on. Internships can often be found through colleges, alumni, and local businesses.
And if you’re not in school, no problem. Volunteer opportunities can offer a unique chance to gain experience and give back. Consider joining a local group you care about, or offer graphic design services for a community event.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to become a graphic designer (or you just want a graphic designer salary), there are a number of ways to learn digital art. Start developing your style and build out a basic portfolio. Virtually all businesses need graphic designers, so don’t be afraid to create unique work that differentiates your style.
Need help branding yourself or positioning your portfolio? We offer a variety of services, including consultations and rebrands. And your first consultation with us is always free.
