Are you ready to dive into the colorful world of graphic designer jobs? If you’ve got a creative mind and a passion for visual storytelling, you’re in for a treat! We’ve rounded up some of the best beginner-friendly opportunities that’ll help you kick-start your design career without breaking a sweat.
These entry-level positions are perfect for honing your skills and building that all-important portfolio. So, grab your favorite beverage, fire up that design software, and let’s explore some exciting ways to turn your artistic flair into a paycheck.
The benefits of creative jobs
Creative jobs, such as graphic designer jobs, offer numerous benefits. They allow you to express yourself artistically while earning a living. These roles often provide a more flexible work environment and the opportunity to continuously learn new skills.
Creative jobs can also be highly satisfying, as you get to see your ideas come to life and potentially impact others. Additionally, many creative fields offer the chance to work on diverse projects, keeping your work interesting and preventing monotony.
What are the easiest graphic designer jobs for beginners?
The easiest graphic designer jobs for beginners are often in social media design and basic layout creation. Entry-level positions like junior designer or design assistant are great starting points.
Related article: How to Learn Graphic Design For Complete Beginners
Many beginners find success creating simple marketing materials such as flyers, business cards, or social media graphics. Some newcomers also start with logo design for small businesses or freelance work on platforms like Fiverr or 99designs.
These roles allow you to build your skills and portfolio without the pressure of more complex projects.
How can I start a career in graphic design with no experience?
You can start a career in graphic design with no experience by building a portfolio of personal projects. Begin by learning the fundamentals through online courses, tutorials, or workshops.
Practice by redesigning existing brands or creating fictional projects to showcase your skills. Volunteer your services to local non-profits or small businesses to gain real-world experience.
Network with other designers and join design communities to learn and potentially find opportunities.
Related article: Should You Be Attending Networking Events? The Importance of Connections
Finally, consider internships or entry-level positions that can provide on-the-job training and a foot in the door of the industry.
What skills do I need to become a graphic designer?
To become a graphic designer, you need a mix of creative and technical skills. Proficiency in design software like Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) or similar tools is essential.
A strong understanding of design principles, including color theory, typography, and layout, is crucial. You should also develop skills in visual communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail. Good time management and the ability to work with clients or team members are important soft skills.
Lastly, staying current with design trends and continuously improving your craft will help you succeed in this dynamic field.
The 10 best beginner-friendly graphic designer jobs
1. Junior Graphic Designer
Junior Graphic Designers typically work on smaller projects under the guidance of senior designers. They create visual concepts using computer software or by hand, often contributing to projects like brochures, advertisements, or website graphics.
This role is perfect for recent graduates looking to gain experience in a professional setting.
The average salary for Junior Graphic Designers is around $40,000 to $45,000 per year, depending on location and company size. It’s a great starting point to learn the ropes and build your portfolio!
2. Freelance Graphic Designer
Freelance Graphic Designers work independently for various clients on a project basis. They handle everything from client communication to project execution, creating designs for logos, websites, marketing materials, and more.
This role offers flexibility and variety but requires self-discipline and business skills.
Freelance income can vary widely, with average earnings ranging from $25 to $100 per hour, depending on experience and client base. It’s perfect for those who love diversity in their work and enjoy being their own boss.
3. Social Media Graphic Designer
Social Media Graphic Designers create visually appealing content for various social media platforms. They design eye-catching graphics, animations, and sometimes short videos that align with brand guidelines and campaign objectives.
Related article: Inside The Role: What It Takes to Be a Social Media Manager
This role requires staying up-to-date with social media trends and platform-specific requirements. The average salary for Social Media Graphic Designers is around $45,000 to $55,000 annually. It’s an exciting graphic designer job for those who love staying connected and creating scroll-stopping content.
4. In-House Designer for Small Businesses
In-House Designers for small businesses handle a wide range of design needs within a single company. They might work on everything from business cards and brochures to website graphics and product packaging.
This role offers the opportunity to deeply understand and shape a brand’s visual identity.
The average salary for In-House Designers in small businesses ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 per year. It’s great for those who enjoy building long-term relationships and seeing their work make a direct impact.
5. Web Design Assistant
Web Design Assistants support senior web designers in creating visually appealing and functional websites. They often work on tasks like creating mockups, editing images, and implementing design elements using HTML and CSS.
This role is an excellent way to learn about the intersection of design and technology.
The average salary for Web Design Assistants is around $35,000 to $45,000 annually. It’s perfect for those who love combining creativity with a bit of coding!
6. Graphic Design Intern
Graphic Design Interns work in various settings to gain hands-on experience in the field. They assist with design projects, learn industry-standard software, and often contribute ideas to creative teams.
While some internships are unpaid, many offer stipends or hourly wages ranging from minimum wage to $15-$20 per hour.
This role is ideal for students or recent graduates looking to build their portfolio and make industry connections. It’s a fantastic way to get your foot in the door and learn from experienced professionals.
7. Marketing Design Assistant
Marketing Design Assistants create visual content for marketing campaigns across various channels.
They work on projects like email newsletters, social media graphics, and promotional materials, often collaborating closely with marketing teams. This role helps develop both design skills and marketing knowledge.
The average salary for Marketing Design Assistants is around $40,000 to $50,000 per year. It’s great for those who enjoy the fast-paced world of marketing and want to see their designs drive results.
8. Production Artist
Production Artists focus on preparing designs for print or digital production. They ensure that files are properly formatted, color-corrected, and meet all technical specifications. This role requires attention to detail and proficiency in design software.
The average salary for Production Artists ranges from $35,000 to $50,000 annually. It’s perfect for those who love the technical side of design and take pride in polishing projects to perfection.
9. Branding Assistant
Branding Assistants support the development and maintenance of brand identities. They work on projects like logo variations, brand guidelines, and ensuring consistency across various materials. This role offers insight into the strategic aspects of design.
The average salary for Branding Assistants is around $40,000 to $55,000 per year. It’s ideal for those who enjoy thinking about the big picture and creating cohesive visual systems.
10. Presentation Designer
Presentation Designers create visually engaging slides and materials for business presentations. They transform complex information into clear, attractive visuals using software like PowerPoint or Keynote.
This role combines design skills with an understanding of effective communication.
The average salary for Presentation Designers ranges from $45,000 to $60,000 annually. It’s great for those who enjoy storytelling through design and making information beautiful!
Which companies hire entry-level graphic designers?
Many companies hire entry-level graphic designers across various industries. Large tech companies like Google, Facebook, and Amazon often have openings for junior designers.
Advertising agencies and marketing firms frequently seek fresh talent to join their creative teams. Media companies, such as magazines and newspapers, also hire entry-level designers for both print and digital work.
Additionally, many startups and small businesses are open to hiring less experienced designers who can grow with the company. Don’t forget about non-profit organizations and educational institutions, which often have design needs and are welcoming to newcomers in the field.
How can I find remote graphic designer jobs?
You can find remote graphic designer jobs through various online platforms and strategies. Job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor often list remote design positions – just use “remote” in your search filters.
Freelance marketplaces such as Upwork, Fiverr, and 99designs are great for finding project-based work that can be done remotely. Join design-focused communities on platforms like Behance or Dribbble, where companies sometimes post job listings. Network on social media, especially Twitter and LinkedIn, where many designers and companies share job opportunities.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to reach out directly to companies you’d like to work for – many are open to remote workers even if they haven’t advertised it.
What tools should I learn to become a graphic designer?
To become a graphic designer, you should learn a mix of industry-standard software and fundamental design tools. Adobe Creative Suite is crucial – focus on Photoshop for image editing, Illustrator for vector graphics, and InDesign for layout design.
Related article: 12 Powerful Graphic Design Tools Every Beginner Should Know About
Figma or Sketch are popular for UI/UX design and prototyping. Learn a basic photo editing tool like Canva for quick projects. Familiarize yourself with color picker tools and font management software. While not software, it’s important to learn how to use drawing tablets for digital illustration.
Don’t forget about project management tools like Trello or Asana, as they’re often used in design workflows. Remember, the specific tools may vary depending on your specialization, but these cover the basics for most graphic designer jobs.
What are the best online courses for learning graphic design?
The best online courses for learning graphic design cover a range of topics and skill levels. Coursera offers a Graphic Design Specialization from the California Institute of the Arts, which is comprehensive and well-regarded.
Udemy has a variety of courses, including “Graphic Design Masterclass” which is great for beginners. For those interested in specific software, LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com) provides excellent tutorials on Adobe Creative Suite.
If you’re on a budget, Skillshare offers many graphic design courses with a single subscription fee. Don’t forget about free resources like YouTube tutorials and Adobe’s own learning platform, which can supplement your learning journey.
How can I stand out when applying for graphic designer jobs?
To stand out when applying for graphic designer jobs, focus on creating a unique and impressive portfolio. Showcase a variety of projects that demonstrate your skills and creativity, including personal projects that reflect your style and interests.
Tailor your application to each job by highlighting relevant experiences and skills that match the job description. Consider creating a personal brand for yourself, including a logo and consistent design across your resume, portfolio, and social media profiles.
Networking is crucial, so attend design events, join online communities, and engage with other professionals in the field. Don’t be afraid to show your personality and passion for design in your cover letter and interviews – enthusiasm can be just as important as skills.
Become a beginner graphic designer today
To wrap up this journey into beginner-friendly graphic design jobs, remember that the world of design is full of exciting opportunities for creative minds like yours. Whether you’re drawn to the varied projects of a junior designer, the flexibility of freelancing, or the fast-paced world of social media graphics, there’s a perfect starting point waiting for you.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different roles and tools as you build your skills and portfolio. The key is to start somewhere, keep learning, and let your creativity shine. With determination, practice, and the right opportunities, you’ll be well on your way to turning your passion for design into a rewarding career.
So, fire up that design software, start creating, and who knows? Your next masterpiece might just land you your dream job in the colorful world of graphic design!
