Graphic Designers
Design or create graphics to meet specific commercial or promotional needs, such as packaging, displays, or logos. May use a variety of mediums to achieve artistic or decorative effects.
SOC: 27-1024.00
Common Job Titles
ArtistDesignerGraphic ArtistGraphic Designer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeCreate visual designs for commercial packaging, promotional displays, and brand logos using advanced design software and industry-standard tools to meet client specifications.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize design principles, typography, color theory, and composition techniques to produce aesthetically compelling and functionally effective visual communications.Advanced
- Hands-onOperate Adobe Creative Cloud software, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign to produce print-ready and digital design deliverables efficiently.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate design concepts and visual solutions based on client objectives, target audience, and brand guidelines.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate client feedback and creative vision when collaborating with stakeholders to refine design iterations.Proficient
- KnowledgeDevelop design strategies and visual communication plans that align with marketing and sales objectives for diverse media channels.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate for design choices and creative concepts by presenting persuasive rationales to clients and cross-functional teams.Proficient
- KnowledgeOrganize multiple concurrent design projects with competing deadlines through effective time management and prioritization in fast-paced environments.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply knowledge of production processes and printing techniques to ensure designs are optimized for various mediums and output requirements.Developing
- Hands-onExecute web design and front-end coding tasks using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript following responsive design principles and accessibility standards.Developing
- MindsetEngage with continuous learning of emerging design trends and technologies to maintain relevance and innovation in a rapidly evolving field.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Graphic Designers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
214,260
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $37,600 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $103,030 |
| Workers on average earn | $68,610 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Design4.7/5
- Fine Arts4.4/5
- Computers and Electronics4.4/5
- Communications and Media4.3/5
- English Language3.8/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
AJAXAdobe AcrobatAdobe After EffectsAdobe Creative Cloud softwareAdobe IllustratorAdobe InDesignAdobe PhotoshopApple macOSAutodesk AutoCADAutodesk AutoCAD Civil 3DAutodesk RevitBentley MicroStationCascading style sheets CSSDrupalExtensible markup language XMLFacebookFigmaGoogle DocsHypertext markup language HTMLIntuit QuickBooksJavaScriptMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft VisioMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoft WordPHPStructured query language SQLTrimble SketchUp ProWordPressjQuery
Technology Skills
Adobe ActionScriptAdobe ColdFusionAdobe DistillerAdobe DreamweaverAdobe FrameMakerAdobe FreeHand MXAdobe Macromedia HomeSiteAdobe PageMaker
Tools & Equipment
35 millimeter camerasComputer laser printersComputer scannersDesktop computersDigital camerasGraphics tabletsLaptop computersPersonal computers