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Graphic Designer

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AVG. SALARY

$44,800

education graphic

EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree

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JOB OUTLOOK

Stable

What They Do

Graphic Designers Career Video

Insider Info

You see the talents of graphic designers in company logos, on posters, on billboards, on product packaging and in textile design. Designers work for magazines and advertising agencies, in the wholesale-retail trade, in manufacturing industries and in printing and publishing.

Almost any product can benefit from the services of a graphic designer. These visual artists design everything from stone memorials to floral arrangements.

They design store window displays and other promotional displays. They design the look for entire newspapers and magazines as well as other printed documents like annual reports. They may also design furniture, sets for movies and television shows, museum exhibits, web pages and logos.

Many designers are working in multimedia -- video, computer animation and clip art.

While some still work with pencils, paints and paper, most designers these days are using computer software to create their art. Once the client's wishes are understood, the designer creates a sample product by hand sketching or by using a computer graphics program.

Graphic designers have to work closely with their clients. They have to consult with the clients to figure out what's needed. Then, as the project continues, the designer has to show sketches to the clients for approval.

The designer is also involved in preparing a bill for the client, assessing such factors as time required to do the job and costs of materials and printing.

Regular hours in comfortable office settings are the normal working conditions for graphic designers, though they sometimes have to work late to meet deadlines. Some work at home, allowing for a more flexible schedule.

Working conditions are generally pleasant, although designers may be exposed to the tools of the trade, including glues, paint and ink. Many also spend long hours at a computer.

Freelancers are paid by the assignment and have to constantly strive to please their clients and find new ones in order to bring in the bucks.

This is a competitive field, with many vying for both salaried jobs and freelance work. This is due to the glamorous image of the field and to the talent of those in it.

Just the Facts

Want a quick overview of what this career is about?Check out Just the Facts for simple lists of characteristics.

At a Glance

Design attractive visual images, from brochures to packaging

  • Increasing computer use hasn't eliminated the need for drawing skills
  • Many designers are working in multimedia
  • A diploma or degree in an art-related program plus a portfolio is a good start