How do designers find their first job?

I explored several online job boards for junior or entry-level graphic designer positions and i found three real job listings. Below, I share the job requirements, pay details, and common skills each employers look for.and i reflected on my own skills and qualifications.

Online Job Boards Explored


Three Junior / Entry-Level Graphic Designer Jobs

 Junior Graphic Designer — National Children’s Museum (via Dribbble)
  • Pay: $47,000 – $52,000
Requirements:
  • 1–3 years relevant experience
  • Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign
  • Basic knowledge of After Effects, Premiere, HTML/CSS a plus
  • Create print, digital, and social media graphics
  • Collaborate with teams and support projects
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in Graphic Design or related field; 
  • At least 1‑3 years of relevant experience creating graphics in one or more of the following mediums: advertising and marketing design, illustration, publication and typographic design, and packaging design; 
  • Must be proficient with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign; 
  • Basic knowledge of Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro; 
  • Prior experience with HTML and CSS is a plus; 
  • Must be a creative, detail‑oriented thinker; 
  • Excellent critical thinking skills; ability to balance multiple time‑critical projects and pivot quickly; 
  • Highly organized self-starter who enjoys working in a fast‑paced, entrepreneurial, and deadline‑driven environment; 
  • Team player who values a collaborative working environment
 Junior Graphic Designer — SimpsonScarborough (via Dribbble)
  • Pay: Not listed explicitly
Requirements:
  • 0–2 years experience
  • Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) proficiency
  • Manage multiple projects
  • Collaborate with teams and clients
  • Familiarity with design systems preferred
  • Assist with photoshoots and creative brainstorming
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience 
  • 0‑2 years of experience 
  • Ample experience with Adobe CS (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat in particular), as well as familiarity with Adobe Fonts 
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office programs (Teams and Outlook) and Zoom
  • Experience with internal servers, file sharing, and consistent file naming practices
  • Knowledge of Atomic design and ADA compliance, experience with Sketch or equivalent program (preferred) 
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment 
  • Must be comfortable working with multiple remote creative, digital, and account teams located across the country 
Entry Level Graphic Designer — NYC Alliance Company LLC (via Indeed)
  • Pay: $60,000 – $65,000
Requirements:
  • Degree in Graphic Design or related field
  • Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)Portfolio required
  • Experience with digital ads, packaging, social media design
  • A degree in Graphic Design or a related field 
  • Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, especially Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign 
  • 2–3 relevant design internships or work experience that demonstrate hands-on experience 
  • Strong typography and layout design skills 
  • A compelling portfolio that showcases your creativity and design range 
  • A genuine passion for fashion, branding, and visual storytelling 
  • A collaborative spirit with a strong desire to learn and grow 
  • A high‑energy, self-starter attitude with a proactive mindset 
  • A results-driven approach with attention to detail and deadlines 
Common Skills Across These Jobs
  • Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines
  • Collaboration and communication skills
  • Portfolio of work (school, freelance, or personal projects)
  • Basic knowledge of digital and print design
  • Bonus skills: motion graphics, video editing, HTML/CSS

My Skills and Qualifications
  • Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign (3 years)
  • Leadership and teamwork experience as a team captain and student government member
  • Strong communication and organization skills
  • Experience supporting community initiatives, including Special Olympics
  • Bilingual in English and Mandarin Chinese
  • Currently building a portfolio and gaining real-world design experience

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