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The differences between graphic designer interns and graphic design specialists can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 6-12 months to become both a graphic designer internship and a graphic design specialist. Additionally, a graphic design specialist has an average salary of $55,925, which is higher than the $35,800 average annual salary of a graphic designer internship.
The top three skills for a graphic designer internship include graphic design intern, adobe photoshop and blog posts. The most important skills for a graphic design specialist are graphic design, adobe creative suite, and visualization.
| Graphic Designer Internship | Graphic Design Specialist | |
| Yearly salary | $35,800 | $55,925 |
| Hourly rate | $17.21 | $26.89 |
| Growth rate | 3% | 3% |
| Number of jobs | 93,292 | 49,055 |
| Job satisfaction | 2 | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 71% | Bachelor's Degree, 68% |
| Average age | 38 | 38 |
| Years of experience | 12 | 12 |
In a graphic design internship, one of the primary responsibilities is to accomplish tasks while under the supervision of more experienced colleagues. An aspiring graphic designer may use this opportunity to observe and participate in designing for various industries, handle different clients, participate in creative meetings, and learn strategies from experts. Furthermore, there may also be technical tasks involving research and analysis, gathering materials, coordinating with vendors, and producing reports and other necessary documentation. They may also be responsible for maintaining a database and responding to calls and inquires.
A graphic design specialist utilizes their artistic expertise in creating imagery and designs that convey a particular message. Their responsibilities revolve around liaising with clients to determine their needs and goals, developing concepts and subjecting it for client approval, and revising designs as necessary. In a company setting, a graphic design specialist may work with a team, coordinating with them while sticking to budgets and deadlines. Furthermore, as a team member, it is essential to report to managers or supervisors, all while adhering to the company's policies and regulations.
Graphic designer interns and graphic design specialists have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Graphic Designer Internship | Graphic Design Specialist | |
| Average salary | $35,800 | $55,925 |
| Salary range | Between $26,000 And $47,000 | Between $38,000 And $80,000 |
| Highest paying City | Seattle, WA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | Washington | Washington |
| Best paying company | Riverbed Holdings, Inc. | Berkshire Hathaway |
| Best paying industry | Professional | Technology |
There are a few differences between a graphic designer internship and a graphic design specialist in terms of educational background:
| Graphic Designer Internship | Graphic Design Specialist | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 71% | Bachelor's Degree, 68% |
| Most common major | Graphic Design | Graphic Design |
| Most common college | University of Pennsylvania | University of Pennsylvania |
Here are the differences between graphic designer interns' and graphic design specialists' demographics:
| Graphic Designer Internship | Graphic Design Specialist | |
| Average age | 38 | 38 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 40.6% Female, 59.4% | Male, 50.0% Female, 50.0% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 3.4% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 10.6% Asian, 10.4% White, 70.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4% | Black or African American, 3.4% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 10.6% Asian, 10.4% White, 70.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4% |
| LGBT Percentage | 13% | 13% |