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Job outlook for junior designers in the United States
Junior designer job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected junior designer job growth rate is 3% from 2018-2028.
About 6,800 new jobs for junior designers are projected over the next decade.
Junior designer salaries have increased 12% for junior designers in the last 5 years.
There are over 53,056 junior designers currently employed in the United States.
There are 58,152 active junior designer job openings in the US.
The average junior designer salary is $53,349.
Are junior designer jobs in demand?
Junior designer job and salary trends over time
Junior designer jobs over time
Junior designer job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 53,056 | 0.02% |
| 2020 | 51,599 | 0.02% |
| 2019 | 54,233 | 0.02% |
| 2018 | 53,109 | 0.02% |
| 2017 | 52,630 | 0.02% |
Average junior designer salary over time
Junior designer salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $53,349 | $25.65 | +2.4% |
| 2025 | $52,080 | $25.04 | +3.5% |
| 2024 | $50,341 | $24.20 | +3.4% |
| 2023 | $48,672 | $23.40 | +2.2% |
| 2022 | $47,613 | $22.89 | +1.6% |
Junior designer jobs by state
Most common states for junior designers
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 313 | 45% |
| 2 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 1,208 | 14% |
| 3 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 1,035 | 14% |
| 4 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 930 | 14% |
| 5 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 564 | 14% |
| 6 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 803 | 13% |
| 7 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 410 | 13% |
| 8 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 165 | 12% |
| 9 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 119 | 11% |
| 10 | Delaware | 961,939 | 103 | 11% |
| 11 | Vermont | 623,657 | 70 | 11% |
| 12 | California | 39,536,653 | 4,000 | 10% |
| 13 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 1,002 | 10% |
| 14 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 532 | 10% |
| 15 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 532 | 9% |
| 16 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 120 | 9% |
| 17 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 51 | 9% |
| 18 | New York | 19,849,399 | 1,649 | 8% |
| 19 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 1,055 | 8% |
| 20 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 62 | 8% |
Most common cities for junior designers
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tucker | 1 | 4% | $46,953 |
| 2 | Decatur | 1 | 1% | $53,181 |
| 3 | Fort Smith | 1 | 1% | $46,264 |
| 4 | Chicago | 2 | 0% | $54,208 |
| 5 | Atlanta | 1 | 0% | $46,914 |
| 6 | Sacramento | 1 | 0% | $63,632 |
Junior Designer job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of junior designer experts
Beloit College
Arcadia University
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Louisiana State University at Shreveport
Ferris State University
Kansas State University
University of North Texas
Marywood University
Florida International University
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Montclair State University
Seattle University
Kansas State University
Middle Tennessee State University
Millikin University
The University of Memphis
Providence College
University of Utah
What general advice would you give to a Junior Designer?
Tiffany Prater: As we emerge from the pandemic, it's crucial to hone your communication skills, particularly in areas such as presenting your design ideas, collaborating with team members, and effectively communicating with clients. This will not only build your confidence but also help you communicate your thought processes and informed design solutions, be open to correction and criticism, and gather experience while working with senior graphic designers, creative directors, and clients.
What general advice would you give to a Junior Designer?
Shelbi Wilkin: Day to day work can vary when working as a designer for theatre. When not researching and analyzing plays, designers work on rendering designs, budgets, and sourcing materials. Designers can expect regular meetings with a production team and shop supervisors for their discipline. As a costume designer my role would be to meet with costume shop managers and drapers to ensure designs are realized per my vision, attend fittings for actors, tech rehearsals, photo calls, and strike for a performance. How much the costume designer engages with a shop or builds costumes themselves depends on the institution hiring.
What will help Junior Designers increase their earning potential?
Shelbi Wilkin: Not all theater's pay wages proportionately to the work and expertise asked of theatre artists. Many established theatre artists are working to change this culture in the industry, especially for early career professionals.
What Junior Designer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Christian Patchell: A Graphic Designer will do a number of things every day. Often, there may be a beginning of the week meeting, this could be a team meeting or a one-on-one with the Art Director, Art Manager, or Senior Designer. So many of my students are finding remote employment, that makes these meetings (via Zoom or Skype) even more important. Also, there is now an added importance to Designers being good communicators, not just to other creative individuals but to additional areas outside of Design, such as Marketing, Sales, etc. Designers need to be able to speak to and/or hear input from various areas as they move through designing for a brief. Usually these meetings will sum up the week behind and the week ahead. A good Director will also be able to see where a team member might need assistance to finish something or is awaiting approval. When I worked in the Greeting Card industry these meetings not only mapped out the weeks’ worth of card design but also determined the larger picture such as planning a line of cards or an ad campaign. As a Designer, it was useful to see the smaller picture and the bigger picture as we moved forward as a team. A day to day an entry level Designer may be asked to assist in many areas with different skill sets for each. They could be proofing copy, laying out text, correcting bad links on a site or app. as well as designing an entire project from the ground up. It all depends on their area of expertise or the market in which they find themselves. My advice to those starting in Graphic Design is to “have many legs under the table of their career,” meaning: it’s a good idea to know a lot about multiple aspects of the Design Market. This is especially helpful for someone starting out, as it keeps many avenues open on the journey ahead as well as allowing for changes in the market or technology that may redirect one’s trajectory.
What general advice would you give to a Junior Designer?
Georges Fares: In the coming years, several skills will become increasingly important in interior design. First, sustainability and eco-friendly design will gain significant emphasis. Designers will need to be well-versed in sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and green certifications such as LEED and WELL. Knowledge of how to incorporate renewable resources and environmentally responsible practices into projects will be essential. Technology integration will also be highly valued. Proficiency in advanced design software, 3D modeling, and the use of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) will become integral to the design process. These tools will enhance visualization, presentation, and client collaboration, allowing for more immersive and interactive experiences. An awareness of global design trends and cultural sensitivity will be increasingly important as the world becomes more interconnected. Designers will often work on international projects, requiring an understanding of diverse cultural aesthetics, traditions, and preferences. This global perspective will help create spaces that resonate with varied client bases. Adaptability will be crucial in responding to evolving client needs, technological advancements, and market trends. The ability to pivot and innovate in response to new challenges will distinguish successful designers. Moreover, collaboration with diverse teams, including architects, engineers, and contractors, will be essential for seamless project execution. Effective communication and teamwork will ensure that all aspects of a project align and integrate smoothly. Finally, understanding clients' emotional needs and how design can address these will become a key aspect of creating meaningful and impactful spaces. Interior designers will need to consider psychological and emotional factors, designing environments that promote well-being, productivity, and comfort. This client-centered approach will lead to more personalized and effective design solutions.
What Junior Designer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Georges Fares: Maximizing salary potential in interior design involves a combination of strategic actions and ongoing professional development. To start, focusing on niche areas within interior design that are currently in high demand, such as sustainable design, healthcare design, or incorporating advanced technology, can significantly enhance your market value. These specialized skills set you apart from competitors and allow you to command higher fees for your expertise. Pursuing additional certifications and advanced degrees can further improve your qualifications and deepen your knowledge in these specialized areas. For example, obtaining LEED certification for sustainable design or a master's degree in healthcare design can make you more attractive to employers looking for specific skill sets. Networking is another critical component of maximizing salary potential. Establishing connections with industry professionals, mentors, and potential employers can lead to job opportunities with competitive salaries. Attending industry conferences, participating in professional organizations, and engaging in online communities are effective ways to build and maintain a robust professional network. A well-organized portfolio is essential in showcasing your best work, demonstrating your problem-solving skills, creativity, and ability to meet clients' needs, and including case studies that highlight improvements in functionality, sustainability, or user experience. Developing soft skills such as strong communication, negotiation, and leadership is also crucial, as they help articulate your design vision, secure better project terms and salaries, and position you for higher-compensation managerial roles. Overall, these strategies can help new graduates navigate the early stages of their careers and position themselves for financial and professional growth in the interior design field. By continuously improving your skills, expanding your network, and showcasing your work effectively, you can enhance your professional reputation and salary prospects.
What will help Junior Designers increase their earning potential?
Georges Fares: Starting a career in interior design can be both exciting and challenging. My advice is to stay curious and keep learning because the field of interior design is ever-evolving. Staying updated with the latest trends, materials, and technologies is crucial. Networking actively is also essential. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with peers and mentors, as these connections can open doors to opportunities and collaborations. Seek diverse experiences by gaining exposure to different types of projects and environments, whether residential, commercial, or hospitality. This will make you a more versatile designer. Lastly, stay resilient. The design field can be competitive and demanding, but by continuously honing your skills and maintaining a positive attitude, you can navigate through challenges successfully.
What general advice would you give to a Junior Designer?
Cameron John M.F.A.: Each day in design may offer something different - time is often balanced between multiple projects at different stages of development. Design projects, depending on scale, often take anywhere from 6 months to several years from beginning to end. Day to day tasks may include meeting with a client, meeting with other professionals like architects and engineers, developing plans and 3D models of the design, organizing and selecting materials, coordinating project details, making changes and revisions, meeting with product representatives, and much more.
What Junior Designer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Cameron John M.F.A.: Interior Architecture and Design offers an opportunity to help clients - real people - realize their vision. Whether it is a single-family home, a corporate office, or a hospital - the spaces designed are real. These spaces have tangible effect on the well-being, health, and happiness of others. The challenges of any field of design - architecture or otherwise - are that it is often a pursuit of passion. Design work often involves late nights and long hours to reach submittal deadlines and manage the complexities of any project. The volume of information you need to coordinate and manage requires a high level of organization and focus. Attention to detail is incredibly important. Design work is not as highly compensated as other professional pursuits for the amount of expertise and work that goes into realizing a project.
What will help Junior Designers increase their earning potential?
Cameron John M.F.A.: People spend 90% of their time inside. Interior Architecture and Design is a growing profession as more and more people take interest in the design of their spaces. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this impact as people were forced to occupy their spaces and physically recognize how their space impacts their health - both mentally and physically. Additionally, current economic pressures have made it more appealing for companies to renovate their current space rather than build an entirely new structure.
What general advice would you give to a Junior Designer?
Allen Garcie MFA: I would tell a new graduate to begin replacing the student work in their portfolio with real-world projects as soon as possible. Sure, student work can be creative but, depending on the course it's created for, there could be other competing graduates using similar projects in their portfolios. To find real-world work, I recommend students begin looking for freelance work to gain experience working with clients. A great place to start is with local businesses. Many times, local business owners need a logo, website, flyers, etc. to promote their businesses and a new graduate can gain some great experience by working with them. I also recommend new graduates join a professional organization, such as the American Advertising Federation (AAF), so they can meet others in the field. This is a great way of developing professional relationships (People hire who they know!) and getting to know about jobs that are available.
What are the best companies to work for a Junior Designer?
Patrick Klarecki: The Printing and Packaging Industry has had a strong history of employing college graduates each year. In my 28 years as faculty/administrator for the Graphic Communication and Graphic Media Management degrees, we have always had 3-6 jobs available for each of our graduates. Even through the 2008 economy, we were able to celebrate full employment for our graduates.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Junior Designers to find work opportunities?
Patrick Klarecki: Graduates in May 2020 and December 2020 did not see the opportunities their previous alumni did. We were able to place only about 25% of our graduates. There are a couple that have offers of employment "When things get better."
What type of skills will young Junior Designers need?
Patrick Klarecki: Recent projections from the Printing United Alliance show business owners are optimistic about 2021 and see their needs returning to "Pre-COVID" levels by the end of 2021 or early 2022. The workforce in our industry continues to age, technology continues to evolve, and young minds' needs will prevail.
Vibhavari Jani
Associate ProfessorKansas State University
Interior Architecture and Industrial Design
What skills will help Junior Designers earn the most?
Vibhavari Jani: Ability to communicate effectively, work with others in a team environment, work independently without constant hand-holding, and ability to use hand sketching and software.
What skills stand out on Junior Designer resumes?
Vibhavari Jani: Communication (written and visual), design-forward thinking, experience with 3D rendering software (Enscape and Lunion), and technical skills (software applications like Revit, Rhyno, Sketchup) stand out the most.
What soft skills should all Junior Designers possess?
Vibhavari Jani: Critical thinking, interpersonal communication, collaboration, and ability to lead.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Junior Designers?
Vibhavari Jani: Ability to master various software: Revit, Rhyno, Sketchup, 3D rendering software (Enscape and Lunion), BIM.
Bill Morgan
Coordinator, Undergraduate Program — Interior Design, Lecturer, Interior DesignUniversity of North Texas
Department of Design
What skills stand out on Junior Designer resumes?
Bill Morgan: -Vision
-Teamwork
-Communication
What soft skills should all Junior Designers possess?
Bill Morgan: -Emotional Intelligence
-Listening
-Time-Management
What hard/technical skills are most important for Junior Designers?
Bill Morgan: -Drawing Proficiency (drawing of all types, includes 3D visualization)
-Technical Proficiency (detailing)
-Project Management
What skills will help Junior Designers earn the most?
Bill Morgan: -Client Relations
-Leadership
-Adaptability
Sue Jenkins
Associate ProfessorMarywood University
Art Department
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Junior Designers?
Sue Jenkins: It might be too soon to tell. At Marywood U., 97% of 2019 grads are employed or going to grad school, but we don't have figures yet for the class of 2020. What we have seen since March 2020 is an increase in remote internships and employment opportunities. This COVID-adaptive type of flexibility will likely influence how employers hire and retain designers in the post-COVID world.
What type of skills will young Junior Designers need?
Sue Jenkins: A strong understanding of the Principles and Elements of Art and Design, killer typography skills, an understanding of color theory, some training in sociology and psychology to gain a better understanding of user experience, creative and critical thinking skills, attention to details, a strong conceptual framework that supports the project goals, the ability to speak up, take critical feedback and be a team player, and above all the courage to be authentic and bring something fresh to the table.
What experience really stands out on Junior Designer resumes?
Sue Jenkins: Before saying what stands out most, there's one thing to avoid; those skill self-assessment bar graphs that take up too much real estate and don't provide the reader with valid, useful data. A better solution is to list skills and proficiency in years, such as Adobe Photoshop, three years.
Now, what stands out most on a resume is evidence of creative engagement beyond the classroom. Has the student been a member of any clubs? Won any awards? Have you participated in any solo or group exhibitions and completed any internships, pro bono, or freelance work? Have you worked on any side projects? Run an Etsy, Society6, or RedBubble account? Sold any commissioned work? Definitely include all these types of activities along with any tangible outcomes and achievements, like "Designed a series of digital documents that downsized paper waste and reduced the client's carbon footprint by 13%." Results-oriented statements provide a better sense of the designer's understanding of their role and their value to an organization.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Junior Designer job market given the pandemic?
Katie Rothfield: The post-COVID-19 job market for interior architecture/design majors largely mirrors what we are seeing in each respective industry: while some trades, such as hospitality and cruise ship, are seeing a downturn or outright freeze in work, other sectors, such as law, were unaffected by the pandemic and are still operating and hiring at normal speed. Likewise, just as there is a great demand for healthcare workers, demand is also high for interior designers with strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of innovative sustainable design practices, building systems, technology, and psychology/theory who can address issues related to indoor air quality, viral transmission on surfaces, and social distancing.
In addition, corporations will need interior designers to study and respond to new remote and in-person work patterns and rethink the future design of the office, and with so many people spending countless hours at home, there is increased interest and demand in the residential design market.
What skills stand out on Junior Designer resumes?
Katie Rothfield: Now, more than ever, it is important for interior architecture/design graduates to diversify their skill sets and credentials:
Internship experience will always set a candidate apart from the crowd. Given the pandemic's negative impact on the number of full-time interior design positions, a recent graduate could secure paid internship opportunities while looking for full-time employment. This would help boost their resume and could get their foot in the door at a company that may hire full-time positions as the vaccine becomes more widely available.
Most companies expect recent interior architecture/design graduates to be proficient in a variety of computer programs, such as AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp. Alumni can stay current and add software programs to their resumes by watching online tutorials and improving their projects for their portfolios.
Professional exams demonstrate leadership and help candidates rise to the top of the resume stack. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and WELL accreditation demonstrate knowledge of sustainable design practices and a commitment to designing interiors that positively affect human health and wellbeing. In addition, passing the Interior Design Fundamentals Exam (IDFX - the first section of the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) Exam) confirms acquisition of interior design knowledge that is essential to the profession. Interior architecture/design majors can take all three of these exams prior to graduation.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Junior Designers to find work opportunities?
Katie Rothfield: Due to population density, cities always have greater opportunities for interior design graduates. Some of the top interior design firms in the United States are located in New York City, Chicago, Miami, Los Angeles, Dallas, and Washington D.C.. Being a service profession, demand for interior design ebbs and flows with the economy. Therefore, for increased employment security, job seekers should look for design companies with a diverse portfolio of clients, as they are better equipped to weather economic hardships that may more have a more drastic effect on one client's industry over another.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Junior Designers?
Erik Beehn: I do think there will be an impact on graduates who are going through programs in the midst of the pandemic mostly in the sense of community. I think one of the benefits of school are the conversations between peers, the studio visits and the group critiques. I think there are other benefits that have come from video conferencing and remote teaching but ultimately there is a bonding experience that comes from those experiences which helps foster community that I think is missing.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Junior Designers?
Erik Beehn: I think one skill or class that may be useful for artists leaving school is a business in the arts class, something that may help with more than just building a portfolio and can give some insight as to how to manage a studio practice, how to submit grants and proposals, I think that is often information that is left out of a fine arts degree.
What will help Junior Designers increase their earning potential?
Erik Beehn: I think again the most important aspect coming out of art school is community, and on top of that knowing what the opportunities are within your field. As an artist coming out of school it's figuring out a sustainable practice, and finding ways to support that practice which can include art handling, working for a museum or gallery, assisting another artist, or a fabricator. I suggest students think about access when finding a job, so to work at a frame shop where you may have access to the woodshop on lunch or after work, or working at a printshop where you may get access to print your own work as finding access to equipment is often difficult right out of school.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Junior Designer job market given the pandemic?
John Luttropp: One of the biggest trends is the use of Zoom or similar videoconferencing for everything from interviews to presentations to clients. Graduates will need to develop a professional presence in their on-air persona, together with having good presentation and discussion skills over this medium, as it will most likely continue even after Covid-19 gets under control. Therefore, it is important that new graduates feel comfortable and competent with the medium.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Junior Designers?
John Luttropp: Designers are evaluated more on their work than by certifications or licenses, so they must be able to discuss their concepts and be able to explain their work in detail, especially their process of development of any project. Most entry-level designers are evaluated more on their skills as a thinker than on technical skills, and good thinking skills will also prepare them to adapt to changes in the industry, which are happening at a rapid pace. Certifications may be helpful, but are not a requirement of getting a job in the field.
How have salaries changed over time for Junior Designers?
John Luttropp: Salaries change based on demand, and current demand is in the areas of User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX), as well as the growing area of Motion Graphics and Augmented Reality (AR). Even in more traditional print-based areas-many of which are evolving into digital formats-designers need to be have a broad vision that connects print to digital experiences. Another area of growing demand is design related to analytics-display of information by the use of easy-to-understand graphics such as charts and graphs, many of which are now interactive.
Morten Bustrup
Adjunct Professor of DesignSeattle University
Department of Art, Art History & Design
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Junior Designers?
Morten Bustrup: Yes, based on the conversations I've had it seems like the new normal will likely be a hybrid model for everyone. It seems like people have learned to work as effectively remotely as they do on-site.
What's a day at work look like for a Junior Designer?
Morten Bustrup: Based on the above, they will be in a hybrid setting, at least in 2021. They will engage through a variety of digital collaboration tools and will most likely go through on-boarding virtually for their first job, at least in 2021. Some might enjoy more focused design time in a remote setting. They'll also spend more time in building relationships with their colleagues in a virtual environment. Sounds like Naomi might have some more info here based on recent graduates.
What will help Junior Designers increase their earning potential?
Morten Bustrup: In UX and design as a whole, not only is good design important but even more so their ability to back up they ideas by articulating their thinking and process in problem solving. They should also adopt a strong understanding and insight for the users for which they are designing. Proactively learning new tools and stay on top on trends will also be beneficial to them.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Junior Designers?
Georges Fares: The pandemic has impacted graduates in two different ways, the first of which being that they were forced to adjust in a very short amount of time to doing everything from home away from campus and the comforting presence and support of their friends and teachers. They had to reconsider and replan everything, from their schedules, daily routines and commitments that they had set in advance and that took them a year or two to finally adjust to. They basically had to start all over. I do think this has prepared them, in a way, to better face the professional world that is prone to sudden changes and discomforts. The second impact, in my opinion, has to do with the fact that they will forever remember this difficult time and that will ultimately shape them into a stronger and more resilient generation who is better prepared for difficult times. This generation will hopefully use this experience to become the kind of graduates with a unique perspective and a willingness to face any challenges head on.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Junior Designers?
Georges Fares: Building a good resume is a great way to advance and stand out in our domain. But that doesn't mean it's all you will need to progress in the business. If there is anything this field has taught me it's that the biggest impact on our job prospects would be making yourself stand out as a job applicant by developing your skills as much as possible. Yes, you can get licenses and certifications in almost anything now, and some certificates you can even get from the comfort of your bedroom, but growing and developing skills takes time and patience; it takes effort and a will that is not reflected in those certifications. Such skills could be focused on technology, computers, learning new software, enhancing drawing skills, developing design thinking, so on and so forth. One can recognize such skills by sitting down with the applicant and speaking to them or seeing them work, and not necessary through their resume.
What will help Junior Designers increase their earning potential?
Georges Fares: Interior Design intersects with and is influenced by many other fields. It's hard to be specific about what can increase the earning potential of designers as different firms and departments have different requirements, but if there is anything I am sure of it's that if students were successful in connecting to different fields and working on a multi-disciplinary level, then they can be a great fit anywhere which will make them a desirable asset to anyone. Interior Design can connect to all disciplines, such as psychology, medicine, education, and so on. And by working combining various disciplines or fields in your work, you can show that you are passionate about Interior Design and can work on a level that will definitely increase the success of the firm, and ultimately raise your earning potential and allow you to carry more responsibility that can definitely create a rapid change and development on a personal and professional level.
Noel Lorson
Associate Professor - director of Graphic DesignMiddle Tennessee State University
Department of Art and Design
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Junior Designer job market given the pandemic?
Noel Lorson: Creative agencies-in-house through big advertising firms, will hire on a short-term contract basis. The emails that I receive requesting recent graduates and alumni back this up. Companies are hesitant to hire full-time, which is understandable, but work is picking up and they need assistance.
What soft skills should all Junior Designers possess?
Noel Lorson: There are long lists and even sub-categories for soft skills, so it is difficult to pick only a few. I think confidence, social-ability and gratitude are some of the most important. Students have been so stuck with screens and in screens that they are not able to easily communicate in group settings, make quick decisions or be assertive. I have been working with my students via a series of quick exercises that we do weekly to grow these soft skills. I added gratitude because people should be kind, respectful and say thank you. And by thanks I don't mean send an emoji. Gratitude should be expressed by words or actions. I got a text from an alum yesterday and it alerted me that they got a short-term job with a great company that I had directed them to. The text read, "the two jobs I've gotten since graduating came through you", ending with the laughing hysterically emoji, sadly no thank you.
How have salaries changed over time for Junior Designers?
Noel Lorson: I have been in the field for 25+ years so I have seen quite a bit of change. The biggest has been with the addition of Interactive Design. They make the bigger bucks. I lean towards print design, problem solving and ideation, so it baffles me why a genius idea that is carried out in print is not often given as much funding.
Jessa Wilcoxen
Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Arts Technology & AdministrationMillikin University
Arts Technology & Administration Department
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Junior Designers?
Jessa Wilcoxen: As creative departments pivot to better serve industry needs, designers will be asked to also do creative media jobs outside of the one they were hired for. Small and medium size businesses will expect their creatives to wear many hats. For instance, they may have to build the website, run the digital campaign on social media, host the interviews or workshops, shoot photography or videography for the event and write about it afterwards. Employers will expect creatives to use a variety arts technology tools and that they enter the workforce with some breath in their training of these different mediums.
What's a day at work look like for a Junior Designer?
Jessa Wilcoxen: For many employers having at least some of their staff work remotely may become not just a safety decision to prevent the spread of the virus but also a financial one. Smaller start-ups have been working with digital teams for years without the overhead of financing an office space. It is also reasonable to believe that while difficult for those with some family or life circumstances other employees enjoy working from home. This culture shift of expecting work flexibility will remain even as it becomes safer to work in person. Graduates will be expected to be adaptable to various work environments and to be able to use digital project management tools to provide updates on various tasks, show prototypes, and communicate with clients.
What will help Junior Designers increase their earning potential?
Jessa Wilcoxen: One hard skill has always advanced the earning potential of designers is the ability to code at some level and to create interface designs. Employees that can design and code cannot only serve many needs themselves but they are also set up better to properly communicate with experts in those areas, lead innovation teams and more.
A soft skill to develop is an entrepreneurial mindset. Designers at their core are creative problem solvers. Graduates who can showcase design thinking and leadership skills will become critical members of entrepreneurship teams helping to create systems, products and services that solve real pain points for a group of people.
Portfolios have always been an essential tool in the job seeking process. Employers will still expect to see a high level of craft, creativity and technique but will also place value on samples that show a candidate's role on an interdisciplinary team. In a world that will continue to be impacted on many levels by the COVID 19 virus, there will be no shortage of problems to be solved. Designers should be a vital member of the teams working to solve those problems.
Leslie Luebbers Ph.D.
Director, Art Museum of the University of Memphis, Director, Interdisciplinary Graduate Certificate in Museum StudiesThe University of Memphis
Department of Art
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Junior Designer job market given the pandemic?
Leslie Luebbers Ph.D.: For museum studies graduates, the job market will be very tight in 2021. Covid-related closings have severely impacted museum revenues, which largely rely on gate receipts. Most museums have had to plunder reserves to keep their most important staff while shedding valuable personnel. The entire museum field is likely to shrink for the foreseeable future. The good, or at least better, news is that many laid off staff from the baby-boomer generation will not return, and museums are seeking younger employees. The entire profession has changed toward community engagement as a core mandate, and recent graduates are more equipped and eager to pursue this goal.
What soft skills should all Junior Designers possess?
Leslie Luebbers Ph.D.: The most successful museum professionals must, in addition to content knowledge, possess essential soft skills required to manage the complexities of working with a variety of stakeholders to develop strong, productive community relationships. These same skills are valuable for resource development, which is certain to be an urgent need for museums. Empathy and imaginative program development, problem-solving and consensus-building are crucial.
How have salaries changed over time for Junior Designers?
Leslie Luebbers Ph.D.: Museum salaries, like corporate salaries, have been characterized by huge disparities, especially in large museums, with CEO's making disproportionately more than middle-management and lower tier staff. That situation is much less prevalent in small, i.e. most museums. Across the entire field, museum salaries resemble those in education, which is to say that they are livable and improving, but museum work is still not an avenue to wealth.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Junior Designer job market given the pandemic?
Eric Sung: There are some expected trend changes, and some were already in place but expedited by COVID-19. In the near future, in general, it certainly will be more challenging to find ideal jobs for all. The job market is driven by the market itself and with having a great pause caused by the pandemic resulted hire freeze for months. Of course, this is a generalized and simplified statement with multiple exceptions but in general, this would be an accurate observation. Now that the job market is slowly settling, it will improve but that does not necessarily mean that there will be more jobs created to catch up time of 'pause'. For the meanwhile, about the same number of college students graduated in the May of 2020 compared to the previous years and about the equal number of students are graduating in 3 months. The new wave of job seeks out of college and the ones who were recently released from their previous employment are all in the job market that already is bottlenecked.
For the process of interview, there will be greater interest for remote interviews by both job seekers and companies. Due to its benefits related to cost and time efficiency for the company looking to hire and job seekers, it will be the new normal for the interview process. However, with recognized lacking elements of remote interviews in general, both for the algorithm-based services and video conference call with an hiring agent, the trend will be to hire generously first with 'probational period' to evaluate the ones' performance based on real-world tasks.
Another notable trend in the job market would be transition from hard asset-based hiring to experience or performance-based hiring. In the time of uncertainty, hiring someone solely based on certificate or diploma creates a greater risk for companies so job seeker with relevant experience with proven performance would be preferred.
In terms of the trend change for the kinds of jobs, it will take a long time for Job market in the tourism industry, transportation, restaurant, apparel, and beauty to come back to pre-COVID. But the job market for IT will continue to be strong certainly for awhile. Pandemic presented some profound challenges for us which obligated the market to address deeply foundational questions. What became clear from the recent experience is that the current job market model needs to change from the deeper level and the interdisciplinary as much as meaningful innovation are required for us to sustain. It will take at least a few years for this to be translated in the job market but it would be important for the potential future job seeks to know how the market will change in the coming years and how this change might be expedited caused by the pandemic.
Covid influenced the job seekers' interests as much as it did for job market. In the past, salary has been singularly the most dominating factor for job seekers for their search but now, more are interested in the quality of life, exposure to health risk, and possibility of alternative working method such as working remotely for the obvious reasons.
What soft skills should all Junior Designers possess?
Eric Sung: Hard assets may assist job seekers to get one hired but soft skills are immensely critical for one to excel after once hired. Multiple studies confirm that higher ranking positions require increased portion of soft skills compared to hard or technical skills.
Considering the market trend change during and past COVID, where more jobs will require specialized skills with less human interaction, the needs of having someone with communication skills, conflict resolution and mediation skills, negotiation skills would be far more preferred. Knowing that large part of what some of the current jobs require us to do eventually will be assisted or entirely replaced by AI, the skills that may be unique to humans will gradually became more important. Other critical soft skills would be adaptability, foundational problem-solving skills with diversified perspective on matters. and relatability to the other thoughts.
How have salaries changed over time for Junior Designers?
Eric Sung: Since my job and how I train my college students are not directly related to one specific occupation, it is rather difficult for me to present a pin-point answer for this question. However, I see that salaries in general are being more polarized. Entry-level jobs' starting salary changed to downward while management or higher ranking position salary have been increased in the recent years.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Junior Designers?
Sonia Albert Sobrino: The long-term impact of the pandemic is certainly difficult to predict, some indicators foresee one of the worst job markets in decades, in many ways a reflection of the now omnipresent "job freeze" strategies implemented by large corporations and institutions. Young filmmakers and visual artists might see their careers take off later in life and/or at a slower speed, but we are confident that while financially hard, these experiences will enrich their art ultimately delivering a stronger portfolio; one informed by the human experience and with a deeper meaning. Resilience and confidence are key in reducing the negative consequences of the pandemic on the career of these young creatives.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Junior Designers?
Sonia Albert Sobrino: Understanding how collaborative endeavors take off and focusing on entrepreneurship is fundamental. Any course, certificate or training that helps young filmmakers and visual artists understand the process of creation from a collaborative standpoint is going to be most rewarding. We are at the height of independent creation, recent graduates have the tools and knowledge to make, they just have to use those instruments to identify needs and satisfy them. In film, specializing in cinematography, be that, earlier on, through lighting or camera work; or on editing and graphic design can help proficient artists start joint successful endeavors and/or increase their hiring potential. Furthermore, interdisciplinary opportunities that put together specialized forces from different, but relating fields, will quite likely better their job prospects. Working together, expanding and adding on individual strengths is the answer.
What will help Junior Designers increase their earning potential?
Sonia Albert Sobrino: Institutionally, financial help to support new endeavors. At the individual level, a proactive drive is a must. Rather than waiting or stalling for opportunities, it is important to create new ones. While risky, both financially and emotionally, it is the time to take action, try things and seek a break where others haven't ventured yet. Failure is a scary, sometimes incapacitating threat that, more often that not, stops promising endeavors from taking off. It's never too late to try new things, but the sooner we attempt those, the better. A failed endeavor, if anything, speaks of a motivated, bold and driven individual and those qualities are some of the most important things needed in any job market.