Junior designers are usually employed straight from college or university and will generally be considered 'junior' for up to two years. Junior designers lay out pages, draw logos, redesign logos, do text corrections and assist the middleweight and senior designers in their work.
Who can I work for?
It depends on your area of specialism – so you could look to work in the games industry, the media industry, the film and animation industry, and the digital industry. You can also join a design agency that works on projects with clients across all of these sectors.
Where and when can I work?
Most design jobs are office based and you will normally work standard office hours, Monday to Friday. However, deadlines are often tight and if a project requires overtime you will be expected to be flexible.
What can I earn?
As a junior designer you can look to start at around £12,000 a year. This can rise to £22,000 with experience.
What are the benefits?
As a junior designer you will learn valuable skills and get the chance to enhance your own portfolio through working directly with more senior members of staff. As the scope of the role is so big, the job is always varied and extremely creative too.
Are there chances of promotion?
Junior designers can progress to a senior design position and go on to become a studio manager or creative director, especially in an agency. You can also go on to specialise in a particular field, such as packaging or magazine design. A lot of designers work successfully on a freelance basis once experienced.
What will I be responsible for?
Graphic designers combine art, design, computer and communications skills to create visual media. They often work with copywriters to develop web pages, ad campaigns, print materials and logos and assist senior members of the team with their work. Almost all junior designer jobs require working knowledge of design programmes such as Photoshop, Illustrator, Dreamweaver, Flash and InDesign.
Do I need any experience?
Most graphic designers have a degree either in graphic design, illustration, fine art or a related subject but with tenacity and with a strong portfolio of work it is possible to get employment. Work experience in a studio will mean you will get good, visual examples of your talent to show to potential employers.
What attributes are needed?
You must be creative and innovative and be constantly monitoring the latest trends to input into your work. A flexible, 'can-do' attitude is also essential and you will need to demonstrate the ability to work as part of a team and be able to take direction from other team members.