Download our 2024 Salary Guide

Career Resources for Designers

We don’t just hire designers; we empower them.

Design Jobs with Onward Search

Design Careers

Design is a dynamic and creative field that spans various industries, focusing on problem-solving through creativity and innovation. As a designer, you'll have the chance to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, leverage cutting-edge technologies, and contribute to shaping the way we perceive and interact with the world around us.

From graphic design that shapes visual identities, user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design that enhance digital interactions, to industrial design that molds tangible products, and even architectural design that shapes our built environments – every corner of the design world presents an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

With a passion for blending imagination with practicality, creating visually stunning and user-centric outcomes, and being at the forefront of innovation, a career in design could be your gateway to a fulfilling and ever-evolving professional journey.

design professional working at desk

Designer Jobs

Salaries for Designers

View the latest salary data for design jobs.

Creative professional sitting on couch with laptop looking at Onward Search 2023 Salary Guide

Top 20 Markets for Design Jobs

The demand for design professionals has been increasing across various cities in the United States. While the specific rankings may vary depending on different factors, these are 20 markets known for having strong design job opportunities:

1. San Francisco, California

2. New York City, New York

3. Los Angeles, California

4. Seattle, Washington

5. Boston, Massachusetts

6. Chicago, Illinois

7. Austin, Texas

8. Portland, Oregon

9. Washington, D.C.

10. Denver, Colorado

11. Minneapolis, Minnesota

12. Atlanta, Georgia

13. Raleigh, North Carolina

14. San Diego, California

15. Miami, Florida

16. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

17. Detroit, Michigan

18. Dallas, Texas

19. Salt Lake City, Utah

20. Phoenix, Arizona

Skillsets for Design Professionals

These are a list of skillsets and abilities employers look for in designers.

Creativity

The ability to generate original and innovative ideas that drive design solutions.

Visual Communication

Proficiency in conveying ideas and messages through visual elements, such as typography, color, and layout.

Problem-Solving

A knack for identifying challenges and finding effective and creative solutions to address them.

User-Centered Design

Focusing on the needs, behaviors, and preferences of users to create designs that offer a seamless and engaging experience.

Technical Proficiency

Mastery of design software and tools relevant to your field, such as Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, Figma, etc.

Typography

Understanding the art of typefaces, fonts, and their visual impact in design compositions.

UI/UX Design

Skill in creating user interfaces that are both visually appealing and user-friendly, enhancing the overall user experience.

Digital Illustration

The ability to create original illustrations and artwork using digital tools.

Prototyping

Creating interactive prototypes to test and refine design concepts and user interactions.

Animation

Skill in adding motion and interactivity to designs, enhancing user engagement.

Attention to Detail

A keen eye for precision and accuracy in design elements.

Time Management

Efficiently managing project timelines and deadlines to deliver high-quality work on time.

Collaboration

Working effectively with multidisciplinary teams, clients, and stakeholders to bring design projects to fruition.

Research and Analysis

Conducting user research, market analysis, and competitor studies to inform design decisions.

Brand Identity

Crafting consistent and compelling brand identities that convey a company's values and personality.

Print Design

Proficiency in creating designs for various print mediums, such as brochures, posters, and packaging.

Spatial Design

Skill in designing physical spaces, environments, and structures with aesthetics and functionality in mind.

Coding and Development

Basic understanding of coding languages like HTML and CSS can be valuable, especially for web and interactive designers.

3D Modeling

Proficiency in creating three-dimensional models and renderings for products or environments.

Adaptability

Being open to learning and embracing new design trends, technologies, and methodologies to stay relevant and competitive.

Insights for Design Professionals

designer at work

The Difference Between Design Roles: UI, UX, Product and Experience Design Explained

The words “I’m a designer” no longer mean what you…

Read More

Four employees in conference room discussing strategic demand management

Strategic Demand Management: The In-House Design Leader’s Guide

Business meeting with four young in-house design employees sitting at table smiling at each other and looking at laptop

How to Position In-House Design & Creative Teams for Success

man working at desk

6 Things to Do Before Every Virtual Interview

Your Search Ends Here

View exclusive job opportunities at the nation’s leading companies.