15 Ways to Land Entry Level Remote Graphic Design Jobs

Looking for entry level remote graphic design jobs that pay real money? You’re in the right place. The remote design market has exploded, with companies now offering $19-$88 per hour for talented beginners willing to work from anywhere.

This isn’t another generic job search article. Instead, you’ll discover 15 proven strategies that successful remote designers use to land high-paying positions, even without years of experience. Whether you’re fresh out of design school or switching careers, these methods will help you break into the lucrative world of remote graphic design.

Why Entry Level Remote Graphic Design Jobs Are Booming

The shift to remote work has created incredible opportunities for entry level graphic designers. Companies are paying $19-$88 per hour for remote junior graphic designers, and the demand keeps growing.

Moreover, remote positions offer something traditional jobs can’t: global access to opportunities. You’re no longer limited by your zip code when searching for entry level remote graphic design jobs.

1. Master the Art of Portfolio Presentation

Your portfolio is your golden ticket to entry level remote graphic design jobs. However, most beginners make critical mistakes that cost them interviews.

What Hiring Managers Actually Want to See

Real project outcomes: Show how your designs solved actual problems
Process documentation: Include sketches, iterations, and final results
Diverse skill demonstration: Mix logos, web graphics, and print materials
Mobile-responsive showcase: Ensure your portfolio looks perfect on all devices

Create a portfolio website using Behance, Dribbble, or Adobe Portfolio. These platforms are specifically designed for creative professionals and are where recruiters actively search for talent.

2. Target Companies That Hire Entry Level Remote Graphic Designers

Not all companies offer entry level remote graphic design jobs. Focus your efforts on these proven remote-friendly employers:

Tech Startups and Scale-ups

Buffer: Social media management platform
Zapier: Automation software company
GitLab: DevOps platform with 100% remote workforce
InVision: Digital product design platform

Marketing Agencies

WebFX: Digital marketing agency
Seer Interactive: SEO and digital marketing
Siege Media: Content marketing agency

E-commerce Platforms

Shopify: E-commerce platform
Etsy: Online marketplace for creative goods

Pro tip: Many of these companies post their entry level remote graphic design jobs on AngelList and Remote.co.

3. Leverage Freelance Platforms as Stepping Stones

Freelance platforms aren’t just for seasoned professionals. They’re excellent launching pads for entry level remote graphic design jobs.

Top Platforms for Beginners

Upwork: Browse over 10,000 graphic design freelance jobs with detailed requirements and compensation information.

Fiverr: Create service packages starting at $5 to build your reputation quickly.

99designs: Participate in design contests to showcase your skills and win projects.

Dribbble Jobs: Access hundreds of remote design jobs from creative professionals and companies.

Platform Success Strategy

Start with smaller projects to build reviews and ratings. Then, gradually increase your rates as you gain experience and positive feedback.

4. Use LinkedIn Strategically for Remote Design Opportunities

LinkedIn isn’t just a networking platform—it’s a goldmine for entry level remote graphic design jobs. Over 1,000 remote graphic designer positions are posted regularly.

LinkedIn Optimization Tips

Use keywords like “remote graphic designer” and “entry level design” in your headline
Share design work in your posts to demonstrate skills
Connect with remote company hiring managers and design leaders
Join groups like “Remote Work Association” and “Graphic Design Jobs”

Set up job alerts for “entry level remote graphic design jobs” to get notified immediately when new positions are posted.

5. Apply the 80/20 Rule to Job Applications

Most job seekers apply randomly to hundreds of positions. Instead, focus 80% of your effort on 20% of the best opportunities.

Quality Application Strategy

Research each company thoroughly before applying
Customize your cover letter to address specific job requirements
Create mini case studies showing how you’d solve their design challenges
Follow up professionally after 1-2 weeks

This targeted approach significantly increases your chances of landing entry level remote graphic design jobs.

6. Network Within Remote Design Communities

The remote design community is surprisingly tight-knit and supportive. Active participation can lead directly to job opportunities.

Essential Communities to Join

Designer Hangout: Slack community with job channels
Remote Year: Community of remote professionals
Dribbble Community: Share work and connect with other designers
Reddit r/graphic_design: Active job posting community

Share your work, help others, and build genuine relationships. Many entry level remote graphic design jobs are filled through referrals before they’re ever posted publicly.

7. Develop In-Demand Skills for Remote Work

Remote graphic designers need specific skills beyond traditional design abilities.

Technical Skills for Remote Success

Web design: Understanding of HTML/CSS basics
Motion graphics: Video editing and animation capabilities
Brand strategy: Ability to think beyond individual designs
Project management: Experience with tools like Asana or Trello

Remote Collaboration Skills

Proficiency in Figma for collaborative design
Experience with Slack and video conferencing tools
Clear communication and presentation abilities
Time management and self-motivation

Companies prioritize candidates who can work independently while staying connected with remote teams.

8. Optimize Your Application for Remote-Specific Requirements

Entry level remote graphic design jobs have unique requirements that differ from traditional positions.

Key Remote Work Indicators

Reliable internet connection and backup plans
Dedicated workspace with professional lighting for video calls
Flexibility across time zones when needed
Strong written communication skills

Address these points directly in your cover letter and portfolio to show you understand remote work demands.

9. Start with Contract-to-Hire Positions

Many companies prefer testing new designers through contract work before offering full-time entry level remote graphic design jobs.

Benefits of Contract-to-Hire

Lower barrier to entry for companies
Opportunity to prove your value
Often converts to full-time with benefits
Builds your remote work experience

Look for positions labeled “contract-to-hire” or “temporary with potential for permanent” on job boards.

10. Use Social Media to Showcase Your Design Skills

Your social media presence can be a powerful tool for attracting entry level remote graphic design jobs.

Platform-Specific Strategies

Instagram: Create a consistent aesthetic showcasing your design work with relevant hashtags like #remotedesigner and #graphicdesign.

Twitter: Share design tips, engage with design leaders, and participate in design-related conversations.

TikTok: Create quick design process videos showing your skills in action.

Many hiring managers check social media profiles, so ensure yours reinforces your professional brand.

11. Leverage Remote Job Boards and Specialized Platforms

Beyond general job sites, specialized remote job boards often have better entry level remote graphic design jobs with less competition.

Top Remote Job Boards

We Work Remotely: Latest remote design jobs from top remote companies
Remote OK: Tech-focused remote positions
FlexJobs: Curated remote graphic design jobs from top companies
Remotive: European remote opportunities
NoDesk: Remote design jobs with freedom to work from anywhere

Set up alerts on multiple platforms to maximize your exposure to new opportunities.

12. Create a Strong Remote Work Setup

Your workspace speaks volumes about your professionalism during video interviews and client calls.

Essential Equipment for Success

Quality webcam: Logitech C920 or similar for clear video
Professional lighting: Ring light or softbox for flattering illumination
Reliable headset: Clear audio is crucial for remote communication
Dual monitors: Increases productivity and shows technical competence

Document your setup in your portfolio or LinkedIn profile to demonstrate your commitment to remote work excellence.

13. Master Remote Interview Techniques

Remote interviews for entry level remote graphic design jobs require special preparation.

Pre-Interview Preparation

Test your technology 30 minutes before the call
Prepare a brief screen share of your portfolio
Have specific examples of how you’ve handled feedback and revisions
Research the company’s recent design work and campaigns

During the Interview

Maintain strong eye contact by looking at the camera, not the screen
Use hand gestures and expressions to convey enthusiasm
Have questions ready about the team structure and design processes
Offer a brief design challenge solution if appropriate

Check out our comprehensive Remote Interview Mastery guide for detailed templates and strategies specific to remote positions.

14. Build Relationships with Remote Staffing Agencies

Specialized staffing agencies often have exclusive access to entry level remote graphic design jobs.

Top Design Staffing Agencies

The Creative Group: Specialized creative staffing
Aquent: Marketing and creative talent agency
24 Seven Talent: Creative and marketing staffing
Creative Circle: National creative staffing agency

Build relationships with recruiters who can advocate for you and provide inside information about upcoming opportunities.

15. Develop a Long-Term Career Strategy

Landing your first entry level remote graphic design job is just the beginning. Plan your career progression strategically.

6-Month Goals

Complete 3-5 successful projects
Build a portfolio of remote work examples
Develop expertise in one specialized area (UX, branding, web design)
Establish relationships with 5+ remote professionals

1-Year Goals

Increase your hourly rate by 30-50%
Transition from entry level to mid-level positions
Build a personal brand in your specialty area
Consider freelancing or starting your own design business

For a complete roadmap to remote career success, including salary negotiation scripts and long-term planning templates, check out our Remote Job Mastery 2025 guide.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Pursuing Entry Level Remote Graphic Design Jobs

Understanding what not to do is just as important as knowing the right strategies.

Portfolio Mistakes

Including too many student projects without real-world applications
Poor organization or difficult navigation
Missing contact information or unclear call-to-action
Outdated work that doesn’t reflect current design trends

Application Mistakes

Using generic cover letters for every application
Applying to positions that clearly require senior-level experience
Ignoring application instructions or requirements
Following up too aggressively or not at all

Interview Mistakes

Poor technical setup leading to communication issues
Inability to explain design decisions or process
Lack of research about the company or role
Not asking thoughtful questions about the team or projects

Salary Expectations for Entry Level Remote Graphic Design Jobs

Understanding market rates helps you negotiate effectively and target appropriate positions.

Current Market Rates (2025)

Freelance projects: $19-$88 per hour depending on complexity and client
Full-time entry level: $35,000-$50,000 annually for remote positions
Contract work: $25-$45 per hour for temporary assignments
Specialized skills: Motion graphics and UX design command premium rates

Factors Affecting Compensation

Geographic location of the company (even for remote work)
Company size and industry
Specific skills and portfolio quality
Negotiation skills and market knowledge

Use resources like Glassdoor, PayScale, and Salary.com to research specific company and role compensation.

Tools and Resources for Success

Equip yourself with the right tools to excel in entry level remote graphic design jobs.

Design Software Proficiency

Adobe Creative Suite: Industry standard for professional design work
Figma: Essential for collaborative web and app design
Canva Pro: Quick social media and marketing graphics
Sketch: Popular for UI/UX design work

Project Management Tools

Monday.com: Visual project tracking
Basecamp: Simple project organization
Notion: All-in-one workspace for planning and documentation

Communication Platforms

Zoom: Video conferencing for meetings and presentations
Microsoft Teams: Enterprise communication platform
Discord: Casual team communication and community building

Taking Action: Your Next Steps

Now that you have 15 proven strategies for landing entry level remote graphic design jobs, it’s time to take action.

This Week

Audit and update your portfolio with your strongest work
Create profiles on at least 3 job boards mentioned in this guide
Join 2 design communities and introduce yourself
Apply to 5 carefully selected entry level remote graphic design jobs

This Month

Complete one practice project to add to your portfolio
Network with 10 remote design professionals on LinkedIn
Set up your dedicated workspace with proper lighting and equipment
Practice your remote interview skills with a friend or mentor

This Quarter

Land your first entry level remote graphic design job
Build relationships with colleagues and expand your network
Start developing specialized skills in your area of interest
Plan your next career move and skill development goals

Your Remote Design Career Starts Now

The opportunities in entry level remote graphic design jobs have never been better. Companies worldwide are seeking talented designers who can create compelling visuals while working remotely.

Success requires more than just design skills—you need to understand remote work dynamics, build strong professional relationships, and position yourself strategically in the market.

Remember, every successful remote designer started exactly where you are now. The difference lies in taking consistent action and following proven strategies like the 15 methods outlined in this guide.

For comprehensive templates, scripts, and step-by-step guidance on landing high-paying remote positions, including detailed salary negotiation strategies and interview preparation, get our complete Remote Job Mastery 2025 system.

Your dream remote design career is waiting. Take the first step today.

Ready to land your first entry level remote graphic design job? Start by updating your portfolio, joining one remote design community, and applying these strategies consistently. Your future self will thank you for taking action today.