Working as a Graphic Designer
Industry Overview
Demand for graphic designers and illustrators often decreases when the economy slows down. However, job prospects in some areas remain stable.
Many organizations, including banks and insurance companies, retailers and municipalities, now employ large numbers of graphic designers to complete design projects in-house. Other areas of specialization currently in demand include accessible design, sustainable practices, user experience (UX) design and 3D illustration.
Historically, most job opportunities in design and illustration were found in larger urban centres, but opportunities for remote work are now available.
Job Outlook in BC
Graphic Designers & Illustrators
Outlook for Graphic Designers & Illustrators by BC Region, 2023-2033
| Region | 2023 Estimated Employment |
Average Annual Employment Growth |
Expected Number of Job Openings 2023-2033 |
| Vancouver Island / Coast | 1,750 | 1.4% | 710 |
| Lower Mainland / Southwest | 12,190 | 1.7% | 4,650 |
| Thompson-Okanagan | 780 | 1.7% | 340 |
| Kootenay | 190 | -0.3% | 20 |
| Cariboo | 95 | -1.1% | 30 |
| North Coast / Nechako | 45 | -1.4% | 0 |
| Northeast | 40 | 1.8% | 10 |
You can learn more about the graphic design industry in BC from:
Types of Employers
Graphic designers are employed by advertising agencies, design firms, and multimedia production companies and also larger companies with advertising or communications departments and by government agencies.
Many graphic designers are self-employed.
Salary
In BC, the annual median salary is $65,175. According to the 2022/2023 Creative Earners Survey, in BC the average annual salary for graphic designers is $63,480 and senior graphic designers is $70,000.
Sources: WorkBC Career Profile for Graphic Designers & Illustrators, 2022/2023 Creative Earners Report (Association of Registered Graphic Designers)
Job Bank Canada provides hourly wages for graphic designers and illustrators in BC regions:
Working Hours
Working hours depend on the place of employment. Designers who work for large companies or design firms usually work regular business week hours. Freelance graphic designers generally have more irregular schedules, and often work longer hours. If an important deadline is approaching, you might work overtime including evening and weekends.