Graphic Design Jobs: What They Are and How to Land One (With Real Examples)
Looking for a creative career path that mixes visuals, strategy, and storytelling? You’re in the right place. In 2025, graphic design jobs are thriving across industries—from startups and digital media to NGOs and ecommerce brands.
Whether you’re just starting your journey or switching lanes from another career, the creative world is full of exciting opportunities—if you know where to look and how to stand out.
Why Graphic Design Is a Smart Career Move in 2025
The global demand for design is growing across every industry—from Software as a Service (SaaS) startups to sustainable beauty brands. Visual communication powers everything from digital campaigns to packaging to user experiences.
A few reasons why graphic design jobs are more accessible than ever:
More companies are investing in design as a strategic asset.
Remote work and freelancing have opened global opportunities.
Creatives can showcase and monetize their skills from anywhere.
If you can think visually, problem-solve creatively, and work collaboratively, there’s space for you here.
Types of Graphic Design Jobs (and What They Actually Do)
Not all design jobs are created equal. Here's a breakdown of the most common and in-demand roles in 2025:
Brand Designer
Creates visual identity systems—logos, typography, color palettes, brand guidelines, and templates. Works closely with strategy and marketing teams to build a brand’s personality.
Marketing Designer
Designs content for social media, email campaigns, ads, presentations, and events. Needs speed, versatility, and knowledge of trends and formats.
UI/UX Designer
Focuses on the user experience of apps and websites—layouts, interactions, wireframes, and accessibility. Often collaborates with developers and product managers.
Packaging Designer
Creates 3D visual experiences through label design, box structures, and unboxing flow. A key role in retail, FMCG, and beauty industries.
Motion Graphics Designer
Animates visuals for video content, social reels, explainers, or dynamic branding. Combines graphic design with storytelling and timing.
Web Designer
Designs responsive websites with focus on layout, usability, and hierarchy. Works closely with developers or uses platforms like Webflow and WordPress.
To explore more about the types of graphic design jobs and which one might suit your strengths, keep an eye on your favorite brands and how they visually express themselves.
Freelance vs. In-House vs. Agency
Each work format has pros and cons depending on your goals:
Freelance: You control your time, projects, and rates. Great for self-starters and niche experts.
In-House: You work for one brand, building deep knowledge of its tone and audience.
Agency: You work across industries, clients, and creative briefs—great for variety and learning fast.
At Legs Brands, our designers collaborate across multiple industries—helping startups launch, rebrands evolve, and campaigns convert. No two days are the same.
What Employers and Agencies Are Actually Looking For
Forget prestige degrees—here’s what counts in today’s design hiring landscape:
A clear, curated portfolio with thoughtful case studies
Understanding of visual systems, not just single deliverables
Fluency in tools like Adobe Suite, Figma, Canva, After Effects
Ability to collaborate, solve creatively, and meet deadlines
Bonus points: motion design, copywriting, art direction chops
At Legs, we love working with designers who are equal parts thinker and maker.
How to Become a Graphic Designer in 2025
Wondering how to become a graphic designer without a degree or prior experience? Here's a step-by-step path that works—whether you're a student, career-switcher, or self-taught creative:
Build a Portfolio
Even if you haven’t worked with clients, create mock brands, redesigns, or social campaigns. Case studies > quantity.Create a Behance or Personal Website
This is your digital storefront. Make it clean, consistent, and mobile-friendly.
3. Do Freelance Work
Start with Upwork, Fiverr, or offer design help to local businesses to build confidence and credibility.
4. Network Online
Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter—share your work, tag studios, join design communities, and connect genuinely.
5. Apply Strategically
Tailor each application—don’t just send a generic CV. Show that you understand the agency’s style and values.
Looking for entry-level design jobs? Start by applying for internships or junior roles—even short contracts help build credibility.
Examples from the Legs Brands Studio
Here’s a peek at some design work from our team at Legs Brands:
Branding & Social for Driftwood Mentawai
Our designers developed a high-engagement content series for Instagram—balancing lifestyle, surf culture, and tropical palettes for audience growth.
Visual Identity for Hey Joe
Through continuous brand development, we helped create a Belgian inspired craft brewery that restored a 4 x world award winning 1961 full copper brewhouse from a museum in Belgium and brought it across the seven seas to Franschhoek, South Africa.
Ahti Interiors Brand Development
Serene Spaces, Defined by Modernity. The intersection of functionality and contemporary design. Our collaboration sought to construct a brand and online space that reflects Ahti's commitment to modern, sleek aesthetics. We delved into the essence of Ahti's design philosophy to build a brand identity that resonates with the clean lines and minimalist approach of their product range.
So, What’s Next?
If you’re exploring how to become a graphic designer, or already searching for entry-level design jobs, know this: your path doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to start.
Whether you’re self-taught or design-school trained, what matters is your curiosity, craft, and ability to grow. And if you’re already applying for graphic design jobs, now you know how to stand out.
Ready to Design Your Future?
Curious about life as a designer or want to work with us?
Follow Legs Brands on LinkedIn to stay inspired—or reach out with your portfolio today.
