Exploring Graphic Design Careers Beyond Tech: Where to Find Jobs in Other Industries

Graphic design is a versatile skill set that extends far beyond the tech world. While many designers aim for jobs at startups or software companies, plenty of industries rely on strong visual communication. If you're looking to expand your job search, consider exploring industries that value design in unique ways.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

  • Industries where graphic design skills are in demand
  • Job titles to look for in different fields
  • Where to find jobs in each industry

Industries That Hire Graphic Designers (Beyond Tech)

1. Advertising & Marketing

This industry thrives on compelling visuals and branding. Companies need designers for ad campaigns, social media graphics, and promotional materials.

Common Job Titles:

  • Marketing Graphic Designer
  • Brand Designer
  • Visual Designer
  • Advertising Designer
  • Social Media Designer
  • Motion Graphics Designer

Where to Find Jobs:

2. Publishing & Media

Print and digital media companies require designers to create layouts for magazines, newspapers, blogs, and e-books.

Common Job Titles:

  • Editorial Designer
  • Layout Designer
  • Publication Designer
  • Magazine Designer
  • Visual Storyteller

Where to Find Jobs:

3. Retail & E-commerce

Retail brands and online stores rely on graphic designers for product packaging, advertisements, and website visuals.

Common Job Titles:

  • Packaging Designer
  • Retail Graphic Designer
  • E-commerce Visual Designer
  • Merchandising Designer
  • UI/UX Designer
  • Digital Designer

Where to Find Jobs:

4. Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals

Healthcare organizations need design professionals to create educational materials, branding, and digital content for patients and providers.

Common Job Titles:

  • Medical Illustrator
  • Healthcare Graphic Designer
  • Infographic Designer
  • User Experience (UX) Designer

Where to Find Jobs:

5. Education & E-learning

From textbooks to online courses, the education industry relies on design to make information visually engaging.

Common Job Titles:

  • Instructional Designer
  • E-learning Designer
  • Educational Graphic Designer
  • UX/UI Designer

Where to Find Jobs:

6. Government & Nonprofits

Public sector organizations and nonprofits need strong design work for campaigns, reports, and outreach programs.

Common Job Titles:

  • Government Graphic Designer
  • Advocacy Visual Designer
  • Nonprofit Communications Designer
  • Brand Strategist

Where to Find Jobs:

  • USAJOBS – Official job board for U.S. government jobs, including design roles
  • Idealist – Nonprofit job board with design opportunities

7. Event & Entertainment Industry

Concerts, sports teams, and entertainment companies all need designers for promotional materials, merchandise, and branding.

Common Job Titles:

  • Event Branding Designer
  • Merchandise Designer
  • Motion Graphics Designer
  • Art Director

Where to Find Jobs:

8. Finance & Corporate

Banks, investment firms, and corporate organizations need graphic designers for branding, reports, and marketing materials.

Common Job Titles:

  • Corporate Graphic Designer
  • Financial Infographic Designer
  • Presentation Designer
  • Visual Designer

Where to Find Jobs:

How to Transition Into a New Industry as a Graphic Designer

If you want to move into one of these industries, here are a few steps to help:

Customize Your Portfolio – Showcase work that aligns with the industry’s needs (e.g., healthcare-related infographics for a hospital job).

Use Industry-Specific Keywords – Tailor your resume and LinkedIn profile to include terms relevant to the industry (e.g., "instructional design" for education jobs).

Network & Reach Out – Connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn and attend niche industry events.

Freelance or Volunteer – If you lack experience in a specific industry, take on freelance projects or volunteer work to build relevant portfolio pieces.

Final Thoughts

Graphic design skills are valuable across many industries. By broadening your job search beyond tech and targeting industries like healthcare, education, or entertainment, you can unlock exciting career opportunities. The key is to tailor your portfolio, use industry-specific language, and actively network in your chosen field.

If you're looking for your next graphic design job, start exploring different industries today—you might find a perfect fit where you least expect it.

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