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What does an Advertising Illustrator do? – Tasks and work environment

Advertising illustrators work with creating, planning, and designing advertisements for various media, both print and digital. Tasks often include contact with clients and commissioning parties, creating ad originals, proofreading, and tailoring messages to target audiences and media. The profession requires a combination of creativity, precision, and the ability to work systematically toward deadlines. Work is usually performed at advertising agencies, media companies, or in in-house departments, where the work environment is characterized by a fast pace, close collaboration, and demands for flexibility to handle rapid changes in client needs and market requirements.

Salary development over time

The salary for Advertising Illustrators has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,500 SEK per month, increasing to 40 800 in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 43 600, which corresponds to an increase of just over 7.7% during this period. The largest increase has occurred in the past year, likely driven by increased demand for digital advertising and a generally strong job market in creative professions. Salary levels are also influenced by education, work experience, and the region where the job is located. Gender differences still persist, with men earning on average more than women in the profession.

Advertising Illustrator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 43 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 39,200 SEK/month (men), 39,700 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 48,600 SEK/month (men), 43,500 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 262 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men earn 45 000 SEK, women 41 800 SEK (women earn 93% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as an Advertising Illustrator, a post-secondary education in graphic design, advertising, communication, or related fields is usually required. Many employers seek experience with graphic software and understanding of digital media. Practical experience, either through internships or previous employment, is often advantageous and can be crucial for obtaining an initial position in the field.

• Post-secondary education: YH training (2 years) or university/higher education (3 years or more) in graphic design or advertising
• Certifications: Courses in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator)
• Internships: Industry internships or trainee programs are recommended
• Prerequisites: High school education with a focus on media, design, or equivalent
• Tips for choosing: Portfolio and work samples are often decisive in recruitment

Common benefits and compensations

Advertising illustrators often have access to benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, remote work options, and subsidized lunches. Further, education allowances, occupational pensions, and insurance may be included. Bonuses or commissions are sometimes offered depending on the employer and project nature.

Competition and challenges

The profession of Advertising Illustrator is characterized by fierce competition, especially for the most attractive positions at larger advertising agencies or media companies. Rapid technological development demands continuous skills development, where the ability to handle new digital tools is crucial. Uncertainties in the media landscape and changing advertising budgets can affect demand for the profession. Many employers value broad digital competence and experience with both print and digital channels. For recent graduates, establishing oneself without a strong network or an established portfolio can be challenging.

Tips for aspiring Advertising Illustrators

To succeed as an Advertising Illustrator, it is beneficial to combine creativity with a structured approach and technical curiosity. Building a strong portfolio and showcasing work samples increases chances of standing out during applications. The ability to collaborate and communicate clearly is important, as the work often involves teamwork and close dialogue with clients. Keeping up with new trends and tools in graphic design is essential, especially in a rapidly changing industry. Flexibility and resilience under pressure facilitate meeting deadlines. Self-discipline helps to deliver high quality even under stress, and initiative is valued when new solutions or ideas are needed.

Key facts about Advertising Illustrators

• Education level: Post-secondary education (YH or higher education)
• Work environment: Office-based, often at advertising agencies or media companies
• Work arrangement: Full-time, remote work options available
• Demand: 620 job openings within the graphic design profession and others
• Special skills: Digital advertising and graphic production experience

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, Advertising Illustrators can advance to roles such as art director, project manager, or digital strategist within advertising and media industries. Experience in leadership and broadening skills in digital media open doors to more senior positions. The Employment Service does not provide a separate forecast for Advertising Illustrators, but within the graphic design group, there is stable demand with 620 job openings recorded. The future prospects are considered good for those investing in continuous skills development and adaptation to new digital tools, although the industry is competitive and sensitive to economic fluctuations.

Frequently asked questions about Advertising Illustrators

• What does an Advertising Illustrator earn?
  - The average salary is 43 600 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and employer.
• What does the salary gap between women and men look like?
  - Women earn on average 41 800 SEK and men 45 000 SEK, meaning women earn 93% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an Advertising Illustrator?
  - Post-secondary education in graphic design, advertising, or media is most common, often supplemented with courses in digital tools.
• Are there good future prospects for Advertising Illustrators?
  - The outlook is stable within the graphic design profession, with 620 reported job openings.
• Who are the most common employers?
  - Advertising agencies, media companies, and large corporations with in-house departments employ the most Advertising Illustrators.
• How wide is the salary variation?
  - The lowest salary is 39,200 SEK and the highest is 48,600 SEK, depending on education, experience, and employer.
• Can you work remotely as an Advertising Illustrator?
  - Opportunities for remote work exist, especially within digital advertising.