I am a packaging manager by day and an artist by night. As a packaging manager, I work with a variety of creatives on sourcing materials to make their visions come to life. As a mixed media artist, I'm very involved in the community. I occasionally teach workshops and mentor young artists.
CAREER
Art Directors
Overview
Salary Median (2020)
$100,890
Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)
+3.8% (slower than the average)
Career
Roadtrip Nation Leaders in This Career
What Art Directors Do
Formulate design concepts and presentation approaches for visual productions and media, such as print, broadcasting, video, and film. Direct workers engaged in artwork or layout design.
Other Job Titles Art Directors May Have
Art Director, Creative Director, Group Art Supervisor, Production Manager
How Leaders Describe a Typical Day at Work
I usually get to the office at 8 am and work till 6:30 pm. Prioritizing family time and balancing that with work life is important to me. My daily routine typically consists of meetings and checking in with the different teams on the status of projects. There are a few initiatives that I am directly in charge of like setting the companies culture, having a clear and successful business strategy, etc.
Tasks & Responsibilities May Include
- Formulate basic layout design or presentation approach and specify material details, such as style and size of type, photographs, graphics, animation, video, and sound.
- Manage own accounts and projects, working within budget and scheduling requirements.
- Confer with creative, art, copywriting, or production department heads to discuss client requirements and presentation concepts and to coordinate creative activities.
- Present final layouts to clients for approval.
- Review and approve art materials, copy materials, and proofs of printed copy developed by staff members.
Education
Level of Education Attained by Art Directors
Most common level of education among people in
this career: Bachelor's degree (74%)
Associate's degree
Bachelor's degree
Master's degree
Majors Related to Career
Educational Paths Suggested by Leaders
Suggested Path
High School
Bachelor
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
Graduate
Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst
Suggested Path
Bachelor
Graphic Design
Additional Skills & Experiences That Can Help You Excel
Be humble and know when to ask for help. Always be flexible and willing to evolve along with opportunities.
Coding was fundamental in getting me started, but what has made the difference in starting my business is being comfortable with public speaking. Get involved in creative organizations around you, read about different thought leaders, go to events, etc. Getting insight and information from people who have been there before you is invaluable.
Getting Started
Recommended First Step for:
Middle School Students
Know that this occupation exists. Know that design exists. Explore all of the various ways in which you can enter the design field. Learn about type. Learn about composition. Learn about publishing and what goes in to making a book. Learn about layouts. Find a mentor. Ask questions. Surround yourself with books. Look to history. Use your hands. Share your ideas and be open to feedback. Embrace digital but appreciate print, as well. Each medium tells the story differently.
Write "thank you" notes to people who help you or you are looking to help you. To this day, I have landed our biggest clients with a handwritten "thank you" note. Ask for help, ask people about themselves, be hungry for more.
High School Students
College Students
Everyone
This page includes information from theO*NET 26.1 Databaseby the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under theCC BY 4.0license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
