Salaries vary widely in this occupation. Experience, talent, education, and the size and location of the firm are all factors influencing the salaries offered to the Commercial Artist. Overtime may be required to finish big projects or to meet unchangeable deadlines in the news or motion picture media. Paid vacation, sick leave, health related insurance, and retirement plans are common benefits.
Competition is stiff for both the entrant and the seasoned artist in the current job market.
Advancement Commercial Artists may work several years before acquiring the skills and reputation for higher paying jobs with more responsibilities. They may advance to the position of art director or become director of projects within an agency or organization. Many freelance artists work as consultants while continuing in their craft. Job openings will be more plentiful in the State's large metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles or San Francisco since most firms with art departments are concentrated there. Artists need an art portfolio which contains at least ten samples that exhibit practical applications along with creative ability and technique.