Freelance Scientific Illustrator, Caltech
About the Role: We are seeking a detail-oriented scientific illustrator on a freelance basis. This is an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates looking to build their portfolio and gain experience creating professional scientific visuals for real-world academic and research applications. You will work from source materials including hand-drawn sketches, mockups, or other rough visuals, along with detailed descriptions and will transform them into polished, presentation and/or publication-ready scientific illustrations. Your work will appear in academic presentations, peer-reviewed publications, and grant proposals. Your work will be credited, providing an opportunity to establish yourself in this space and solicit additional opportunities. This role requires flexibility and the ability to work under tight deadlines. Projects vary in scope and frequency, making it ideal for someone balancing coursework and/or building a freelance career. Responsibilities: •Interpret and refine rough sketches, drafts, and simple mockups into clear, professional scientific illustrations
- Create vector-based graphics suitable for print and digital formats
- Communicate with team members to clarify visual concepts and incorporate feedback
- Deliver work on time, with occasional rush projects requiring quick turnaround
- Maintain organized files and deliver assets in requested formats
Desired Major(s)/Background:
- Scientific Illustration
- Medical Illustration
- Biological Illustration
- Graphic Design (with emphasis on technical or scientific work)
- Fine Arts or Studio Art (with relevant coursework or portfolio work in scientific subjects)
Desired Skills: Required:
- Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator
- Strong understanding of vector-based illustration techniques
- Ability to interpret and visually communicate scientific concepts
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Reliable communication and ability to meet deadlines
Preferred:
- Familiarity with biology, anatomy, or related sciences
- Experience creating figures for academic publications or presentations
- Comfort working from rough source material
Compensation: Hourly Rate: $25–$125/hour, depending on experience Rush Fee: Additional compensation available for projects requiring expedited turnaround (typically 1.25x–1.5x standard rate) Payment issued per project or on a regular billing cycle, depending on project volume. To Apply Please submit: 1. A brief introduction and statement of interest 2. Your portfolio or samples of relevant work (scientific, technical, or medical illustration preferred) 3. Your availability and typical turnaround capacity Apply To this Job Company : Upwork Salary : 25–125 an hour