Senior Designer

Job Summary

The job provides professional support and solves straightforward problems in a range of design projects. Works within defined processes and procedures to develop design standards and concepts for University advertising and communications materials. Completes a variety of assignments, as needed.

Responsibilities

• Support the University brand and strategic goals through the use of graphic design best practices and creative innovation to engage with our audiences. 
• Display professional skill in the use of the Adobe suite of design software including InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat (XD and Premiere Pro familiarity helpful), in order to conceive, design and produce printed and digitally based tools such as brochures, periodicals, event identity and invitations, websites, social media posts, direct response marketing, and signage. Ability to create small scale animations and animated gifs highly valued. 
• Research, develop and lead conceptual and stylistic direction for ARD direct response campaigns based on client objectives while supporting the University brand. 
• In addition to being able to work independently, designer must be willing to collaborate with manager, designers, editors, writers, and interactive developers to meet the department's goals by prioritizing workloads and producing professionally designed materials that are in strategic alignment. 
• Contribute to creative critiques and brainstorms, and while demonstrating a high regard for teamwork and the collective achievement of departmental goals, be willing to evaluate overall success of team efforts. 
• Exhibit leadership qualities, including: the abilities to both delegate and to execute plans; leading by word and by example; Resolving conflicts and building consensus; and Contribute to a positive work environment, which includes a commitment to client satisfaction. 
• Cultivate and manage relationships with clients from ARD and other University departments and divisions. 
• Act as resource for colleagues with less experience. 
• Ability to identify, negotiate with, and manage outside vendors such as printers, photographers, illustrators, etc. 
• Maintain archives of all projects, graphic files, photography and printed samples. 
• Applies interpersonal and communications skills which include the ability to listen, speak, and write effectively in a professional context. 
• Seek opportunities for professional development that will enhance job performance and team creativity. These include attending webinars, seminars, building networks within the University and with colleagues at peer institutions. 
• Conceptualizes and creates graphic artwork, such as charts, graphs or illustrations, for various publications, advertising materials and/or customers with limited supervision. 
• Coordinates all graphic production scheduling, including preparing final layouts for print. 
• Uses on-the-job experience to complete a variety of assignments, such as coordinating production support with outside vendors, as needed. 
• Works within processes to ensure that graphic projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the user's satisfaction. Acts as a resource for colleagues with less experience. 
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Work Experience:

• Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree. 
• Advanced degree.

Experience:

• Minimum two years of experience in Graphic Design, Production Design or similar professional work experience. 
• Minimum two years of experience leading a project team or managing staff.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Demonstrated skill and knowledge of, or ability to learn quickly, the internal workings of the University as well as the technology tools available to the Office of Alumni Relations and Development, including the University's donor relationship management system, Microsoft Windows computer environment and the Microsoft Office Suite. 

Preferred Competencies:

• Act with integrity, professionalism, confidentiality, and tact. 
• Work collegially and collaboratively in a team setting. 
• Prioritize multiple projects and independently follow through with detail. 
• Outstanding interpersonal and communications skills characterized by the ability to listen, to speak, and to write effectively. 
• Self-motivation and the ability to take initiative.