Description
POSITION OBJECTIVE
The Graphic Designer helps raise Case Western Reserve's stature as a leading national research university by serving as a creator of visual materials across multiple digital and print vehicles. This individual will excel in developing compelling visual approaches that help inform, educate and inspire constituencies within and well beyond the campus. The graphic designer will produce these works in close collaboration with project managers, editors, and others to ensure that all university projects comply with brand requirements, achieve the highest standards for design and visual presentation, and meet the goals of the individual piece(s). This individual also will employ exceptional interpersonal skills to build positive relationships with University Marketing and Communications (UMC) colleagues, university clients and commercial suppliers. This individual will demonstrate a passion for design excellence and willingness to stretch creatively to produce works that are as appealing as they are effective. The graphic designer will possess strong strategic and critical thinking skills, and apply them in engagement with clients and colleagues, brainstorming of concepts, execution, revision and final delivery of results. Finally, this individual will keep current regarding evolving and emerging trends in visual communication as well as relevant technological advances.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Design visually compelling digital and print materials, adhering to strict brand guidelines. Collaborate in the development of such materials with the Art Director, Creative Director and colleagues. Develop designs that advance articulated institutional goals, recognizing that individual artistic or aesthetic preferences must always be secondary. (40%)
Manage assigned projects to ensure timely completion of work that reflects well on the division and university; including recognition of potential and/or unexpected hurdles (as well as options to overcome them and adjust schedules in response). Execute the logistical and technological demands of preparing materials for online presentation (i.e. online ads and publications), as well as file preparation for printers. (30%)
Communicate strategy, its rationale and its components to raise awareness within and beyond UMC staff regarding the importance of including visual elements in all communications. (10%)
Build, maintain and organize creative files, server structures and execute filing solutions. (10%)
NONESSENTIAL FUNCITONS
Welcome constructive critiques as opportunities to learn and develop as a professional. Understand that revisions of proposed design elements may be necessary to meet institutional imperatives, even when these elements hold aesthetic appeal in the abstract. (5%)
Stay apprised of current and emerging trends and technology with regard to design and communication. (5%)
Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%)
CONTACTS
Department: Continuous contact with the Art Director, Creative Director and other UMC staff.
University: Occasional contact with school and unit leaders; occasional contact with institutional officials, faculty, staff, students and alumni.
External: Infrequent contact with university institutional partners, vendors, contractors, and professional peers.
Students: Occasional interaction with students.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
No direct supervisory responsibilities.
QUALIFICAITONS
Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree and 3 years of experience; OR Associate's degree and 5 years of experience. Experience should involve content-driven design and storytelling.
Other Requirements: Candidates MUST submit portfolio of work with application.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Ability to work with such Adobe Creative Suite programs as Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, as well as evident execution of their current capabilities.
Experience with After Effects and fast-paced agency environment a plus.
Demonstrated ability to succeed in a fast-moving, outcomes-oriented environment.
Demonstrated ability to develop and execute compelling print and digital projects, including brochures, magazines, editorial designs, digital ads, animations, social media graphics, and marketing campaigns, while adhering to strict brand guidelines.
Demonstrated ability in photo retouching. Photo illustration, vector and traditional illustration skills a plus.
Demonstrated ability and understanding of typography, color theory and composition.
Self-motivated, detail-oriented and able to work and meet deadlines.
Exceptional proficiency in design software, particularly Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, and related Creative Cloud products.
Familiarity with design approaches to online publications (advertisements, brochures, and magazine editorial design).
Understanding and application of WCAG accessibility and ADA compliance standards to designs, with a willingness to learn if unfamiliar.
Ability to maintain and organize creative files and server structures.
Ability to think critically, foreshadowing and working through potential challenges in advance. Must also be able to articulate the rationale for every design decision.
Ability to prioritize projects based on strategic objectives (and, when appropriate, time sensitivities).
Ability to manage multiple projects at once and, if necessary, take additional steps to ensure that the delivered effort is on time and of highest quality.
Ability to work collaboratively and constructively in multi-disciplinary teams.
Ability to receive constructive feedback.
Ability to adapt to unexpected developments in an appropriately cooperative and flexible way.
Familiarity with design approaches to online publications (advertisements, brochures, and magazines) and accessibility guidelines.
Ability to develop specifications for bids from printers
Demonstrated history of successful support, education, and advocacy for all students, aligned with the values, mission, and messaging of the university, while adhering to the staff policy on conflict of commitment and interest.
Ability to meet consistent attendance.
Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and customers face to face, maintaining a positive approach to communication.
WORKING CONDITIONS
General office environment.
Requirements
QUALIFICAITONS
Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree and 3 years of experience; OR Associate's degree and 5 years of experience. Experience should involve content-driven design and storytelling.
Other Requirements: Candidates MUST submit portfolio of work with application.
