"Graphic Designer"

Job Summary:

The Graphic Designer supports the university’s marketing and communications efforts by developing compelling, brand-aligned visual assets across print and digital platforms. This role collaborates closely with campus partners to translate strategic objectives into creative solutions that engage diverse audiences, reinforce the institution’s identity, and elevate its reputation.

Duties & Essential Job Functions:

1. Collaborates with key campus partners to conceptualize and execute creative projects that support institutional and unit strategic goals and objectives.
2. Designs and produces high-quality materials for print, digital, and environmental applications, including brochures, advertisements, presentations, signage, and more.
3. Ensures all creative work complies with university brand and visual identity standards, and industry best practices for design and production.
4. Works with production partners (including photographers, illustrators, printers, etc.) as needed, to obtain estimates, define parameters, review proofs, resolve problems, and ensure high-quality deliverables.
5. Prepares final files for print, digital publication, or vendor production, ensuring accuracy, color fidelity, and quality control.
6. Contributes to the development of visual identity systems, templates, and brand resources to streamline production and maintain consistency across channels.
7. Utilizes project management software to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines, budgets, and quality standards.
8. Provides creative input during project planning and participates in brainstorming sessions to help shape messaging and creative direction.
9. Stays current with the latest design trends, tools, and applications.
10. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in graphic design, visual communication, or a related field.
• Two or more years of related work experience, including demonstrated experience creating and producing materials for both print and digital channels.
• Online portfolio with relevant examples of digital, animation, and print branding work.

Preferred Education & Experience:

• Experience working in a university, nonprofit, or similarly complex organization.
• Familiarity with project management software and/or digital asset management systems.

Required Licensure/Certification/Specialized Training:

• None

Preferred Licensure, Certification, and/or Specialized Training:

• None

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of design principles, typography, color theory, and brand identity systems.
• Knowledge of basic print processes and best practices, with the ability to create organized, press-ready artwork.
• Knowledge of custom print production techniques, such as variable data, unique die lines and finishes, with the ability to properly integrate in artwork.
• Skill and proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop).
• Ability to translate strategic objectives into visually engaging, user-centered designs.
• Ability to work with printers to provide print specs, obtain quotes, award jobs and oversee production, including attending press checks as needed.
• Ability to maintain a high attention to detail, ensure accuracy, and utilize organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with colleagues and clients at all levels with strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to select engaging, high-quality photos to aid in visual storytelling and creative production.
• Ability to be adaptable to changing circumstances and requirements.
• Ability to work with a positive attitude and willingness to collaborate productively.
• Ability and willingness to seek, understand and incorporate feedback on design work from management and stakeholders.
• Ability to adhere to brand guidelines while still pushing creative boundaries.
• Ability to create organized files and make revisions with a high attention to detail.
• Ability to think creatively with a passion to keep learning, evaluating and experimenting with new creative tools and technologies.

TCU Core Competencies:

University Core Competencies definitions may be found on the Human Resources website and in the staff performance management system.

Physical Requirements (With or Without Accommodations):

• Visual acuity to read information from computer screens, forms and other printed materials and information.
• Able to speak (enunciate) clearly in conversation and general communication.
• Hearing ability for verbal communication/conversation/responses via telephone, telephone systems, and face-to-face interactions.
• Manual dexterity for typing, writing, standing and reaching, flexibility, body movement for bending, crouching, walking, kneeling and prolonged sitting.
• Lifting and moving objects and equipment up to 10 lbs.

Work Environment:

• Work is indoors and sedentary and is subject to schedule changes and/or variable work hours.
• This role is an on campus, in-person position.
• There are no harmful environmental conditions present for this job.
• The noise level in this work environment is usually moderate.

Employment Values Statement:

Texas Christian University values Integrity, Engagement, Community, and Excellence in the workplace. TCU treats applicants and employees with fairness and respect. TCU hires and promotes individuals based on their qualifications and their commitment to making a positive impact on our student-centered community. TCU is an equal opportunity employer and follows all applicable employment laws. TCU fairly considers all qualified individuals, ensuring we are a workplace free from unlawful discrimination and harassment.

About Texas Christian University

TCU is all about the experience. This is a place where students learn how to adapt to whatever the future might bring, develop critical thinking skills and expand their creativity. With a choice of rigorous academic programs in 130 undergraduate areas of study, 61 master’s level programs and 24 areas of doctoral study, Horned Frogs have opportunities to search for meaning and examine values, yet graduate well-prepared for professional accomplishment. Whether in the fine arts or business or engineering, Horned Frogs can develop their full creative potential here. For example, both MBA and undergraduate students at the Neeley School of Business benefit from an experience ranked at the top by Bloomberg Businessweek and U.S. News & World Report — not in spite of, but because of, the focus on the individual. At TCU, professors love being in the classroom. These mentoring teacher-scholars also conduct well-published, leading-edge research, often with undergraduates at their sides. Horned Frogs live, learn and play 24-7 in a 277-acre setting in a vibrant city. They work out in state-of-the-art recreation facilities, catch Big 12 NCAA athletic competition and participate in 200+ organizations, all without leaving the campus. That’s when they’re not providing thousands of hours of volunteer service to their community, interning in New York or LA, practicing journalism in Washington, D.C., experiencing international business in China or perfecting Spanish in Seville. It’s how Horned Frogs are learning to change the world.