Visual Communications Designer
Job Summary
The Visual Communications Designer works under the general direction of the Associate Director of Creative Services and supports the design of multi-platform communications that promote the university. This role develops creative solutions across print and digital media, including time-based and motion design projects. Responsibilities include designing layouts, preparing production-ready materials, and coordinating production for short-, medium-, and long-term projects. The Visual Communications Designer collaborates closely with members of the creative team to plan, organize, and deliver projects that support university marketing and communications goals. While the position includes a variety of design assignments across the university environment, it has a strong emphasis on motion graphics and time-based visual storytelling.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop design concepts by researching project information and materials; create layouts for art and copy; present draft concepts for approval; and prepare final production-ready designs.
- Design visual materials—including charts, graphs, diagrams, and motion graphics—for use in presentations, videos, events, and other communications.
- Select and apply appropriate visual elements, including imagery, typography, and layout styles, ensuring alignment with university brand standards and communication goals.
- Consult with campus clients to understand project objectives, audiences, and messaging needs, and develop design solutions that effectively support those goals.
- Test and review presentation or time-based outputs to ensure quality, functionality, and client satisfaction.
- Assist in developing, documenting, and presenting design and production standards that support consistent visual communications across the university.
- Contribute to the development and organization of campus visual resources and digital asset libraries.
- Recommend improvements to creative workflows, file management practices, and production processes.
- Assist with print and environmental production specifications, including preparing materials for cost estimates and vendor quotes.
- Under the guidance of the Associate Director of Creative Services or Senior Designer/Art Director, provide creative direction to student assistants, designers, photographers, or other contributors as assigned.
- Conduct vendor or printer checks as needed to ensure quality control of final output.
- Participate in occasional evening or weekend work when required to support production schedules or events.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Extensive knowledge of communications and graphic design theory, typography, color, tone, shading, harmony, and layout principles
- Advanced skills in graphic art, illustration, motion graphics, animation timing, and integrated print/digital/motion media
- Strong ability to conceptualize, design, and execute complementary materials across print, web, video, and emerging technologies
- Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (including AfterEffects), presentation software (PowerPoint, Prezi), and interactive technologies, including file formats, peripheral software, and graphics delivery
- Knowledge of production techniques, vendor services, and processes for print, broadcast, compressed video, and web content
- Thorough understanding of copyright laws and Section 508 accessibility standards
- Ability to implement art direction, manage post-production processes, and adapt creative concepts in response to feedback or evolving project requirements
- Strong skills in project planning, organization, and budget management; ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines with minimal supervision
- Strong consultative and persuasive skills, including presenting branding and design concepts to clients and partners
- Demonstrated professionalism, sound judgment, flexibility, and composure under pressure
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree and/or equivalent, in graphic design, fine arts, or a related field of study
- Three years of full-time experience with graphic application and publishing tools
Preferred Qualifications
- BFA in Design or related field
- Two to five years in an institution or creative agency
- Time-based (AI), presentation and video editing experience
- Experience creating graphic resource or pattern library and its many applications and uses
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