CREATIVE DESIGN SPECIALIST

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, lead, design, and produce a variety of print and digital materials that reflect an advanced knowledge of design principles, accessibility standards, and visual communication and help the university and its campus partners achieve their marketing and communication goals. Serve as lead designer complex, high-visibility, or concurrent projects as assigned.
• Collaborate with marketing & communication professionals and campus partners to identify project parameters and develop creative briefs outlining objectives, target audience, budgets, and timelines. Apply the university visual identity and promote brand consistency across the UGA design community.
• Manage production workflow and project schedules; track project time and progress; report milestones; and participate in creative reviews. Coordinate multiple projects and priorities while maintaining established production schedules and quality standards.
• Complete and review final products and prepare materials for printing or online publication. Review proofs, identify corrections or revisions, and obtain client approvals, and work closely with vendors on printing specifications and production requirements to ensure quality control.
• Conduct competitive reviews and contribute to defining team best practices. Monitor trends and emerging technologies in print and digital design, particularly within higher education marketing and communications. Evaluate and adopt new tools, technologies and approaches when appropriate. Participate in professional development and evaluate procedures, equipment, and software, recommending improvements or purchases as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent and 5 years of professional experience
• Bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a related field, or equivalent work experience
• 5+ years of professional graphic design experience, preferably in a relevant industry or agency setting
• A strong and diverse portfolio showcasing strength in branding, print design, digital design, typography, and other relevant design work. Experience working within established brand guidelines
• Demonstrated experience working with print vendors
• Expert proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator.
• Working knowledge of WordPress, including building and updating pages within established themes and templates.
• Working knowledge of accessibility standards and best practices for print and digital design
• Advanced design, typography, and layout skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a fast-paced, collaborative team.

Preferred

• Bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a related field, or equivalent work experience
• 5+ years of professional graphic design experience, preferably in a relevant industry or agency setting
• A strong and diverse portfolio showcasing strength in branding, print design, digital design, typography, and other relevant design work. Experience working within established brand guidelines
• Demonstrated experience working with print vendors