Creative Design Specialist

• This position is structured as a permanent position within the Division of Development & Alumni Relations. We are unable to sponsor a work visa for this position.
• Only applicants who include a link to their online portfolio will be considered. If a link is not available, a PDF portfolio may be submitted in its place.

Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent

• At least 2 years of full-time professional experience in graphic design, preferably in a relevant industry or agency setting
• A strong and diverse portfolio showcasing proficiency in branding, print design, digital design, typography, text hierarchy, and other relevant design work
• Demonstrated experience working in the core Adobe Creative Suite design software
• Experience in working with print vendors
• Experience working with brand guidelines

• Self-starter and can work independently as well as in a team environment
• Demonstrates initiative and accountability throughout all stages of project development and delivery
• Strong time management and organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines
• Ability to collaborate with others and enlist buy-in from different groups
• Demonstrates a commitment to outstanding service
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) and other design software as applicable
• Solid understanding of design principles, including layout, color theory, typography, text hierarchy, and composition
• Experience with image/photo editing and retouching
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate ideas and collaborate with clients and team members
• Creative problem-solving abilities, with a track record of providing innovative design solutions
• Adaptability to new design trends, technologies, and industry changes
• Professionalism, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-caliber work is essential
• Ability to be consistently receptive to feedback or edits and to maintain a solution-focused approach
• Exhibits behavior that supports the mission, vision, and values of the University of Georgia
• Communicates and employs interpersonal actions that model high standards of professional, responsible, accountable, and ethical conduct

• Through open, honest, and respectful communication, all staff, supervisors, and colleagues of the Division of Development & Alumni Relations are expected to interact with fairness, compassion, and decency. All employees will be held accountable for meeting the expectation of promoting a stable, productive, and healthy work environment.
• Adherence to CASE standards and commonly accepted industry standards relating to fundraising reporting is expected of all fundraisers. All fundraisers will be held accountable for meeting this expectation.

• Some after-hours work and/or traveling may be required
• Work in a standard office environment
• Sit and work at a computer workstation for extended periods of time
• Work using electronic communications, telephone, face-to-face discussions, and paper form correspondence
• Communicate effectively in writing, speaking, and listening
• Organize and establish priorities; remember details; multitask
• Lift and/or move up to 20 pounds
• Walk, stand, stoop, lift, kneel, climb

• Develop and deliver high-quality design solutions for units within the division, working collaboratively with the creative director, communications coordinators, digital strategists, and content writers.
• Contribute to design strategy for publications, websites, and social media.
• Manage visual identity and use of trademarked university assets, keeping projects in alignment with both individual campaign and university brand guidelines.
• Contribute to the creative development of assigned projects in kickoff meetings with relevant units and collaborative brainstorming sessions by developing creative briefs and delivering formal presentations.
• Exercise independence in design execution and demonstrate a sense of ownership in assigned projects.
• Follow DARCOMM’s workflow processes and leverage the project management system to ensure projects are completed efficiently.
• Collaborate proactively with the assigned Communications Coordinator to manage project timelines and ensure unit needs are met.
• Understand and adhere to deadlines. If a deadline is missed, communicate in advance with the appropriate parties.
• Keep interested DARCOMM partners informed about projects on a regular basis.
• Provide clear communication to partners within units regarding creative vision and strategy.
• Present high-profile design projects to DARCOMM as well as clients, articulating rationale for design.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines and support unit goals.

• Engage in regularly scheduled DARCOMM staff meetings to discuss updates, challenges, and opportunities for collaboration.
• Collaborate with creative team members on a regular basis to work on division and university-wide projects, including campaign initiatives.
• Build relationships with DARCOMM and DAR colleagues to collaborate on projects and develop creative solutions for our division.
• For division-wide and special projects, contribute to creative process, including concept meetings, team brainstorming, and presentations. 
• Contribute to and lead content ideation and development in certain projects.
• Collaborate with a student design assistant as needed. This may include assigning projects, providing quality control oversight on their work, providing constructive feedback for growth, and facilitating collaboration with other DARCOMM teammates.

• Lead production for print and branded merchandise projects, including vendor selection, spec sheet, estimations, proofing, and press checks when necessary.
• Stay up to date on print standards, practices, techniques, and industry trends. Meet with print vendors, assess printer capabilities, and visit print facilities as needed to support that goal.
• Coordinate with external vendors, printers, and packaging manufacturers to ensure a high standard of quality.