Graphic Designer

Job Summary

The Graphic Designer I manages the design and development of visual materials that enhance WGCU’s storytelling.. This position develops creative strategies and graphics for various mediums including, but not limited to: interactive digital design, graphic and infographic design, logo artwork and print design. Responsible for translating organizational or client goals into strategic media deliverables that reinforce the WGCU brand standard across all visual mediums. Assists with the creative strategy and design production for key marketing and fundraising initiatives.

Florida Gulf Coast University is committed to establishing and maintaining an inclusive working and learning environment in which students, faculty, administrators, staff, curriculum, social activities, governance, and all other aspects of the campus life reflect a diverse, multi-cultural, and international worldview.

At FGCU, we collectively stand against any individual or group that practices any form of racism, discrimination, intolerance, hate expressions, or disrespect. We are committed to preparing students to understand, live among, appreciate, and work in an inherently diverse country and world made up of people with different ethnic and racial backgrounds, religious beliefs, abilities, ages, gender identities, sexual orientations, socio-economic status, cultural traditions, family statuses, and military backgrounds. FGCU strives to hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because it makes our University stronger. The University community recognizes the importance of a diverse and inclusive institution and holds these ideals as paramount for the current and future success of the institution.

We seek colleagues who promote and embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply for this position as we believe that our University will grow and move forward through a commitment of equality for all.

Job Description

Typical duties may include but are not limited to:

• Manages the design and development of pictures, drawing, and graphic materials for customers that support the WGCU’s marketing and communications initiatives.
• Provides creative leadership in generating original ideas for graphic design projects that achieve strategic goals. Reviews graphic, print, social media and merchandise for adherence to WGCU, PBS, and NPR visual standards and brand identity.
• Oversees all facets of production including pre-production meetings, concept development, script development, editing materials, presentation of drafts, and archiving. Facilitates the creation and production of print materials; such as e-newsletters, Annual Reports, Quarterly Impact Reports, solicitation brochures, pledge cards, renewal and acquisition letters, etc.
• Develops, presents and gains approval on scope, content and budget for graphic design projects.
• Fulfills trade commitments by facilitating design and copy for appropriate ad placement.
• Communicates artistic themes in flyers, posters, advertising, handbooks, or other presentation mediums.
• Builds and maintains project management skills in order to set schedules, determine workload allocation etc., ensures the timely completion of all work presented to the graphics unit.
• Maintains files and records of graphic designs; organizes and archives all WGCU design assets and materials.
• Develops new techniques, systems, and procedures to enhance the marketing efforts of WGCU.
• Reviews progress, evaluates results, implements new processes, and promotes best practices.
• Provide other design support as needed for marketing and fundraising initiatives.

Other Duties

• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Additional Job Description

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in graphic design, fine arts, or a related field.
• One year of professional full-time experience in communications, digital design and graphics, journalism, marketing, television, radio, fundraising, or other relevant experience.
• Any appropriate combination of relevant education, experience, and/or certifications may be considered.
• Experience with Adobe Creative Suite programs software (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, and Acrobat).

Preferred Qualifications

• Four years of professional full-time experience in communications, digital design and graphics, journalism, marketing, television, radio, fundraising, or other relevant experience.
• Demonstrated experience writing and designing visual materials across a range of formats and channels.
• Extensive experience using a Macintosh platform and graphic design software applications
• Expert proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite products such as, Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, InDesign.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of policies, procedures, and regulations pertaining to the position.
• Knowledge of marketing strategies and communication principles.
• Knowledge and ability to recognize and implement graphic design, branding, and marketing principles.
• Knowledge and experience designing, implementing and assessing the effectiveness of marketing strategies and promotional materials.
• Knowledge of and ability to post photographs to various social media sites.
• Knowledge and proficiency in use of publishing and design software.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and an ability to prioritize and complete simultaneous projects within deadlines.
• Skill in public speaking and delivering presentations to individuals and groups.
• Ability to work under pressure, set priorities, and meet close deadlines.
• Ability to design promotional and marketing materials including brochures, newsletters, posters, on-line banners, ads, reports, and news and magazine features.
• Ability to work successfully as both a member of a team and independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to interact in a professional manner with a diverse group of staff, faculty, students, and the community in a service-oriented environment.
• Ability to analyze problems and develop creative solutions to complex issues.
• Ability to design promotional and marketing materials including brochures, newsletters, posters, on-line banners, ads, reports, and news and magazine features.
• Ability to operate a personal computer for extended periods of time.
• Ability to think critically and creatively, have a high standard of integrity, and be motivated to incorporate best practices into the organizational structure.
• Ability to thrive in an organization that values the diversity of its student body and workforce and actively promotes equity and inclusion.

FGCU is an EOE AA /F/Vet/Disability Employer.