Canada Summer Jobs - Junior Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Graphic Designer (Canada Summer Jobs)

Company: Rick Hansen Foundation

Location: Richmond, British Columbia (Remote)

Job Type: Full-time, Term (8 weeks)

Category: Marketing & Communications Operations

Date Posted: April 15, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-level

Remote Status: Fully Remote

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is designed for emerging talent within the Canada Summer Jobs program, focusing on the creation of visual assets for marketing and communications initiatives.

• The Junior Graphic Designer will play a key part in supporting the Marketing and Communications team by developing engaging content for both digital and print platforms, ensuring brand consistency and accessibility.

• The position emphasizes practical application of graphic design principles, software proficiency, and adherence to organizational brand guidelines.

• This term position offers a unique opportunity to gain experience in a non-profit setting, contributing to a mission-driven organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically part of the Canada Summer Jobs program, which has eligibility requirements related to age, student status, and legal right to work in Canada. The "term" nature and "8 weeks" duration are critical for candidates to understand. The "Remote OK" and specific derived location suggest that while the role is remote, it's associated with the Richmond, BC operational base and likely requires residency within Canada.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Visual Asset Creation: Develop and execute design projects for digital and print media, including social media graphics, website banners, presentation slides, and marketing collateral, ensuring visual appeal and brand adherence.

• Brand Guideline Management: Maintain and consistently apply Rick Hansen Foundation (RHF) brand guidelines across all visual deliverables to ensure a cohesive and professional brand image.

• Accessibility Integration: Prioritize and implement accessible design best practices in all visual assets, ensuring compliance with accessibility standards for diverse audiences.

• Project Support & Collaboration: Liaise with team members, including the Manager of Marketing Communications, to understand project requirements, incorporate feedback, and meet deadlines for multiple simultaneous projects.

• Document Formatting & Refinement: Format documents, reports, and presentations for clarity, visual appeal, and adherence to brand and accessibility guidelines.

• Administrative Support: Assist with administrative tasks, which may include basic video editing and organizing digital assets, to support the MarComm team's operational efficiency.

• Concept Development: Support the team in developing creative concepts and executing design projects from ideation through to final delivery.

• Workflow Optimization: Contribute to ongoing projects aimed at increasing operational efficiency within the Marketing and Communications department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are framed around supporting the existing team and projects, which is typical for an entry-level, term position. Emphasis on "supporting," "assisting," and "liaising" indicates a collaborative learning environment. The mention of "increasing efficiency" hints at the operations aspect, where design contributes to smoother workflow and communication.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A degree or diploma in graphic design is preferred.

Experience:

• Entry-level experience in graphic design is expected, suitable for candidates participating in a summer employment program.

Required Skills:

• Software Proficiency: Demonstrated proficiency with core graphic design and editing software, specifically Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Design Principles: Solid understanding of fundamental design principles, including typography, layout, and colour theory.

• Accessibility Knowledge: Knowledge of accessibility standards in design is crucial for ensuring inclusive visual communication.

• Communication Skills: Effective oral and written communication skills for collaborating with team members and incorporating feedback.

• Organizational Skills: Strong organizational abilities to manage multiple projects simultaneously and adhere to deadlines.

• Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy and brand consistency in all deliverables.

• Professionalism & Adaptability: High degree of professionalism, flexibility, and adaptability to work effectively in a dynamic team environment.

• Teamwork & Independence: Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team setting.

• Discretion: High level of discretion, tact, and judgment when handling potentially sensitive information.

Preferred Skills:

• MS Office Suite: Strong skills in MS Word and PowerPoint for document editing and presentation design.

• Video Editing: Basic experience or willingness to learn video editing for administrative tasks.

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to think strategically and execute design solutions that align with project goals.

• Problem-Solving: Strong creativity and problem-solving skills to address design challenges effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "An equivalent combination of education, experience and skills/behaviours will be considered" statement is a key indicator that candidates with strong portfolios and relevant practical experience, even without a formal degree, should be encouraged to apply. The emphasis on accessibility and brand guidelines points towards the operational importance of design in maintaining organizational standards.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Showcase: A portfolio demonstrating a range of graphic design work, including examples for both digital and print media.

• Software Application: Evidence of proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) through portfolio pieces.

• Brand Consistency Examples: Samples that illustrate adherence to brand guidelines or the ability to adapt designs to specific brand requirements.

• Accessibility Consideration: Any projects where accessibility principles were consciously applied or considered in the design process.

• Problem-Solving Case Studies: Brief descriptions or examples of how design challenges were overcome on past projects.

Process Documentation:

• While not explicitly stated as a requirement for this entry-level role, candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal design process, from initial concept to final delivery.

• Understanding how design integrates into larger marketing and communications workflows will be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role under a summer jobs program, a formal "portfolio requirement" might be less stringent than for a full-time professional. However, a strong portfolio is implicitly required to demonstrate the necessary skills. The focus should be on showcasing practical application of design software and principles, with an emphasis on the brand and accessibility aspects highlighted in the responsibilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• $20.00 per hour based on the Canada Summer Jobs program guidelines and the organization's stated rate.

Benefits:

• Work Experience: Gain valuable hands-on experience in graphic design and marketing communications within a respected Canadian non-profit organization.

• Skill Development: Opportunity to enhance graphic design skills, learn about accessibility standards, and develop professional communication and organizational abilities.

• Networking: Connect with professionals in the non-profit sector and marketing field.

• Mission Impact: Contribute to a meaningful cause focused on creating an inclusive and accessible world.

• Remote Work Flexibility: The ability to work remotely offers flexibility and convenience.

Working Hours:

• Full-time, term position for 8 weeks.

• Approximately 35 hours per week, totaling a maximum of 280 hours for the entire term.

• Start Date: May 2026

• End Date: August 2026

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Canada Summer Jobs" designation is critical. This program often has specific wage guidelines and short-term employment structures. The listed hourly rate of $20.00 CAD is competitive for an entry-level, summer position in the Vancouver region, reflecting the program's intent to provide meaningful employment and skill development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Non-profit / Social Services / Disability Advocacy. The Rick Hansen Foundation (RHF) operates within a sector focused on social impact, inclusion, and accessibility.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated in the provided raw data, the existence of a "Marketing and Communications" department and a "Manager, Marketing Communications" suggests a moderately sized organization with dedicated functional teams. Typically, non-profits of this nature can range from 50-200 employees.

Founded: The foundation is rooted in the legacy of Rick Hansen's Man In Motion World Tour, implying a history of impact and a strong mission-driven ethos.

Team Structure:

• Department: Marketing and Communications (MarComm).

• Reporting: The Junior Graphic Designer reports to the Manager, Marketing Communications.

• Collaboration: Will work closely with the MarComm Manager and other team members on various projects. The role also requires liaison with other internal stakeholders for project requirements and feedback.

• Cross-functional Interaction: While primarily within MarComm, design work will likely support other RHF programs and initiatives, requiring interaction with various departments.

Methodology:

• Mission-Oriented: All activities are driven by the vision of creating a fully inclusive and accessible world.

• Data-Informed: While this role is creative, insights from MarComm analytics would inform design choices.

• Collaborative: Emphasis on teamwork, authentic collaboration, and respectful engagement is embedded in company values.

• Accessibility-Focused: Integral to all operations, especially in design and communications.

Company Website: rickhansen.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission is central to its culture. Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of and alignment with RHF's goals of inclusion and accessibility. The "Canada Summer Jobs" program also aligns with fostering youth employment and skill development, which is likely a key aspect of their community engagement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level, term position designed for students or recent graduates participating in a government-funded employment program. It's focused on foundational skill development and practical application rather than strategic leadership.

Reporting Structure: The Junior Graphic Designer will report directly to the Manager, Marketing Communications, providing a clear line of supervision and mentorship.

Operations Impact: While not a direct "operations" role in the traditional sense (like Sales Ops or Rev Ops), the graphic design function significantly impacts the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the Marketing and Communications department. Well-designed assets improve brand perception, clarity of messaging, and user engagement across digital and print channels. Adherence to brand and accessibility guidelines ensures consistent, inclusive, and legally compliant communication, which are crucial operational standards.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Enhancement: Significant opportunity to hone graphic design skills, particularly in Adobe Creative Suite, and gain practical experience in a professional environment.

• Industry Exposure: Exposure to the non-profit sector, marketing communications strategies, and the unique challenges and rewards of working for a mission-driven organization.

• Portfolio Building: The primary growth opportunity is to build a robust portfolio with real-world projects that can be leveraged for future career opportunities.

• Professional Networking: Building relationships within the MarComm team and potentially across the organization.

• Accessibility Design Specialization: For candidates interested in accessibility, this role offers direct experience in applying these principles in design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth here is primarily about skill acquisition and portfolio building for future roles. While it's a "term" position, the experience gained is directly transferable to other marketing, design, or even operations roles that require strong visual communication skills. The focus is on learning and application rather than immediate advancement within RHF.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is advertised as Remote. This implies a virtual work environment, allowing the employee to work from a location of their choice, provided they meet eligibility requirements (e.g., legal right to work in Canada).

Office Location(s): While the role is remote, it is associated with the Richmond, British Columbia operational base of the Rick Hansen Foundation. This may indicate that the team is primarily based in this region, even if working remotely.

Workspace Context:

• Virtual Collaboration: The primary mode of collaboration will be digital, utilizing communication tools (e.g., email, chat, video conferencing) and project management software.

• Technology Access: Candidates will need reliable internet access and a suitable workspace to perform their duties effectively. The organization will likely provide or specify necessary software access.

• Team Interaction: Regular virtual meetings with the MarComm Manager and team members will be scheduled to discuss projects, receive feedback, and maintain team cohesion.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, term: Approximately 35 hours per week.

• Flexibility: While a full-time schedule is expected, remote work often allows for some flexibility in daily work hours, provided deadlines are met and team availability is maintained. The organization's commitment to accessibility might also extend to accommodating flexible scheduling where feasible.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Remote OK" status is a significant draw for many candidates. However, it's important to note the "Richmond, British Columbia (Remote)" designation, which suggests a potential geographic anchor for the role or the team. Candidates should confirm any specific expectations regarding time zone alignment or occasional (though unlikely for this role) in-person requirements.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Applications will be screened based on eligibility for the Canada Summer Jobs program, resume, and any submitted portfolio materials.

• Shortlisting: Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

• Interview Stage(s): Likely includes one or more interviews. These may be virtual (video conference) given the remote nature of the role. Expect questions about:

  • Design Skills & Experience: Demonstrating proficiency with design software and principles.
  • Portfolio Walkthrough: Discussing past projects, design choices, and problem-solving approaches.
  • Brand & Accessibility Understanding: Gauging comprehension of RHF's brand and commitment to accessibility.
  • Teamwork & Professionalism: Assessing ability to collaborate, take feedback, and manage time effectively.
  • Motivation & Fit: Understanding why the candidate is interested in RHF and the Canada Summer Jobs program.

• Final Evaluation: Based on interview performance, portfolio review, and assessment of overall fit with the team and organization's mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Pieces: Focus on 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent the skills required for this role (digital graphics, print layouts, presentations).

• Highlight Relevant Work: Include examples that showcase your use of Adobe Creative Suite, understanding of typography, layout, and colour. If possible, include any work that demonstrates an awareness of accessibility principles.

• Explain Your Process: Be prepared to discuss your design process for each piece: inspiration, challenges, solutions, and the impact of your design.

• Showcase Versatility: If you have experience with different types of design (social media, print, presentations), showcase that range.

• Ensure Accessibility: If sharing a digital portfolio (e.g., website), ensure it is accessible and easy to navigate.

Challenge Preparation:

• While a formal design challenge is not explicitly mentioned, candidates may be asked to complete a small design task or be given a hypothetical scenario during the interview.

• Think about RHF's Mission: Consider how design can best support RHF's goals of inclusion and accessibility.

• Brand Consistency: Practice applying brand guidelines to mock scenarios.

• Time Management: If given a task, be mindful of the time allocated.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Canada Summer Jobs" program often implies a focus on developing practical skills, so the interview process may be geared towards assessing potential and willingness to learn, in addition to existing skills. The emphasis on accessibility and brand guidelines is a key differentiator.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Graphic Design Software:

  • Adobe Creative Suite: Essential. Proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign is explicitly required.
  • Video Editing Software: Basic experience or willingness to learn for administrative tasks (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or simpler tools).

• Productivity Software:

  • MS Word: For document formatting and editing.
  • MS PowerPoint: For presentation design and content creation.

• Communication & Collaboration Tools:

  • Email: For professional communication.
  • Video Conferencing Software: (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams) for meetings and team collaboration.
  • Instant Messaging/Chat: (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams) for quick team communication.
  • Project Management Tools: (e.g., Asana, Trello, Monday.com) likely used by the team for task tracking and workflow management.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the Junior Graphic Designer's core responsibilities, but awareness of how design assets are used within marketing campaigns managed by CRM systems might be an advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Adobe Creative Suite is critical. Candidates must be able to demonstrate proficiency. The "support administrative tasks such as video editing" suggests that while not a primary skill, some familiarity or aptitude for basic video tasks could be a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA): This is a core value and operational principle for RHF. Candidates must actively support and embody these principles in their work and interactions.

• Collaboration: "We Collaborate Authentically" is a stated value, emphasizing genuine teamwork and open communication.

• Respect: "We Engage Respectfully" highlights the importance of professional and considerate interactions with colleagues and stakeholders.

• Accountability: "We Keep Our Promises" underscores reliability, commitment to deadlines, and delivering on commitments.

• Mission-Driven: A strong commitment to the foundation's vision of creating an inclusive and accessible world is paramount.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Design work is a key component of marketing and communications, requiring close collaboration with the MarComm Manager and potentially other program teams to ensure visual assets align with strategic objectives.

• Feedback Culture: The role involves liaising with team members for review and feedback, suggesting an environment where constructive criticism is part of the workflow.

• Knowledge Sharing: As a term position, there's an opportunity to learn from experienced team members and contribute fresh perspectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit listing of values (Collaboration, Respect, Keeping Promises) and the overarching commitment to IDEA are central to the RHF culture. Candidates should be prepared to speak to how they embody these values in a professional setting, particularly how they approach inclusive design and teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Projects: Effectively managing and prioritizing tasks for simultaneous projects under tight deadlines.

• Adhering to Strict Guidelines: Consistently applying brand and accessibility standards while maintaining creative output.

• Remote Collaboration: Navigating communication and teamwork effectively in a fully remote environment.

• Entry-Level Learning Curve: Quickly learning new processes, software features, or specific project requirements within a short term.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Practical Design Experience: Gaining hands-on experience in a professional design capacity, contributing to real-world marketing campaigns.

• Accessibility Design Expertise: Deepening knowledge and practical application of accessible design principles, a valuable and in-demand skill.

• Non-Profit Sector Insights: Understanding the unique marketing and communication strategies within the non-profit sector.

• Portfolio Enhancement: Creating a strong portfolio of work that showcases developed skills and project experience.

• Professional Network Expansion: Building connections with professionals in marketing, communications, and the disability advocacy space.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for an entry-level role, especially one with a short-term focus and remote setup. The growth opportunities are heavily weighted towards skill development and portfolio building, which are primary objectives for Canada Summer Jobs participants.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Can you walk me through your typical design process from receiving a brief to delivering final assets?" (Be prepared to discuss ideation, sketching, software use, feedback incorporation, and final delivery).

• Brand Application: "Imagine we need a graphic for a social media campaign about accessible sports. How would you approach designing this, keeping RHF's brand and accessibility in mind?" (Focus on RHF's mission, target audience, and accessible design principles).

• Software Proficiency: "Describe your experience with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Can you give an example of a complex task you accomplished using one of these tools?"

• Accessibility Design: "What does accessible design mean to you, and how do you incorporate it into your work?" (Mention contrast ratios, font choices, alt text considerations, etc.).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for the Rick Hansen Foundation and specifically in this Junior Graphic Designer role?" (Connect your interest to RHF's mission and your career goals).

• "How do you approach receiving and incorporating feedback on your designs?" (Emphasize openness, collaboration, and understanding the goal of the feedback).

• "Describe a time you had to manage multiple tasks or projects with competing deadlines. How did you prioritize?" (Highlight organizational skills and time management strategies).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Walkthrough: Select 3-5 key projects and be ready to present them efficiently.

• Storytelling: For each project, explain the objective, your role, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the outcome or impact.

• Highlight Skills: Explicitly point out how the projects demonstrate your proficiency in Adobe Suite, design principles, and understanding of accessibility.

• Connect to RHF: If possible, draw parallels between your past work and the needs of the Rick Hansen Foundation.

• Be Ready for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, software use, and problem-solving approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should strongly emphasize the Rick Hansen Foundation's mission and its commitment to accessibility. Candidates should be ready to demonstrate not just technical design skills but also an understanding of how design serves a purpose and aligns with organizational values.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Rick Hansen Foundation's BambooHR careers page.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio highlights projects demonstrating proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), strong design principles, and any experience or understanding of accessibility standards. Tailor your portfolio to showcase versatility in digital and print media.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate relevant skills, any design coursework or projects, and your eligibility for the Canada Summer Jobs program (age, citizenship/residency status). Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice discussing your design process, your experience with the required software, and how you approach brand consistency and accessibility. Prepare to articulate your interest in the Rick Hansen Foundation's mission.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with the Rick Hansen Foundation's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Understand their commitment to creating an inclusive and accessible world, and consider how your design work can contribute to this.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions. Eligibility requirements for the Canada Summer Jobs program are strict and must be met by the applicant.