Graphic Comms Creative Designer 3

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Comms Creative Designer 3

Company: CPS Energy

Location: San Antonio, TX

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing

Date Posted: September 17, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive internal and external communications through compelling visual graphic design, enhancing brand standards and program awareness for CPS Energy.

• Develop and execute print and digital strategies to strengthen the CPS Energy brand across San Antonio, regional, and national markets.

• Collaborate with internal operations, product teams, and external stakeholders to meet graphic design initiative goals in a fast-paced environment.

• Create a wide range of visual assets, from advertisements and brochures to digital illustrations and infographics, ensuring brand consistency and impact.

• Manage project timelines, deliverables, and stakeholder communications for creative graphic design projects, demonstrating strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a 'Designer 3', indicating a mid-to-senior level of expertise. The emphasis on brand standards, strategic planning, and cross-functional collaboration suggests a significant contribution to the company's overall brand messaging and marketing efforts, extending beyond purely execution-based tasks. The fast-paced nature and need for calm under pressure highlight the importance of robust project management and adaptability.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Participate in the development of marketing and communication strategies, including positioning, packaging, and communicating the value of CPS Energy’s services and initiatives.

• Support brand management and graphic messaging across current and future digital channels, ensuring alignment with corporate identity.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal clients and the customer base to foster transparent communication and uphold company mission and values.

• Collaborate with Corporate Communications & Marketing team members and business unit leads on core strategic brand development projects, including large corporate initiatives like campaigns and re-brands.

• Meet with project stakeholders to identify creative needs and deliver effective graphic design solutions.

• Produce distinctive graphics across multiple forms of media, including print, digital, and online channels.

• Create company-wide visual assets and support departmental initiatives through artistic design, ensuring a consistent brand voice.

• Incorporate branded campaign elements across various creative projects such as advertisements, brochures, corporate identity, packaging, presentations, promotional displays, and signage.

• Develop visually appealing and effective PowerPoint presentations, including layouts, themes, fonts, colors, and visual effects.

• Prepare and deliver graphics in various formats such as flyers, posters, banners, brochures, wall/vehicle wraps, and digital formats for websites, intranet, social media, and electronic signage.

• Retouch and edit high-resolution imagery to meet project specifications.

• Develop digital illustrations for logos, presentations, and multimedia projects.

• Produce data-driven infographic designs through effective typography and illustration.

• Manage the design, layout, and formatting of digital and print materials, ensuring accuracy and aesthetic appeal.

• Identify graphical solutions and apply creative problem-solving techniques, effects, and design techniques.

• Manage large file delivery and organize a workflow environment to ensure efficient project progression.

• Stay current with digital and social media trends and developments to inform design strategies.

• Perform other duties as assigned to support the team and company objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic input and hands-on execution. The emphasis on "marketing and communication strategies," "positioning," and "brand management" indicates that this role contributes to the strategic planning of how CPS Energy communicates its offerings. The detailed list of deliverables (flyers, posters, brochures, etc.) underscores the practical, output-driven nature of the position. The mention of "emergency design needs" and working "outside of regular business hours on occasion" points to a demanding, fast-paced environment where adaptability is key.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Technical Certificates and/or Associate's degree in Graphic Design, Digital Design, or a related field from an accredited university. Relevant work experience can be substituted in lieu of a degree.

Experience: Minimum 5 years of professional graphic design experience in a corporate, agency, in-house, or comparable professional environment. Utility industry experience or foundational knowledge of the industry is preferred.

Required Skills:

• Extensive experience utilizing the most updated Adobe Creative Suite applications, including Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Lightroom, and Adobe Bridge.

• Extensive experience working in an Apple Operating System environment.

• Extensive experience in print prepress and file management for various print sizes and print media.

• Demonstrated ability to produce a professional digital portfolio showcasing independent graphic design and/or digital work.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, electronic mail, and scheduling.

• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to work independently with minimal supervision and effectively within team settings.

• Well-developed written and verbal communication skills for clear and concise interaction with stakeholders.

• Ability to achieve results by multi-tasking, prioritizing tasks, and working effectively in a flexible, highly collaborative environment.

• Ability to effectively manage time and complete projects and tasks within tight deadlines and on short notice.

• Ability to work collaboratively within a design team environment and analyze creative feedback constructively.

• Ability to monitor and track project deliverables and report on progress to all stakeholders.

• Ability to present reports defining project progress, obstacles, and solutions.

• Ability to communicate issues/obstacles and recommend strategies and tactics for implementing change.

• Ability to implement and manage project changes and interventions to achieve project outputs and assess results.

• Excellent interpersonal skills, with a strong client-service background and orientation, fostering collaborative relationships. Preferred Skills:

• Experience creating animated videos and/or graphics.

• Photography skills necessary to capture high-resolution photos (e.g., DSLR or company iPhone) for use in graphic design projects.

• Basic knowledge of social media platform functionality (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn).

• Basic understanding of website production as it pertains to graphic design for desktop and mobile devices.

• Experience utilizing Microsoft Teams for collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Skills" section is exceptionally detailed and covers both technical proficiencies and soft skills crucial for a designer in a corporate setting. The emphasis on an Apple OS environment and specific Adobe Suite applications (including Bridge and Lightroom) points to a sophisticated workflow. The requirement for a portfolio is standard, but the explicit mention of "produced independently" suggests a need to showcase individual contribution and problem-solving capabilities. The blend of project management skills (reporting, managing changes, assessing results) with creative execution is a key differentiator for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A professional digital portfolio is mandatory, showcasing a diverse range of graphic design and/or digital work produced independently.

• The portfolio should demonstrate proficiency in applying brand standards and creating effective visual communications across various media.

• Include case studies or examples that illustrate problem-solving approaches and the impact of design solutions on project goals.

• Showcase a strong understanding of typography, layout, color theory, and visual hierarchy in all presented work. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate the ability to manage and organize workflow environments, including managing large file delivery.

• Showcase experience in print prepress and file management, highlighting attention to detail and accuracy for diverse print media.

• Examples of how you've incorporated branded campaign elements across multiple executions should be evident.

• Present work that illustrates the development of solutions for effective and appealing presentations, including visual elements and effects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio requirement is a critical component for this role, acting as the primary evaluation tool for design skills. The emphasis on "independent work" and "problem-solving" within the portfolio suggests that candidates should be prepared to articulate their design process and rationale behind their creative decisions, not just present final outputs. The "Process Documentation" requirements are derived from the listed responsibilities, emphasizing the candidate's ability to manage the practical aspects of design production and workflow.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the Pay Grade 14 and the experience level (5-10 years), a competitive salary range for a Graphic Comms Creative Designer 3 in San Antonio, TX, typically falls between $70,000 and $95,000 annually. This estimate is derived from industry benchmarks for similar roles in the San Antonio metropolitan area, considering the utility sector's compensation structures and the 'Designer 3' level which signifies advanced proficiency.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan with company match (e.g., 401k or pension plan).

• Paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and continuing education.

• Employee assistance programs (EAP) for personal and professional support.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.

• Life and disability insurance coverage.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week. While standard business hours are expected, the role may occasionally require time outside of regular business hours to address emergency design needs for events or executive messaging, necessitating flexibility and commitment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on the provided pay grade (14) and the AI-derived experience level (5-10 years) for a specialized creative role in San Antonio. CPS Energy is a major utility, and such organizations often offer robust benefits packages. The mention of potential overtime or off-hours work is explicitly stated in the responsibilities and is crucial for candidates to understand.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Energy (Utility). CPS Energy is a major municipal electric and natural gas utility serving the greater San Antonio, Texas area. This industry context implies a focus on reliability, public service, community impact, and adherence to stringent regulatory standards. Operations within this sector often demand precision, safety, and long-term strategic planning.

Company Size: CPS Energy is a large organization, employing approximately 3,500 people. This size suggests a structured corporate environment with established processes, diverse departments, and opportunities for specialization and career advancement. For operations professionals, this means working within a significant infrastructure, collaborating with various specialized teams, and contributing to large-scale projects.

Founded: While the founding date is not explicitly provided in the input, CPS Energy has a long history as a public utility, indicating a stable and established organization. This longevity often translates to a strong sense of community commitment and a culture that values experience and tradition, alongside innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer 3 likely sits within the Corporate Communications & Marketing department, which is responsible for brand management, public relations, advertising, and internal communications.

• This department would comprise various specialists, including other designers, writers, marketing strategists, and communications managers.

• The reporting structure would likely involve a Creative Director or Marketing Communications Manager, with the Designer 3 collaborating closely with peers and internal clients across different business units (e.g., operations, customer service, engineering).

• Cross-functional collaboration is heavily emphasized, requiring designers to work with project managers, subject matter experts, and executive leadership to translate complex information into visually engaging content. Methodology:

• Data Analysis and Insights: Designers are expected to interpret project briefs and stakeholder needs to inform their creative approach, often translating data or complex information into visual representations like infographics.

• Workflow Planning and Optimization: The role requires managing multiple projects, organizing workflows, and ensuring efficient file delivery, demonstrating an understanding of project management principles within a creative context.

• Automation and Efficiency: While not a direct automation role, designers are expected to leverage tools like Adobe Bridge and potentially explore efficiencies in their workflow to meet tight deadlines. Staying updated on digital trends also contributes to efficiency by adopting modern design practices.

Company Website: https://www.cpsenergy.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The industry (Energy/Utility) is a key differentiator. Operations roles within utilities often require a deep understanding of safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and the critical nature of service delivery. This impacts how communications are crafted, emphasizing clarity, accuracy, and a focus on public trust. The company size suggests a formal corporate structure where understanding internal processes and navigating departmental relationships is important for success.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as a "Graphic Comms Creative Designer 3," indicating a mid-to-senior level position. It signifies a designer who has moved beyond foundational tasks and is capable of independent work, strategic input, and handling complex projects. They are expected to contribute to brand strategy and messaging, not just execute designs. This level often involves mentoring junior designers and acting as a key point of contact for creative needs within specific projects or departments.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer 3 will likely report to a Creative Director, Marketing Manager, or a Senior Communications Lead within the Corporate Communications & Marketing department. They will collaborate extensively with various internal departments, including operations, product development, and executive leadership, acting as a creative partner to translate their needs into effective visual communications.

Operations Impact: While this role is in creative communications rather than traditional revenue or sales operations, its impact is significant. Effective graphic design directly influences brand perception, customer engagement, program adoption, and internal understanding of company initiatives. High-quality visuals can enhance the clarity of operational information, improve the appeal of marketing campaigns, and strengthen the overall corporate brand, indirectly supporting sales, customer retention, and operational efficiency through clear communication.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to specialize in areas like motion graphics, UI/UX design for internal tools, or advanced data visualization for operational reports.

• Leadership Development: Opportunity to move into a Senior Designer role, Creative Lead, or even manage a small creative team, taking on more strategic responsibilities and project oversight.

• Cross-Departmental Exposure: Gain deeper understanding of utility operations, marketing strategies, and customer engagement by working on diverse projects across different business units, potentially leading to roles in broader marketing or communications management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Operations Impact" section is framed to connect a creative role to broader business objectives, highlighting how design contributes to overall operational success through enhanced communication and brand perception. Growth opportunities are tailored to a design career path within a large corporate structure, emphasizing both specialization and leadership potential.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily on-site, based in San Antonio, TX. The description mentions "Indoor work, operating computer, manual dexterity, talking, hearing, repetitive motion" and "Use of personal computing equipment, mobile communication devices, multi-functioning printer and calculator," typical of an office environment. However, it also notes "Outdoor work, ability to travel to and from meetings, training sessions or other business-related events," suggesting occasional fieldwork or site visits might be necessary.

Office Location(s): The position is located in San Antonio, TX, 78205. Specific details about the office building itself (e.g., amenities, collaborative spaces) are not provided, but as a large utility company, CPS Energy's main offices are likely to be well-equipped.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The job description emphasizes collaboration with team members, internal clients, and external stakeholders. This suggests an open or shared workspace designed to facilitate interaction, brainstorming, and feedback sessions.

• Operations Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite on Apple OS) and office productivity tools (Microsoft Office Suite) is expected. The environment likely supports high-performance workstations necessary for graphic design tasks.

• Team Interaction: Designers will engage with project managers, marketing specialists, and potentially operations personnel to understand project requirements and present creative solutions. Regular team meetings and feedback sessions are probable.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. However, the role's responsibilities explicitly mention the need for flexibility, stating that "Emergency design needs for events and executive messaging may require time outside of regular business hours on occasion." This indicates that while a regular schedule exists, occasional extended hours or weekend work might be necessary to meet critical project deadlines or respond to urgent company needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Work Environment" section synthesizes information about the physical setting, necessary tools, and interaction dynamics. The explicit mention of "outdoor work" and "travel" alongside the primary indoor office setting provides a more complete picture of the physical demands and potential for varied work locations. The flexibility required for "emergency design needs" is a critical aspect for candidates to consider.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit your resume and a link to your professional digital portfolio through the CPS Energy careers portal.

• Initial Screening: Applications and portfolios will be reviewed by HR and the hiring manager for alignment with minimum qualifications and preferred experience.

• Skills Assessment/Portfolio Review: Candidates may be asked to complete a design challenge or present their portfolio in detail, discussing their process, problem-solving approach, and the impact of their work. This stage will assess technical skills, creativity, and communication.

• Interviews: Expect one or more rounds of interviews. This may include discussions with the hiring manager, potential team members, and cross-functional collaborators (e.g., from marketing, operations) to assess fit, collaboration style, and understanding of business needs.

• Final Evaluation: Candidates will be evaluated on their creative talent, technical proficiency, ability to collaborate, understanding of brand strategy, and cultural fit with CPS Energy's values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase a range of skills (print, digital, branding, infographics). Prioritize work that demonstrates problem-solving and achieved objectives.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly outline the challenge, your role, the process you followed (research, ideation, execution), the tools used, and the results or impact achieved. Use visuals to support your narrative.

• Highlight Brand Application: Showcase examples where you successfully applied or developed brand guidelines, demonstrating an understanding of brand consistency and strategic messaging.

• Showcase Versatility: Include examples that demonstrate your ability to work across different media (print, digital, social) and adapt your style to meet diverse project requirements.

• Prepare for Questions: Be ready to discuss your design choices, defend your creative decisions, and explain how your work aligns with business objectives.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: If a design challenge is provided, carefully read and understand the objectives, target audience, and any constraints.

• Focus on Process: Demonstrate your thought process, not just the final output. Show how you approached the problem, brainstormed ideas, and arrived at your solution.

• Adhere to Brand: If a brand context is given (or if it's for CPS Energy), ensure your solution aligns with their existing visual identity and tone.

• Time Management: Practice completing design tasks within a specified timeframe, as this role is described as fast-paced.

• Presentation Skills: Be prepared to present your solution clearly and concisely, articulating your design rationale and potential impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application and review process emphasizes the portfolio as a central element. The tips are geared towards presenting a strong case for a designer, focusing on process, impact, and strategic thinking, which are crucial for a 'Designer 3' level role. The mention of a potential design challenge is common for creative roles and requires specific preparation.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Extensive experience required with Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Lightroom, and Adobe Bridge. These are the core tools for graphic design, photo editing, layout, and asset management.

• Apple Operating System: The primary work environment is expected to be macOS, indicating a need for proficiency in this platform.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Essential for general productivity, document creation, data management (spreadsheets), and presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary analytics role, understanding how design impacts metrics (e.g., engagement on social media, click-through rates on digital ads) is beneficial. The role requires presenting project progress and results, which may involve basic reporting on design effectiveness. CRM & Automation:

• Basic understanding of website production and social media platform functionality implies an awareness of how designs will be implemented and consumed across digital channels. Familiarity with how designs integrate into content management systems or marketing automation platforms is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on design software. The explicit mention of Adobe Bridge suggests an emphasis on efficient asset management and workflow organization, which is critical for managing large projects and files. The preference for Apple OS is a specific technical requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Driving for Results: This competency suggests a focus on achieving tangible outcomes and meeting project goals efficiently. For designers, this means delivering high-quality work on time and contributing to the success of campaigns and initiatives.

• Communicates Effectively: Essential for collaboration, understanding client needs, and presenting design concepts clearly. This involves both verbal and written communication, as well as visual storytelling.

• Evaluating and Implementing Ideas: The ability to critically assess creative concepts, incorporate feedback, and effectively implement chosen designs is highly valued.

• Driving Continuous Improvement: Staying updated on design trends, software advancements, and best practices to enhance personal skills and team processes.

• Working with Ambiguity: The fast-paced nature of the role requires comfort in situations where project details may evolve or be initially unclear, necessitating adaptability and proactive problem-solving.

• Demonstrating Initiative: Proactively identifying design opportunities, suggesting improvements, and taking ownership of projects.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Designers are expected to work seamlessly with various departments, translating their needs into effective visual communications. This requires active listening and a client-service orientation.

• Process Review Culture: The emphasis on feedback and iterative design suggests a collaborative environment where creative concepts are discussed, critiqued constructively, and refined.

• Knowledge Sharing: Within a design team, sharing best practices, tips, and insights on new tools or techniques is likely encouraged to foster collective growth and maintain high standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Competencies" listed directly translate into desired cultural values and collaboration styles. The focus on results, communication, and initiative aligns with a professional, goal-oriented team environment. The need to work with ambiguity and drive continuous improvement points to a dynamic and evolving workplace.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Projects: The fast-paced environment and need to "multi-task" present a challenge in managing competing deadlines and priorities effectively.

• Translating Complex Information: Converting technical data or abstract concepts from various departments (including operations) into clear, engaging visual designs requires strong conceptualization skills.

• Adapting to Evolving Trends: Staying current with rapidly changing digital and social media trends while maintaining brand consistency requires continuous learning and strategic application of new techniques.

• Stakeholder Management: Effectively managing expectations and incorporating feedback from diverse stakeholders, including executives, requires strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to specialize in specific design areas like motion graphics, UI/UX design, or advanced data visualization for operational reporting.

• Industry Conference and Certification Participation: Potential to attend design conferences or pursue certifications to enhance skills and stay abreast of industry advancements.

• Mentorship and Leadership: Possibility of receiving mentorship from senior designers or managers, and eventually mentoring junior designers, developing leadership capabilities within the creative team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges identified are directly linked to the demands of the role as described, such as the fast pace and need for diverse skills. The growth opportunities are framed to provide a clear path for career progression within the design field and the larger organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy & Methodology: "Describe a time you had to translate complex technical information into a visually understandable graphic. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a case study focusing on data visualization or infographic design.)

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How do you handle conflicting creative feedback from different stakeholders? Walk me through a project where this occurred." (Focus on your communication strategy, negotiation skills, and ability to find a consensus.)

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine you have a tight deadline for a critical campaign, and a key design element isn't working. What steps would you take to resolve this creatively and efficiently?" (Highlight your problem-solving process, resourcefulness, and ability to maintain quality under pressure.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Operations Culture: "How do you see graphic design supporting CPS Energy's mission of serving the San Antonio community?" (Research CPS Energy's community initiatives and values; connect design to public service and brand trust.)

• Operations Team Dynamics: "Describe your ideal collaboration style within a creative team. How do you contribute to a positive and productive team environment?" (Emphasize your teamwork, communication, and feedback-giving/receiving skills.)

• Operations Impact Measurement: "How would you measure the success of a graphic design campaign for a new CPS Energy service?" (Discuss metrics like engagement, brand recall, lead generation, or website traffic, and how design contributes.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structured Narrative: For each project, present a clear story: Challenge -> Your Role -> Process -> Solution -> Results/Impact.

• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality visuals. Annotate your designs to highlight specific choices and their rationale.

• Focus on Process: Explain why you made certain design decisions, not just what you designed. This demonstrates critical thinking.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use data or metrics to show the effectiveness of your designs (e.g., "increased engagement by X%", "led to Y inquiries").

• Tailor to CPS Energy: Briefly explain how your skills and past projects are relevant to CPS Energy's industry, brand, and community focus.

📝 Enhancement Note: These interview questions are designed to probe the candidate's strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of how design functions within a large, service-oriented organization like CPS Energy. The portfolio presentation strategy emphasizes demonstrating not just technical skill but also business acumen and impact.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Comms Creative Designer 3 position:

• Submit your application through the CPS Energy careers portal, ensuring all required fields are completed accurately.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your digital portfolio to highlight projects that demonstrate experience with brand standards, print and digital media, infographic design, and effective communication of complex information. Showcase 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant pieces with clear explanations of your process and impact.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your years of experience, proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite and Apple OS, and highlights achievements related to campaign execution, brand management, and project coordination. Use keywords from the job description naturally.

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio, preparing concise explanations for your design choices and project outcomes. Be ready to discuss your problem-solving approach and how you handle feedback. Research CPS Energy’s mission, values, and recent communications.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with CPS Energy's services, community involvement, and overall brand presence. Understand their role as a utility provider in the San Antonio area to better articulate how your creative skills can support their objectives.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.