Graphic Designer and Animator Co-op

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer and Animator Co-op

Company: CIBC

Location: Toronto, ON, Canada

Job Type: Temporary (Fixed Term)

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Security & Safety

Date Posted: 2026-06-23

Experience Level: 0-2 Years (Co-op/Internship)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This co-op role focuses on creating engaging visual and multimedia content for CIBC's Information Security Awareness and Training team, contributing to a robust security culture.

• The position requires strong graphic design and video editing skills to develop educational materials that inform employees about cybersecurity risks and best practices.

• Successful candidates will assist in planning and executing communication strategies, training content, and employee engagement initiatives, particularly around information security.

• This is an excellent opportunity for a student to gain practical experience in corporate communications, design, and cybersecurity awareness within a leading financial institution.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the original listing is for a "Graphic Designer and Animator Co-op," the context provided by CIBC's Information Security Awareness and Training team indicates a specific focus on cybersecurity communication. This enhancement categorizes the role within relevant operational domains that align with GTM (Go-To-Market) for internal communications and employee engagement, and highlights the need for creative content development to support security objectives.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and produce engaging graphic design assets, animations, and video content to educate CIBC employees on cybersecurity risks, threats, and best practices.

• Create visually compelling materials for various internal communication channels, including social media posts, intranet articles, presentations, and training modules.

• Collaborate with the Information Security Awareness and Training team to conceptualize and design innovative communication strategies and employee engagement initiatives.

• Assist in the planning, coordination, and execution of awareness campaigns, such as Cybersecurity Awareness Month, ensuring timely delivery of all creative assets.

• Translate complex security concepts into easily understandable and accessible visual formats that resonate with a diverse employee base.

• Utilize design and video editing software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Rush, Canva, Microsoft PowerPoint) to produce high-quality, on-brand content.

• Contribute creative ideas and solutions to enhance the effectiveness and reach of the Information Security Awareness and Training Program.

• Support the team in measuring the impact of communication materials and engagement initiatives, providing feedback for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities have been expanded to detail the specific types of creative output (graphics, animations, videos) and communication channels relevant to an internal corporate security awareness program. Emphasis is placed on the collaborative nature of the role and the need to translate technical information into engaging content, aligning with GTM principles for internal stakeholder engagement.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Currently enrolled in a post-secondary program, pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Animation, Digital Media, Communications, or a related field.

• Must be returning to full-time studies following the co-op term. Experience:

• Foundational experience in graphic design and/or animation, ideally demonstrated through academic projects, personal work, or previous internships.

• Familiarity with creating content for internal communications or educational purposes is a plus. Required Skills:

• Graphic Design: Strong proficiency in creating visually appealing graphics, illustrations, and layouts using software such as Adobe Illustrator, Canva, or similar tools.

• Video Editing & Animation: Competency in video editing software (e.g., Adobe Rush) and basic animation principles to produce engaging video content.

• Software Proficiency: Familiarity with Microsoft PowerPoint for presentation design and content integration.

• Visual Communication: Ability to convey complex ideas effectively through visual representation and engaging design formats.

• Creativity & Innovation: Demonstrated ability to think creatively, develop new ideas, and visualize engaging solutions for employee communication.

• Problem-Solving: Aptitude for identifying issues and collaborating with a team to find innovative design and communication solutions.

• Time Management & Organization: Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines, and deliver on time, especially in a fast-paced environment.

• Teamwork: Ability to collaborate effectively within a team, contribute to group projects, and receive/provide constructive feedback.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with animation software (e.g., Adobe After Effects, Flash Animation).

• Familiarity with content management systems or intranet platforms.

• Understanding of cybersecurity concepts or experience in creating content for security awareness programs.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for clear articulation of design concepts.

• Portfolio showcasing a range of graphic design, animation, and video projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications have been detailed to reflect the specific demands of a co-op role in a corporate setting. "0-2 Years" experience level is inferred from the co-op nature and educational requirements. Specific software listed in the source description (Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Rush, Microsoft PowerPoint, Canva) are prioritized as required skills. The emphasis on "Visual Representation" and "Problem Solving" directly pulls from the provided "Who you are" section.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio demonstrating a range of graphic design, animation, and video editing skills.

• Examples should highlight the ability to create engaging and informative content for a target audience.

• Include case studies or project descriptions that explain the design process, creative challenges, and the intended impact of the work.

• Showcase projects that involve translating complex information into clear visual narratives. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate an understanding of project workflows from concept to final delivery, including feedback incorporation.

• Ability to articulate the process of developing communication materials, from initial brief to final asset creation.

• Provide examples of how you manage and organize your design files and project assets for efficient retrieval and collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a creative co-op role, a portfolio is paramount. This section emphasizes what CIBC would likely look for: a demonstration of creative output, understanding of the design process, and the ability to translate information visually. The focus is on the process of creation and organization, which is key for operations and efficiency, even in a creative role.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As this is a co-op/internship position, compensation will be competitive and align with industry standards for student roles in Toronto, ON. Based on similar co-op roles in the financial sector in Toronto, a typical range for a 4-8 month term would be approximately CAD $20 - $30 per hour, depending on the specific year of study and demonstrated skills. Benefits:

• Competitive Compensation: Hourly wage as per industry standards for co-op students.

• Banking Benefit: Potential access to CIBC employee banking programs and preferential rates.

• Wellbeing Support: Access to resources and programs aimed at supporting employee health and wellbeing.

• Employee and Family Assistance Programs (EFAP): Confidential professional support services for employees and their families to address personal or work-related challenges.

• MomentMakers Recognition Program: A points-based social recognition program to acknowledge contributions and achievements.

• Professional Development: Opportunity to gain valuable industry experience and develop skills in graphic design, animation, and corporate communications within a financial institution.

• Networking Opportunities: Exposure to professionals in Information Security, Communications, and various business units across CIBC.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time temporary position, typically 37.5 hours per week.

• The work arrangement is hybrid, meaning a combination of on-site work at the Toronto office and remote work, with specific details to be discussed during the interview process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on typical co-op rates in Toronto's financial sector for roles requiring 0-2 years of experience. Benefits are directly extracted from the provided text and contextualized for a student role. Working hours are confirmed as 37.5 per week, and the hybrid nature is noted.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Services (Banking)

Company Size: Large (CIBC is a major Canadian bank with tens of thousands of employees globally). This scale means opportunities for broad impact and exposure to established corporate processes and culture.

Founded: 1864. CIBC has a long history, indicating stability, deep-rooted values, and a significant presence in the Canadian financial landscape.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Information Security Awareness and Training team, a specialized unit focused on safeguarding the organization through education and engagement.

• This team likely comprises business and communications experts, working collaboratively to develop and implement security awareness programs.

• The structure emphasizes cross-functional collaboration, with the graphic designer/animator working closely with content creators, security specialists, and potentially marketing or internal communications departments. Methodology:

• The team's approach is described as "relationship-oriented," focusing on building a "robust security culture" through "inclusive and creative employee communications and engagement strategies."

• Emphasis is placed on innovation, continuous growth, and encouraging new ideas from team members.

• Data-driven insights may be used to refine communication strategies and measure program effectiveness, although the primary focus for this role is creative output.

Company Website: https://www.cibc.com/en/about-cibc.html

📝 Enhancement Note: Company context is derived from general knowledge of CIBC as a major bank and details within the job description about the team's mission. The "Methodology" section interprets the company's stated approach to communications and culture building, framing it within operations principles of engagement and continuous improvement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level co-op/internship position, designed for students early in their academic careers. It provides foundational experience in a corporate creative and communications environment.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer and Animator Co-op will report to a manager or lead within the Information Security Awareness and Training team. This individual will provide guidance, feedback, and project direction.

Operations Impact: While not directly managing revenue-generating operations, this role contributes to the critical function of information security. By improving employee awareness and adherence to security protocols, the role helps mitigate risks, prevent breaches, and protect the company's reputation and client data, thereby indirectly supporting operational stability and client trust.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Deepen expertise in graphic design, animation, and video editing tools, and gain practical experience in corporate communications.

• Industry Exposure: Learn about cybersecurity best practices and the operational challenges of information security within a leading financial institution.

• Networking: Build connections with professionals in design, communications, and information security, which can be invaluable for future career prospects.

• Portfolio Enhancement: Create tangible work samples and case studies that significantly strengthen a professional portfolio for future job applications.

• Potential for Future Roles: A successful co-op experience can open doors to future opportunities at CIBC, such as internships or entry-level positions upon graduation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis frames the co-op experience within a career progression context, highlighting its value for skill development, industry exposure, and portfolio building. The "Operations Impact" section connects the creative role to broader operational objectives of risk mitigation and trust.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work arrangement, combining remote work with on-site presence at CIBC's Toronto office (141 Bay Street, 17th Floor).

Office Location(s): Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The primary office location is a central business district, likely providing access to amenities and public transportation.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The Information Security Awareness and Training team fosters a collaborative atmosphere, encouraging teamwork and idea exchange.

• Technology & Tools: Employees are equipped with necessary technological tools and software to perform their roles effectively, including access to industry-standard design and video editing applications.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with team members and potentially other departments, facilitating learning and cross-functional understanding.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, 37.5 hours per week.

• The hybrid model offers flexibility, balancing structured in-office work with the autonomy of remote work, allowing for effective management of creative tasks and personal well-being.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model and specific office location are highlighted. The "Workspace Context" details the expected collaborative and technologically supported environment relevant to a creative role within a corporate setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit resume (max 2 pages), cover letter (max 1 page), and unofficial transcript as a single PDF. Include a link to your design portfolio.

• Initial Screening: Applications will be reviewed based on qualifications, portfolio, and alignment with role requirements.

• Skills Assessment: Candidates may be asked to complete attribute-based assessments, skills tests (e.g., simulation, coding, French proficiency, MS Office), or design challenges.

• Interviews: Conducted with the hiring team to assess technical skills, creative thinking, problem-solving abilities, cultural fit, and communication style. Expect to discuss your portfolio and past projects.

• Final Evaluation: Assessment of overall suitability for the co-op role, including potential for growth and contribution to the team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase your strongest, most relevant work. Focus on quality over quantity.

• Highlight Process: For each project, briefly explain the brief, your creative process, the tools used, and the intended outcome or impact.

• Demonstrate Versatility: Include a mix of graphic design, animation, and video editing examples if possible.

• Brand Consistency: Show an understanding of brand guidelines and how to apply them creatively.

• Clarity & Navigation: Ensure your portfolio is easy to navigate, with clear titles and descriptions. A link on your resume is essential.

• Prepare to Discuss: Be ready to verbally walk through your portfolio, explain your design choices, and answer questions about your creative decisions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Challenge: If a design challenge is provided, ensure you thoroughly understand the brief, target audience, and objectives.

• Time Management: Practice working within time constraints, as many challenges will have them.

• Presentation: Prepare to present your work and rationale clearly and concisely, as if presenting to stakeholders.

• Software Familiarity: Ensure you are comfortable with the software mentioned (Adobe Suite, Canva, PowerPoint).

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides concrete advice for candidates, focusing on the critical portfolio submission and interview stages. The tips are tailored to a creative role, emphasizing the presentation of creative work and process, which are key for operations-style assessment of candidates.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Graphic Design Software: Adobe Illustrator (essential for vector graphics), Canva (for quick and accessible design creation).

• Video Editing Software: Adobe Rush (for video editing and production).

• Presentation Software: Microsoft PowerPoint (for creating training materials and presentations).

• Animation Tools: Potentially Adobe After Effects or similar for more advanced animation work, though not explicitly required, would be a strong asset.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for this role, understanding how to interpret basic engagement metrics for social media posts or intranet content could be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this creative co-op role.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section lists the specific software tools mentioned in the job description as essential. It also clarifies the primary tools versus those that might be preferred or indirectly relevant, aligning with the operations focus on technology stacks.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Trust: Upholding confidentiality and integrity in handling information security matters and internal communications.

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve shared goals in creating awareness and driving engagement.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of assigned tasks, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality creative assets, and contributing to team success.

• Innovation: Bringing fresh perspectives and creative solutions to enhance the Information Security Awareness and Training Program.

• Client-Centricity (Internal): Designing communications that effectively serve and engage CIBC employees as internal clients.

• Inclusivity: Creating accessible and engaging materials that resonate with a diverse workforce.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with security experts, communication specialists, and potentially other business units to ensure content accuracy and relevance.

• Feedback Loop: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback on designs and creative concepts to improve outcomes.

• Proactive Communication: Regularly updating team members on progress, challenges, and ideas.

• Shared Vision: Contributing to the team's overarching mission of building a strong security culture through creative and impactful communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Values Matter to You" section from the original text is directly mapped to CIBC's core values (Trust, Teamwork, Accountability) and then expanded with operations-relevant interpretations for a creative role. The collaboration style emphasizes the cross-functional nature typical in corporate operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Technical Information: Converting complex cybersecurity topics into easily digestible and engaging visual content for a non-technical audience.

• Balancing Creative Vision with Corporate Requirements: Ensuring that creative output meets brand standards and security policy requirements while remaining innovative.

• Managing Multiple Projects: Prioritizing and managing various design and video projects simultaneously with competing deadlines.

• Adapting to Feedback: Incorporating feedback from multiple stakeholders while maintaining the integrity of the design vision.

• Rapidly Evolving Threat Landscape: Staying aware of current cybersecurity trends to ensure the relevance of awareness materials.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Technical Skill Enhancement: Gaining hands-on experience with industry-standard design and video editing software.

• Corporate Communications Expertise: Developing skills in crafting messages and visuals for a large corporate audience.

• Cybersecurity Awareness: Acquiring knowledge about common cybersecurity threats, risks, and best practices.

• Project Management Basics: Learning to manage creative projects from conception to completion within a structured environment.

• Professional Networking: Building relationships with professionals in the financial sector, design, and information security fields.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are identified based on the nature of the role (creative content for security) and the corporate environment. Growth opportunities are framed around skill acquisition and professional development relevant to a co-op student.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate complex information into a simple visual format. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and impact.)

• "How do you approach creating engaging content for a diverse audience? Can you give an example from your portfolio?" (Focus on creativity, audience understanding, and portfolio demonstration.)

• "Imagine you need to create a short animated video about phishing scams for employees. What would be your key messages and visual approach?" (Assess creative thinking, understanding of security concepts, and communication strategy.)

• "How do you manage your time and prioritize tasks when working on multiple design projects simultaneously?" (Assess organization and time management skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about CIBC and specifically our Information Security Awareness and Training team?" (Demonstrate research into CIBC and understanding of the team's mission.)

• "How do you embody CIBC's values of Trust, Teamwork, and Accountability in your work?" (Connect your personal work ethic and past experiences to the company's values.)

• "Describe your experience working in a team environment. What role do you typically play, and how do you contribute to team success?" (Assess collaboration skills and cultural fit.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each selected project, tell a compelling story that outlines the problem, your creative solution, the process, and the results or intended impact.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your presentation is visually clean, on-brand, and easy to follow. Use high-quality images and clear text.

• Highlight Key Skills: Explicitly point out how specific projects demonstrate your proficiency in graphic design, animation, video editing, and software usage.

• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Practice presenting your portfolio efficiently, focusing on the most impactful projects.

• Link Integration: Ensure your portfolio link is easily accessible on your resume and that the portfolio itself is well-organized.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides tailored interview questions and preparation strategies. It focuses on assessing creative skills, problem-solving, cultural fit, and the ability to present work effectively, all crucial for a co-op role in a corporate setting.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this co-op position:

• Submit your application through the CIBC careers portal using the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your design portfolio to prominently feature projects that showcase graphic design, animation, and video editing skills relevant to corporate communications and educational content. Ensure a clear link is provided on your resume.

• Resume & Cover Letter Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant coursework, technical skills (software proficiency), and any experience in creating visual content. Your cover letter should express your specific interest in CIBC, the Information Security team, and how your creative skills can contribute to their mission.

• Prepare for Assessments: Be ready to complete any requested attribute-based assessments or skills tests. Practice with design software you'll be using.

• Research CIBC: Familiarize yourself with CIBC's values, history, and recent initiatives, particularly those related to technology, security, or employee engagement. Understand their approach to building a "relationship-oriented bank."

• Practice Portfolio Walkthrough: Rehearse presenting your portfolio, focusing on explaining your creative process, design choices, and the impact of your work, as you may be asked to do this during an interview.

⚠️ 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.