Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Associated Students, Inc (Associated Students, San Francisco State University)

Location: San Francisco, CA, US

Job Type: Student, Part-Time, Intern

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing

Date Posted: 2026-07-27T22:04:00

Experience Level: 0-2 Years (Entry-Level Student Position)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develops compelling visual assets and graphic designs to enhance the marketing effectiveness of Associated Students (AS) programming and events, directly impacting student engagement.

• Translates client needs and design briefs into creative visual solutions, balancing artistic flair with commercial awareness and brand consistency.

• Manages multiple design projects simultaneously, demonstrating strong organizational skills and commitment to accuracy within established timelines.

• Collaborates with the Marketing & Communications team and clients to refine design concepts, ensuring alignment with AS brand guidelines and communication objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically tailored for currently enrolled SFSU students, indicating a focus on practical, on-the-job training and development within an academic-affiliated organization. The emphasis on "student" employment type and the specific university affiliation suggests an internship or student worker role rather than a standard professional position.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Produce high-quality visual solutions using a mix of creative skills and commercial awareness, ensuring designs are impactful and aligned with AS programming and event marketing goals.

• Select appropriate mediums and styles for design projects, in conjunction with AS requirements, to effectively inform and promote AS initiatives to the SF State student body.

• Collaborate with the Marketing & Communications team to gather information, clarify design issues, and develop creative concepts that meet project constraints.

• Uphold and reinforce the AS brand identity across all visual materials to increase brand awareness and engagement within the campus community.

• Contribute innovative ideas and design artwork, proactively presenting concepts and designs to marketing team members to drive creative direction and project success.

• Utilize a wide range of media, including photography and computer-aided design, to create engaging visual content.

• Manage time effectively to meet tight deadlines and deliver accurate, high-quality work consistently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a practical, hands-on approach to graphic design within a university student organization. The need to "think creatively to produce new ideas" and "quickly & efficiently innovate & redefine design briefs" highlights the dynamic nature of the role, requiring adaptability and problem-solving skills under potential time constraints.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Must be a currently enrolled SFSU student, maintaining a minimum of 6 units for undergraduates or 4 units for graduates during Fall 2025. Experience:

• Entry-level position, with experience gained through academic projects or previous internships being highly valued. The role focuses on developing practical skills in a professional setting. Required Skills:

• Substantial knowledge and hands-on experience with the Adobe Creative Suite (CS5 or later), specifically including Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.

• Proficiency in design theory, branding principles, and visual communication strategies.

• Excellent organizational skills with a meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.

• Strong self-motivation and initiative, with the ability to maintain effective working relationships.

• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects concurrently, and adapt to changing priorities.

• Effective communication skills, particularly in presenting ideas and designs to team members and stakeholders.

• Comfortable working within a fast-paced environment with high-quality expectations. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with Canva for streamlined design tasks.

• Experience with Slack for team communication and collaboration.

• Proficiency in G Suite (Google Workspace) for document creation and sharing.

• Photography experience, which can enhance visual content creation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for Adobe CS5 or later indicates a need for foundational proficiency in industry-standard design software. The inclusion of Canva, Slack, and G Suite as "pluses" suggests that while core Adobe skills are essential, familiarity with collaborative and productivity tools used in modern marketing environments is advantageous.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a range of graphic design projects, demonstrating proficiency in applying design theory and visual communication principles.

• Examples of work that highlight the ability to uphold and adapt to brand guidelines, specifically the AS brand identity.

• Visual representations of projects that illustrate creative problem-solving and innovative design approaches.

• Demonstration of projects completed under time constraints, reflecting the ability to manage deadlines effectively. Process Documentation:

• While formal process documentation is not explicitly required, candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process, from receiving a brief to final delivery, highlighting how they manage feedback and revisions.

• Candidates should be able to articulate their workflow for using design software and managing project assets efficiently.

• Examples of how they have contributed to marketing campaigns or event promotions through their design work, demonstrating their understanding of design's role in communication effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given this is a student/intern role, a formal extensive portfolio might not be expected. The emphasis will likely be on potential and demonstrated skills through academic or personal projects. Candidates should prepare to discuss their design process and how they approach brand consistency and client briefs.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• $20.94 per hour. This rate is competitive for student positions in the San Francisco Bay Area, reflecting the current cost of living and the skill set required for graphic design work. Benefits:

• Professional Development: Opportunity to gain practical experience in graphic design, marketing, and communications within a university setting, contributing to career growth.

• Skill Enhancement: Direct experience with industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite) and exposure to real-world marketing challenges.

• Networking Opportunities: Collaboration with fellow students, staff, and potentially faculty within Associated Students.

• Campus Engagement: A chance to contribute to the vibrancy of the SF State student community through impactful visual design.

• Flexible Scheduling: Up to 20 hours per week, with a schedule to be determined, allowing for accommodation of academic commitments.

Working Hours:

• Up to 20 hours per week. The specific schedule will be determined based on the needs of the Marketing & Communications department and the availability of the selected candidate, aiming to balance operational requirements with academic responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hourly wage of $20.94 is above minimum wage in California and reflects a typical rate for student positions requiring specialized skills like graphic design in a high-cost-of-living area like San Francisco. The primary "benefits" are experiential and developmental, aligning with the nature of student employment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Education / Student Services / Non-Profit

Company Size: Associated Students, Inc. is likely a significant organization within SFSU, managing multiple programs and employing a number of students and staff. Its nature as a student-led organization fosters a dynamic, collaborative, and often fast-paced environment.

Founded: Associated Students, San Francisco State University has a long history, serving as the official voice and service provider for students. This implies a culture rooted in student advocacy, community engagement, and continuous evolution to meet student needs.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of the Marketing & Communications team, supporting the organization's Board of Directors and 13 Programs.

• This team likely operates under a Marketing Director or AED (Assistant Executive Director) of Marketing & Communications, fostering a hierarchical but collaborative structure.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, as the designer will work with various AS programs, elected student leaders, and staff to market their events and services. Methodology:

• The team emphasizes creativity, professional development, and positive reinforcement, creating a supportive learning environment.

• Open and honest communication, compassion, respect, and understanding are core values.

• While fast-paced, the environment is also described as fun, exciting, and inclusive, balancing high expectations with a positive atmosphere.

Company Website: https://asi.sfsu.edu/ (Inferred from domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is student-centric, emphasizing growth, collaboration, and a supportive atmosphere. The "fast-paced environment with top-quality expectations" balanced with "fun, excitement, and light-hearted banter" suggests a work environment that is both productive and enjoyable for students.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Student Position / Internship

This role is designed for students to gain foundational experience in graphic design and marketing within a structured organizational setting. It's an opportunity to apply academic learning to real-world projects and develop essential professional skills.

Reporting Structure:

The Graphic Designer will report to a manager within the Marketing & Communications department, likely the AED of Marketing & Communications, Lauren Hohls. This structure provides direct guidance and feedback, crucial for a student role.

Operations Impact:

The Graphic Designer's work directly influences the effectiveness of marketing campaigns for AS programs and events. High-quality visuals are critical for increasing student awareness, engagement, and participation, thereby contributing to the overall success and mission of Associated Students.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific Adobe Creative Suite applications, branding, and visual communication strategies.

• Portfolio Development: Build a professional portfolio with tangible projects that can be leveraged for future employment or further academic pursuits.

• Professional Acumen: Develop crucial soft skills such as time management, project management, client communication, and teamwork in a professional environment.

• Networking: Expand professional network within SFSU and the student organization sector.

• Leadership Potential: Opportunities to take ownership of design projects and contribute ideas, potentially leading to more significant design responsibilities within the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in this role is primarily experiential and skill-based, focusing on building a strong foundation for future careers in design or marketing. The impact is tangible, as the designer's work directly contributes to the visibility and success of student-led initiatives.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site within the Associated Students, San Francisco State University facilities. This implies a campus-based work environment.

Office Location(s): San Francisco, CA, US. Specific office details will likely be provided upon hiring, but it will be on the SFSU campus.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, with opportunities to interact closely with the Marketing & Communications team and potentially representatives from various AS programs.

• Access to necessary design tools and technology, particularly Adobe Creative Suite, will be provided.

• The environment encourages creative expression while adhering to established brand guidelines, fostering a balance between individual creativity and organizational needs. Work Schedule:

• Flexible, up to 20 hours per week, designed to accommodate student academic schedules. The specific days and times will be determined based on departmental needs and student availability, suggesting a commitment to supporting student success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement within a university campus setting suggests a dynamic, student-focused environment. The emphasis on collaboration and flexible scheduling is typical for student worker positions, aiming to integrate work experience with academic life.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Screening of applications to ensure candidates meet the basic eligibility requirements (current SFSU student status) and possess foundational design skills.

• Portfolio Submission/Review: Candidates will likely be asked to submit a portfolio showcasing their design work. This is a critical step to assess creative talent, technical proficiency, and brand understanding.

• Interview(s): One or more interviews will be conducted to assess communication skills, problem-solving abilities, cultural fit with the AS team, and understanding of design principles. This may include discussions about past projects and hypothetical design scenarios.

• Skills Assessment (Potential): A small design exercise or test might be administered to evaluate practical skills in Adobe Creative Suite and ability to respond to a brief.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Variety: Include a diverse range of projects (e.g., posters, social media graphics, logos, branding elements) that highlight different design skills and software proficiency.

• Highlight Process: For key projects, briefly explain the design brief, your creative process, the challenges faced, and how you arrived at the final solution.

• Brand Consistency: Demonstrate an understanding of brand guidelines by including projects that adhere to specific branding or by showcasing your ability to create new brand identities.

• Quality over Quantity: Select your best work that clearly demonstrates your skills and potential.

• Keep it Concise: Organize your portfolio for easy navigation and quick review.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your experience with Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.

• Think about how you approach a new design brief: gathering information, brainstorming ideas, and developing concepts.

• Review the Associated Students (AS) brand and consider how you would apply it to various marketing materials.

• Prepare examples of how you've managed multiple tasks or worked under pressure to meet deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process will heavily rely on portfolio review to gauge design capabilities. Candidates should curate their portfolios to showcase relevant skills, adaptability, and understanding of brand consistency, as these are key requirements for the role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite (CS5 or later): Essential for graphic design work. Proficiency in Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign is mandatory.

• Adobe Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, illustrations, and layout design.

• Adobe Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, and digital art creation.

• Adobe InDesign: For page layout and desktop publishing, crucial for creating flyers, brochures, and other print materials.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Not directly applicable to this role, as the focus is on creation rather than analysis. However, understanding how designs contribute to engagement metrics may be discussed. CRM & Automation:

• Canva (Preferred): Useful for quick design tasks and creating social media graphics.

• Slack (Preferred): For team communication and project collaboration.

• G Suite (Preferred): For document creation, sharing, and team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong command of Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. Familiarity with collaborative tools like Slack and G Suite, and an accessible design platform like Canva, will be advantageous for streamlining workflows and communication within the team.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Student-Centricity: A primary focus on serving the SF State student body and enhancing their university experience.

• Creativity & Innovation: Encouraging imaginative flair and the development of new ideas to produce effective visual solutions.

• Collaboration: Fostering teamwork and open communication among team members and across different AS programs.

• Quality & Accuracy: Commitment to producing high-quality work that meets professional standards and client needs.

• Professional Development: Valuing personal growth, learning, and continuous improvement for all team members.

• Respect & Compassion: Maintaining a supportive and understanding work environment.

Collaboration Style:

• The team operates with an emphasis on open and honest communication, encouraging feedback exchange and mutual support.

• Cross-functional collaboration is key, requiring the designer to work effectively with various stakeholders to understand their marketing needs and translate them into visual designs.

• A proactive approach to sharing ideas and contributing to team brainstorming sessions is valued.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture is built around supporting students and fostering a collaborative, creative, and professional development-oriented environment. The values reflect a commitment to both high-quality output and a positive, inclusive team dynamic.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Academic and Work Commitments: Managing a part-time role alongside demanding academic coursework requires strong time management and organizational skills.

• Meeting Diverse Client Needs: Adapting design style and approach to suit the unique branding and communication objectives of various AS programs and events.

• Adhering to Brand Guidelines: Effectively balancing personal creative style with the need to consistently uphold and reinforce the AS brand identity.

• Working Under Tight Deadlines: Producing high-quality design work efficiently within potentially short turnaround times, common in a dynamic student organization.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Practical Design Experience: Gaining hands-on experience with industry-standard software and real-world design projects.

• Portfolio Building: Creating a strong portfolio of work that can significantly enhance future career prospects.

• Professional Skills: Developing essential soft skills such as project management, client communication, time management, and teamwork.

• Brand Management: Learning to apply and maintain brand consistency for a recognized student organization.

• Industry Exposure: Understanding the marketing and communication needs of a university student organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary growth opportunities lie in the practical application of design skills and the development of professional competencies. The challenges are typical for student roles and offer valuable learning experiences that prepare individuals for future career steps.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for taking a design brief and turning it into a final visual asset. What steps do you take?" (Focus on your workflow, research, ideation, and execution phases.)

• "How do you ensure your designs align with a specific brand identity, like the Associated Students brand, while still allowing for creative expression?" (Highlight your understanding of branding, adaptability, and how you balance client needs with your creative input.)

• "Tell us about a challenging design project you've worked on. What were the challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Prepare a STAR method response focusing on problem-solving, time management, or client feedback.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Associated Students, San Francisco State University, and our mission?" (Research the AS website and understand their role on campus.)

• "How do you approach collaboration within a team, especially when working on projects with multiple stakeholders?" (Emphasize communication, active listening, and willingness to share ideas.)

• "This role involves working with various AS programs. How would you approach understanding the unique needs of each program for their marketing materials?" (Discuss your ability to gather requirements, ask clarifying questions, and tailor designs.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Walkthrough: Be prepared to walk through 2-3 of your strongest projects, explaining the objective, your role, the design process, and the outcome.

• Showcase Software Proficiency: Point out specific techniques or features used in Adobe Creative Suite that demonstrate your technical skill.

• Highlight Brand Application: If possible, include examples where you've worked with or adapted to brand guidelines.

• Discuss Constraints: Be ready to talk about how you managed time, budget (if applicable), or other constraints in your projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical design skills, understanding of branding, strong communication, and an ability to work within a student-focused, collaborative environment. Your portfolio is your primary tool for showcasing your capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP link.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a digital portfolio (e.g., personal website, Behance, PDF) that showcases your best graphic design work, emphasizing projects completed using Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign. Include examples that demonstrate your understanding of branding and visual communication.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant academic achievements, design skills, and any previous experience with design software or marketing projects. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your design process, your experience with Adobe Creative Suite, and how you handle creative challenges and deadlines. Practice presenting your portfolio projects concisely.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Associated Students, San Francisco State University, its mission, and its various programs. Understand the importance of brand consistency and student engagement.

⚠️ 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.