Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Protect Life Michigan

Location: Remote (MI, US)

Job Type: Full-time, Part-time

Category: Marketing, Creative & Media, Art & Design, Social Services

Date Posted: April 30, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-level to Mid-level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: Fully Remote

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for developing and maintaining consistent branding and visual identity across all Protect Life Michigan's marketing collateral, including digital and print materials.

• The Graphic Designer will play a key part in enhancing the organization's online presence and supporting marketing campaigns through compelling visual content creation.

• A significant aspect of this position involves collaborating with various teams to produce designs for events, special projects, and ongoing communication efforts, ensuring message consistency.

• The role requires a proactive individual with strong creative skills and a commitment to the organization's mission, who is also comfortable with and willing to participate in a unique support-raising model for compensation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is framed as a Graphic Designer but has significant marketing and communications responsibilities, particularly concerning branding and online presence. The "support-raising" model for salary is a critical differentiator and requires explicit understanding from candidates. The remote nature is specified for Michigan residents, indicating a potential need for local understanding or compliance, even while remote.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute cohesive branding strategies for Protect Life Michigan's posts, emails, brochures, handouts, website, and event materials, ensuring visual and linguistic consistency.

• Design engaging social media graphics, captions, and potentially assist with video creation/editing to expand the organization's digital footprint.

• Research and integrate current media trends into Protect Life Michigan's marketing content and overall strategy to maintain relevance and impact.

• Collaborate closely with the Director of Community Engagement and Executive Director to conceptualize and design the organization's Annual Report each spring.

• Create compelling marketing design projects for key organizational events, including the Life Advocate Intensive, March for Life, Summer Internship Program, and Student Celebration.

• Maintain brand identity and message consistency across all communication channels, acting as a brand guardian.

• Assist the Director of Marketing with various design needs to support ongoing campaigns and initiatives.

• Contribute creative ideas and visual solutions to enhance marketing effectiveness and audience engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of core graphic design tasks with broader marketing and communications support, emphasizing brand consistency and campaign execution. The mention of specific events and the Annual Report indicates a need for project management and deadline adherence within a non-profit context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a strong portfolio demonstrating graphic design proficiency is implicitly required. A background in Graphic Design, Marketing, Communications, or a related field would be beneficial.

Experience: Experience level is indicated as 0-2 years, suggesting that this role is suitable for entry-level professionals or those with limited professional experience, provided they possess strong foundational skills. A commitment to the position for at least one year is also a requirement.

Required Skills:

• Commitment to the pro-life movement and the mission of Protect Life Michigan.

• Excellent graphic design skills with a keen creative eye.

• Proficiency in professional and creative writing.

• Positive outlook towards support-raising and/or fundraising activities.

• Strong attention to detail and effective organizational abilities.

• Flexibility to work occasional nights and weekends as needed.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Applications.

• Proficiency in Canva for graphic design.

• Proficiency in Mailchimp for email marketing design.

• Experience with popular social media platforms for content dissemination.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Publisher.

• Experience in video creation or editing.

• Familiarity with broader marketing strategy development.

• Experience in non-profit marketing or communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical design skills, soft skills like communication and organization, and a strong ideological alignment with the organization's mission. The explicit mention of support-raising as a required skill/mindset is a critical factor for applicants.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of graphic design projects, demonstrating versatility in styles and applications (digital, print, social media).

• Case studies or examples of how design work has contributed to specific marketing objectives or brand consistency.

• Demonstrations of visual storytelling and ability to translate complex ideas into clear, impactful designs.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase of design workflows, from initial concept development and sketching to final production and delivery.

• Examples of how feedback was incorporated into design iterations to achieve desired outcomes.

• Evidence of managing multiple design projects simultaneously, adhering to deadlines, and maintaining organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level to mid-level graphic design role, the portfolio is paramount. It serves as the primary evidence of skills and creative potential. The organization will likely look for not just aesthetic appeal but also the ability to execute on defined marketing objectives and maintain brand integrity.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The salary for this position is not fixed and is determined by the individual's needs, commensurate with education and experience. However, the entire salary and all expenses associated with this position will be fundraised by the candidate. Protect Life Michigan provides training and coaching for support-raising, with a stated success rate of 85% of candidates reaching full support within 2-3 months. The organization will pay the candidate during the support-raising period.

Benefits:

• Eligibility for employer-matched Simple IRA after completing 1 year of service.

• Ample opportunities for professional development.

• Ample paid vacation time, holidays, and sick days.

• Semi-flexible schedule, to be set in coordination with a supervisor.

• Ability to work from home (fully remote).

Working Hours: The role requires flexibility, with the ability to occasionally work nights and weekends, and a semi-flexible schedule to be arranged with a supervisor. While not explicitly stated, a standard full-time role typically involves 40 hours per week, with part-time options also available.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation model is highly unconventional and requires candidates to be comfortable with and capable of fundraising their own salary and expenses. This "support-raising" model is a core element and must be thoroughly understood by applicants. The organization commits to providing training and support during this phase. Michigan minimum wage for employees being paid by the employer during the support-raising phase would apply if applicable, but the primary compensation mechanism is fundraising.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Social Services / Non-profit Advocacy (specifically, pro-life advocacy).

Company Size: Based on LinkedIn data, Protect Life Michigan is a small to medium-sized organization, likely in the range of 11-50 employees. This typically means a close-knit team where individuals may wear multiple hats and have direct interaction with leadership.

Founded: Information on founding date is not provided, but the organization's mission suggests a focus on advocacy and community engagement within Michigan.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of the Marketing Team, reporting to the Director of Marketing.

• Close collaboration is expected with the Social Media Manager, Director of Community Engagement, and the Executive Director.

Methodology:

• A strong emphasis on mission alignment and commitment to the pro-life movement guides all organizational activities.

• Marketing efforts are focused on consistent branding, message clarity, and effective outreach for events and advocacy.

• The organization supports its team members through training and coaching, particularly in the unique area of support-raising.

Company Website: https://www.protectlifemi.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is deeply rooted in its mission. Candidates must align with this mission. The small team size implies a dynamic environment where initiatives are driven by passionate individuals. The support-raising model is a significant cultural component that impacts how employees are compensated and integrated.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level to mid-level (0-2 years) within the marketing and design function. It offers a foundational opportunity to develop skills in graphic design, branding, and non-profit marketing.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report directly to the Director of Marketing. This provides a clear line of supervision and mentorship, particularly valuable for early-career professionals.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts brand perception, audience engagement, and the success of marketing campaigns and events. Effective visual communication is key to the organization's outreach and advocacy efforts. The quality of design influences how the organization is perceived by donors, volunteers, and the public.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in graphic design software, branding, social media content creation, and potentially video editing. Exposure to campaign strategy and marketing execution will enhance overall marketing acumen.

• Leadership Potential: Through successful support-raising and demonstrated effectiveness in design and marketing, there may be opportunities for increased responsibility within the marketing team or related functions.

• Industry Exposure: Gain experience in the non-profit sector, specifically within advocacy organizations, which can be valuable for future career paths in similar fields. The support-raising model itself provides significant personal development in sales, communication, and networking.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary growth trajectory for this role involves honing design skills and gaining marketing experience within a mission-driven organization. The unique support-raising model offers significant personal growth in areas like sales, resilience, and relationship building, which are transferable skills.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Fully Remote. This offers flexibility and the ability to work from any location within Michigan.

Office Location(s): Remote, with a requirement to be based in Michigan (MI, US). This may be due to legal or operational reasons, or a preference for candidates familiar with the local context.

Workspace Context:

• The remote nature requires a self-disciplined and organized approach to work.

• Candidates must have a suitable home office setup with reliable internet access to perform duties effectively.

• Collaboration will primarily occur through digital communication tools, requiring strong virtual communication skills.

Work Schedule: The schedule is semi-flexible, to be set with the employee and supervisor, but requires the ability to occasionally work nights and weekends. This flexibility is common in non-profit roles, especially those involving events and campaign deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The remote work environment is a key feature, offering autonomy. However, it also demands high levels of self-management and proactive communication. The requirement for Michigan residency for a remote role is specific and should be noted.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess design skills, commitment to the mission, and understanding of the support-raising model.

• First Interview: Likely with the Director of Marketing to discuss experience, design philosophy, and initial alignment with the organization's mission and values. This stage will also gauge comfort with the support-raising aspect.

• Skills Assessment/Portfolio Review: A practical exercise or a detailed walkthrough of the candidate's portfolio to evaluate design capabilities, problem-solving skills, and understanding of branding principles. Questions will probe how designs meet objectives.

• Final Interview: With senior leadership (e.g., Executive Director) to confirm cultural fit, commitment to the mission, and readiness for the support-raising journey.

• Offer & Onboarding: If successful, an offer will be extended, followed by onboarding which will include intensive training on support-raising strategies.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best showcase your skills relevant to this role: branding, social media graphics, event materials, and any print design.

• Demonstrate Process: For each project, briefly explain the brief, your design process (ideation, execution), the tools used, and the outcome or impact, if known.

• Highlight Mission Alignment: If you have any volunteer or personal projects that align with non-profit or advocacy work, consider including them to show your passion.

• Show Versatility: Include examples that demonstrate your ability to work across different mediums (digital, print) and styles.

• Quality over Quantity: Ensure all pieces are polished, well-presented, and error-free.

Challenge Preparation:

• Support-Raising Readiness: Be prepared to discuss your understanding of and willingness to engage in the support-raising model. Research "fundraising for non-profit staff" or "ministry support-raising" to gain context.

• Brand Consistency: Think about how you would approach maintaining brand consistency across diverse materials for an organization like Protect Life Michigan.

• Creative Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss how you would visually represent the organization's mission and values in a compelling and sensitive manner.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh the candidate's alignment with the organization's mission and their readiness to embrace the support-raising model. The portfolio is a critical component for demonstrating technical and creative competence.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design & Content Tools:

• Canva: Essential for graphic design, especially for social media, emails, and quick collateral creation. Proficiency is a must.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Standard for document creation, presentations, and general office tasks.

• Google Applications: Similar to Microsoft Office, used for collaboration and document management.

• Mailchimp: For designing and distributing email marketing campaigns. Understanding of email template design is beneficial.

• Adobe Publisher (Preferred): While not strictly required, proficiency here would be a strong asset for more complex print design projects.

Social Media Platforms:

Collaboration & Communication Tools:

• Standard digital tools for remote collaboration (e.g., email, messaging apps, video conferencing).

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes user-friendly design tools like Canva, which is common for non-profits, alongside standard office productivity suites. Adobe Publisher is a desirable but not mandatory addition, suggesting a potential for more advanced design work beyond basic Canva templates.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission-Driven: A deep commitment to the pro-life movement and the organization's specific mission to protect life in Michigan.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards in all communications and work, especially given the nature of advocacy.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with diverse team members across departments to achieve shared goals.

• Innovation & Creativity: Bringing fresh ideas and design solutions to marketing challenges.

• Stewardship: Responsible use of resources and a commitment to transparency, particularly in fundraising and financial matters.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, with a strong emphasis on cross-functional teamwork to ensure cohesive messaging and campaign execution.

• Open communication channels are essential in a remote, mission-driven environment.

• Feedback is likely to be constructive and focused on improving the effectiveness of marketing efforts and upholding brand standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core values are intrinsically linked to the organization's mission. Candidates should demonstrate genuine alignment and a collaborative spirit that thrives in a mission-focused, remote setting.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Support-Raising Model: The primary challenge is the requirement for candidates to raise their own salary and expenses. This requires significant personal drive, sales skills, resilience, and comfort with asking for financial support.

• Brand Consistency: Maintaining a consistent brand identity across a wide range of materials and platforms, especially with evolving messaging, can be challenging.

• Balancing Multiple Projects: Juggling design needs for events, social media, website updates, and annual reports requires excellent time management and prioritization skills.

• Remote Work Dynamics: Ensuring effective communication, collaboration, and productivity in a fully remote setting.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Support-Raising Mastery: Intensive training and ongoing coaching in fundraising, donor relations, and personal financial management.

• Design Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to learn new design techniques, software features, and best practices in graphic design and marketing.

• Non-Profit Marketing Expertise: Gaining practical experience in marketing and communications within the social services/advocacy sector.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Working closely with different departments provides a broader understanding of non-profit operations and strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are significant, particularly the support-raising model, which requires a unique mindset. However, the growth opportunities, especially in personal development through fundraising, are substantial and can lead to unique career advantages.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your understanding of our mission and how you see graphic design supporting it." (Preparation: Research Protect Life Michigan's website thoroughly, understand their advocacy and key initiatives. Think about how visuals can communicate their message effectively and sensitively.)

• "How do you approach maintaining brand consistency across various marketing materials?" (Preparation: Discuss your process for using brand guides, color palettes, typography, and ensuring visual coherence. Provide examples from your portfolio.)

• "What is your experience with social media content creation and design?" (Preparation: Be ready to discuss platforms, content types (graphics, short videos), and engagement strategies.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you passionate about the pro-life movement and Protect Life Michigan specifically?" (Preparation: Articulate your personal connection and understanding of the organization's work.)

• "How do you handle feedback on your designs, especially if it differs from your initial vision?" (Preparation: Emphasize your ability to be receptive to constructive criticism and collaborate to achieve the best outcome.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each project, tell a brief story: the problem/goal, your solution (the design), and the result (if known). Focus on how your design met the objective.

• Showcase Process: Briefly walk through your design thinking and workflow. This demonstrates your strategic approach, not just aesthetic output.

• Highlight Key Skills: Specifically point out projects that demonstrate your proficiency with Canva, branding, social media, and any other required tools.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio efficiently, focusing on the most relevant pieces.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation must heavily focus on the organization's mission and the unique compensation model. Demonstrating not just design skill but also a willingness to be an active participant in the organization's fundraising efforts is paramount.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the rippling.com careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating proficiency in Canva, social media graphics, branding, and any experience with print or email marketing collateral. If you have non-profit or advocacy-related design work, prioritize those pieces.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly states your experience level (0-2 years), proficiency in required software (Canva, MS Office, Google Apps, Mailchimp), and explicitly mentions your commitment to the pro-life movement and willingness to engage in support-raising.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, your understanding of branding, and your readiness to participate in the support-raising model. Prepare specific examples for interview questions.

• Company Research: Deeply research Protect Life Michigan's mission, values, current campaigns, and the "support-raising" model to demonstrate informed interest and alignment. Understand their current visual branding.

⚠️ 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. The support-raising aspect of compensation is a critical factor that requires explicit candidate buy-in and understanding.