Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: The CUS

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Job Type: Part-time

Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Services

Date Posted: 2026-09-18

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and execute visual content strategies for social media platforms (Instagram, LinkedIn) and newsletters.

• Design compelling graphics for recruitment campaigns and promotional materials for events.

• Ensure consistent brand identity and visual cohesion across all organizational communications and touchpoints.

• Collaborate closely with content creators and photographers to align visual assets with overarching marketing and communication goals.

• Support internal branding initiatives and merchandise design projects as required.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a marketing and communications function, focusing on the execution of visual assets to support broader GTM and branding efforts. The emphasis on recruitment campaigns and event promotion indicates a direct link to demand generation and talent acquisition support, common in Sales and Marketing Operations functions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design engaging visual content tailored for EMP's Instagram, LinkedIn, and newsletter channels to enhance audience engagement and brand visibility.

• Create impactful graphics specifically for mentee recruitment campaigns during the crucial September push, driving application rates.

• Develop visually appealing branded materials for all organizational events, ensuring a professional and consistent presentation.

• Maintain and enforce a cohesive EMP visual identity across all platforms, collateral, and external communications to strengthen brand recognition.

• Assist with internal branding efforts and the design of merchandise, contributing to employee engagement and brand ambassadorship.

• Collaborate effectively with Content Creators and the Photographer to ensure visual content complements written and photographic assets, creating a unified message.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on execution role focused on creating tangible visual assets that directly support marketing campaigns, recruitment drives, and event promotion. This aligns with operational support functions within a GTM strategy, where timely and effective content creation is crucial for campaign success.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a background in Graphic Design, Marketing, Communications, or a related field is implied. Demonstrable design skills will be prioritized over formal education.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in graphic design, with a focus on digital content creation and brand management. Experience with Canva is mandatory, and proficiency with the Adobe suite is preferred.

Required Skills:

• Proficient in graphic design principles and practices.

• Mandatory proficiency with Canva for rapid content creation and adaptation.

• Strong understanding of visual consistency and brand identity maintenance.

• Excellent creativity and meticulous attention to detail.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple design deadlines simultaneously.

• Effective teamwork and collaboration skills, with a proactive approach to communication. Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency with the Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) for advanced design capabilities.

• Experience designing for social media platforms (Instagram, LinkedIn) and email newsletters.

• Familiarity with recruitment marketing or event promotion design.

• Basic understanding of content marketing principles to inform visual design choices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Canva as a mandatory tool suggests a need for efficient, perhaps template-driven design execution. The preference for Adobe Suite indicates an opportunity for candidates with higher technical skills to contribute more complex designs. The "0-2 years" experience level points to an entry-level or junior position, likely focused on execution rather than strategic design planning.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of digital design work, including social media graphics, newsletter layouts, and promotional materials.

• Demonstrate ability to maintain brand consistency across multiple design assets.

• Include examples of creative problem-solving through design, such as adapting designs for different platforms or campaign needs.

• Highlight any experience with merchandise or internal branding design. Process Documentation:

• Ability to follow established brand guidelines and design workflows.

• Experience in managing design feedback and revisions efficiently.

• Understanding of how design assets integrate into broader marketing campaigns and communication plans.

📝 Enhancement Note: A portfolio is explicitly requested, emphasizing the need for candidates to visually demonstrate their capabilities. For an operations-focused role, the portfolio should highlight efficiency in design execution, adherence to brand standards, and the impact of the designs on campaign objectives (e.g., engagement, recruitment).

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a part-time role with a specific term (October 2026 - April 2027) and a time commitment of 5-7 hours per week (8-10 during peak periods), compensation is likely hourly. Based on industry standards for entry-level graphic designers in Vancouver, BC, an estimated hourly rate would range from CAD $18 to CAD $25, depending on demonstrated skills and experience.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to gain practical experience in a marketing and communications environment.

• Development of design skills using industry-standard tools (Canva, Adobe Suite).

• Contribution to a recognized organization (The CUS), enhancing professional portfolio and network.

• Exposure to various aspects of organizational branding, recruitment, and event promotion.

• Potential for networking opportunities within The CUS and its programs.

Working Hours: 5–7 hours per week during regular program periods; 8–10 hours per week during recruitment campaigns and event promotion windows. This role is part-time and term-limited.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on typical entry-level part-time graphic design roles in Vancouver, Canada, considering the specified time commitment and the organization's nature. Benefits are inferred to be primarily developmental and experiential, typical for student or early-career roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The CUS (Commerce Undergraduate Society) operates within the educational sector, specifically supporting commerce students. Its function is akin to a student association or services organization, focused on student development, engagement, and career support. This implies a dynamic, student-centric, and often project-driven environment.

Company Size: The CUS likely operates with a mix of full-time staff and a significant number of student volunteers or part-time employees, indicating a medium-sized organization with a strong volunteer component.

Founded: The founding date is not provided, but as an undergraduate society, it has likely been established for many years, offering a stable organizational structure for student initiatives.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will report to the VP Marketing, indicating a direct placement within the marketing department.

• The role involves collaboration with Content Creators and a Photographer, suggesting a small but functional creative team.

• The CUS likely has various departments (e.g., Marketing, Finance, Operations, Events) that the design role will indirectly support through its output. Methodology:

• The operations within The CUS are likely project-based, driven by academic terms, recruitment cycles, and event schedules.

• Emphasis on student development and career readiness suggests a focus on practical experience and skill-building for its student team members.

• Communication and collaboration tools are essential for coordinating between student roles and departments.

Company Website: cus.ca (inferred from domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: The context of an undergraduate society is crucial. This means the environment is fast-paced, often reliant on student talent, and focused on providing practical experience. The "EMP" mentioned likely refers to a specific program or initiative within The CUS.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level position (0-2 years experience), focusing on the execution of design tasks under direction. It's ideal for students or recent graduates looking to build a foundational portfolio and gain practical experience in a marketing and communications setting.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer reports directly to the VP Marketing. This structure offers direct mentorship and guidance from a marketing leadership figure within the organization.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts The CUS's external perception, recruitment success, and event attendance by creating professional and engaging visual communications. Strong design contributes to brand credibility and audience engagement.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to master Canva and gain experience with Adobe Suite, enhancing technical design capabilities.

• Portfolio Enhancement: Creation of diverse design assets for a recognized organization, significantly boosting a professional portfolio.

• Networking: Building connections within The CUS, with fellow student leaders, and potentially with external partners or mentors.

• Career Exploration: Gaining insight into marketing, communications, and GTM support roles within an organizational context.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth here is primarily experiential and portfolio-driven, typical for student leadership roles. While not a direct path to senior operations management, it builds foundational skills in visual communication, brand management, and campaign support, which are valuable across many GTM functions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is described as "On-site," indicating a physical workspace within The CUS's facilities. This suggests a collaborative office environment typical of student organizations, likely with shared workspaces and meeting areas.

Office Location(s): Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Specific office location details would be within the university campus or affiliated CUS office space.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative environment where interaction with other student leaders, content creators, and the VP Marketing is expected.

• Access to necessary design software (Canva mandatory, Adobe Suite preferred) and potentially company branding assets.

• Opportunities for spontaneous brainstorming and feedback sessions with team members.

Work Schedule: Part-time, with flexible hours totaling 5-7 hours per week, increasing to 8-10 hours during peak periods like recruitment and event promotion. This flexibility is designed to accommodate student schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement suggests a traditional office setting, promoting direct collaboration and team integration, which is beneficial for early-career professionals seeking mentorship and hands-on learning.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit a single PDF containing a resume, cover letter, and design portfolio (if available) by the specified deadline.

• Portfolio Review: Initial screening will heavily rely on the submitted portfolio to assess design skills, brand consistency, and creativity.

• Interview: Shortlisted candidates will likely undergo an interview with the VP Marketing and potentially other team members to discuss their motivation, experience, and approach to design challenges.

• Case Study/Design Challenge (Potential): Candidates may be asked to complete a small design task or case study related to EMP's branding or a specific campaign to assess practical application of skills under time constraints.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects. Focus on quality over quantity.

• Highlight Brand Consistency: Include examples where you successfully maintained or developed a visual identity.

• Showcase Digital Proficiency: Prioritize designs for social media, newsletters, and digital ads.

• Explain Your Process: Briefly describe the brief, your approach, and the outcome for each project.

• Format for Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is easily navigable within the single PDF submission.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brand: Thoroughly research The CUS and EMP. Familiarize yourself with their existing visual identity and communication style.

• Analyze Sample Work: Review EMP's current social media posts, newsletters, and any promotional materials to understand their aesthetic and messaging.

• Prepare for "Why EMP": Have a clear, genuine reason for wanting to contribute to this specific organization, focusing on its mission or impact.

• Articulate Mentorship Views: Be ready to discuss your personal experiences with or views on mentorship, as this is a key part of the cover letter.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes a strong portfolio and a clear articulation of interest in the organization and its mission. For operations roles, this translates to demonstrating tangible skills and a genuine understanding of the business context.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Canva: Mandatory. This is the primary tool for creating visual content. Proficiency in using templates, brand kits, and various design elements within Canva is essential.

• Adobe Creative Suite (Preferred): Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign. Familiarity with these tools will be advantageous for more complex design tasks and for candidates looking to expand their skill set.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a direct responsibility, understanding how design impacts engagement metrics on social media (likes, shares, comments) and newsletter open/click-through rates would be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tech stack is focused purely on design execution tools. This reinforces the role's nature as a creative support function rather than a data analytics or process automation role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Student-Centricity: All activities and designs should ultimately serve the commerce student body.

• Collaboration: Working effectively within a team of students and reporting to a VP requires strong teamwork and communication.

• Efficiency: Given the part-time nature and specific term, timely delivery of high-quality work is crucial.

• Brand Advocacy: Maintaining and promoting a strong, consistent visual identity for The CUS and EMP.

• Learning & Development: A culture that supports skill-building and practical experience for its student members.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: Expect to work closely with Content Creators and the Photographer, sharing feedback and aligning on visual direction.

• Responsive: The VP Marketing will provide direction, and prompt communication regarding progress and challenges will be valued.

• Feedback-Driven: Openness to receiving and incorporating constructive criticism on designs to meet campaign objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is likely informal yet driven by organizational goals and academic timelines. Emphasis will be on practical application and contribution to student success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Deadlines: Juggling design requests for social media, recruitment, and events simultaneously requires strong time management.

• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring all visual output adheres to EMP's brand guidelines, even under tight deadlines.

• Adapting to Feedback: Incorporating constructive criticism from the VP Marketing and other stakeholders to refine designs.

• Technical Skill Gaps: If Adobe Suite proficiency is preferred, candidates may face a learning curve.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Design Tool Mastery: Deepen expertise in Canva and potentially gain hands-on experience with Adobe Suite.

• Brand Management: Learn practical application of brand guidelines in a real-world organizational setting.

• Campaign Support: Understand how design contributes to the success of marketing campaigns, recruitment drives, and event promotion.

• Portfolio Building: Acquire tangible work samples for future career applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are typical for entry-level creative roles, emphasizing the need for organizational skills and adaptability. Growth opportunities are focused on skill acquisition and practical experience.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about your experience with Canva and the Adobe Suite." Prepare to demonstrate your proficiency with specific examples of projects completed using these tools.

• "How do you ensure visual consistency across different design projects?" Discuss your process for adhering to brand guidelines and maintaining a unified aesthetic.

• "Describe a time you had to manage multiple design projects with competing deadlines." Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to illustrate your time management and prioritization skills.

• "How would you approach designing graphics for a mentee recruitment campaign?" Think about target audience, key messages, and visual elements that would be effective. Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in supporting EMP and The CUS?" Be specific about what attracts you to this organization, its mission, or its impact on students. Reference your cover letter points about mentorship.

• "What are your views on mentorship?" Elaborate on the points made in your cover letter, drawing from personal experiences or observations.

• "How do you collaborate with team members on creative projects?" Describe your approach to teamwork, communication, and incorporating feedback. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Walkthrough Key Projects: Be ready to briefly present 2-3 core pieces from your portfolio, explaining the brief, your design process, and the outcomes.

• Highlight Brand Work: Emphasize any projects where you developed or maintained a brand identity.

• Demonstrate Tool Usage: Clearly articulate which tools you used for each project, especially Canva and any Adobe Suite applications.

• Connect to EMP's Needs: Frame your portfolio examples in a way that shows how your skills can directly benefit EMP's current needs for social media, recruitment, and events.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical design skills, understanding of branding, effective time management, and a genuine interest in the organization's mission, particularly regarding mentorship.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Lever link.

• Prepare a Single PDF Document: Combine your one-page resume, one-page cover letter, and your design portfolio (if available) into a single PDF file.

• Optimize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant design experience, software proficiency (Canva, Adobe Suite), and any experience with marketing campaigns, social media, or recruitment materials. Use keywords from the job description.

• Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Clearly articulate your motivation for supporting EMP, your views and personal experiences with mentorship, and why you are a strong fit for this role.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select your best and most relevant design work, focusing on digital assets for social media, newsletters, and promotional materials. Ensure it demonstrates brand consistency and creativity.

• Practice Your Presentation: Be ready to discuss your resume, cover letter points, and portfolio during an interview, showcasing your communication skills and understanding of design principles.

• Research The CUS & EMP: Understand their mission, target audience, and existing visual identity to demonstrate your genuine interest and preparedness.

⚠️ 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.

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