Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: University of Akron

Location: Akron, Ohio, United States (College of Business - CBA)

Job Type: Part-time

Category: Marketing & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-26

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on providing strategic marketing, branding, and visual communications support specifically for the University of Akron's College of Business (CBA).

• The Graphic Designer will be instrumental in developing and producing print and digital marketing collateral to advance recruitment, retention, revenue generation, alumni engagement, and corporate partnerships.

• A key aspect of this position involves managing relationships with external vendors, including printers and photographers, to ensure high-quality output and cost-effectiveness.

• The role requires strong project management skills to coordinate timelines, ensure quality control, and implement marketing best practices across various platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is within a higher education setting, specifically the College of Business. Therefore, the operations focus will be on supporting academic programs, student recruitment, alumni relations, and potentially fundraising efforts through effective visual communications and marketing collateral. The "revenue generation" aspect will likely tie into enrollment numbers and program marketing rather than direct sales.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic marketing, branding, and visual communications for the College of Business, including academic departments, centers, institutes, and executive education programs.

• Conceptualize, design, and produce print and digital marketing materials (e.g., brochures, flyers, social media graphics, web banners, presentations) that align with University and College branding standards.

• Consult with internal stakeholders (faculty, staff, administrators) to understand project needs, develop creative solutions, and manage project timelines effectively.

• Coordinate the production of promotional materials, overseeing quality control and ensuring adherence to University brand guidelines and accessibility requirements.

• Manage relationships with external vendors such as printers, photographers, videographers, and promotional suppliers, including soliciting bids, managing production schedules, reviewing proofs, and attending press checks as needed.

• Stay current with marketing, design, digital communications, and higher education industry trends to continuously enhance the College's marketing efforts and visual presence.

• Cultivate collaborative relationships with University partners to prioritize marketing initiatives and ensure the College's mission, reputation, and programs are effectively promoted to prospective students, alumni, corporate partners, and the broader community.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative design execution and operational management of marketing projects. The "revenue generation" aspect is likely tied to student enrollment and program marketing, so candidates should highlight experience in creating materials that drive engagement and conversion in an academic or non-profit context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Marketing, Communications, or a related field.

Experience: Minimum of 2 years of professional experience in promotional or advertising print materials and publication design.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in graphic design software, particularly Adobe Creative Suite (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Strong conceptualization and design layout skills for creating original artwork.

• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet competing deadlines.

• Familiarity with printing processes and production workflows.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder consultation and vendor coordination.

• Understanding of University and College branding standards, as well as accessibility requirements.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team. Preferred Skills:

• Experience in digital design and content creation for web and social media platforms.

• Photography experience and basic photo editing skills.

• Familiarity with content management systems (CMS) for web updates.

• Experience working within a higher education environment.

• Knowledge of current graphic design software trends and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "2 years' experience" combined with a bachelor's degree suggests this is an early to mid-career role. The emphasis on "original designs" and "conceptualize design layouts" points to a need for creative problem-solving, not just execution of existing templates.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated collection of design work showcasing a strong understanding of branding principles and marketing strategy.

• Examples of print collateral (e.g., brochures, flyers, annual reports) and digital assets (e.g., social media graphics, web banners, email templates).

• Case studies or project descriptions that highlight the design process, problem-solving approach, and the impact of the final design on achieving specific objectives (e.g., recruitment, engagement).

• Demonstrations of ability to adhere to and develop brand guidelines.

• Examples of work that meets accessibility standards. Process Documentation:

• The ability to document design project workflows from concept to final production, including stakeholder consultation, design iterations, and vendor management.

• Clear examples of how projects were managed to meet timelines and budget constraints.

• Evidence of how feedback was incorporated and quality control measures were applied throughout the design lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Graphic Designer role, the portfolio is paramount. It should not just showcase aesthetic appeal but also demonstrate strategic thinking, project management capabilities, and the ability to translate marketing objectives into effective visual communications. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their process and the rationale behind their design choices.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As a part-time position at a public university, the salary is likely to be hourly. Based on similar roles in Akron, Ohio, for a Graphic Designer with 2-5 years of experience, an estimated hourly range would be $20 - $30 per hour. This range can vary based on specific qualifications, the exact number of hours worked per week, and the university's internal pay scales.

Benefits:

• As a part-time employee, benefits may be limited. Potential benefits could include:

• Access to University facilities and resources.

• Opportunities for professional development within the University system.

• Potential eligibility for retirement savings plans (e.g., 403b) depending on hours worked and university policy.

• Sick leave accrual may be provided based on hours worked, in accordance with Ohio law and University policy.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. The exact number of hours per week is not specified but is expected to be less than 40 hours. The role requires near continuous use of a video display terminal (>70% of the time), suggesting a need for focused work periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general market data for Graphic Designers in Akron, Ohio, with 2-5 years of experience, and considering the part-time nature and university setting. Actual compensation will be determined by the University of Akron. Benefits for part-time roles can vary significantly; candidates should inquire directly.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education (Public University)

Company Size: The University of Akron is a large institution. LinkedIn data indicates it has over 10,000 employees.

Founded: 1870, The University of Akron has a long history of providing education and research.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of the College of Business's marketing or communications department.

• This department may consist of a small team, potentially including marketing specialists, communications managers, and other creative professionals.

• The role involves collaboration with faculty, staff, and administrators across various departments within the College of Business.

• Reporting structure indicates no direct supervision of others, placing the role as an individual contributor. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Visuals: Emphasis on using design to effectively communicate data, program benefits, and University achievements.

• Brand Consistency: Strict adherence to University and College branding guidelines to maintain a unified institutional image.

• Stakeholder Collaboration: A process that involves close consultation with internal clients to define project scope, objectives, and deliverables.

• Vendor Management: A structured approach to sourcing, managing, and evaluating external creative service providers.

Company Website: https://www.uakron.edu/

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within a university means operating within established brand guidelines and policies. The culture likely values academic rigor, collaboration, and supporting the educational mission. The "revenue generation" is directly tied to student enrollment and program marketing.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an individual contributor role, likely at an early to mid-career level (2-5 years of experience). It offers hands-on experience in marketing and design operations within a structured academic environment.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer reports to a manager or director within the College of Business's marketing or communications team, with no direct reports.

Operations Impact: The role's impact is measured by its contribution to the College of Business's strategic goals, including:

• Enhancing the College's brand reputation and visibility.

• Supporting student recruitment and retention efforts through compelling marketing materials.

• Facilitating alumni engagement and donor relations with targeted communications.

• Supporting corporate partnership initiatives with professional collateral. Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific design software, digital marketing design, or brand management.

• Project Management: Develop stronger skills in managing complex projects from initiation to completion within a university setting.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain experience working with diverse stakeholders across academic departments and administrative offices.

• Portfolio Development: Build a robust portfolio with a variety of projects that can support future career advancement in design or marketing operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is a part-time role, growth can still occur through skill development, taking on more complex projects, and demonstrating initiative. The experience gained in managing projects and stakeholder relationships is transferable to full-time roles and more senior positions in design or marketing operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as having a "Standard working environment." This typically implies an office setting within the College of Business building.

Office Location(s): College of Business (CBA), University of Akron, Akron, Ohio.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace likely involves a dedicated desk area with necessary design equipment and software.

• Near continuous use of a video display terminal suggests a computer-intensive role.

• The environment is described as having "possible minor inconveniences due to occasional noise, crowded working conditions and/or minor heating/cooling or ventilation problems," which is common in large institutional settings.

• Collaboration with faculty, staff, and administrators will be a key part of the daily interaction.

Work Schedule: This is a part-time position, requiring less than 40 hours per week. The description implies a standard professional work schedule, likely during business hours, with flexibility in the exact number of hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement means candidates should be comfortable working within a university campus environment and collaborating in person with colleagues and stakeholders.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Complete the online application and attach a resume.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will be evaluated based on their submitted portfolio, which is crucial for demonstrating design skills and project management capabilities.

• Initial Screening: HR or the hiring manager will review applications and portfolios to select candidates for further consideration.

• Interview(s): Likely involves one or more interviews with the hiring manager and potentially other team members or stakeholders. These interviews will assess design approach, problem-solving skills, project management experience, and cultural fit.

• Skills Assessment/Case Study: A design challenge or case study may be presented to evaluate the candidate's ability to conceptualize, design, and present solutions under specific constraints.

• Final Selection: Based on interview performance, portfolio quality, and any assessments.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 5-8 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase diversity in print and digital design, branding, and problem-solving.

• Showcase Process: For each project, include a brief description of the client's needs, your design process, challenges encountered, and the final outcome/impact. Use visuals to illustrate your thinking.

• Highlight Relevance: Emphasize projects that align with higher education marketing, recruitment, or alumni engagement if possible.

• Clarity and Professionalism: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and professionally presented, whether it's a PDF or a website.

• Brand Adherence: Include examples that demonstrate your ability to work within or develop brand guidelines.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: If given a design challenge, thoroughly read and understand the objectives, target audience, and any constraints.

• Time Management: Practice designing within realistic time limits, prioritizing key elements.

• Strategic Rationale: Be prepared to articulate the strategic thinking behind your design choices, linking them back to the project's goals.

• Presentation Skills: Practice presenting your work concisely and confidently, highlighting key features and benefits.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is the most critical component for this role. Candidates should treat its preparation as a core part of their application strategy. The interview will likely focus on how the candidate translates marketing needs into effective visual solutions and manages the design process.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency expected in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for print and digital design.

• Microsoft Office Suite: For general document creation, presentations, and communication (Word, PowerPoint).

• Google Workspace: Potentially used for collaboration and document sharing (Docs, Sheets, Slides).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus, familiarity with web analytics (e.g., Google Analytics) or social media analytics could be beneficial for understanding the performance of digital assets.

• Ability to interpret basic data to inform design decisions. CRM & Automation:

• No direct CRM or automation tools are specified, but understanding how marketing materials integrate into broader campaigns managed by marketing teams would be advantageous.

• Experience with email marketing platforms (e.g., Mailchimp, Constant Contact) for designing email templates could be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis is on core graphic design software. While an understanding of analytics or CRM integration is not explicitly required, it can demonstrate a broader marketing operations perspective.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: Commitment to producing high-quality, polished designs that reflect positively on the College of Business.

• Collaboration and Communication: Valuing teamwork and open communication with colleagues, faculty, and external partners.

• Brand Stewardship: Upholding and advancing the University and College's brand identity and standards.

• Efficiency and Resourcefulness: Delivering effective design solutions within project timelines and budget constraints, especially important in a university setting.

• Continuous Improvement: Staying updated on design trends and technologies to enhance marketing efforts.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working closely with marketing managers, program directors, and faculty to understand their needs and translate them into visual strategies.

• Feedback-Driven: Openness to constructive criticism and iterative design processes.

• Team-Oriented: Contributing to shared team goals and supporting colleagues.

• University Alignment: Collaborating with central University marketing and branding departments to ensure consistency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values reflect a professional, collaborative environment common in academic institutions. The focus is on supporting the educational mission through strong visual communication and adherence to institutional standards.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Stakeholder Needs: Managing diverse requests and feedback from various departments and individuals within the College of Business, each with potentially different priorities.

• Adhering to Brand Guidelines: Consistently applying strict University and College branding standards while still producing creative and engaging designs.

• Managing Competing Deadlines: Juggling multiple projects simultaneously, often with tight turnaround times, as is common in dynamic marketing environments.

• Adapting to Evolving Digital Trends: Keeping pace with the rapid changes in digital design and social media platforms to ensure marketing materials remain current and effective.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to master new features or specialized tools within Adobe Creative Suite.

• Digital Marketing Design Workshops: Learning best practices for creating effective graphics for social media, web, and email campaigns.

• Branding and Higher Education Marketing Seminars: Attending internal or external sessions to deepen understanding of institutional branding and marketing strategies in education.

• Networking with University Communications Teams: Engaging with peers across the University to share best practices and learn about broader institutional initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a designer in a large organization. The growth opportunities are focused on enhancing core design skills and understanding the specific context of higher education marketing.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for taking a marketing request from initial concept to final delivery, particularly for a university audience."

• "How do you ensure brand consistency across various print and digital marketing materials for an institution like the College of Business?"

• "Walk me through a project where you had to manage competing deadlines or conflicting stakeholder feedback. How did you resolve it?"

• "How do you stay updated on the latest graphic design trends and incorporate them into your work while adhering to established brand guidelines?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for the University of Akron's College of Business specifically?"

• "How do you approach collaboration with faculty and staff who may have limited design experience?"

• "Describe your experience working within a large organization with established brand standards."

• "How would you contribute to the College of Business's goals of student recruitment and alumni engagement through your design work?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution (design choices and rationale), and the positive outcome.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, use data or metrics to demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs (e.g., increased engagement, higher click-through rates, successful event attendance).

• Focus on Process: Explain your design thinking, not just the final output. Show sketches, mood boards, or different iterations if they illustrate your problem-solving approach.

• Tailor to the Role: Highlight projects most relevant to higher education marketing, recruitment, or alumni relations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be assessing not only design talent but also the candidate's ability to understand and execute on marketing objectives within a university structure, manage projects efficiently, and collaborate effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your resume and a link to your online portfolio (or upload your portfolio PDF) through the University of Akron's online application portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features work relevant to marketing, branding, and potentially higher education if available. Tailor the selection to showcase versatility in both print and digital design.

• Resume Optimization: Highlight keywords from the job description such as "graphic design," "marketing collateral," "branding," "print and digital materials," "vendor coordination," and "project management." Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Designed X brochures that contributed to a Y% increase in program inquiries").

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving skills, and how your work supports strategic marketing objectives. Be ready to discuss specific projects from your portfolio in detail.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with the University of Akron's website, the College of Business's specific programs and initiatives, and their current branding guidelines to demonstrate genuine interest and understanding.

⚠️ 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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