Graphic Designer - College of Law - UTK

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer - College of Law

Company: University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK)

Location: Knoxville, Tennessee, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design

Date Posted: May 29, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years Professional Experience

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and execute original visual assets and collateral for a diverse range of print, digital, and multimedia applications within the prestigious College of Law.

• Ensure all creative output strictly adheres to established university and College of Law brand guidelines, maintaining a consistent and professional visual identity.

• Collaborate closely with the Office of Communications team to align design strategies with overarching messaging, project objectives, and institutional goals.

• Manage multiple design projects concurrently, prioritizing tasks effectively to meet deadlines while maintaining high standards of quality and creativity.

• Contribute to the visual storytelling of the College of Law, enhancing its mission, vision, and values through compelling design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is firmly situated within a higher education context, specifically a College of Law. The emphasis on "brand guidelines," "mission, vision, values," and "collaboration with the communications team" indicates a need for a designer who understands institutional branding and can translate complex academic and legal messaging into accessible visual content. The "interdependent" and "independent" work description suggests a need for both collaborative spirit and self-sufficiency.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce a wide array of marketing materials, including brochures, flyers, posters, digital advertisements, social media graphics, and web banners.

• Create and adapt visual assets for multimedia projects, such as presentations, videos, and online courses, ensuring visual consistency and impact.

• Interpret project briefs and collaborate with stakeholders to understand design needs, objectives, and target audiences for each initiative.

• Maintain and update design templates and assets to ensure brand compliance and streamline future design efforts.

• Research and incorporate current design trends and best practices to enhance the visual appeal and effectiveness of College of Law communications.

• Assist in the preparation of files for print production and digital deployment, liaising with vendors and internal teams as needed.

• Participate in design reviews and provide constructive feedback to peers and team members to foster a collaborative creative environment.

• Manage project timelines, ensuring timely delivery of design assets while effectively communicating progress and potential roadblocks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of traditional print design and contemporary digital media creation. The mention of "multimedia applications" and "digital advertisements" suggests the need for skills beyond static graphics, potentially including basic animation or video editing. The collaboration aspect with the "Office of Communications" implies a need for strong communication and interpersonal skills to translate client needs into visual solutions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Associate's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, or a related field, with a minimum of 3 years of professional graphic design experience.

Experience:

• Proven experience in creating visual assets for both print and digital platforms.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently on assigned projects and as part of a collaborative team.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in industry-standard design software, including Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Strong understanding of typography, color theory, layout, and composition principles.

• Ability to interpret and apply brand guidelines consistently across various media.

• Excellent visual communication skills with a keen eye for detail.

• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with motion graphics and animation software (e.g., Adobe After Effects).

• Familiarity with basic video editing and photography production.

• Knowledge of UX/UI design principles for web and digital interfaces.

• Understanding of CSS for web design integration.

• Experience creating content for social media platforms (Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, X).

• Familiarity with legal terminology and academic environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for an Associate's degree with 3 years of experience or a Bachelor's degree with 2 years of experience indicates a mid-level designer role. The emphasis on Adobe Creative Suite is standard, but the inclusion of preferred skills like After Effects, video editing, and UX/UI suggests the university is looking for a versatile designer capable of handling a broad spectrum of creative needs for the College of Law, moving beyond basic print collateral.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated selection of at least 5-7 diverse projects showcasing a range of design skills, including print, digital, and multimedia applications.

• Projects should clearly demonstrate proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop) and adherence to brand guidelines.

• Include examples of work created for higher education institutions or similar complex organizational structures, if available.

• Highlight projects that involved collaboration with marketing or communications teams, illustrating the ability to translate objectives into visual solutions.

Process Documentation:

• For each portfolio project, provide a brief description outlining the project's objective, your role, the design process followed, and the final outcome or impact.

• Be prepared to discuss your design workflow, including ideation, sketching, digital execution, feedback incorporation, and finalization stages.

• Demonstrate an understanding of the print production process, including file preparation, color management (CMYK vs. RGB), and resolution requirements.

• Explain how you manage feedback and revisions to ensure client satisfaction and project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a graphic design role, a strong portfolio is paramount. The requirements emphasize not just the final output but also the designer's process, understanding of brand consistency, and ability to work within institutional frameworks. Detailing project objectives and outcomes is crucial for demonstrating impact and strategic thinking, which is increasingly valued in design roles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $63,000 - $73,000 annually. This estimated range is based on typical compensation for Graphic Designers with 2-5 years of experience in the Knoxville, TN area, considering the specific requirements of a higher education institution and the inclusion of specialized skills. Regional salary data from sources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics and industry-specific compensation surveys were consulted.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Generous paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions.

• Opportunities for professional development, including career development programs, coaching, and continued education.

• Access to extensive training possibilities designed to enhance skills and career progression.

• Commitment to work-life balance, supported by university policies and practices.

• Potential for tuition remission benefits for employees and eligible dependents.

• Employee assistance programs and wellness initiatives.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week. Standard business hours are typically expected, though occasional flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines or attend events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of $63,000 - $73,000 is a reasonable estimate for a Graphic Designer with 2-5 years of experience in Knoxville, TN, especially within a university setting which often offers competitive benefits packages. The listed benefits are typical for a large public institution and align with the company description's emphasis on employee support and development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education (Public University)

Company Size: Large (10,000+ employees statewide)

Founded: 1794

UT Knoxville, Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, is a large, research-intensive institution with a rich history dating back to 1794. It serves over 38,000 students and is committed to a mission of learning, leadership, and service. The College of Law is an integral part of this esteemed university, contributing to legal education and research excellence. The university prides itself on its "Volunteer" spirit, emphasizing community, innovation, and a strong commitment to its employees. Forbes Magazine has recognized UT Knoxville as a "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America’s Best Large Employers," "Best Workplace for Women," and a "Best Place for Working Parents," underscoring a positive and supportive work environment.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be an integral part of the University of Tennessee College of Law's Office of Communications.

• This team likely includes communication specialists, content creators, and potentially marketing professionals, all working collaboratively to enhance the college's visibility and impact.

• The reporting structure will likely place the designer under a Communications Director or Manager, who oversees the strategic direction of all communication efforts.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: While creative, designs are expected to align with strategic communication goals and potentially be informed by audience engagement metrics.

• Brand Consistency: A rigorous approach to maintaining and evolving the university and college brand identity is central to all visual communications.

• Collaborative Workflow: Emphasis on teamwork, feedback, and iterative design processes to achieve optimal results.

• Efficiency and Innovation: Utilizing technology and creative problem-solving to produce high-quality work efficiently.

Company Website: https://www.utk.edu/ and specifically for the College of Law: https://www.law.utk.edu/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context emphasizes UTK's long history, large scale, and strong commitment to employee well-being and development, as evidenced by multiple "Best Employer" accolades. This suggests a stable, reputable organization with a focus on creating a positive work environment. For a designer, this means working within a structured yet supportive framework, contributing to a well-established brand.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level Graphic Designer. It requires a solid foundation of technical skills and a few years of professional experience, allowing for independent project execution while still benefiting from mentorship and team collaboration. The designer is expected to contribute creatively and technically, translating strategic objectives into compelling visual assets.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a manager within the College of Law's Office of Communications. This manager will likely oversee broader communication strategies and guide the designer's project assignments and professional development. The designer will work alongside other communication professionals, fostering a collaborative team dynamic.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the perception and effectiveness of the College of Law's external and internal communications. High-quality, on-brand visuals are crucial for attracting prospective students, engaging alumni, supporting faculty research, promoting events, and reinforcing the institution's reputation. Effective design enhances brand recognition, communicates complex information clearly, and contributes to the overall success of the college's strategic initiatives.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas such as motion graphics, UX/UI design, or advanced digital illustration through internal training, workshops, or external certifications.

• Project Leadership: As experience grows, the designer may take on lead roles for larger or more complex design projects, managing timelines and collaborating directly with senior stakeholders.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Potential to collaborate with other university departments or projects, broadening exposure to different communication challenges and design needs.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior designers or interns as the team grows.

• Advancement: Potential pathway to Senior Graphic Designer or Art Director roles within the university system, depending on performance, acquired skills, and available opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities highlight a clear career trajectory within a large institution like UTK. The emphasis on skill specialization and potential leadership roles indicates that the university invests in the professional development of its creative staff, providing a stable environment for long-term career growth.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site within the University of Tennessee College of Law in Knoxville, TN. This suggests a professional office environment within an academic setting.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is specified as the College of Law, 1505 Cumberland Avenue, STE 265-Winston-Law-Taylor-Center, Knoxville, TN 37996. This places the designer within the heart of the university campus, offering access to facilities and a vibrant academic atmosphere.

Workspace Context:

• The designer will likely have a dedicated workspace within the Office of Communications, equipped with necessary hardware (computer, monitors) and software.

• The environment is expected to be collaborative, encouraging interaction with colleagues in communications and potentially with faculty and staff from the College of Law.

• Access to university resources, such as libraries, printing facilities, and other campus amenities, will be available.

• The workspace will support both focused individual design work and team-based creative sessions.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, typically aligning with university business hours. While flexibility might be accommodated for specific project needs, on-site presence is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" work arrangement is crucial for a graphic design role that often relies on in-person collaboration, access to specific equipment, and integration into a physical team environment. The location within the College of Law itself provides context for the types of projects and stakeholders the designer will interact with.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review, focusing on resume, cover letter (if requested), and portfolio links.

• Portfolio Review & Skills Assessment: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, discussing key projects, design process, and problem-solving approaches. This may include a technical assessment of design software proficiency.

• On-Site/Virtual Interview: A more in-depth interview with the hiring manager and potentially members of the communications team. This will assess cultural fit, communication skills, and understanding of higher education/legal marketing.

• Potential Design Challenge: A practical design exercise may be given to evaluate problem-solving abilities, creativity, and application of brand guidelines under timed conditions.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership within the College of Law or university communications department.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best represent your skills relevant to higher education and legal marketing. Prioritize quality over quantity.

• Showcase Process: For each project, explain your thought process, design decisions, and how you addressed project objectives. Visual aids of sketches or early concepts can be beneficial.

• Highlight Brand Adherence: If you have experience with institutional branding, showcase how you successfully applied or developed brand guidelines.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., increased engagement, higher click-through rates, positive feedback).

• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and visually appealing. A personal website or a well-designed PDF is recommended.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Context: If a design challenge is provided, thoroughly research the UT College of Law's mission, target audiences, and current communication efforts.

• Focus on Brand Consistency: Pay close attention to any provided brand guidelines and ensure your solution aligns perfectly.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Clearly articulate how your design addresses the specific challenge presented.

• Time Management: Practice completing design tasks within a set timeframe, prioritizing key elements.

• Clear Rationale: Be prepared to explain your design choices and rationale clearly and concisely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a design role heavily relies on the portfolio. The advice emphasizes not just showcasing technical skills but also the strategic thinking, brand understanding, and collaborative abilities required for this specific institutional context. A design challenge is a common element to assess practical application.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential suite including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for all core graphic design tasks.

• Adobe Acrobat Pro: For creating and editing PDFs, managing print-ready files, and interactive documents.

• Microsoft Office Suite / Google Workspace: For collaboration, document creation, and presentation preparation (Word/Docs, PowerPoint/Slides).

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design function, but understanding how designs are deployed through marketing automation platforms or email marketing tools could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tool stack is standard for a graphic designer. The emphasis is on the Adobe Creative Suite. While analytics and CRM are not core to the design execution, understanding their outputs can help the designer create more effective visuals.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Craft: A commitment to producing high-quality, visually compelling designs that reflect professionalism and attention to detail.

• Brand Integrity: Upholding and advancing the University of Tennessee and College of Law's brand identity through consistent and strategic visual communication.

• Collaboration and Communication: Fostering a supportive team environment where ideas are shared, feedback is constructive, and collective goals are achieved.

• Service and Impact: Understanding that design serves the broader mission of the university and college, aiming to inform, engage, and inspire target audiences.

• Continuous Learning: Embracing new design trends, technologies, and best practices to stay current and innovative in the field.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: The designer will work closely with the Office of Communications team, participating in brainstorming sessions and collaborative feedback loops.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Proactively engaging with faculty, staff, and other departments to understand their design needs and ensure alignment with strategic goals.

• Constructive Feedback Culture: Openness to receiving and providing constructive criticism to elevate the quality of work.

• Responsive and Adaptable: Willingness to adapt designs based on feedback and evolving project requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture and values emphasize a blend of creative excellence, institutional commitment, and collaborative spirit, which are typical for university communications departments. The "Service and Impact" value highlights the connection between design work and the university's mission.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Brand Consistency with Creative Expression: Navigating the constraints of institutional brand guidelines while still producing fresh and engaging designs.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholder Needs: Juggling design requests from various departments within the College of Law, each with potentially different priorities and aesthetic preferences.

• Keeping Pace with Evolving Digital Media: Adapting design skills to new digital platforms, formats, and user experience expectations.

• Translating Complex Legal/Academic Concepts: Visually representing intricate legal principles or academic research in an accessible and compelling manner.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Workshops and Training: Access to internal UTK professional development programs and potential external workshops on new design software or techniques.

• Industry Conferences: Opportunities to attend design conferences (e.g., AIGA events) to gain insights and network.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced communications professionals and potentially mentoring junior team members.

• Skill Certification: Pursuing certifications in specialized design software or areas like UX/UI design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for institutional design roles, particularly in a legal or academic context where strict branding and clear communication of complex topics are paramount. The growth opportunities are substantial within a large university system that values employee development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance strict brand guidelines with a creative design brief. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Assesses brand adherence and creative problem-solving)

• "Walk us through your process for designing a marketing campaign for a specific audience, such as prospective law students or alumni." (Evaluates strategic thinking and audience awareness)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for the University of Tennessee College of Law specifically?" (Assesses research and genuine interest in the institution)

• "How do you see your design skills contributing to the mission and values of a higher education institution?" (Connects personal skills to institutional purpose)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, frame it as a narrative: the problem, your approach, the solution, and the result.

• Highlight Brand Integration: Explicitly point out how your designs adhere to or thoughtfully interpret brand standards, especially if they were for an institution.

• Showcase Versatility: Ensure your selected projects demonstrate a range of skills—print, digital, social media, etc.

• Be Ready for Technical Deep Dives: Be prepared to discuss the software, techniques, and specific design decisions made for each piece.

• Connect to UTK: If possible, subtly weave in how your skills could benefit the UT College of Law based on your research.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions for designers often focus on process, problem-solving, and ability to work within constraints. Preparing specific examples from past work that align with these themes, especially concerning brand management and stakeholder collaboration, will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud portal link.

• Portfolio Submission: Ensure your resume includes a direct link to your online graphic design portfolio or a well-organized PDF version. Tailor the portfolio to showcase relevant work, particularly any experience in higher education or with institutional branding.

• Resume & Cover Letter Optimization: Clearly articulate your years of experience, proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, and any specific skills mentioned in the job description (e.g., print, digital, multimedia). Highlight achievements and quantify them where possible.

• Research the College of Law: Familiarize yourself with the UT College of Law's current branding, marketing materials, website, and strategic initiatives. Understand their mission and target audiences.

• Prepare for Portfolio Discussion: Be ready to discuss your design process, rationale behind your choices, and how your work aligns with brand guidelines and project objectives during the interview. Practice presenting 2-3 key projects in detail.

⚠️ 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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