Graphic Designer - FT or PT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer - FT or PT

Company: Dordt University

Location: Sioux Center, Iowa, United States

Job Type: Full time, Part time

Category: Marketing & Communications Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-11T18:22:10

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is centered on developing and executing visual communication strategies to enhance Dordt University's brand presence and support key institutional objectives, including enrollment and fundraising efforts.

• Responsibilities encompass the creation of a wide range of marketing collateral, from initial concept through final production, for both print and digital channels.

• The Graphic Designer will play a crucial role in maintaining and updating the university's digital footprint, ensuring brand consistency across all platforms.

• This position requires a blend of creative design skills, technical proficiency in design software, and an understanding of marketing principles within a higher education context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "FT or PT" in the job title indicates flexibility in employment type, which is a significant detail for candidates. The AI's categorization as "Entry Level (0-2 years)" suggests that while experience is valued, strong foundational skills and a relevant degree will be prioritized. The core responsibilities strongly align with a Marketing Operations or Communications Operations function focused on content creation and brand management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and produce high-impact print and digital marketing materials that align with Dordt University's enrollment, fundraising, and brand awareness goals.

• Develop engaging design solutions for a variety of collateral, including brochures, business cards, digital advertisements, social media graphics, and website content.

• Manage and update content and graphics across Dordt's digital properties, such as the main university website (dordt.edu) and potentially specific initiative sites (e.g., cace.org), ensuring visual consistency and adherence to brand guidelines.

• Collaborate with the Teaching for Transformation (TfT) team to design and update essential training materials and classroom resources, requiring an understanding of educational content needs.

• Create and refresh visual assets for on-campus events, including displays and signage, to enhance attendee experience and brand visibility.

• Support marketing initiatives for external schools by creating promotional materials, respecting their unique brand standards when applicable.

• Assist with event photography and videography, in coordination with the marketing team, to capture key moments and content for promotional use.

• Maintain and refine university brand standards, contributing to their evolution and ensuring all creative output is compliant.

• Adapt quickly to shifting priorities and project demands in a dynamic university environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for versatility, covering both traditional print design and digital content creation, as well as support for specific academic and outreach programs. The mention of "quick-turnaround items" indicates a need for efficiency and strong project management skills in handling requests from various departments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Art or Graphic Design.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in graphic design, with a strong portfolio demonstrating practical application of design principles.

Required Skills:

• Fluency with Adobe Creative Cloud software, with a particular emphasis on InDesign.

• Strong understanding of design theory, including principles of layout, typography, and visual hierarchy.

• Proven ability to apply design theory effectively in a commercial or institutional context.

• Experience in creating print-ready artwork and understanding of print production processes.

• Proficiency in digital design for web and social media platforms.

• Ability to adapt to shifting priorities and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to receive and incorporate feedback. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with photography and videography, including basic editing skills.

• Familiarity with content management systems (CMS) for updating digital properties.

• Understanding of brand development and brand guideline adherence.

• Experience working within a higher education environment.

• Knowledge of web design principles and user experience (UX) considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Adobe Creative Cloud, particularly InDesign, is a critical technical requirement. The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that candidates with strong academic portfolios and internships will be considered, provided they demonstrate a solid grasp of design fundamentals and a willingness to learn and adapt. The requirement for a "clear understanding and commitment to the Reformed perspective and mission of Dordt University" is a crucial cultural and philosophical qualification for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated collection of design projects showcasing versatility across print and digital media.

• Demonstrations of proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud, with specific examples of InDesign usage for layout-intensive projects (e.g., brochures, reports).

• Case studies or project examples that highlight the design process, from initial concept and ideation to final execution and impact.

• Visual examples of adherence to brand guidelines and how design choices support specific marketing objectives (e.g., enrollment, fundraising).

• If applicable, examples of digital assets created for websites, social media, or online advertising. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of a structured design process, including stages for client brief understanding, concept development, feedback incorporation, and final asset delivery.

• Documentation of how design projects are managed from initiation to completion, including any project management tools or methodologies used.

• Examples of how brand standards are applied and maintained throughout the design lifecycle.

• Showcase of how design solutions were developed to meet specific campaign goals or solve particular communication challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the portfolio should focus on demonstrating foundational skills, understanding of the design process, and potential for growth. The "process documentation" aspect might be less formal, focusing more on the candidate's ability to articulate their workflow and how they approach design challenges.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for Graphic Designers with 0-2 years of experience in the Sioux Center, IA area, the estimated annual salary range is between $40,000 and $55,000. This estimate considers the cost of living in Sioux Center, IA, and typical entry-level compensation for roles requiring a Bachelor's degree and specialized software proficiency within the non-profit/education sector.

Benefits:

• Full-time employees typically receive:

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
  • Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401k or similar) with potential employer match.
  • Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
  • Tuition remission or discounts for employees and eligible dependents at Dordt University.
  • Professional development opportunities, including workshops and potential conference attendance.
  • Life insurance and disability coverage.

• Part-time employees may receive:

  • Pro-rated paid time off based on hours worked.

  • Access to certain professional development resources.

  • Potential for tuition benefits, depending on hours and policy. Working Hours: 40 hours per week for full-time, with potential for part-time arrangements. Standard business hours are expected, with flexibility to accommodate project deadlines and event coverage as needed.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on data from similar roles in the Midwest region and entry-level positions in higher education. Benefits for full-time employees are assumed to be comprehensive, typical for a university setting. Specific details for part-time benefits would need direct confirmation.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education (University)

Company Size: Dordt University is a medium-sized institution with approximately 1,000-2,000 employees and a student body of over 1,000. This size suggests a close-knit community where individual contributions are visible and impactful.

Founded: Dordt University was founded in 1955. This long history indicates a stable institution with established traditions and a deep-rooted mission.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will report to the Creative Director within the Advancement & Marketing department.

• This department likely comprises various specialists in marketing, communications, advancement, and creative services.

• Collaboration is expected with other marketing team members, enrollment specialists, fundraising staff, and academic departments.

• The structure supports cross-functional teamwork to achieve institutional goals. Methodology:

• The Advancement & Marketing department likely employs data-informed strategies to guide marketing efforts, focusing on enrollment targets and fundraising outcomes.

• Workflow planning and optimization are essential for managing diverse project requests from various university stakeholders.

• Automation and efficiency practices may be utilized in content management and campaign execution, though the primary focus for this role is creative output.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The university setting implies a mission-driven environment that values its historical roots and community. The "Reformed perspective and mission" is a core cultural element that all employees are expected to understand and support. The reporting structure to a Creative Director suggests a focus on creative excellence and brand consistency.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry Level (0-2 years) - This role is designed for individuals beginning their careers in graphic design, offering foundational experience in a professional marketing and communications setting.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer reports to the Creative Director, providing a clear line of mentorship and oversight. This structure allows for guidance on design projects, brand standards, and career development.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role in terms of process optimization or system management, the Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the university's external perception, enrollment numbers, and fundraising success through compelling visual communications. Their output is critical for conveying the university's value proposition.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, explore new design software, and learn advanced techniques in print and digital design.

• Specialization: Potential to specialize in areas like digital marketing design, branding, or even event-specific visual campaigns.

• Portfolio Development: Continuous creation of high-quality work for a diverse range of university needs provides excellent material for professional portfolio growth.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Working with various departments offers insights into different areas of university operations and marketing strategies.

• Leadership Potential: With significant experience and demonstrated success, opportunities for advancement into senior designer roles or creative team leadership could emerge.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in this role is primarily focused on creative skill enhancement and expanding the breadth of design experience within the higher education sector. The "operations" aspect is viewed through the lens of supporting institutional operations (enrollment, fundraising) with effective marketing collateral.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site. The role is based at Dordt University's campus in Sioux Center, IA.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is on the Dordt University campus, likely within the Advancement & Marketing department facilities.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is expected to be collaborative, with opportunities to interact with the Creative Director and other marketing team members.

• Access to industry-standard design software and hardware is anticipated.

• The campus setting offers a professional and academic atmosphere, conducive to focused creative work.

• Opportunities for interaction with faculty, staff, and students may arise through project work and event support.

Work Schedule: Standard university business hours, typically Monday through Friday. The role is classified as full-time (40 hours/week) or part-time, with flexibility to accommodate project deadlines and event needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration and integration within the university's Advancement & Marketing department. The environment is likely professional and supportive of creative endeavors.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess foundational design skills, software proficiency, and alignment with the university's mission.

• Portfolio Review & Skills Assessment: Candidates will likely present their portfolio, discussing their design process, problem-solving approaches, and how they've met project objectives. This may include a practical design exercise or case study.

• Cultural Fit Interview: Discussion focusing on alignment with Dordt University's Reformed perspective, mission, and community values, including their sexuality, gender identity, and sexual conduct policy.

• Meet the Team: Opportunity to interact with the Creative Director and potentially other members of the Advancement & Marketing team to assess collaboration potential.

• Final Interview: May involve higher-level university administrators to confirm fit and suitability for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase 5-8 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills and the requirements of this role.

• Highlight Process: For each project, briefly explain the objective, your role, the design process (ideation, execution), and the outcome or impact.

• Demonstrate Software Proficiency: Include examples that clearly show your skill with Adobe Creative Cloud, especially InDesign.

• Show Brand Awareness: If possible, include projects where you successfully applied or adapted brand guidelines.

• Tailor to Dordt: If you have projects related to education or non-profit work, emphasize those. Show you understand the university's context.

• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate (e.g., PDF or a clean website).

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a potential design challenge that might involve creating a specific marketing piece within a time limit, or a conceptual exercise related to university branding.

• Practice articulating your design decisions clearly and concisely.

• Research Dordt University's current branding, marketing campaigns, and overall mission to inform your responses and approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh design skill, portfolio quality, and crucially, alignment with Dordt University's specific religious and ethical framework. Candidates must be prepared to discuss their personal faith and how it informs their professional work.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud: Fluency is mandatory, with specific emphasis on:

  • Adobe InDesign: For layout and print production (brochures, business cards, reports).
  • Adobe Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, and digital asset creation.
  • Adobe Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, and illustrations.

• Content Management Systems (CMS): Familiarity with updating web content (e.g., WordPress, Drupal, or university-specific platforms) will be beneficial for maintaining dordt.edu.

• Project Management Software: Potentially used by the department for task tracking and workflow management (e.g., Asana, Trello, Monday.com).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic understanding of web analytics (e.g., Google Analytics) may be helpful for understanding digital content performance.

• Familiarity with design software analytics or reporting features could be a plus. CRM & Automation:

• The Advancement & Marketing department may use CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, Raiser's Edge for non-profits) for donor and prospect management. While direct CRM work may not be required, understanding how design assets integrate with CRM campaigns is advantageous.

• Marketing automation tools might be used for email campaigns, where design templates are crucial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement is deep proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud, especially InDesign. Other tools are beneficial for broader marketing operations context but are secondary to core design skills for this entry-level role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Commitment to Mission: A deep understanding and active support for Dordt University's Reformed Christian mission, values, and strategic objectives.

• Excellence in Craft: Dedication to producing high-quality, visually compelling work that upholds and enhances the university's brand identity.

• Collaboration & Service: A willingness to work cooperatively with colleagues across departments and provide design support that serves institutional needs effectively.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Adherence to ethical standards, respect for diverse perspectives within the university community, and maintaining professional conduct.

• Adaptability & Growth: Openness to learning new skills, adapting to evolving design trends and technologies, and embracing feedback for continuous improvement.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: The Advancement & Marketing department likely fosters a collaborative environment where ideas are shared, and projects are tackled collectively.

• Feedback-Driven: Openness to constructive criticism and the ability to incorporate feedback from the Creative Director and other stakeholders is essential.

• Cross-Functional: Regular interaction with individuals from enrollment, fundraising, academic departments, and other university offices is expected, requiring clear communication and partnership.

• Process-Focused: While creativity is key, adherence to established brand guidelines and project workflows ensures consistency and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Reformed perspective and mission" is paramount and will influence hiring decisions and team dynamics. The culture likely values faith integration in work and a supportive, community-oriented environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Stakeholder Needs: Juggling design requests from various university departments, each with potentially different priorities and aesthetic preferences.

• Adhering to Brand Standards: Ensuring consistency across all materials while also being creative and innovative within established guidelines.

• Quick Turnaround Projects: Meeting tight deadlines for essential, often last-minute, design needs for events or urgent departmental requests.

• Faith Integration in Design: Navigating how to visually represent a specific religious mission and values in a way that resonates with diverse audiences while remaining authentic.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Techniques: Workshops or online courses focused on mastering specific Adobe Creative Cloud features or emerging design trends.

• Higher Education Marketing: Gaining insights into the unique marketing challenges and strategies within the higher education sector.

• Portfolio Expansion: Building a robust portfolio through diverse projects that can support future career advancement.

• Mentorship: Learning from an experienced Creative Director and a team of marketing professionals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge for an entry-level designer will be managing diverse demands and learning to navigate institutional processes and brand requirements effectively. Growth is geared towards mastering design craft and understanding the higher education marketing landscape.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your design process from receiving a brief to delivering final assets. How do you ensure you meet client objectives?" (Focus on structured workflow, feedback incorporation)

• "How do you stay updated on current design trends and software advancements, and how do you decide which trends are appropriate for a university brand?" (Highlight continuous learning and strategic application)

• "Can you provide an example of a project where you had to adapt your design to meet specific brand guidelines or a particular audience's needs?" (Showcase flexibility and brand adherence) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What is your understanding of Dordt University's mission, and how do you see graphic design supporting that mission?" (Prepare to articulate faith integration and institutional support)

• "How do you approach working with diverse teams and incorporating feedback from individuals with different perspectives?" (Emphasize collaboration and communication skills)

• "Our university has a specific policy regarding sexuality, gender identity, and sexual conduct. How do you understand and approach working within these parameters?" (Be prepared for a direct discussion on values alignment) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• "Walk us through a project in your portfolio that you are most proud of. What was the challenge, your solution, and the outcome?" (Structure your story: problem, process, solution, result)

• "How did you utilize InDesign for this project? What specific features or techniques did you employ?" (Be ready to discuss technical execution)

• "If you were tasked with designing a brochure for our upcoming admissions event, what would be your initial approach and considerations?" (Demonstrate problem-solving and strategic thinking relevant to the role)

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates must be ready to discuss their faith and how it informs their professional life, as this is a critical aspect of the university's hiring criteria. The portfolio presentation should not just showcase visuals but also the thought process and problem-solving behind them.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud link.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific design software proficiency (Adobe Creative Cloud, InDesign), relevant projects, and any experience in print or digital marketing, especially within an educational context. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select your strongest, most relevant work. Ensure it's easily accessible (PDF or website) and clearly demonstrates your skills in layout, typography, and digital design. Prepare to discuss your process for 2-3 key projects.

• Prepare for the Culture Fit Discussion: Research Dordt University's mission, values, and specific policies. Be ready to articulate how your personal faith and professional approach align with these.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse walking through your portfolio and answering potential interview questions, focusing on clear communication and demonstrating your design thinking.

⚠️ 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.

---