Graphic Designer II - 529643

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer II - 529643

Company: The University of Alabama

Location: Tuscaloosa, Alabama, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Marketing & Communications Operations / Creative Operations

Date Posted: 2026-06-09

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for the College of Communication and Information Sciences (C&IS) to execute its strategic communication and branding initiatives through compelling visual content.

• The Graphic Designer II will be responsible for translating C&IS's brand identity into impactful designs across various media, supporting both internal and external communications.

• This position involves hands-on creation of design assets, requiring a blend of technical design skills and an understanding of communication objectives to effectively tell visual stories.

• The role contributes to the college's advancement efforts by developing engaging visual narratives that resonate with diverse audiences, enhancing the C&IS brand reputation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Graphic Designer II," the context within a university's College of Communication and Information Sciences (C&IS) and the mention of "strategic communication efforts," "brand storytelling," and "advancement" suggest a role that sits at the intersection of creative execution and operational support for marketing and communications. This role requires not just artistic talent but also an understanding of how design serves broader institutional goals, aligning with the principles of marketing operations and GTM strategy through visual branding.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute moderately-complex graphic design projects that align with the C&IS brand and strategic communication goals.

• Create engaging visual content for a range of promotional media, including print publications, digital assets, and marketing collateral.

• Prepare detailed layouts and specifications for pre-print publications, ensuring accurate vendor communication and production standards.

• Collaborate closely with colleagues in Communication and Advancement to support college-wide branding initiatives and visual storytelling efforts.

• Manage multiple design projects concurrently, adhering to deadlines and maintaining high standards of creativity and quality.

• Utilize WordPress and other web platforms to implement and update design elements for websites, ensuring a cohesive online presence.

• Apply strong photography skills to capture compelling visuals that enhance communication materials.

• Provide guidance and mentorship to entry-level Graphic Designers, fostering a collaborative and skilled design team environment.

• Translate complex information into clear, concise, and visually appealing graphics and illustrations.

• Maintain strong relationships with print production vendors, managing timelines, budgets, and quality control for outsourced materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for both creative output and operational management of design projects. This includes not only conceptualizing and designing but also managing production workflows, vendor relationships, and ensuring brand consistency across all communication channels, which are key aspects of marketing operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, Visual Communication, or a closely related field.

• Master's degree in a related field with relevant design experience may also be considered. Experience:

• Minimum of two (2) years of professional experience in graphic design, commercial art, or visual communication.

• Preferred: Three (3) or more years of dedicated graphic design experience. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in creating moderately-complex graphic designs and illustrations using industry-standard software.

• Strong experience in print production processes and effective communication with print vendors.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, projects, and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Analytical mindset with an understanding of how design impacts performance metrics and campaign success.

• Exceptional creativity and innovation in developing engaging designs and visual campaigns.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills for clear articulation of design concepts and collaboration.

• Familiarity with WordPress and general website content management for design implementation.

• Proficient photography skills for capturing high-quality visual assets.

• Experience in preparing layouts and specifications for pre-print publications.

• Ability to format and edit text for design projects. Preferred Skills:

• Proven ability to provide a strong, diverse design portfolio showcasing a range of projects and styles.

• Experience in higher education or a similar institutional environment.

• Familiarity with digital marketing design principles and asset creation for social media and web.

• Basic understanding of UX/UI principles for web design elements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "performance metrics" and "analytical mindset" alongside creative skills suggests that this role requires a designer who understands the impact of their work on broader communication and marketing objectives. This is a key differentiator for operations-minded candidates.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive design portfolio is essential, showcasing a range of projects demonstrating versatility in style and application.

• Portfolio pieces should highlight the candidate's ability to translate strategic objectives into compelling visual solutions for a variety of audiences.

• Include examples of print production work, demonstrating understanding of layout, typography, and pre-press specifications.

• Showcase digital design assets, including web graphics, social media visuals, or website elements, illustrating proficiency with digital platforms.

• Provide case studies or descriptions for select projects that detail the design process, challenges, and outcomes, particularly how design supported specific communication goals. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate experience in documenting design workflows, from initial concept and brief to final delivery and production.

• Ability to articulate the process of collaborating with stakeholders (e.g., C&IS Communications, Advancement) to gather requirements and feedback.

• Show an understanding of print production workflows, including file preparation, vendor liaison, and quality control procedures.

• Illustrate how design processes are optimized for efficiency and brand consistency across different projects and platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an operations-focused role, the portfolio should not just be a gallery of work but a demonstration of process, problem-solving, and impact. Candidates should prepare to discuss their methodology, how they managed projects, and how their designs contributed to specific goals, aligning with operations principles of efficiency and effectiveness.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Minimum: $48,600 annually

• Midpoint: $60,800 annually

• The University of Alabama operates on a salaried pay grade system (E7 for this position). Actual salary will be determined based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity. Benefits:

• Benefits Eligible: The University of Alabama typically offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees, which may include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., TIAA).

• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays).

• Life insurance and disability coverage.

• Tuition remission or educational assistance programs for employees and potentially dependents.

• Access to university facilities and employee assistance programs. Working Hours:

• Normal Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (40 hours per week).

• Flexibility: Some evening and weekend work may be required to meet project deadlines and support events, typical for communication and design roles in dynamic environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to The University of Alabama's internal pay structure for this role (E7). While specific benefits are not itemized, university positions generally offer a robust package. The requirement for some evening and weekend work is standard for roles supporting ongoing institutional communications and events.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education (University)

Company Size: Large (The University of Alabama is a major public research university with tens of thousands of employees and students).

Founded: The University of Alabama was founded in 1831, indicating a long-standing history and established institutional culture.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer II reports directly to the College of Communication and Information Sciences' (C&IS) Director of Communications.

• This role is part of the C&IS Communication team, working alongside other communication professionals.

• Collaboration is expected with colleagues in C&IS Advancement, suggesting a matrixed or project-based interaction with fundraising and alumni relations departments.

• The role may also involve interaction with faculty, staff, and students across various departments within the college. Methodology:

• The C&IS Communication team likely employs a strategic approach to branding and storytelling, focusing on effective audience engagement.

• Design projects are driven by institutional goals, requiring a process that balances creative vision with strategic communication needs.

• Emphasis is placed on producing high-quality, impactful visual content that supports the college's mission and reputation.

• Collaboration and feedback loops are integral to the design process, ensuring alignment with stakeholders.

Company Website: https://www.ua.edu/ (General University) and https://cis.ua.edu/ (College of Communication and Information Sciences)

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within a large university like The University of Alabama means navigating established processes and a hierarchical structure, but also offers opportunities to contribute to a mission-driven academic environment. The C&IS context specifically emphasizes communication and storytelling, making this a central role in shaping the college's external perception.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Designer (Graphic Designer II)

This role is positioned as a solid mid-level contributor, expected to handle moderately-complex projects independently and potentially mentor junior staff. It represents a step beyond entry-level design, requiring established technical skills and an understanding of project management within a communications framework.

Reporting Structure:

• Reports directly to the Director of Communications for the College of Communication and Information Sciences.

• Works within the C&IS Communications department.

• Collaborates cross-functionally with Advancement and other college departments. Operations Impact:

• The Graphic Designer II's work directly impacts the perception and branding of the College of Communication and Information Sciences.

• Effective visual communication can enhance student recruitment, alumni engagement, donor relations, and the college's overall academic reputation.

• By creating compelling visual narratives, the role supports the college's strategic goals in areas like research dissemination, program promotion, and public outreach. Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to specialize in specific areas of design such as digital media, motion graphics, or brand management within the university system.

• Advancement: Opportunity to progress to a Senior Graphic Designer or Art Director role within C&IS or other university departments, managing larger projects or teams.

• Skill Development: Access to university-sponsored training, workshops, and potentially conference attendance to stay current with design trends and technologies.

• Leadership: Potential to lead design aspects of major college initiatives or mentor junior designers.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Opportunity to gain experience working with different university units, broadening understanding of institutional operations and communication needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path within a university setting often involves deepening expertise in a specific area or moving into project leadership. Candidates should consider how their career aspirations align with the structured environment of higher education and the specific needs of a communication-focused college.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site position within The University of Alabama campus. The specific office will be located within the College of Communication and Information Sciences.

Office Location(s): Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be a professional office environment conducive to creative work, likely equipped with necessary design software and hardware.

• Collaboration is a key aspect, so the environment will support interaction with the Director of Communications, fellow communication staff, and potentially other college personnel.

• Access to university resources, such as libraries, potentially studios, and IT support, will be available.

• The environment is academic, involving interaction with faculty, students, and administrative staff, requiring adaptability and professionalism. Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week (Monday-Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm).

• Occasional requirement for evening and weekend work is noted, typical for roles supporting events, critical deadlines, or urgent communication needs. This flexibility is crucial for managing the dynamic demands of a university communications department.

📝 Enhancement Note: An on-site role in a university setting emphasizes a structured, collaborative, and professional atmosphere. Candidates should be prepared for a campus environment that may involve interaction with a diverse range of individuals and adherence to university policies and procedures.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application materials, including resume and portfolio, to assess qualifications and design capabilities.

• First Interview: Typically with the Director of Communications, focusing on experience, design philosophy, and understanding of the role's responsibilities. May include a review of portfolio highlights.

• Design Challenge/Task: Candidates may be asked to complete a practical design exercise or case study, simulating a real-world project to assess problem-solving skills, creativity, and execution under time constraints.

• Second Interview: May involve meeting with other key stakeholders within C&IS Communications or Advancement, assessing cultural fit and collaborative potential.

• Final Interview/Offer: Discussion of terms, benefits, and final decision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 5-7 of your strongest, most relevant projects. Tailor selections to showcase experience in areas mentioned in the job description (e.g., print, web, branding, storytelling).

• Showcase Process: For 1-2 key projects, provide a brief narrative explaining the brief, your design process, challenges faced, and the outcome. Highlight how your design met the objectives.

• Demonstrate Versatility: Include a mix of print and digital work, demonstrating proficiency across different mediums.

• High-Quality Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate. Use high-resolution images and clear descriptions.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If a project had measurable results (e.g., increased engagement, successful event turnout), include those metrics.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: Carefully read and understand any design challenge instructions. Ask clarifying questions if needed.

• Time Management: Allocate your time effectively to ensure all aspects of the challenge are addressed.

• Focus on Strategy: Even in a creative task, demonstrate an understanding of the strategic purpose behind the design.

• Presentation Readiness: Prepare to present your work clearly and concisely, articulating your design choices and process. Be ready to discuss how your solution aligns with the C&IS brand and communication goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this university role, demonstrating an ability to work within established brand guidelines while still being creative is key. The portfolio and any design challenge should reflect an understanding of institutional communication needs and the ability to translate them visually.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for graphic design, illustration, and layout.

• WordPress: Experience with content management systems, specifically WordPress, for website design implementation and updates.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic Analytics Understanding: While not a primary analyst role, an understanding of how design impacts engagement metrics (e.g., website traffic, social media engagement) is beneficial. Familiarity with website analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics) is a plus.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design function, but familiarity with how design assets are used in marketing automation platforms or CRM-related collateral may be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core requirement is strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite. Familiarity with WordPress is a specific, stated requirement, suggesting it will be used regularly for web content design updates. An understanding of analytics related to design effectiveness is also highlighted.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: Commitment to producing high-quality, impactful design work that meets or exceeds expectations.

• Brand Stewardship: Upholding and advancing the C&IS brand identity through consistent and compelling visual representation.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Working effectively with colleagues in Communications, Advancement, and across the college to achieve shared goals.

• Strategic Thinking: Understanding how design serves broader communication objectives and contributes to the college's mission.

• Adaptability and Innovation: Willingness to explore new design approaches and adapt to evolving communication needs and technologies.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively participating in team meetings and project discussions, contributing creative insights to broader communication strategies.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Building positive working relationships with internal clients, understanding their needs, and delivering solutions that meet their requirements.

• Feedback and Iteration: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to refine designs and improve project outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to a team environment where best practices in design and communication are shared and adopted.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture within a university college like C&IS typically values a blend of academic rigor, collaborative spirit, and a commitment to serving the institution's mission. This role requires a designer who can be both an individual contributor and a team player, aligning their creative output with institutional goals.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Brand Consistency and Creativity: Meeting the University's established brand guidelines while producing fresh, innovative designs that capture attention.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Juggling design requests and feedback from multiple departments and individuals with varying priorities and perspectives.

• Adapting to Evolving Communication Channels: Staying current with new digital platforms and design trends to ensure C&IS communications remain relevant and effective.

• Project Prioritization: Effectively managing a workload with competing deadlines and determining project priorities in collaboration with the Director of Communications.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Professional Development: Access to workshops, training sessions, and potentially conferences focused on graphic design, digital media, and communication strategies.

• Internal Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to learn about specific C&IS initiatives, advancement strategies, and university communication goals, enriching design context.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior communication professionals or to mentor junior team members, fostering leadership skills.

• Exposure to Higher Education Operations: Gaining a deeper understanding of how a large university functions and how communication supports its academic and administrative objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role stem from the dynamic nature of university communications and the need to balance creative expression with institutional objectives and brand governance. Growth opportunities are tied to expanding expertise and contributing to broader institutional success.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach designing a new visual campaign for the C&IS graduate programs, considering our target audience and brand identity?" (Focus on process, audience analysis, and brand alignment).

• "Describe a time you had to manage conflicting feedback from multiple stakeholders on a design project. How did you resolve it?" (Focus on collaboration, conflict resolution, and stakeholder management).

• "How do you stay updated on the latest graphic design trends and technologies, and how do you incorporate them into your work?" (Focus on continuous learning and innovation). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for The University of Alabama and specifically the College of Communication and Information Sciences?" (Demonstrate research into the university and college's mission, values, and recent activities).

• "How do you see your design skills contributing to the college's strategic communication and advancement goals?" (Connect your abilities to the role's impact on institutional objectives).

• "Describe your experience working within established brand guidelines. How do you balance creative freedom with brand consistency?" (Showcase understanding of brand governance and creative problem-solving within constraints). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain its purpose, your role, the challenges, your creative process, and the outcome.

• Highlight Impact: If possible, quantify the success of your designs with metrics or qualitative feedback.

• Showcase Process: Be ready to discuss your workflow, software usage, and decision-making process.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects that align with the responsibilities and skills listed in the job description (print, web, branding, storytelling).

• Be Prepared for Live Critiques: Have high-resolution files ready if asked to discuss specific design elements or make minor adjustments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only design talent but also an understanding of strategy, collaboration, and the specific context of higher education. Case studies from your portfolio should be ready to illustrate your problem-solving and impact.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the application link provided on the University of Alabama careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience in graphic design, print production, and any relevant software (Adobe Creative Suite, WordPress). Use keywords from the job description, such as "visual communication," "strategic communication," "brand storytelling," and "vendor communication."

• Curate Your Portfolio: Prepare a digital portfolio that showcases your best work, with a focus on projects demonstrating versatility across print and digital media, strong branding, and effective visual storytelling. Include 1-2 case studies detailing your process and impact.

• Prepare for a Design Challenge: Be ready to complete a practical design exercise that assesses your creative skills and ability to work within specific parameters, similar to real-world projects for C&IS.

• Research the University and C&IS: Familiarize yourself with the University of Alabama's mission, values, and the College of Communication and Information Sciences' programs, faculty, and recent news. This will help you articulate your interest and cultural fit during interviews.

⚠️ 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.