Graphic Designer II (Enrollment Marketing & Communications)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer II (Enrollment Marketing & Communications)

Company: University of Florida

Location: Main Campus (Gainesville, FL)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Marketing & Communications Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-25

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and execute high-quality visual content strategies for enrollment marketing and communications initiatives.

• Manage the end-to-end design process for both print and digital assets, ensuring brand consistency and ADA compliance.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to translate marketing objectives into compelling visual narratives.

• Utilize advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud and other design tools to create engaging and effective marketing materials.

• Contribute to the optimization of marketing campaigns through data-informed design decisions and platform-specific asset creation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is for a Graphic Designer, the context of "Enrollment Marketing & Communications" within a large university implies a strong connection to operational efficiency in marketing outreach and student recruitment processes. The focus on ADA compliance, re-usable templates, and collaboration with internal clients suggests a need for structured design operations and adherence to established marketing workflows.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and produce visually engaging print materials, including booklets, brochures, mailers, postcards, posters, flyers, promotional items, and signage, adhering strictly to University of Florida and Division of Enrollment Management brand standards.

• Create ADA-compliant and optimized digital visual content for electronic communications, social media graphics, email campaigns (potentially within platforms like Slate), and digital advertising assets tailored for specific platforms and audiences.

• Develop and maintain reusable design templates to streamline content creation and ensure brand consistency across various marketing channels.

• Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, from initial concept to final production, ensuring all deliverables meet established deadlines and quality standards.

• Collaborate closely with the Enrollment Management Marketing and Communications team, campus partners, and external vendors to gather project requirements, provide design recommendations, and ensure successful project development and execution.

• Review proofs, distribute final production files, and oversee quality control to guarantee that all completed projects meet design, branding, and production specifications.

• Assist in the creation of website and microsite wireframes and mockups, demonstrating an understanding of web standards and responsive design principles.

• Provide creative support for ongoing marketing and communication initiatives, contributing to the overall effectiveness of enrollment management strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a need for structured project management and a strong understanding of production workflows, essential for efficient marketing operations within a large institution. The emphasis on "reusable templates" and "advising internal clients on design strategies" points to a role that not only executes design but also contributes to the standardization and efficiency of the marketing content creation process.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Master’s degree in an appropriate area (e.g., Graphic Design, Visual Communications, Marketing Design) OR

• Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area with a minimum of two years of relevant professional graphic design experience.

• An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered. Experience:

• A minimum of two years of progressive experience in graphic design, with a strong focus on creating marketing and communication materials.

• Demonstrated experience in managing multiple design projects from concept to completion in a fast-paced environment. Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud software suite, specifically InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator.

• Proven ability to package print files correctly using Adobe InDesign for professional printing.

• Strong understanding and application of University of Florida and Division of Enrollment Management brand standards.

• Excellent conceptualization skills, with the ability to translate marketing objectives into effective visual designs.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Word for content integration and PowerPoint for presentations.

• Ability to manage multiple tasks, assignments, and priorities effectively in a deadline-driven environment. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with wireframing and web design mockups using tools like Adobe XD, Sketch, or Figma.

• Knowledge of web standards, ADA accessibility guidelines, and responsive design principles.

• Familiarity with HTML coding for digital content integration.

• Illustration skills for creating custom graphics and assets.

• Experience working within or supporting marketing efforts for educational institutions or large organizations.

• Understanding of email marketing platforms (e.g., Slate) and social media graphic best practices.

• Ability to work independently as a strong individual contributor while also supporting team and organizational goals.

• Detail-oriented, highly organized, and proactive in problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Preferred Skills" section strongly suggests a need for someone who can bridge the gap between traditional print design and digital marketing operations, including web and email. The mention of "ADA compliance" and "responsive design" highlights the operational requirement for accessible and universally functional digital assets.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a minimum of 3-5 diverse projects demonstrating expertise in both print and digital graphic design.

• Projects should highlight the ability to create engaging visual content for marketing and communications purposes.

• Include examples of projects that adhere to strict brand guidelines and demonstrate an understanding of target audience engagement.

• Showcase projects that have been successfully implemented and achieved measurable goals (if possible, articulate the impact). Process Documentation:

• Evidence of a structured design process, from initial brief and concept development through to final production and delivery.

• Examples of how design challenges were overcome, including problem-solving and iterative design approaches.

• Demonstration of workflow management for handling multiple concurrent projects and meeting deadlines.

• Any examples of template creation or systemization of design elements for efficiency and consistency.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Graphic Designer role in a university marketing department, a portfolio is crucial. It needs to demonstrate not just aesthetic skill but also an understanding of brand management, project lifecycle, and the ability to produce assets that serve specific communication objectives efficiently. The focus should be on showcasing a systematic approach to design execution, akin to process management in operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $55,000 annually. This is the expected salary for this position.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans.

• Participation in State Retirement Plans.

• Generous Paid Time Off, including approximately 22 days of vacation leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid holidays annually.

• Tuition Assistance through the UF Employee Education Program, offering opportunities for professional development and further education.

• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), a significant benefit for those with federal student loans working in public service.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week. This is a standard full-time work week, typical for operational roles within a university setting, allowing for consistent workflow management and project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The stated salary of $55,000 annually for a Graphic Designer II in Gainesville, FL, aligns with industry benchmarks for roles requiring a Bachelor's degree and 2+ years of experience, especially within an educational institution. The comprehensive benefits package, particularly the PTO, tuition assistance, and PSLF eligibility, are significant components that enhance the overall compensation and work-life balance for operations professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education (Public University)

Company Size: Large (University of Florida is one of the largest universities in the US by enrollment and research expenditure). This scale implies a structured environment with established processes and a broad reach for marketing efforts.

Founded: 1853. With a long history, UF has a deeply ingrained culture and established brand identity, requiring designers to be highly attuned to tradition and institutional values.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer II will be part of the Division of Enrollment Management's Marketing and Communications team. This team likely comprises marketing specialists, content creators, strategists, and potentially other designers.

• Reporting structure will be to a Marketing Manager or Director overseeing enrollment communications.

• Cross-functional collaboration will be extensive, involving various departments within Enrollment Management, admissions offices, academic departments, and potentially external agencies or vendors for specialized services. Methodology:

• Data-driven marketing strategies are likely employed, requiring designers to create assets that support specific campaign goals and performance metrics.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical in a large organization to ensure efficient content production and timely campaign launches.

• Automation and efficiency practices may be integrated through template usage, standardized asset libraries, and streamlined approval processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within a large public university means adhering to established organizational structures, brand guidelines, and communication protocols. The "Enrollment Management" focus means the design operations are tied to recruitment cycles and student acquisition, requiring a strategic approach to visual storytelling that resonates with prospective students and their families.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as a Graphic Designer II, indicating an intermediate level of experience. It suggests a designer who is proficient in core design skills, can work independently on most tasks, and is beginning to contribute to strategic visual planning and process improvement within the marketing function.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer II will report to a manager within the Division of Enrollment Management's Marketing and Communications team. This structure implies direct guidance on project priorities and alignment with departmental goals, while also offering opportunities to influence design direction.

Operations Impact: The visual content created by this role directly impacts the University of Florida's ability to attract prospective students, communicate program offerings, and manage enrollment campaigns. Effective design operations contribute to clear messaging, strong brand perception, and ultimately, successful recruitment outcomes, which are critical operational metrics for the university.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunity to deepen expertise in digital design, ADA compliance, and marketing automation tools, contributing to more efficient marketing operations.

• Specialization: Potential to specialize in specific areas like web design, motion graphics, or campaign-specific visual strategy, leading to greater impact.

• Leadership Potential: With proven performance, opportunities may arise to mentor junior designers, lead design aspects of larger campaigns, or contribute to the development of design workflows and best practices within the team.

• Professional Development: Access to UF's Employee Education Program and potential for attending industry conferences or workshops related to design and marketing communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Graphic Designer in a university setting, growth often involves not just mastering new creative tools but also understanding the operational nuances of marketing campaigns, audience segmentation, and performance tracking, which are key components of marketing operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site at the University of Florida's Main Campus in Gainesville, FL. This indicates a traditional office environment within a large, bustling academic institution.

Office Location(s): Main Campus, Gainesville, FL. This location offers access to university resources, collaborative spaces, and a vibrant campus life.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is likely to be a collaborative office environment within the Division of Enrollment Management.

• Access to necessary design software and hardware (Adobe Creative Cloud, powerful workstations) is expected, supporting efficient creative operations.

• Opportunities for interaction with marketing specialists, communication strategists, and other creative professionals will be frequent, fostering a dynamic and collaborative team atmosphere.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week is designed to accommodate the consistent demands of marketing campaign cycles and operational needs within a university setting. While generally structured, there might be periods requiring flexibility during peak recruitment seasons or major campaign launches, reflecting the operational tempo of enrollment marketing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the need for in-person collaboration, which is often crucial for creative teams to brainstorm, receive immediate feedback, and ensure alignment on visual strategies that directly support the university's operational goals.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit Cover Letter, Resume, and List of References.

• Initial Screening: Review of applications and portfolios for alignment with required qualifications and demonstrated design capabilities.

• Portfolio Review & Interview: Candidates will likely present their portfolio, discussing their design process, problem-solving approaches, and how they've met client objectives. Expect questions about brand adherence, ADA compliance, and project management skills.

• Skills Assessment (Potential): A practical design exercise or a case study might be assigned to evaluate design skills, efficiency, and problem-solving under timed conditions.

• Final Interview: Discussion with hiring manager and potential team members to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and overall suitability for the role and the university's operational environment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in print and digital design for marketing and communications. Prioritize projects that align with the university's brand and enrollment goals.

• Showcase Process: For each project, be prepared to articulate your design process, from understanding the brief to final execution. Highlight how you addressed challenges, incorporated feedback, and ensured brand consistency.

• Highlight Impact: If possible, quantify the impact of your designs. Did your work contribute to increased engagement, higher conversion rates, or improved brand recognition?

• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your technical skills, particularly with Adobe Creative Cloud, and how you ensure ADA compliance and optimize assets for different platforms.

• Tailor to UF: Research UF's brand guidelines and current marketing campaigns to tailor your presentation and highlight relevant experience.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Context: If a design challenge is given, focus on understanding the specific enrollment marketing objective.

• Prioritize Brand & Accessibility: Ensure your solution adheres to UF brand standards and accessibility guidelines.

• Demonstrate Efficiency: Show that you can produce quality work within a reasonable timeframe, reflecting operational efficiency.

• Articulate Rationale: Be prepared to clearly explain your design choices and how they support the objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes a strong portfolio and the ability to articulate design strategy and process. This is critical for roles that are integral to marketing operations, where output needs to be not only creative but also efficient, compliant, and strategically aligned.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud: Essential proficiency in InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator for creating print and digital assets.

• Adobe XD (or Sketch/Figma): For wireframing and web design mockups, crucial for digital content development and user experience design.

• Adobe Acrobat: For packaging print files, creating interactive PDFs, and ensuring document quality.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary analytics role, understanding how design impacts performance metrics (e.g., click-through rates on digital ads, engagement on social media) is beneficial. Familiarity with how marketing analytics inform design needs is a plus. CRM & Automation:

• Slate: Mentioned in the job description, familiarity with designing for email communications within a CRM like Slate is a significant advantage for effective marketing automation.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Word for content integration and PowerPoint for presentation design is required.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is fundamental. The mention of Adobe XD/Sketch/Figma and Slate indicates a need for skills that support digital marketing operations and integrated communication strategies, moving beyond static print design to dynamic, platform-optimized content.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to producing high-quality, polished design work that upholds the university's reputation.

• Brand Stewardship: Deep respect for and adherence to institutional brand guidelines, ensuring consistency and integrity across all communications.

• Collaboration & Support: A willingness to work collaboratively within the team and with stakeholders, offering support and sharing expertise to achieve common goals.

• Efficiency & Adaptability: An ability to manage workload effectively, adapt to changing priorities, and contribute to streamlined design processes.

• User-Centric Design: Focus on creating accessible and engaging content that effectively communicates with target audiences, particularly prospective students.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: The role requires working closely with marketing specialists, content writers, and other team members to develop cohesive campaigns.

• Responsive & Communicative: Regular communication and feedback loops are essential for managing projects and ensuring alignment with client needs.

• Proactive Engagement: Encouraging active participation in brainstorming sessions and offering design solutions to marketing challenges.

• Process-Driven: A culture that values clear workflows, feedback mechanisms, and continuous improvement in design operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at a large university like UF often emphasizes tradition, collaboration, and a commitment to its mission. For a design role, this translates to respecting established brand identities while also embracing modern design practices that drive effective communication and student engagement.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Brand Consistency with Creative Innovation: Adhering to strict university brand guidelines while still producing fresh and engaging creative work.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Juggling design requests from various departments within Enrollment Management, each with unique objectives and preferences.

• Adapting to Evolving Digital Platforms: Staying current with best practices for digital design, social media, email, and web accessibility across multiple platforms.

• Meeting High-Volume Demands: Handling a consistent flow of design requests within tight deadlines, typical of university marketing cycles.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific Adobe Creative Cloud applications or explore new design technologies.

• Digital Marketing & UX Fundamentals: Learning about user experience design, conversion rate optimization (CRO), and the operational aspects of digital marketing campaigns.

• Accessibility Standards: Becoming an expert in ADA compliance for digital and print materials, a critical skill in higher education.

• Project Management Skills: Developing capabilities in managing larger, more complex design projects and potentially leading design initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are common in large organizations and in roles that bridge creative output with operational requirements. Growth opportunities focus on enhancing both creative mastery and operational understanding, crucial for career advancement in marketing and communications.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

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

• "How do you ensure your digital designs are ADA compliant and optimized for various platforms?" (Tests understanding of accessibility and digital operations).

• "Walk us through your process for managing multiple design projects with competing deadlines. What tools or methods do you use?" (Evaluates project management and operational efficiency). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about the University of Florida's brand and its mission regarding student enrollment?" (Assesses research and cultural fit).

• "How do you approach collaboration with non-design stakeholders, such as marketing managers or admissions officers?" (Gauges communication and teamwork skills).

• "How do you stay updated on design trends and best practices, particularly within higher education marketing?" (Shows commitment to continuous learning and industry relevance). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the challenges, your design solution, and the outcome.

• Highlight Brand & Accessibility: Emphasize how you adhered to brand standards and ensured accessibility in your work.

• Showcase Technical Skills: Be prepared to discuss the software and techniques you used, especially for print production and digital optimization.

• Quantify Impact (If Possible): Share any metrics or feedback that demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs.

• Be Ready for Technical Questions: Anticipate questions about specific tools, file preparation, and design principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only creative talent but also an understanding of the operational aspects of marketing, including brand management, accessibility, project execution, and stakeholder collaboration, all within the context of a large educational institution.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer II position:

• Submit your application through the University of Florida's careers portal via the provided link.

• Tailor your Cover Letter: Clearly articulate your passion for design, your experience with brand standards (especially in educational settings), and how your skills align with the specific needs of enrollment marketing.

• Optimize your Resume: Highlight relevant experience with Adobe Creative Cloud, print and digital design, ADA compliance, and project management. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio is easily accessible (e.g., a link to a personal website or a well-organized PDF) and showcases your best work relevant to marketing and communications. Be ready to present and discuss it confidently.

• Research UF: Familiarize yourself with the University of Florida's brand guidelines, its mission, and current enrollment marketing efforts to demonstrate your understanding and interest.

⚠️ 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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