Graphic Designer (Mid-Weight, 12-month contract)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer (Mid-Weight, 12-month contract)

Company: Southern Cross Austereo

Location: Sydney, NSW, Australia

Job Type: Contract

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing

Date Posted: April 21, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Weight (3+ years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is for a creative and detail-oriented Graphic Designer with a focus on producing high-quality finished art and design solutions for both digital and print mediums within a fast-paced media environment.

• The position involves hands-on creation of various assets, including social media graphics, signage, presentations, brochures, and video assets, ensuring brand alignment and cohesive campaign delivery.

• Successful candidates will collaborate closely with senior creatives, marketers, and other stakeholders, contributing to brainstorming sessions and translating technical and creative briefs into impactful visual outcomes.

• This is a 12-month contract position, offering a unique opportunity to gain experience within a leading Australian media company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is specifically for a Graphic Designer with mid-weight experience, indicating a need for independent work capabilities and a solid understanding of design principles and production processes, rather than entry-level tasks. The contract nature suggests a project-driven need for creative output.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Produce high-quality finished art and design solutions for a variety of mediums, including digital and print channels.

• Create engaging social media graphics, eye-catching signage, professional presentations, informative brochures, and compelling video assets.

• Ensure all creative output is cohesive, brand-aligned, and supports successful campaign delivery across multiple platforms.

• Actively participate in brainstorming sessions, contributing fresh ideas and innovative design concepts.

• Interpret and execute technical and creative briefs accurately, maintaining attention to detail throughout the design process.

• Conduct thorough quality checks on all work to ensure accuracy, consistency, and adherence to brand guidelines.

• Learn and apply knowledge of digital, print, and video production processes to optimize design outcomes.

• Collaborate effectively with senior creatives, marketers, and other internal stakeholders to achieve project goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative execution and production, highlighting the need for a designer who can not only conceptualize but also deliver polished, production-ready assets. The focus on "finished art" suggests a strong emphasis on technical execution and print-readiness.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Tertiary qualifications in subjects related to design or advertising are preferred.

Experience: 3+ years of experience in a creative agency, design agency, or in-house role within a relevant industry environment characterized by high-volume creative output.

Required Skills:

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

• Proven experience in creating finished art for both digital and print production.

• Strong understanding of brand guidelines and ability to maintain brand consistency across various assets.

• Experience in designing social media graphics and digital assets.

• Ability to interpret and execute creative and technical briefs accurately.

• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.

• Strong collaboration and communication skills for effective stakeholder interaction.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects) for creating video assets.

• Familiarity with signage and large-format printing production processes.

• Experience in presentation design and development.

• Understanding of media or advertising industry creative workflows.

• Familiarity with workflow management and project tracking tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of "3+ years" and the mention of "high volume creative output" suggest that candidates should have a demonstrable track record of efficiency and productivity in a demanding creative environment. The preference for tertiary qualifications indicates a value placed on formal design education.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a minimum of 3 years of professional design work.

• Demonstrations of finished art across diverse mediums, including digital (social media, web banners) and print (brochures, signage).

• Case studies or examples that highlight brand-aligned campaign work and creative problem-solving.

• Evidence of ability to manage high-volume creative output and meet tight deadlines.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal design workflow from brief interpretation to final asset delivery.

• Ability to articulate the quality assurance process applied to their design work.

• Understanding of the considerations for preparing files for various production methods (digital rendering, print specifications).

📝 Enhancement Note: For a graphic design role, a strong portfolio is paramount. The emphasis on "finished art" and "high volume creative output" means the portfolio should not only showcase creative talent but also technical proficiency and efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a 12-month contract, salary will be negotiated based on experience and qualifications. For a mid-weight Graphic Designer in Sydney, Australia, a typical salary range would be approximately AUD $70,000 - $95,000 per annum, pro-rated for the contract duration.

Benefits:

• 9 Day fortnight trial to support work-life balance.

• SCA GIGs: Internal talent development program for cross-skilling and growth.

• Paid Parental Leave: 20 weeks of gender-neutral leave.

• Wellbeing Perks: Extra leave for birthdays and volunteering.

• Free and discounted concert and footy tickets.

• Free coffee and treats in the office.

• Salary Packaging: Including novated leasing and exclusive discounts on top brands and gyms.

• Fitness Passport: Discounted access to a wide range of gyms and swimming pools.

Working Hours: Standard Full-Time Hours (typically 40 hours per week), with potential for a 9-day fortnight trial, offering flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for a mid-weight graphic designer in Sydney, Australia, considering the contract duration. The provided benefits are extensive and reflect a company that invests in employee well-being and professional development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Media & Entertainment. Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) is a leading Australian media company, operating iconic radio networks (Triple M & HIT) and a prominent podcast network (LiSTNR). This context implies a fast-paced, dynamic, and creative work environment.

Company Size: Large (likely 1000+ employees, based on being a leading media company with multiple networks and a national presence). This size suggests structured processes, opportunities for diverse projects, and a significant organizational footprint.

Founded: Southern Cross Austereo was formed in 2009 through a merger, with its roots in earlier broadcasting entities. This history provides a foundation of established media operations and market understanding.

Team Structure: The Graphic Designer will be part of the Sydney-based Creative Services team. This team likely comprises senior creatives, designers, and potentially production specialists, reporting to a Creative Director or Head of Creative Services. Collaboration with marketing departments and other business units is expected.

Methodology: The Creative Services team operates to translate media and marketing objectives into compelling visual assets. Their methodology will involve creative briefs, brainstorming, concept development, design execution, and stakeholder feedback loops, all within brand and production constraints. The emphasis on "high-volume creative output" points to efficient workflows and agile project management.

Company Website: https://www.southerncrossaustereo.com.au/

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding SCA's position as a major media player is crucial. The "Creative Services" team functions as an internal agency, supporting various brands and campaigns, necessitating a strong understanding of brand consistency and fast turnaround times.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Weight Graphic Designer. This level signifies a designer who can work independently on assigned tasks, manage their own workflow efficiently, and contribute creatively to projects. They are expected to have a solid foundation in design principles and software, and are capable of producing high-quality finished art.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to senior members of the Creative Services team, such as a Senior Graphic Designer, Art Director, or Creative Services Manager. They will likely collaborate with marketers and other project stakeholders across different departments.

Operations Impact: The role's impact lies in visually communicating SCA's brand messages and campaign objectives across all its platforms. High-quality design contributes directly to brand perception, audience engagement, and the overall effectiveness of marketing and promotional efforts for the Triple M, HIT, and LiSTNR brands.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to expand design capabilities into video asset creation, advanced digital design, and potentially motion graphics through the SCA GIGs program and hands-on project experience.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Work with various teams (marketing, radio programming, podcasting) to understand diverse creative needs and build a broader understanding of the media industry.

• Portfolio Enhancement: The high-volume nature of the role provides ample material to build a robust portfolio showcasing diverse project types and successful campaign contributions.

• Internal Mobility: Potential to move into more senior design roles, specialized creative positions, or even adjacent marketing/content roles within SCA, leveraging the internal development programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "SCA GIGs" program is a significant differentiator, suggesting a company commitment to upskilling employees. For a contract role, growth is often measured by skill acquisition and portfolio enhancement rather than immediate permanent advancement, though internal opportunities are present.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Modern, centrally located office in Sydney (World Square), described as being close to amenities and public transport. This suggests a professional, collaborative, and accessible workspace.

Office Location(s): World Square, Sydney, NSW, Australia. This location implies a vibrant urban setting conducive to creative professionals.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role is situated within the Creative Services team, indicating a need for strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively within a team setting.

• Tools & Technology: Access to standard office equipment and likely high-performance workstations equipped with the Adobe Creative Suite and potentially other relevant design and video software.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily interaction with senior creatives, designers, and project managers, fostering a dynamic and supportive creative exchange.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours, with the potential for a 9-day fortnight trial. This offers a degree of flexibility and promotes work-life balance, which is a valuable perk in a demanding creative role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The office location and "modern" description suggest a typical corporate environment with amenities, while the team structure points to a collaborative, project-driven setting typical of internal creative agencies.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume, cover letter, and portfolio link to assess experience, skills, and creative fit.

• Portfolio Presentation/Interview: A likely step will involve presenting a portfolio to the hiring manager and/or senior creative team members. This will focus on discussing past projects, design choices, and problem-solving approaches.

• Skills Assessment: Potential for a practical design task or a discussion around technical proficiency in specific software and production processes.

• Cultural Fit & Team Interaction: Interviews will assess how well the candidate collaborates, communicates, and aligns with the Creative Services team's dynamic and SCA's values.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss contract terms and overall fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your experience in finished art, digital assets (especially social media), print collateral, and any video work. Prioritize work that demonstrates brand alignment and high-volume output.

• Tell a Story: For each project, be prepared to explain the brief, your creative process, the challenges faced, your design solutions, and the impact of your work.

• Highlight Technical Skill: Emphasize your proficiency with the Adobe Creative Suite and your understanding of production requirements for different mediums.

• Showcase Brand Versatility: Demonstrate your ability to adapt to different brand aesthetics, as SCA manages multiple distinct brands (Triple M, HIT, LiSTNR).

• Link Clearly: Ensure the portfolio link provided in your application is functional and easy to navigate.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss your approach to a typical design brief for social media, a presentation, or a brochure.

• Prepare to articulate how you manage your time and prioritize tasks when facing multiple project deadlines.

• Research SCA's brands (Triple M, HIT, LiSTNR) and their current marketing materials to understand their visual language and tone.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a graphic design role, the portfolio is the primary gatekeeper. Candidates must present a curated selection that directly addresses the requirements of producing high-volume, brand-aligned creative assets.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

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

• Adobe Premiere Pro / After Effects: Likely required for video asset creation, though may be a preferred skill depending on the depth of video involvement.

• Microsoft Office Suite / Google Workspace: For presentations, document creation, and general office productivity.

Analytics & Reporting: While not the primary focus, understanding how design performance is measured (e.g., engagement on social media graphics) can be beneficial. Basic familiarity with analytics dashboards may be helpful for context.

CRM & Automation: Not directly applicable to this graphic design role, but understanding how creative assets are deployed through marketing automation platforms or CRM systems could provide valuable context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core requirement will be strong command of the Adobe Creative Suite. Experience with video editing software is a significant plus, given the mention of video assets.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A drive to produce fresh, engaging, and effective visual designs.

• Collaboration: Working effectively within a team and with various stakeholders to achieve common goals.

• Brand Stewardship: Commitment to maintaining and enhancing the visual identity of SCA's brands.

• Efficiency & Quality: Delivering high-quality work on time, even under pressure and with high volume demands.

• Continuous Learning: Willingness to adapt to new design trends, technologies, and production processes.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: Working closely within the Creative Services team, sharing ideas, and providing constructive feedback.

• Stakeholder-Focused: Engaging with marketing, programming, and other departments to understand their creative needs and deliver solutions that meet business objectives.

• Agile & Responsive: Adapting to changing project requirements and feedback in a fast-paced media environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: SCA's culture, as implied by their industry and benefits, likely values dynamism, collaboration, and a focus on entertainment and audience engagement. The Creative Services team will embody these traits, with an emphasis on creative output and project delivery.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• High Volume Demands: Managing multiple projects simultaneously with tight deadlines requires excellent time management and prioritization skills.

• Brand Consistency: Maintaining visual integrity across diverse platforms and for multiple distinct brands (Triple M, HIT, LiSTNR) can be complex.

• Adapting to Feedback: Effectively incorporating feedback from various stakeholders while maintaining design integrity.

• Rapid Industry Changes: Staying current with evolving digital design trends, social media platform requirements, and video production techniques.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Skill Acquisition: Deepen expertise in areas like motion graphics, advanced digital design, or specific video editing techniques through practical application and SCA's development programs.

• Industry Exposure: Gain insights into the broader media and advertising landscape through collaboration with different departments.

• Portfolio Expansion: The contract duration and variety of projects offer significant opportunities to add diverse and impactful pieces to your professional portfolio.

• Networking: Build professional relationships within a leading Australian media organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge will be the pace and volume of work. Growth opportunities lie in expanding technical skills and gaining exposure to the media industry's creative processes.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for taking a creative brief from initial concept to final finished art." (Focus on workflow, quality checks, and collaboration).

• "How do you ensure brand consistency across different design assets and platforms?" (Highlight understanding of brand guidelines and strategic application).

• "Walk us through a project where you had to balance creative vision with technical constraints or tight deadlines." (Prepare a specific case study from your portfolio).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Southern Cross Austereo and our brands like Triple M, HIT, and LiSTNR?" (Research their brands and recent campaigns).

• "How do you contribute to a collaborative team environment?" (Provide examples of teamwork and idea sharing).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type (digital, print, video) or by brand.

• Narrative: For each selected piece, be ready to discuss the brief, your creative process, challenges, solutions, and outcomes.

• Visuals: Ensure your presentation is visually clean and professional, mirroring the quality of work you produce.

• Key Projects: Be prepared to deep-dive into 2-3 projects that best represent your skills in finished art, high-volume output, and brand alignment.

• LiSTNR Listening: Be ready to discuss your experience or thoughts on the LiSTNR app, as mentioned in the job description.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only design skill but also an understanding of the media industry, brand management, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Dayforce portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your resume and cover letter clearly highlight your 3+ years of experience in high-volume creative output and your proficiency in finished art for digital and print. Tailor your cover letter to express your enthusiasm for SCA's brands.

• Resume Optimization: Weave in keywords such as "Graphic Design," "Finished Art," "Digital Design," "Print Design," "Adobe Creative Suite," "Brand Alignment," and "Media Industry" naturally throughout your resume to align with ATS requirements.

• Portfolio Walkthrough Practice: Rehearse presenting 2-3 key projects from your portfolio, focusing on the brief, your process, challenges, solutions, and outcomes. Be ready to discuss your technical skills and how you manage deadlines.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Southern Cross Austereo, its brands (Triple M, HIT, LiSTNR), and their current marketing efforts. Pay attention to their visual identity and tone across different platforms. Consider downloading and exploring the LiSTNR app.

⚠️ 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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