AY MarCom Graphic Designer I

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: AY MarCom Graphic Designer I
Company: St. Olaf College
Location: Northfield, Minnesota, United States
Job Type: Part time
Category: Marketing & Communications Operations / Graphic Design
Date Posted: 2025-08-20T16:09:18
Experience Level: 0-2 Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Support the Marketing and Communications Office by providing essential graphic design solutions for a diverse range of print and digital marketing collateral.
• Ensure all design outputs strictly adhere to St. Olaf College's established brand guidelines, maintaining visual consistency and professional integrity across all platforms.
• Collaborate with marketing and communications staff to translate project requirements into compelling visual designs that effectively promote and support institutional objectives.
• Develop and execute design projects within defined timelines, demonstrating strong project management and deadline adherence in a dynamic academic environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a student employee position, implying a focus on practical application of design skills within an academic marketing context. The emphasis on brand guidelines and collaboration with a central office suggests a need for strong foundational design principles and an understanding of institutional messaging.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce graphic layouts for various print materials, including but not limited to brochures, flyers, posters, and event promotions, ensuring high-quality visual appeal and brand consistency.
• Create engaging digital graphics for web pages, social media platforms, email campaigns, and other online channels, optimizing for various screen resolutions and user experiences.
• Interpret project briefs and client needs to develop creative design concepts that effectively communicate marketing messages and support college initiatives.
• Meticulously apply and enforce St. Olaf College's brand standards, including logo usage, color palettes, typography, and imagery, across all design projects.
• Assist in photo editing tasks, including retouching, color correction, and composition adjustments, to enhance visual assets for marketing materials.
• Contribute to the illustration and conceptualization of visual elements for campaigns and publications, bringing creative ideas to life.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design execution and adherence to established branding, crucial for maintaining a cohesive institutional image. The mention of "print and digital marketing materials" indicates a need for versatility in design application.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Currently enrolled student at St. Olaf College. Specific degree program not specified, but likely related to graphic design, marketing, communications, or a related creative field.
Experience: 0-2 years of experience in graphic design, with a focus on academic or institutional marketing being a strong asset. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines is essential.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator, for professional-grade design and editing.
• Competency in Microsoft PowerPoint and Keynote for presentation design and integration into broader marketing efforts.
• Strong understanding of project management principles, with the ability to plan, execute, and deliver design projects on time.
• Excellent attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in layout, typography, color, and brand compliance.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, demonstrating self-motivation and proactive problem-solving.
• Effective communication skills for understanding project requirements and collaborating with team members.

Preferred Skills:

• Working knowledge of basic web design principles and practices.
• Familiarity with WordPress or other content management systems for web content integration.
• Experience with offset printing processes and understanding of print production requirements.
• Foundational understanding of branding principles and their application in visual communications.
• Basic illustration skills to contribute unique visual elements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator) is paramount. The mention of WordPress as a plus suggests that understanding web content integration is beneficial. The "0-2 Years" experience level indicates that foundational skills and potential are highly valued over extensive professional history.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated selection of design projects showcasing proficiency in InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator.
• Examples of print materials (e.g., posters, brochures, flyers) demonstrating layout, typography, and brand application.
• Digital assets (e.g., social media graphics, web banners) illustrating adaptability to different platforms.
• Case studies or project descriptions that highlight the design process, problem-solving, and adherence to brand guidelines.
• Visuals demonstrating photo editing capabilities and any illustration work.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to articulate the design process from brief to final output, including concept development, revisions, and final file preparation.
• Understanding of file management best practices for design assets, ensuring organized storage and retrieval.
• Awareness of brand guideline adherence throughout the design workflow.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested in the provided text, it is an industry standard for graphic design roles. Candidates should prepare a digital portfolio that clearly demonstrates their skills in the required software and their ability to execute design projects effectively, especially those related to marketing and branding.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $11.75 - $12.75 per hour. This rate is designated as "Supervisory/Special Skills Hourly Rate," indicating a recognition of the specialized skills required for graphic design.

Benefits: As a student employee position, benefits are typically limited. While not explicitly detailed, common student employee benefits at academic institutions may include:

• Opportunities for skill development and practical experience in a professional marketing environment.
• Potential for networking with faculty and staff within the Marketing and Communications department.
• Contribution to resume building and career readiness.
• Access to college resources and facilities.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. The specific number of hours per week is not explicitly stated but is generally around 15-20 hours for student employees to balance with academic commitments. The role is for the "Academic Year."

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is within the typical student wage bracket for specialized skills in Northfield, MN. The "Supervisory/Special Skills" designation is unusual for a student role and might reflect a higher level of expectation or responsibility compared to a general student assistant.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education (Academic Institution)
Company Size: St. Olaf College is a medium-sized private liberal arts college. The Marketing and Communications department is a professional staff unit within the college.
Founded: 1874. St. Olaf College has a long-standing history and established traditions, which likely influences its brand identity and communication style.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of the Marketing and Communications Office, reporting to Fernando Sevilla.
• This office likely comprises various specialists in marketing, communications, digital media, and possibly content creation.
• Collaboration with other departments and stakeholders across the college will be frequent to support their marketing needs.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-informed marketing strategies, though this role focuses more on creative execution.
• Strong adherence to established branding and communication protocols.
• Collaborative approach to project development and feedback.
• Commitment to supporting the college's mission and academic goals through effective communication.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Operating within a higher education institution means balancing academic priorities with marketing objectives. The culture likely values collaboration, a strong sense of community, and adherence to institutional values and brand integrity.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level student role, serving as a foundational step for individuals interested in graphic design, marketing, or communications careers. It offers practical experience and skill development within a professional setting.
Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer reports directly to Fernando Sevilla, likely a Marketing and Communications Manager or Director, providing a clear line of supervision and mentorship.
Operations Impact: While not a traditional "revenue operations" role, the graphic design work directly impacts the college's ability to attract prospective students, engage current students and faculty, and communicate its value proposition to stakeholders. Effective design is crucial for brand perception and institutional reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Development of core graphic design skills using industry-standard software (Adobe Creative Suite).
• Practical experience in project management, deadline adherence, and client communication within a professional department.
• Exposure to branding principles and their implementation in a large institutional context.
• Potential to build a portfolio with real-world projects, enhancing future job prospects.
• Networking opportunities within the college and marketing/communications field.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a student role, "growth" is primarily measured by skill acquisition, portfolio enhancement, and understanding professional workflows. This position is designed to provide valuable hands-on experience that complements academic studies.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site at St. Olaf College, within the Marketing and Communications Office. This suggests a professional office environment, likely with shared workspaces and access to necessary equipment.
Office Location(s): Northfield, Minnesota. The specific campus location for the Marketing and Communications Office will be on the St. Olaf campus.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative office setting where interaction with other marketing and communications staff is expected.
• Access to design software and hardware necessary for fulfilling job duties.
• An environment conducive to focused design work while also facilitating team communication and feedback.
• Opportunities to interact with various college departments seeking design support.

Work Schedule: Part-time, for the Academic Year. While specific hours are flexible, they will need to be coordinated with the supervisor and academic schedule, likely falling within standard business hours on campus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement ensures direct collaboration and access to resources, which is beneficial for a student learning and applying design skills. The academic year commitment implies a structured period of engagement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application materials, likely including a resume and potentially a link to a portfolio.
• Interview: A conversation with Fernando Sevilla (and potentially other team members) to assess design skills, software proficiency, understanding of brand guidelines, and ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
• Skills Assessment/Portfolio Review: Candidates may be asked to present their portfolio and discuss their design process, or potentially complete a short design exercise to evaluate their practical skills.
• Final Selection: Evaluation based on a combination of technical skills, creative potential, cultural fit within the department, and academic standing.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Select 5-8 of your strongest design projects that highlight your proficiency in InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator.
• Include a mix of print and digital design examples.
• For each project, briefly explain the brief, your design process, the challenges you faced, and how you resolved them.
• Clearly articulate how you applied brand guidelines in your work.
• Ensure your portfolio is easily accessible online (e.g., Behance, personal website, or a shared drive link).

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your experience with Adobe Creative Suite and other relevant tools.
• Think about how you approach a design brief: from understanding the requirements to concept development and final execution.
• Have examples ready to illustrate how you've managed multiple projects and met deadlines in the past.
• Familiarize yourself with St. Olaf College's current branding and marketing materials to understand their visual identity.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "challenge" might not be part of this specific student role interview, demonstrating practical application of skills and a clear understanding of design principles and brand consistency will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:
  • InDesign: For layout and page design of print materials.
  • Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, and digital asset creation.
  • Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, and illustrations.
• Microsoft PowerPoint: For presentation creation and integration.
• Keynote: Alternative presentation software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Familiarity with analytics for digital assets (e.g., social media engagement, web traffic) is a plus, though not a primary requirement.

CRM & Automation:

• Basic understanding of web design (e.g., WordPress) suggests an awareness of content management systems, which are often integrated with marketing automation workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. The mention of WordPress indicates a need for an understanding of digital content platforms, bridging design with web implementation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: Encouraging fresh design ideas while staying within brand parameters.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with staff members to achieve common communication goals.
• Professionalism: Maintaining high standards in design quality, execution, and communication.
• Efficiency: Meeting deadlines and managing workload effectively to support departmental needs.
• Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy and adherence to brand guidelines in all outputs.

Collaboration Style:

• Open communication and feedback exchange within the Marketing and Communications team.
• Working closely with project stakeholders to understand their needs and deliver on design objectives.
• A supportive environment that encourages learning and skill development for student employees.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely values creativity within a structured framework, emphasizing teamwork and the delivery of professional marketing materials that uphold the college's reputation.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing multiple design projects with academic coursework and deadlines.
• Ensuring strict adherence to evolving brand guidelines across diverse projects.
• Translating abstract marketing concepts into effective visual designs.
• Adapting to feedback and revision requests while maintaining creative integrity.
• Gaining practical experience in a professional setting as a student.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Hands-on experience with industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite).
• Development of project management and time management skills.
• Understanding of institutional branding and marketing principles.
• Building a professional portfolio that showcases real-world design experience.
• Networking with professionals in marketing and communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for student positions balancing work and study. The growth opportunities are significant for a student looking to build a foundation in design and marketing.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a design project you're particularly proud of and why." (Focus on process, problem-solving, and results).
• "How do you ensure your designs align with brand guidelines?" (Highlight your understanding of brand consistency).
• "Describe a time you had to manage multiple design projects with competing deadlines." (Showcase your project management skills).
• "What is your experience with Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator?" (Be ready to discuss specific features and applications).
• "How do you approach receiving feedback on your designs?" (Demonstrate openness to constructive criticism).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for St. Olaf College's Marketing and Communications department?" (Show genuine interest in the institution and role).
• "How do you see this role fitting into your academic and career goals?" (Connect the position to your aspirations).
• "What do you know about St. Olaf's brand identity?" (Research their website and current marketing materials).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Be prepared to walk through 2-3 key projects from your portfolio.
• Clearly explain the objective of each project, your design choices, and the outcome.
• Highlight your technical skills and how you used specific software features.
• Be ready to discuss how you would apply your skills to St. Olaf's marketing needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating practical design skills, understanding of branding, project management capabilities, and a genuine interest in contributing to St. Olaf College.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud portal link.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator), any relevant design projects, and any experience with project management or meeting deadlines. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a digital portfolio showcasing your best design work, particularly examples that align with marketing and institutional communication needs. Ensure it's easily accessible and professionally presented.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with St. Olaf College, its mission, its current marketing efforts, and its brand guidelines. This will help you tailor your application and interview responses.
• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your design process, your technical skills, and how you would contribute to the Marketing and Communications team. Practice articulating your experience with specific examples.

⚠️ 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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