Creative Graphic Designer (Hybrid)

This is an interesting situation. The provided job description is for a "Creative Graphic Designer (Hybrid)" at "Serigor Inc." in Nashville, TN. However, the detailed description and requirements within the description_html field clearly outline the responsibilities and qualifications of a Landscape Architect & Designer, not a graphic designer.

Given this discrepancy, I will proceed by enhancing the job description as if it were for a Landscape Architect & Designer, as the detailed content strongly suggests this is the actual intended role. If the intention was indeed a Graphic Designer role, the provided description is highly misleading and would need significant revision.

For the purpose of this enhancement, I will be treating this as a Landscape Architect & Designer position.

---

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Landscape Architect & Designer (Hybrid) Company: Serigor Inc. Location: Nashville, TN Job Type: CONTRACTOR Category: Operations Strategy & Planning / Design & Engineering Date Posted: 2025-09-19 Experience Level: Mid-Senior (5-10 years) Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for shaping the future of public park spaces, focusing on the strategic planning and design of natural environments and recreational facilities.
• The position requires a blend of creative design thinking, technical proficiency in CAD and GIS, and a hands-on approach to fieldwork across diverse natural settings.
• The candidate will collaborate with various internal teams and stakeholders to translate high-level concepts into tangible, site-specific design solutions that prioritize both resource protection and visitor experience.
• This contract role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to significant projects within Tennessee's state parks, impacting the accessibility and enjoyment of natural landscapes for years to come.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided description clearly outlines responsibilities and required skills for a Landscape Architect & Designer, not a Graphic Designer. The enhancement will reflect this role. The "Strategy & Planning team" mention suggests a focus on strategic integration of design within broader operational plans for parks.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop innovative concept and schematic designs, including site plans, renderings, and 3D sketches, for park amenities such as trailheads, campgrounds, day-use areas, and cabins.
• Create and maintain precise CAD base plans that are integrated with existing GIS data, ensuring spatial accuracy and data integrity for project planning and implementation.
• Conduct comprehensive site analyses to inform design decisions, develop alternative design concepts, and establish practical phasing plans for project execution.
• Support and facilitate public engagement processes, including workshops and design charrettes, to gather input and build consensus among stakeholders.
• Ensure all project designs and deliverables adhere to accessibility standards (ADA/ABA universal design) and the client's brand and design guidelines, promoting inclusivity and consistent brand identity.
• Produce a range of design deliverables, including conceptual alternatives, preferred concepts with detailed phasing, comprehensive CAD plans, and compelling presentation materials for various audiences.
• Collaborate closely with internal departments such as State Parks, Natural Areas, Archaeology, and Outdoor Recreation to align design strategies with broader conservation and recreational goals.
• Undertake fieldwork across Tennessee's diverse natural environments to conduct site assessments, gather data, and oversee design implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on both the creative design process and the technical execution of landscape architecture projects. The mention of "TSP brand/design guidelines" implies a need for understanding and applying corporate or organizational branding to design outcomes, a common requirement in public sector or large organizational design roles. The inclusion of "fieldwork" and "travel statewide" indicates a requirement for mobility and on-site presence.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Landscape Architecture from an accredited program is typically expected for this level of role. While not explicitly stated, it is a standard industry requirement for professional landscape architects.

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in landscape architecture or design, with a strong focus on projects within the parks, trails, civic, or campus sectors. This experience should demonstrate a proven ability to manage design projects from conceptualization through to detailed planning.

Required Skills:

• Technical Design Proficiency: Expertise in developing concept, schematic, and phasing plans for outdoor and recreational spaces.
• CAD Software Mastery: Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD for creating detailed site plans and construction documents.
• Adobe Creative Suite: Strong skills in Adobe Creative Suite (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) for renderings, presentations, and graphic design elements.
• 3D Modeling/Rendering: Familiarity with 3D modeling software such as SketchUp or similar for visualization and conceptualization.
• GIS Integration: Working knowledge of GIS workflows, including shapefiles, georeferencing, and data exports, for integrating spatial data into design processes.
• Accessibility Standards: Comprehensive understanding of ADA/ABA universal design standards to ensure projects are inclusive and accessible to all users.
• Project Support: Ability to support public workshops and design charrettes, effectively communicating design concepts and gathering feedback.
• Brand Alignment: Capacity to align project designs with specific brand guidelines and design standards (e.g., TSP brand guidelines).

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with nature-based project design, particularly in natural or conservation settings.
• Familiarity with report writing and technical documentation for planning and design projects.
• Strong presentation skills for conveying design ideas to diverse audiences, including community members and internal stakeholders.
• Knowledge of native plant species and sustainable design practices relevant to Tennessee's ecological context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "5+ years" suggests a mid-level to senior professional. The specific software requirements (AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp, GIS) are standard for landscape architecture roles. The emphasis on ADA/ABA standards and "TSP brand/design guidelines" points to a need for adherence to regulatory and organizational frameworks. The portfolio requirement is a critical gate for assessing practical design skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Conceptual Design Examples: Showcase a range of conceptual designs, demonstrating the ability to translate programmatic needs and site analysis into compelling visual concepts for park amenities.
• Technical CAD Work: Include examples of detailed CAD plans, such as site plans, grading plans, planting plans, or construction details, highlighting precision and clarity.
• Phasing Plans: Present examples of phasing plans that illustrate a strategic approach to project implementation over time.
• Renderings & Visualizations: Provide high-quality renderings or 3D sketches that effectively communicate design intent and aesthetic qualities.
• Nature-Based Project Focus: At least one project in the portfolio must demonstrate experience with nature-based design, reflecting an understanding of ecological principles and site-specific context.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate a clear process for site analysis, including how environmental, cultural, and programmatic factors are evaluated to inform design.
• Illustrate a workflow for developing design alternatives and selecting a preferred concept, including how feedback is incorporated.
• Showcase experience in integrating GIS data and CAD workflows to ensure accurate and efficient design development.
• Provide examples of how accessibility standards are integrated into the design process from concept through to schematic design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is a critical component, specifically requiring conceptual and CAD work, with a strong emphasis on nature-based projects. This signals that practical application and visual communication of design ideas are paramount. The "process documentation" aspects are inferred from the responsibilities, suggesting candidates should be prepared to discuss their design methodologies.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the hybrid work arrangement, 5-10 years of experience, and the technical/creative demands in a market like Nashville, TN, a competitive hourly rate for a contractor position would likely fall in the range of $40 - $65 per hour. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for landscape architects with similar experience levels and specialization, considering the specialized software proficiencies and project scope.

Benefits:

• As a contractor position, traditional employee benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans are typically not provided directly by the hiring organization. However, contractors often have access to benefits through the contracting agency (Covendis, in this case), which may include:
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Retirement savings plans (e.g., 401k) through the agency.
  • Paid time off or sick leave accrual, depending on agency policy.
  • Potential for contract extension or conversion to a permanent role.
  • Opportunities to work on high-profile public projects.

Working Hours:

• The standard working hours are likely to be 40 hours per week. The hybrid nature of the role suggests a flexible arrangement, possibly requiring 2-3 days per week in the Nashville office, with the remaining days available for remote work or fieldwork. Flexibility may be offered to accommodate fieldwork schedules or project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on typical contractor rates for specialized design roles in a mid-to-high cost of living area like Nashville, TN, and the specified experience level. Benefits are described from a contractor's perspective, acknowledging the typical structure through an agency. The "hybrid" designation implies a need for clarity on the expected in-office days.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The company, Serigor Inc., is likely involved in staffing or consulting services, as indicated by the mention of "contract position (through Covendis)". The client they serve operates within the Government/Public Sector space, specifically focusing on Parks and Recreation / Environmental Planning, given the nature of the projects described (state parks, natural areas, trails). Company Size: Serigor Inc.'s size is not specified, but the client they serve is likely a government agency or a large organization managing state parks. The team the role supports is within the client's "Strategy & Planning team," suggesting a professional, organized, and mission-driven environment focused on long-term development and conservation. Founded: The founding date of Serigor Inc. and its client are not provided. However, the nature of public park management suggests a long-standing public service mandate for the client organization.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of the client's Strategy & Planning team, which collaborates with various specialized departments including State Parks, Natural Areas, Archaeology, and Outdoor Recreation.
• This indicates a cross-functional team environment where design expertise is integrated with conservation, historical preservation, and recreational programming.
• The reporting structure would likely involve a direct supervisor within the Strategy & Planning team, possibly a Senior Landscape Architect or Planning Manager.

Methodology:

• The team likely employs a data-driven approach to planning and design, leveraging GIS and site analysis to inform decisions.
• Design methodologies will emphasize balancing resource protection with visitor experience, incorporating public feedback through workshops and charrettes.
• Emphasis will be placed on adhering to established design standards, accessibility regulations, and brand guidelines to ensure consistency and quality across projects.

Company Website: https://www.serigor.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The context suggests a professional environment focused on public service and environmental stewardship. Collaboration across different specialized departments is key, requiring strong communication and integration skills. The "Strategy & Planning" aspect implies a forward-thinking approach to park development and management.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is classified as a Mid-Senior level role, requiring 5+ years of specialized experience in landscape architecture and design. The responsibilities involve independent work on conceptualization, design development, and stakeholder engagement, indicating a significant level of autonomy and project ownership. Reporting Structure: The role reports into the client's Strategy & Planning team, likely to a Senior Landscape Architect or Planning Manager. This structure suggests mentorship opportunities and exposure to higher-level strategic decision-making within park development. Operations Impact: The candidate's work will directly influence the planning, design, and implementation of public park infrastructure and amenities across Tennessee. This has a tangible impact on visitor experience, resource conservation, and the overall accessibility and appeal of state parks. The designs developed will guide physical development and contribute to long-term land management strategies.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of landscape architecture, such as trail design, sustainable site development, or public engagement strategies within a natural resource context.
• Project Portfolio Expansion: Gain experience on a diverse range of high-profile public projects, significantly enhancing a professional portfolio with impactful work.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Develop a broader understanding of park management by collaborating with experts in conservation, archaeology, and outdoor recreation, fostering interdisciplinary knowledge.
• Potential for Extension/Conversion: As a contract role, there is the possibility of contract extension or conversion to a permanent position, depending on project needs and performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers significant practical experience in a specialized field within the public sector. The growth opportunities are tied to expanding technical skills, gaining exposure to diverse project types, and understanding the broader operational context of park management. The potential for longer-term engagement is a key factor for candidates seeking stable contract work.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role requires a hybrid work arrangement, indicating a blend of remote work and in-office presence in Nashville, TN. The office environment is expected to be professional, supporting collaborative design work and team meetings. Office Location(s): The primary office location is Nashville, TN. This provides access to a vibrant city with a growing design and professional services sector.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Design Space: The office environment likely includes collaborative workspaces for team meetings, design reviews, and brainstorming sessions, fostering interaction among team members.
• Technology Access: Access to necessary design software, hardware, and potentially shared resources like plotters or rendering farms will be available in the office.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with colleagues on the Strategy & Planning team, as well as potential cross-departmental collaboration, will be facilitated by the office presence.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is anticipated. The hybrid model suggests flexibility in scheduling, with specific days allocated for office work and others for remote tasks or fieldwork. The nature of design projects may require occasional flexibility to meet deadlines or attend site visits.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role is a key aspect, balancing the need for focused individual work (potentially remote) with collaborative team activities and site-specific assessments (office/field). Candidates should be comfortable with this mixed environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of the resume and portfolio by the contracting agency (Covendis) or the client's HR department to assess basic qualifications and fit.
• Technical Interview: Likely involves a discussion with a hiring manager or senior team member to delve into technical skills, software proficiency (AutoCAD, GIS, Adobe Suite), and design methodologies. Expect questions related to site analysis, conceptual development, and problem-solving.
• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where the candidate presents their portfolio, discussing specific projects, design processes, challenges, and outcomes. This is a critical stage to evaluate design thinking and technical execution.
• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: May include questions designed to assess collaboration skills, communication style, adaptability, and alignment with the team's work ethic and the client's mission.
• Potential Field Visit/Site Assessment: Depending on the role's specific needs, a brief site visit or a discussion about fieldwork experience might be incorporated.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase the required skills (conceptual design, technical CAD, phasing, nature-based projects) and align with the client's work in parks and recreation.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the design process, key decisions, challenges faced, and the final outcome/impact. Use visuals effectively to support your narrative.
• Highlight Technical Skills: Explicitly point out your proficiency in AutoCAD, GIS integration, and Adobe Creative Suite within your project examples.
• Showcase Process: Demonstrate your approach to site analysis, conceptualization, and stakeholder engagement. Discuss how you incorporate feedback and adhere to standards.
• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, problem-solving approach, and experience with specific software or project types.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical design challenge or a discussion around a real-world park design problem. Think about how you would approach site analysis, concept development, and stakeholder input.
• Technical Problem-Solving: Consider how you would troubleshoot common CAD or GIS integration issues, or how you would ensure accessibility compliance in a design.
• Communication Practice: Rehearse explaining complex design concepts clearly and concisely, both verbally and visually, as if presenting to a non-technical audience or stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is heavily weighted towards assessing design skills through a portfolio review. Candidates should prepare to discuss their technical processes and demonstrate how they meet the specific requirements outlined in the job description, particularly regarding conceptualization and CAD proficiency.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: Essential for creating precise site plans, construction documents, and technical drawings. Proficiency in its drafting and documentation features is expected.
• Adobe Creative Suite: Crucial for visual communication, including creating renderings, presentations, graphics, and image editing. Specific applications like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign are key.
• SketchUp (or similar 3D modeling software): Used for developing 3D models and visualizations to communicate design concepts effectively.
• GIS Software (e.g., ArcGIS): Necessary for integrating spatial data, performing site analysis, and managing geographic information relevant to park planning. Familiarity with workflows, shapefiles, and georeferencing is important.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Site Analysis Data: While not specific software, the ability to interpret and utilize data from site analyses (topographical, ecological, cultural) is vital for informing design decisions.
• Presentation Software: Tools like PowerPoint or Keynote will be used for creating and delivering presentations to stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design-focused role, but project management tools or collaborative platforms might be used for task tracking and team communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements revolve around design and spatial data software. Mastery of AutoCAD and the Adobe Creative Suite are non-negotiable, with GIS integration being a strong secondary requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Design Excellence: A commitment to creating high-quality, aesthetically pleasing, and functional designs that enhance public spaces.
• Resource Stewardship: A deep respect for natural resources and a dedication to balancing development with conservation efforts.
• Accessibility and Inclusivity: A core value of designing spaces that are welcoming and usable by people of all abilities.
• Collaboration and Communication: An emphasis on working effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders, fostering open dialogue and shared understanding.
• Innovation and Problem-Solving: A proactive approach to finding creative solutions to design challenges, utilizing technology and best practices.

Collaboration Style:

• The team likely operates with a collaborative, cross-functional approach, where designers work alongside planners, environmental specialists, and potentially archaeologists.
• Expect a culture that values input from various disciplines and encourages constructive feedback to refine designs.
• Effective communication through meetings, design reviews, and digital platforms will be essential for project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values align with public service and environmental design, emphasizing both technical quality and a commitment to the public good. Collaboration is key due to the multidisciplinary nature of park planning.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Competing Interests: Effectively reconciling resource protection needs with visitor experience demands and budget constraints in park design.
• Diverse Site Conditions: Adapting designs to a wide range of natural environments across Tennessee, each with unique ecological and topographical characteristics.
• Stakeholder Management: Navigating diverse stakeholder expectations and incorporating feedback from public workshops and internal teams.
• Technical Integration: Ensuring seamless integration of CAD and GIS data, and staying current with evolving design software and technologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to training focused on specific design software, GIS applications, or sustainable design practices relevant to park development.
• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced landscape architects and planners within the Strategy & Planning team.
• Industry Exposure: Potential exposure to industry best practices through project work and collaboration with public sector professionals.
• Field Experience: Gaining practical experience in diverse outdoor settings, enhancing understanding of site-specific design challenges and opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical of public sector design roles, requiring strong problem-solving and communication skills. The growth opportunities are focused on enhancing technical skills and gaining practical experience in a specialized field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Walk me through your typical design process for a park project, from initial site analysis to schematic design. How do you integrate GIS data into this process?" (Focus on structured approach, site analysis methods, software integration).
• Stakeholder Engagement: "Describe a time you had to manage conflicting stakeholder feedback on a design project. How did you address it and reach a resolution?" (Highlight communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills).
• Technical Challenges: "What is your approach to ensuring ADA compliance in park design? Can you give an example of a design challenge you solved using AutoCAD or GIS?" (Demonstrate technical problem-solving and understanding of standards).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working on public parks and natural areas in Tennessee?" (Show genuine interest in the mission and environment).
• "How do you approach collaborating with diverse teams, such as environmental specialists or archaeologists?" (Emphasize teamwork and interdisciplinary communication).
• "How do you ensure your designs align with organizational brand guidelines while meeting functional and aesthetic requirements?" (Discuss attention to detail and brand awareness).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by key skills demonstrated. For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the process, and the outcome.
• Visuals: Use high-quality images, plans, and renderings. Ensure CAD drawings are legible and clearly annotated.
• Verbal Narrative: Practice explaining your design rationale and technical approach concisely. Be ready to answer in-depth questions about your work.
• Highlight Key Requirements: Explicitly point out how your portfolio addresses conceptual design, technical CAD, GIS integration, phasing plans, and nature-based projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on demonstrating design process, technical proficiency, and collaborative capabilities. The portfolio is the primary tool for this, so candidates must be prepared to discuss it in detail.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided JazzHR link.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your resume and portfolio are tailored to this specific role, emphasizing your experience in landscape architecture, park design, CAD, GIS, and conceptual design.
• Highlight Relevant Projects: In your portfolio, prominently feature projects that align with park development, trail design, or similar outdoor/civic projects, with a clear demonstration of conceptual and technical design skills.
• Prepare for Technical Discussion: Be ready to discuss your proficiency with AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp, and GIS workflows during interviews. Practice explaining your design process and problem-solving approaches.
• Research the Client: Familiarize yourself with the client's mission related to parks and recreation in Tennessee, and understand the importance of balancing resource protection with visitor experience.

⚠️ 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 or contracting agency before making application decisions.