Entry-Level Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Entry-Level Graphic Designer
Company: Emergency University
Location: Seattle, Washington, United States
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Services
Date Posted: 2026-01-13
Experience Level: 0-2 Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on supporting marketing initiatives through the creation of compelling visual assets for a range of channels, including digital advertising, social media, email campaigns, and website content.
• The Graphic Designer will play a key part in maintaining and evolving the company's brand identity, ensuring consistency across all outward-facing materials.
• Responsibilities include the creation and editing of images and graphics specifically for training materials and presentations, supporting internal communication and learning objectives.
• This position offers an opportunity to contribute to a fast-paced marketing environment, collaborating with a senior designer and the broader marketing team to execute campaign strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Graphic Designer," the responsibilities described, particularly the emphasis on marketing materials, brand consistency, and collaboration with a marketing team, strongly suggest a role within marketing operations or creative services supporting Go-To-Market (GTM) functions. The "Entry-Level" designation indicates a focus on foundational skill application and development within a structured team. The mention of "Emergency University" and "saving lives" implies a mission-driven organization where visual communication plays a critical role in public awareness and education.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Marketing team to design visually appealing and effective marketing materials, encompassing print and digital ads, social media graphics, email campaigns, and website graphics.
• Develop and consistently uphold the company's brand identity by adhering to and applying established design elements across all collateral.
• Create and edit images and graphics for integration into training materials and presentations, ensuring clarity and visual appeal for internal learning purposes.
• Actively participate in brainstorming sessions with the marketing team to generate innovative ideas and concepts for upcoming marketing campaigns and initiatives.
• Ensure all created designs strictly align with company branding guidelines, standards, and messaging objectives.
• Stay abreast of the latest industry trends, design software updates, and best practices in graphic design to enhance output quality and relevance.
• Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to project deadlines within a dynamic work environment.
• Communicate and collaborate effectively with cross-functional team members to ensure accurate and punctual completion of all design-related tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly delineate a support function for marketing and internal communications. The emphasis on "brand identity," "marketing materials," and "campaign strategies" positions this role as integral to the execution arm of a Go-To-Market strategy, requiring close alignment with marketing operations and campaign management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a closely related field. Experience: 0-2 years of professional graphic design experience, with a strong emphasis on practical application in a marketing or communications context.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, for creating and manipulating digital graphics.
• A strong, well-curated portfolio showcasing a range of design skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities relevant to marketing and branding.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, essential for collaborating with team members and understanding project requirements.
• Demonstrated time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy in design execution and adherence to brand guidelines.
• Proven ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Strong understanding and application of brand guidelines and visual identity principles.

Preferred Skills:

• Foundational knowledge of HTML and CSS for understanding web design principles and basic web graphic implementation.
• Familiarity with video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro) and animation tools (e.g., Adobe After Effects) for creating dynamic visual content.
• Experience working within a mission-driven organization, particularly in sectors like healthcare or education, where visual messaging is critical.
• Familiarity with project management tools and workflows common in marketing operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The preferred skills in HTML/CSS and video editing/animation suggest a desire for a candidate who can contribute to a broader digital marketing content strategy, beyond static graphic design. This indicates a growth path into more integrated digital content creation roles within marketing operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio that clearly demonstrates proficiency in graphic design software (Adobe Creative Suite).
• Case studies or examples showcasing the design process from concept to final output, highlighting problem-solving and creative thinking.
• Visuals that reflect an understanding of brand consistency, marketing collateral design, and digital asset creation.
• Examples of work that illustrate the ability to adapt design styles to different audiences and communication objectives.
• Evidence of creating graphics for digital platforms (social media, web) and potentially print materials.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to articulate the design process, including concept development, iteration, and finalization.
• Understanding of how design integrates into broader marketing workflows and campaign timelines.
• Familiarity with feedback loops and revision processes common in creative project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the portfolio is paramount. The emphasis here is on demonstrating foundational design skills, understanding of brand application, and the ability to follow a process, rather than extensive project management or system implementation experience.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for entry-level graphic designers in Seattle, Washington, with 0-2 years of experience, the estimated salary range is $50,000 - $65,000 annually. This estimate accounts for the cost of living in Seattle, the required skill set, and the competitive nature of creative roles.

Benefits:

• Competitive Salary: Reflecting the market value for entry-level design talent in a major metropolitan area.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Typically includes health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off (PTO), and potentially retirement savings plans.
• Opportunity for Professional Development: Access to training, workshops, and potential mentorship to enhance design skills.
• Collaborative Work Environment: Being part of a supportive team with opportunities for learning and growth.
• Mission-Driven Work: The chance to contribute to a meaningful cause within the healthcare/emergency services sector.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, standard business hours, with potential for occasional flexibility depending on project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for entry-level graphic designers in the Seattle metropolitan area, considering the specified experience level and the competitive tech/creative landscape. Benefits are inferred from standard offerings for full-time positions in such organizations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Healthcare / Emergency Services Education. "Emergency University" suggests an organization focused on training and education within critical response or healthcare sectors, likely with a mission to improve public safety and health outcomes. This industry context implies a need for clear, impactful, and trustworthy visual communication. Company Size: Not specified, but likely a medium to large organization given the "University" designation and structured marketing/design teams. This size often implies established processes and a degree of specialization. Founded: Not specified.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will report to a Senior Graphic Designer and collaborate closely with the Marketing team.
• Implies a functional structure where design is a specialized unit supporting broader marketing objectives.
• Cross-functional collaboration is expected primarily with marketing, content creators, and potentially training development teams.

Methodology:

• Data-driven design approach, where visual elements are chosen to effectively communicate messages and achieve specific marketing or educational goals.
• Emphasis on brand consistency and adherence to established guidelines to maintain a cohesive brand image.
• Collaborative brainstorming and feedback cycles to refine creative concepts and ensure alignment with project objectives.

Company Website: [Company URL - Not provided in input]

📝 Enhancement Note: The company name and industry are key indicators of the potential tone and impact required in design work. Visuals for an "Emergency University" must convey authority, clarity, and seriousness, while still being engaging for educational purposes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Graphic Designer. This role is focused on foundational skill development and execution under supervision. It's the first step in a potential career path within creative services or marketing operations. Reporting Structure: The designer will report to a Senior Graphic Designer, benefiting from direct mentorship and guidance on projects and skill development. Collaboration with the wider Marketing team is also a key aspect. Operations Impact: The role's impact is measured by its contribution to the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, clarity of training materials, and the overall brand perception of Emergency University. Strong design work can enhance engagement, improve learning outcomes, and build trust with the target audience.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to develop advanced skills in specific design areas such as digital illustration, motion graphics, or UX/UI design, potentially leading to specialized roles.
• Project Leadership: As experience grows, the designer may take on lead roles for smaller projects or specific campaign components.
• Cross-Functional Mobility: Potential to transition into broader marketing roles, content management, or even project management within the marketing department, leveraging design expertise.
• Mentorship and Training: Access to guidance from a Senior Graphic Designer and potential company-sponsored training programs to further hone design and technical skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for an entry-level designer typically involves deepening technical proficiency, expanding creative scope, and taking on more responsibility for project execution and strategy contribution within the marketing function.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "On-site," suggesting a traditional office environment. This typically fosters direct collaboration, spontaneous idea sharing, and a structured work routine. Office Location(s): Seattle, Washington, United States. This is a major metropolitan area known for its creative industries and tech sector, offering potential for professional networking and access to design resources.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is likely to be a collaborative office setting within Emergency University, potentially featuring an open-plan design or dedicated creative studios.
• Access to standard office technology, including computers with necessary software (Adobe Creative Suite), and potentially specialized hardware for design work.
• Opportunities for direct interaction with the Senior Graphic Designer and other marketing team members, facilitating real-time feedback and discussion.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time, 40 hours per week, likely within typical business hours (e.g., 9 AM - 5 PM Pacific Time). Some flexibility might be available for meeting deadlines, but the core schedule is on-site.

📝 Enhancement Note: An on-site role in a major city like Seattle for an organization named "Emergency University" suggests a professional, structured environment with a focus on mission-critical work.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Resume and portfolio review to assess fundamental design skills, qualifications, and creative output.
• First Interview: Likely with the hiring manager (Senior Graphic Designer or Marketing Lead) to discuss experience, design philosophy, and cultural fit.
• Portfolio Presentation/Design Challenge: Candidates may be asked to present their portfolio in detail, discussing their process and rationale behind specific projects. A small, timed design challenge may also be included to assess on-the-spot problem-solving and design execution.
• Final Interview: Potentially with other key stakeholders or department heads to confirm fit and discuss compensation/benefits.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 4-6 of your strongest projects that best represent the skills and experience required for this role (marketing collateral, branding, digital assets).
• Showcase Process: For each project, include a brief overview of the brief, your thought process, challenges overcome, and the final outcome. Visual aids like sketches or mood boards are beneficial.
• Highlight Relevance: Emphasize projects that align with the "Emergency University" mission or similar industries if possible.
• Technical Proficiency: Ensure your digital portfolio is clean, easy to navigate, and loads quickly. Include high-resolution images.
• Quantify Impact (if possible): If a project led to measurable results (e.g., increased engagement, improved clarity), mention it.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a design challenge that tests your ability to quickly grasp a brief, apply brand guidelines, and produce a concept within a limited timeframe.
• Practice creating social media graphics or a simple ad layout under timed conditions.
• Familiarize yourself with the Emergency University brand (if publicly available) to better inform any design challenge.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the portfolio review is the most critical component. The interview process will heavily weigh creative potential, technical aptitude, and the ability to learn and adapt within a professional marketing context.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency in Photoshop (image editing, manipulation), Illustrator (vector graphics, logos, illustrations), and InDesign (layout, print design, digital publications).
• Design Collaboration Tools: Familiarity with platforms for sharing work-in-progress and receiving feedback, such as cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) or dedicated creative review tools.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic understanding of how design impacts engagement metrics on digital platforms (e.g., social media, web).

CRM & Automation:

• No direct CRM or automation tools are specified as required, but understanding how graphic assets are deployed via marketing automation platforms or CRM-integrated campaigns would be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core requirement here is mastery of the Adobe Creative Suite. Any additional familiarity with web technologies (HTML/CSS) or video/animation tools is a bonus that signals a more versatile candidate within the marketing operations ecosystem.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: Encouraging fresh ideas and visually engaging solutions to communication challenges.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with colleagues to achieve shared marketing objectives.
• Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy, brand consistency, and high-quality execution in all design outputs.
• Mission-Oriented: Aligning design efforts with the overarching goal of Emergency University to educate and save lives.
• Professionalism: Maintaining high standards of work ethic, communication, and reliability.

Collaboration Style:

• The team likely fosters an open and communicative environment, encouraging designers to discuss concepts and receive constructive feedback.
• Expect a process that involves iterative design, where feedback from marketing stakeholders and senior designers is incorporated into revisions.
• Emphasis on timely delivery and clear communication to ensure design tasks support broader campaign timelines and objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "Emergency University" context, values likely lean towards responsibility, clarity, and impact. The design team's culture would support these by ensuring designs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also effective and mission-aligned.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Brand Guidelines: Learning to push creative boundaries while strictly adhering to established brand identity and messaging.
• Managing Multiple Projects and Deadlines: Effectively prioritizing and executing on diverse design requests in a fast-paced environment.
• Interpreting Diverse Creative Briefs: Translating varied marketing objectives and feedback into compelling visual designs.
• Adapting to New Tools and Trends: Continuously learning and incorporating new design techniques and software features to stay relevant.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mentorship from Senior Designer: Direct guidance on design techniques, career development, and industry best practices.
• Exposure to Diverse Marketing Campaigns: Gaining experience across various marketing channels and campaign types, broadening design application.
• Skill Enhancement: Opportunities for training in advanced Adobe Suite features, motion graphics, or web design.
• Contribution to a Mission: Developing a portfolio with work that has a tangible positive impact on public safety and well-being.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for an entry-level role, focusing on skill acquisition and process integration. Growth opportunities are geared towards developing a well-rounded designer capable of contributing strategically to marketing efforts.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your design process from receiving a brief to delivering a final asset. Can you walk us through a specific project in your portfolio?" (Focus on structured thinking, problem-solving, and iterative refinement.)
• "How do you ensure your designs align with brand guidelines while still being creative and engaging?" (Demonstrate understanding of brand governance and creative problem-solving.)
• "Imagine you've received conflicting feedback from two different stakeholders on a design. How would you approach resolving this?" (Showcase communication, diplomacy, and decision-making skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for 'Emergency University' specifically, and how do you see your design skills contributing to our mission?" (Research the company's mission and express genuine alignment.)
• "Describe your ideal work environment and how you collaborate with team members." (Highlight your ability to work constructively in a team and office setting.)
• "How do you stay updated on the latest design trends and software?" (Showcase your commitment to continuous learning and professional development.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the problem, your solution, your role, and the outcome.
• Focus on Process: Don't just show the final image; explain your design thinking, sketches, and iterations.
• Highlight Key Skills: Point out how specific projects demonstrate your proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and your understanding of branding and marketing.
• Be Prepared for Technical Questions: Anticipate questions about your software usage, file management, and design principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong foundational understanding of design principles, a clear and repeatable design process, and an eagerness to learn and contribute within a professional marketing team.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this entry-level graphic design position:

• Submit your resume and a link to your online portfolio through the provided application portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features projects that align with marketing collateral, branding, and digital design, showcasing your proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant coursework, internships, and any design-related achievements, using keywords from the job description like "Graphic Design," "Adobe Creative Suite," and "Brand Guidelines."
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process and rationale for portfolio pieces. Be ready to discuss your understanding of branding and your ability to collaborate effectively.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with "Emergency University's" mission and any publicly available branding or marketing materials to demonstrate your interest and understanding of their context.

⚠️ 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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