Entry-level graphic designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Entry-level Graphic Designer Company: Emergency University Location: Los Angeles, California, United States Job Type: Full-time Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design Date Posted: 2026-01-12 Experience Level: 0-2 years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on creating visually appealing and effective designs for marketing and communication materials, requiring strong proficiency in design software and a keen understanding of brand aesthetics.
• The position involves close collaboration with marketing and communications teams to translate project objectives and target audience needs into compelling visual assets.
• Key responsibilities include developing a range of creative designs, from print collateral to digital graphics, ensuring consistency with brand guidelines and staying abreast of industry design trends.
• Successful candidates will demonstrate strong communication, teamwork, and project management skills, with an ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input data specifies "Entry-level Graphic Designer," this enhancement positions the role within the broader "Creative & Media" and "Art & Design" categories for broader searchability and categorization. The summary highlights core operational aspects of design, emphasizing collaboration and brand consistency, which are crucial for GTM alignment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and develop innovative graphic designs for diverse marketing collateral, including brochures, flyers, advertisements, social media graphics, and website visuals.
• Collaborate closely with the marketing and communications team to interpret project briefs, understand target audience demographics, and align design strategies with overall campaign objectives.
• Generate initial visual concepts and detailed mock-ups for new design projects, presenting creative options for stakeholder review and approval.
• Design and format training materials, presentations, and internal communication collateral, ensuring clarity, visual appeal, and adherence to brand standards.
• Maintain strict adherence to established brand guidelines, ensuring consistent application of logos, color palettes, typography, and overall visual identity across all design outputs.
• Proactively research and integrate emerging industry design trends, software techniques, and best practices to enhance the quality and effectiveness of design work.
• Liaise with print vendors, managing the production process from file preparation to final output, ensuring high-quality, accurate, and timely delivery of printed materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are expanded to detail the design lifecycle from conceptualization to production, emphasizing collaboration with marketing teams, which is a key aspect of GTM operations. Specific mention of print production management is included, reflecting a practical operational task.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a closely related field. Experience: 0-2 years of professional experience in graphic design, with a focus on marketing collateral and digital assets.

Required Skills:

• Exceptional proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, for creating and editing graphics.
• A robust and diverse portfolio demonstrating strong graphic design skills, creativity, and a proven ability to execute design projects effectively.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, essential for articulating design concepts and collaborating with cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated teamwork capabilities, with a collaborative approach to project execution and feedback integration.
• Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail, critical for managing multiple design projects and ensuring accuracy in final deliverables.
• Ability to manage time effectively, prioritize tasks, and consistently meet project deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Understanding of print production processes, including file preparation, color management, and working with print vendors.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with digital design principles, including UI/UX concepts and social media content optimization.
• Experience with motion graphics or video editing software (e.g., After Effects, Premiere Pro).
• Knowledge of web design principles and HTML/CSS basics.
• Experience working within established brand guidelines and maintaining brand consistency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are elaborated to specify the application of Adobe Creative Suite for design tasks. The portfolio requirement is emphasized as a key demonstration of practical skills. Preferred skills are added to identify candidates with a broader digital design skillset, which can be advantageous for a GTM context.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a range of design projects, showcasing versatility across different media (print, digital, social).
• Include case studies or detailed descriptions of at least 3-5 projects, highlighting the design process, problem-solving approach, and final outcome.
• Showcase specific examples of marketing collateral (brochures, flyers, ads) and digital assets (social media graphics, web banners).
• Clearly articulate your role and contributions within each project, especially in collaborative settings.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of how you interpret design briefs and translate project objectives into visual concepts.
• Illustrate your workflow for concept development, iteration, and final asset delivery.
• Explain your approach to incorporating feedback from stakeholders and ensuring brand guideline compliance throughout the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is tailored to the operations context by framing the portfolio as a demonstration of design process and problem-solving. It emphasizes the documentation of workflow, adherence to guidelines, and stakeholder feedback integration, crucial elements in operations roles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for entry-level graphic designers in Los Angeles, California, with 0-2 years of experience, the estimated annual salary range is $50,000 - $65,000. This estimate considers the cost of living in Los Angeles and the competitive market for creative talent.

Benefits:

• Competitive Salary: Offering a compensation package benchmarked against industry standards.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Including health, dental, and vision insurance, potentially with employer contributions.
• Retirement Savings Plan: Such as a 401(k) with potential company matching.
• Paid Time Off: Including vacation days, sick leave, and company holidays.
• Opportunities for Growth and Development: Access to training, workshops, and potential career advancement within the organization.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. Flexibility may be available, subject to team and project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: A specific salary range has been estimated for the Los Angeles area, incorporating cost of living and industry standards for entry-level roles. Standard benefits associated with full-time positions are detailed to provide a comprehensive overview for operations professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education / Non-profit (implied by "Emergency University" and "making a difference") Company Size: While not explicitly stated, "Emergency University" suggests an established institution. The need for a dedicated marketing and communications team implies a size that supports specialized functions, likely in the medium to large range (e.g., 200-1000+ employees). Founded: The founding date is not provided, but the name suggests a mission-driven organization potentially focused on emergency preparedness, response, or related fields.

Team Structure:

• The graphic designer will likely be part of the Marketing and Communications department, potentially reporting to a Marketing Manager or Creative Director.
• This team will collaborate with various departments across the university to support their communication needs.
• The structure likely emphasizes cross-functional project teams, requiring close interaction with content creators, campaign managers, and subject matter experts.

Methodology:

• Design work will be guided by data-driven marketing strategies, focusing on audience engagement and conversion metrics.
• Workflow planning will involve project management tools and agile methodologies to ensure timely delivery of design assets.
• Emphasis on creativity and innovation will be balanced with adherence to brand consistency and institutional messaging.

Company Website: https://careers-page.com/emergency-university (provided as a placeholder; actual URL would be listed here)

📝 Enhancement Note: Assumptions about the company's industry and culture are made based on the name "Emergency University" and the phrase "make a difference." This context helps frame the operational environment and the role of graphic design within a mission-driven organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an entry-level position (0-2 years of experience) within the creative and marketing operations function. It is foundational, focusing on executing design tasks under guidance and developing core competencies.

Reporting Structure: The graphic designer will likely report to a Marketing Manager, Creative Lead, or potentially a Director of Marketing and Communications, depending on the departmental structure. This role will collaborate closely with marketing specialists, content writers, and potentially program managers.

Operations Impact: While not directly managing revenue operations or sales pipelines, the graphic designer's work has a significant indirect impact on the organization's Go-To-Market (GTM) strategy by:

• Enhancing brand perception and recognition through visually compelling materials.
• Improving the effectiveness of marketing campaigns by creating engaging content.
• Supporting recruitment and enrollment efforts by producing attractive promotional assets.
• Ensuring brand consistency across all communication channels, which is critical for institutional credibility.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Progression to Junior Graphic Designer or Graphic Designer roles with increased responsibility and creative autonomy. Opportunities to specialize in areas like digital design, UI/UX, or motion graphics.
• Project Leadership: Taking ownership of smaller design projects or leading specific design elements within larger campaigns.
• Cross-functional Exposure: Gaining experience in other marketing functions through collaboration, potentially leading to roles in marketing coordination or campaign management.
• Mentorship: Access to senior designers or marketing leaders for guidance and professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section frames the graphic design role within a broader GTM operations context, highlighting its indirect impact on brand, marketing effectiveness, and institutional goals. Growth opportunities are detailed, focusing on skill specialization and potential career paths relevant to marketing operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site, suggesting a traditional office environment within the Emergency University campus or administrative building. This setting typically fosters in-person collaboration and easier access to team members and resources.

Office Location(s): Los Angeles, California, United States. This specific location implies working within a vibrant metropolitan area with a strong creative industry presence.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is likely designed to facilitate collaboration, with shared design resources, meeting rooms, and team areas.
• Access to necessary design technology, including high-performance computers, software licenses, and potentially large-format printers or proofing stations.
• Opportunities for direct interaction with marketing and communications colleagues, allowing for immediate feedback, brainstorming sessions, and team alignment on design projects.

Work Schedule: A standard Monday-Friday, 9-to-5 schedule is anticipated, aligning with typical business hours. While the role is on-site, occasional flexibility might be required for critical project deadlines or events, coordinated with the direct manager.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role is emphasized, along with the typical workspace characteristics that support creative and collaborative operations within a university setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of the resume and portfolio to assess foundational design skills and relevant experience. Candidates will be evaluated on their ability to meet the minimum qualifications and demonstrate creative potential.
• Portfolio Presentation & Technical Interview: Candidates will likely present a curated selection of their best work, discussing their design process, problem-solving approach, and how they applied brand guidelines. Technical questions about Adobe Creative Suite proficiency and design principles will be asked.
• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: An interview with the marketing and communications team to assess collaboration skills, communication style, and alignment with the company's values and mission.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a department head or senior leadership to discuss career aspirations and overall fit within Emergency University.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate 5-7 of your strongest projects that best represent the skills required for this role (marketing collateral, digital graphics).
• For each project, clearly explain the brief, your creative process, the tools used, challenges faced, and the impact of your design.
• Ensure your portfolio is easily accessible (e.g., a personal website, Behance profile, or PDF).
• Be prepared to discuss how you adhere to brand guidelines and handle constructive criticism.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for a potential design exercise or a take-home assignment that simulates a real-world task, such as creating a social media graphic or updating a brochure layout.
• Practice articulating your design choices concisely and confidently.
• Research Emergency University's existing branding and marketing materials to understand their current visual identity and potential areas for enhancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides practical advice for the interview process, focusing on portfolio presentation and potential design challenges, which are standard for creative roles and can be framed as operational assessments of skill and process.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Absolute proficiency required in Photoshop (raster graphics, photo editing), Illustrator (vector graphics, logos, illustrations), and InDesign (layout, print design, publishing).
• Design Collaboration Tools: Familiarity with platforms like Figma, Sketch, or Adobe XD for collaborative design and prototyping may be beneficial.
• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Asana, Trello, or Monday.com for tracking project progress and deadlines.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary responsibility, an understanding of how design impacts engagement metrics will be valuable. Familiarity with basic analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, social media analytics dashboards) could be a plus.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role, but understanding how marketing materials integrate with CRM systems or marketing automation platforms (e.g., HubSpot, Marketo) could provide helpful context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools section is specific to graphic design roles, highlighting the essential Adobe Creative Suite. Other tools are mentioned for context, indicating how design integrates with broader marketing operations and technology stacks.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: Emergency University values fresh ideas and novel approaches to visual communication that help achieve institutional goals.
• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and shared responsibility for project success.
• Mission-Driven: A commitment to the university's mission of making a difference, reflected in the purpose and impact of design work.
• Quality & Precision: Dedication to producing high-quality, polished designs that meet professional standards and accurately represent the institution.
• Continuous Learning: Encouragement to stay updated with design trends and technologies to foster professional growth.

Collaboration Style:

• Interactive and communicative, with regular team meetings and project check-ins.
• Emphasis on constructive feedback and iterative design processes.
• Cross-functional collaboration with marketing, communications, and potentially academic departments.
• Knowledge sharing through design critiques and internal workshops.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section infers values and collaboration styles based on the company name and typical educational institution environments, focusing on how these values translate into daily operational practices for a designer.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Constraints: Effectively translating creative vision into designs that strictly adhere to brand guidelines, institutional policies, and budget limitations.
• Managing Multiple Stakeholders: Juggling design requests and feedback from various departments and individuals, each with potentially different priorities.
• Keeping Pace with Trends: Continuously updating design skills and software knowledge to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
• Demonstrating ROI: Quantifying the impact of design work on marketing campaign success and institutional objectives can be challenging.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Design Training: Access to workshops or online courses for advanced techniques in areas like UI/UX, motion graphics, or specific Adobe software features.
• Industry Conferences: Opportunities to attend design conferences (e.g., Adobe MAX, AIGA events) to network and learn about emerging trends.
• Mentorship Program: Guidance from senior designers or marketing professionals to navigate career paths and develop professional skills.
• Cross-Departmental Projects: Gaining exposure to different facets of university operations through collaborative projects, broadening understanding of institutional needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed in an operational context, focusing on process management, stakeholder engagement, and skill adaptation, which are common in GTM roles. Growth opportunities are linked to skill development and career progression within a creative operations framework.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance creative freedom with strict brand guidelines. How did you approach it?" (Preparation: Prepare a specific example from your portfolio, highlighting your process and problem-solving.)
• "How do you approach interpreting a design brief and understanding the target audience for a project?" (Preparation: Discuss your methods for asking clarifying questions and conducting research.)
• "Walk us through your process for creating a social media graphic from concept to final delivery." (Preparation: Be ready to present a relevant case study and detail each step, including tool usage.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Emergency University's mission and how do you see your design skills contributing to it?" (Preparation: Research the university's mission statement, recent initiatives, and values.)
• "How do you handle constructive criticism on your designs?" (Preparation: Emphasize your openness to feedback and your process for incorporating revisions.)
• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you contribute to a collaborative workspace." (Preparation: Highlight your teamwork skills and proactive communication approach.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select 3-5 projects that showcase your versatility and best align with the job description's requirements.
• For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, the tools used, and the outcome.
• Be prepared to discuss your design choices, rationale, and any challenges encountered.
• Ensure your presentation is concise, engaging, and visually appealing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are designed to assess not only design skills but also operational competencies like problem-solving, strategic thinking, and collaboration, crucial for GTM roles. Portfolio presentation strategy focuses on demonstrating process and impact.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this graphic design position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Emergency University careers page.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features marketing collateral and digital graphics relevant to educational institutions or non-profits, highlighting your ability to adapt to diverse project needs.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize skills such as Adobe Creative Suite proficiency, brand guideline adherence, project management, and collaborative teamwork, using keywords from the job description.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving strategies, and how your work contributes to marketing objectives. Prepare specific examples for potential design challenges.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Emergency University's mission, values, and existing marketing efforts to demonstrate genuine interest and understand their brand aesthetic and communication goals.

⚠️ 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.