Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer Company: Art and Wellness Enterprises Location: Bentonville, AR, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design Date Posted: 2026-02-06 Experience Level: 2-5 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in shaping the visual identity and communication materials for a renowned art and wellness institution, requiring a strong blend of creative design and production expertise.
• The Graphic Designer will be instrumental in translating organizational messaging into compelling visual assets across both print and digital mediums, directly impacting brand perception and engagement.
• This position demands meticulous project management, ensuring timely and budget-conscious delivery of high-quality design outputs that align with brand standards and creative direction.
• Collaboration is key, as the designer will work closely with the Creative Director and other stakeholders to iterate on designs and ensure cohesive communication strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the provided job description focuses on graphic design, the context of "Art and Wellness Enterprises" and the specific mention of "Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art" and "The Momentary" suggest a need for a designer who can adapt to a mission-driven organization with a strong emphasis on community engagement, artistic expression, and a unique brand identity. The role requires not just aesthetic skill but also an understanding of how design serves broader organizational goals.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and produce a wide range of communications materials, including institutional collateral, event identities, print and outdoor advertising, educational guides, banners, brochures, development and membership materials, and digital graphics for websites and social media.
• Ensure all design outputs strictly adhere to established brand standards and align with the creative direction provided by the Creative Director and Chief Communications and Marketing Officer.
• Collaborate actively with the Creative Director and other team members for art direction, feedback, and to ensure a unified creative vision.
• Manage design revisions effectively, accommodating and tracking changes requested by stakeholders throughout the project implementation process.
• Maintain comprehensive project records, including detailed process documentation and digital archival copies of all final work products for future reference and auditing.
• Oversee in-house production tasks and liaise with external vendors for outsourced projects, including attending press checks to ensure print quality and accuracy.
• Manage and maintain the non-collection image database, including the responsible management of usage permissions through a digital asset management system.
• Attend initial project meetings with stakeholders to gather requirements, understand objectives, and solicit feedback on design concepts and progress.
• Conduct thorough proofreading of all design projects to identify and correct errors in content, layout, and printing accuracy before final production.
• Provide integrated graphic design support for various museum events, ensuring consistent branding and visual appeal across all event-related materials.
• Adapt and convert designs for various digital formats, including in-museum screens, digital displays, and social media platforms, optimizing for each medium.
• Write detailed specifications for project estimates, working with vendors and internal teams to ensure accurate budgeting and cost control for design projects.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Creative Director or Communications leadership, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to contribute to broader team objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for a designer who can operate independently on day-to-day tasks while also contributing to strategic campaign development. The emphasis on "print production process," "vendors," and "press checks" indicates a requirement for hands-on production knowledge and vendor management skills, not just conceptual design. The mention of a "digital asset management system" points to the importance of organizational skills and digital file management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
• Equivalent combination of relevant education and/or experience will be considered.

Experience:

• Minimum of two (2) years of professional work experience specifically in graphic design.
• Agency experience or prior work within a creative team is preferred.
• Two (2) years of experience preferred in at least two of the following areas: communications, business management, education, or an arts-related field.
• Experience utilizing digital asset management systems is desired.

Required Skills:

• Expert proficiency in Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe Photoshop.
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Word, with strong proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint for project coordination and reporting.
• Solid understanding and practical knowledge of the print production process, including pre-press, color management, and various printing techniques.
• Demonstrated experience in conceptualizing and executing multifaceted communications materials for diverse audiences.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts and receive feedback constructively.
• Proven production experience, including preparing files for print and digital output.
• Ability to maintain the highest levels of confidentiality and discretion in handling sensitive organizational information.
• High ethical standards aligned with museum practices and organizational values.
• A belief in the museum’s mission as a force for social good and economic development.

Preferred Skills:

• Exemplary design and typography skills with a strong portfolio showcasing a broad spectrum of creative work.
• Experience in web design and digital interface design principles.
• Photography skills, including shooting and editing, are a plus.
• Experience with motion graphics or video editing software.
• Familiarity with content management systems (CMS) for web updates.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "Expert knowledge" in Adobe Creative Suite, combined with a "solid understanding of the print production process," indicates that this role is hands-on and requires a designer who can manage projects from concept to final output, including technical print specifications. The mention of "agency experience or work as part of a creative team" suggests a preference for candidates who can collaborate effectively and handle fast-paced, deadline-driven environments.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A strong, diverse portfolio demonstrating a minimum of two years of professional graphic design experience, showcasing a range of projects from concept to completion.
• Emphasis on projects that highlight adherence to brand guidelines, creative problem-solving, and effective visual communication for both print and digital applications.
• Inclusion of case studies or project descriptions that explain the design process, objectives, and the impact of the design solutions.
• Samples of work that illustrate proficiency in typography, layout design, and brand identity development.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to document the design process for each project, including initial concept development, stakeholder feedback integration, design revisions, and final production preparation.
• Experience in maintaining organized digital archives of design assets, including version control and proper file naming conventions.
• Familiarity with workflow management for design projects, including tracking progress, managing deadlines, and coordinating with team members and external vendors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description implies that a strong portfolio is critical, with specific emphasis on "design and typography skills," "layout design," and "template management." Candidates should be prepared to showcase projects that demonstrate their ability to work within established brand frameworks while also demonstrating creativity and originality. The mention of "production experience" and "working with vendors" suggests that portfolio pieces should ideally reflect experience with print production and the ability to manage projects through to final output.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Graphic Designers with 2-5 years of experience in a mid-sized metropolitan area with a strong arts and culture scene, a competitive salary range is estimated between $55,000 - $75,000 annually. This range is contingent upon the candidate's specific experience, skills, and the overall compensation structure of Art and Wellness Enterprises.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) including vacation, sick days, and holidays.
• Retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions (e.g., 401(k)).
• Professional development opportunities, including workshops, conferences, and training related to graphic design and museum communications.
• Access to museum events, exhibitions, and grounds, fostering a connection to the organization's mission.
• Employee assistance program (EAP) for confidential support.
• Potential for participation in internal design initiatives and creative brainstorming sessions.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work week, typically 40 hours per week.
• Occasional evening or weekend work may be required for events or to meet project deadlines, with advance notice provided.

📝 Enhancement Note: As no specific salary was provided, an estimated range has been generated based on typical compensation for a Graphic Designer with 2-5 years of experience in a location like Bentonville, AR. This estimate accounts for the cost of living and the specialized nature of the role within a museum context. Benefits are inferred based on standard offerings for full-time positions at non-profit organizations of this nature.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts & Culture / Non-profit / Museum Operations Company Size: The organization operates Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and The Momentary, suggesting a substantial non-profit entity with multiple facets, likely employing several hundred individuals across various departments. This size implies a structured environment with opportunities for cross-departmental collaboration. Founded: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art was founded in 2005 and opened in 2011. The Momentary opened in 2020. This history indicates a stable organization with a clear vision and established operational practices, while also being innovative and expanding its reach.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer reports to the Creative Director, indicating a hierarchical creative department.
• Collaboration is expected with the Chief Communications and Marketing Officer and other team members within the Communications department.
• The role will also involve working with various internal stakeholders across different museum departments (e.g., Development, Membership, Education) and external vendors.

Methodology:

• Design solutions are guided by the organization's overarching mission to "welcome all to celebrate the American spirit in a setting that unites the power of art with the beauty of nature."
• Emphasis is placed on adhering to established brand standards while maintaining originality and creativity to effectively communicate the museum's offerings and story.
• A data-driven approach may be implied through the need to convert designs for digital formats and potentially track their effectiveness, though the primary focus is on creative output and brand consistency.
• Workflow management involves managing multiple simultaneous projects with unique criteria, timelines, and priorities, requiring efficient planning and execution.

Company Website: https://awe.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/Art_and_Wellness (Note: This is the job portal URL; the actual company website for Crystal Bridges/The Momentary is likely artandwellness.org or similar. The provided URL is for the application system.)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description emphasizes a mission-driven culture focused on art, nature, community, and inclusivity. This suggests that the Graphic Designer will be part of an organization that values creativity, collaboration, and making a positive impact. Understanding and aligning with this mission will be crucial for success in the role.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level Graphic Designer, requiring a foundational degree and 2+ years of experience. It offers a solid platform for designers looking to specialize within the arts and culture sector. Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer reports directly to the Creative Director, providing a clear line of mentorship and oversight. This structure allows for direct feedback and guidance on creative projects and professional development. Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly influences the museum's public image, visitor engagement, and the effectiveness of its marketing and communication efforts. High-quality design enhances brand perception, supports fundraising initiatives, and communicates the value of art and wellness to a broad audience.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas such as motion graphics, digital design for interactive exhibits, or advanced print production techniques.
• Creative Leadership: Potential to take on lead roles for specific campaigns or projects, contributing more significantly to art direction and strategic planning under the guidance of the Creative Director.
• Industry Exposure: Gaining experience within a prominent museum and contemporary art space provides valuable exposure to the unique demands and opportunities within the arts and culture industry's marketing and communications functions.
• Mentorship: Learning from experienced professionals within the Communications department, including the Creative Director and Chief Communications and Marketing Officer.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career progression within a specialized field. Growth is likely to involve increased responsibility on larger projects, greater creative autonomy, and potentially leading design initiatives within the museum's communication strategy. The emphasis on a "fast-paced environment" and "absolute deadlines" suggests that developing strong project management and time-efficiency skills will be critical for advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based within a museum environment, likely involving a dedicated creative department office space within the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art or The Momentary facilities. This setting is typically professional, collaborative, and aesthetically inspiring. Office Location(s): Bentonville, Arkansas, specifically within the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art or The Momentary premises. These locations are known for their unique architectural designs and integration with natural landscapes.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be equipped with standard office amenities, including a dedicated workstation with necessary hardware and software for graphic design.
• Opportunities for collaboration with colleagues within the Communications department and other museum staff will be readily available.
• The environment is conducive to both focused individual work and collaborative brainstorming sessions, with access to museum grounds and exhibition spaces for creative inspiration.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, typically during regular business hours.
• Flexibility may be required to accommodate museum events, exhibition openings, and urgent project deadlines, which could involve occasional evening or weekend work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within a museum setting offers a unique and inspiring environment. Candidates should expect a professional atmosphere that values creativity and collaboration, with the added benefit of being immersed in art and culture. The on-site nature of the role means direct interaction with colleagues and the physical museum spaces is integral to the work experience.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and creative style against job requirements.
• First Interview: Typically with the hiring manager (Creative Director) to discuss experience, design philosophy, and assess cultural fit. May include a review of portfolio highlights.
• Skills Assessment/Design Challenge: Candidates may be asked to complete a design exercise or present a case study from their portfolio, demonstrating their problem-solving skills, design process, and ability to meet specific creative briefs.
• Second/Final Interview: Potential interview with the Chief Communications and Marketing Officer or other senior leadership to further evaluate strategic thinking, communication skills, and alignment with the organization's mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 5-7 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase versatility across print and digital, strong typography, layout, and brand application.
• Showcase Process: For each project, briefly explain the objective, your role, the design process (concept, iteration, feedback), and the outcome or impact. Use visuals that illustrate your journey.
• Highlight Relevance: Include pieces that demonstrate experience with similar types of projects (e.g., event collateral, marketing materials, institutional branding) or that reflect an understanding of the arts and culture sector.
• Technical Proficiency: Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite and an understanding of print production requirements. If web design is a strength, include relevant examples.
• Digital Presentation: Prepare a digital version of your portfolio (PDF or online link) that is easy to navigate, visually appealing, and loads quickly. Be ready to present live or walk through it during an interview.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: If a design challenge is provided, thoroughly read and understand the objectives, target audience, and any constraints (e.g., deadlines, budget implications).
• Research the Brand: Familiarize yourself with Crystal Bridges and The Momentary's existing brand identity, visual style, and recent campaigns. This will help you align your design solution with their aesthetic.
• Focus on Strategy: Beyond aesthetics, be prepared to articulate the strategic thinking behind your design choices. Why did you choose specific colors, typography, or layouts? How does your design meet the stated objectives?
• Time Management: Practice working under timed conditions if possible. Prioritize key elements and ensure you can deliver a polished, presentable outcome within the given timeframe.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a creative role like this will heavily rely on the portfolio. Candidates should be prepared to not only present their work but also to discuss their design process, rationale, and ability to adapt to feedback and organizational needs. The potential for a design challenge underscores the practical, hands-on nature of the role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Expert-level proficiency required in Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe Photoshop for all design and production tasks.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced skills in Microsoft Word for documentation, Excel for basic data handling (e.g., project lists, vendor details), and PowerPoint for presentations and internal communications.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for this role, familiarity with web analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics) for understanding digital asset performance and basic reporting capabilities within design software or project management tools would be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Experience with Digital Asset Management (DAM) systems is explicitly mentioned as preferred or required for maintaining the non-collection image databank.
• Familiarity with project management software (e.g., Asana, Trello, Monday.com) for tracking multiple simultaneous projects is highly advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements are centered around the Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office. The mention of a "digital asset management system" is a key technical requirement that candidates should highlight if they have experience with such platforms. Web design experience is listed as a plus, suggesting that some familiarity with web graphics optimization and potentially basic HTML/CSS might be advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A drive to produce original, impactful designs that capture the essence of art and wellness.
• Mission Alignment: A commitment to the organization's mission of celebrating American spirit through art and nature, and fostering community engagement.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: A willingness to work closely with colleagues, share ideas, and contribute to a cohesive team effort.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous focus on design quality, accuracy, and adherence to brand standards.
• Efficiency & Reliability: Ability to manage multiple projects effectively, meet deadlines, and deliver high-quality work under pressure.

Collaboration Style:

• The role requires close collaboration with the Creative Director for art direction and feedback, and with other team members within the Communications department to ensure integrated messaging.
• Interaction with various stakeholders across the museum is expected to gather requirements and present design concepts, necessitating clear, professional communication.
• Working with external vendors for print production and other outsourced services will require strong vendor management and communication skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is likely to be one that values artistic expression, a dedication to the museum's mission, and a collaborative spirit. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with a strong sense of ownership over their work and a commitment to quality.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Brand Standards: Ensuring original design while strictly adhering to established brand guidelines and creative direction from leadership.
• Managing Multiple Projects & Deadlines: Juggling numerous projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment with "absolute deadlines" and potentially "worrying production budgets."
• Accommodating Stakeholder Feedback: Effectively managing and incorporating changes requested by various stakeholders while maintaining design integrity and project timelines.
• Adapting to Diverse Project Needs: Designing for a wide array of materials, from print advertising and event collateral to digital graphics and educational materials, each with unique requirements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Design Skills: Opportunities to hone skills in areas like typography, layout, branding, and potentially expand into digital design or motion graphics.
• Industry Experience: Gaining valuable experience in the unique landscape of arts and culture marketing and communications.
• Professional Mentorship: Learning from experienced creative professionals within a renowned museum setting.
• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a broad spectrum of design challenges that enhance versatility and problem-solving abilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge will be navigating the demands of a busy creative department within a large cultural institution, requiring strong organizational skills, resilience, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Growth opportunities are significant for a designer eager to specialize within the arts and culture sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a new visual identity for an event or exhibition." (Focus on research, concept development, stakeholder input, and execution.)
• "How do you ensure your designs adhere to brand guidelines while still being creative and original?" (Highlight your understanding of balancing constraints with innovation.)
• "Walk us through a project in your portfolio that you are particularly proud of. What was the challenge, your approach, and the outcome?" (Be prepared to discuss your design rationale, problem-solving, and impact.)
• "How do you handle constructive criticism or significant revisions from stakeholders?" (Emphasize your ability to collaborate, adapt, and maintain professionalism.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and The Momentary specifically?" (Research their mission, recent exhibitions, and values. Connect your passion for art/design to their work.)
• "How do you see your design skills contributing to our mission of celebrating American spirit through art and nature?" (Think about how visuals can enhance storytelling and engagement.)
• "Describe your experience working in a team environment. How do you collaborate with colleagues and other departments?" (Provide examples of successful teamwork and communication.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each selected project, tell a compelling story that includes the brief, your creative process, challenges overcome, and the final impact.
• Visual Clarity: Ensure your presentation is visually clean, professional, and easy to follow. Use high-quality images and concise text.
• Technical Details: Be ready to discuss the software used, file preparation for print/digital, and any specific production considerations.
• Relevance: Tailor your presentation to highlight projects most relevant to the museum's needs (e.g., event graphics, marketing collateral, branding).
• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about your design choices, problem-solving approach, and ability to meet deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only design skills but also an understanding of the museum's mission, an ability to collaborate within a team, and strong project management capabilities. The portfolio is paramount, so candidates should be adept at discussing their work in detail and relating it to the organization's needs.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application, including your resume and a link to your online portfolio or a PDF version, through the provided Workday job portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features projects demonstrating strong typography, layout design, brand application, and experience with both print and digital media. Include case studies that explain your design process and problem-solving approach.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords from the job description, such as Adobe Creative Suite proficiency, print production knowledge, communication skills, and any experience in arts/culture or non-profit sectors. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and The Momentary. Understand their mission, current exhibitions, brand identity, and recent marketing campaigns to better articulate your interest and how your skills align.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, rationale for design choices, and how you handle feedback. Prepare to discuss specific projects from your portfolio in detail.

⚠️ 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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