Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer Company: Brigham Young University–Hawaii Location: BYU–Hawaii, United States of America Job Type: PART_TIME Category: Creative Operations / Marketing Operations Date Posted: August 26, 2025 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is ideal for a student with developing graphic design skills, seeking to gain practical experience in a dynamic media environment.
• The graphic designer will be responsible for visual communications for the monthly student magazine, "The Ke Alaka'i," including print and digital platforms.
• Key responsibilities involve creating engaging layouts, graphics, and multimedia content using industry-standard design software.
• The position emphasizes both individual contribution and team collaboration, fostering a holistic understanding of the creative process within a media publication.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw job description doesn't explicitly state "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations," the graphic design function directly supports marketing and communications efforts, which are integral to the revenue generation process. Therefore, this role can be categorized under Creative Operations or Marketing Operations, aligning with broader GTM (Go-To-Market) strategies. The focus on visual storytelling and brand representation is crucial for attracting and engaging audiences, contributing indirectly to organizational growth and revenue.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and execute captivating art and copy layouts for print and digital media, adhering to design principles and aesthetic concepts.
• Collaborate closely with clients (internal stakeholders and magazine editors) to understand design requirements and translate them into compelling visual solutions.
• Develop visually appealing graphics, illustrations, and logos for the Ke Alaka'i magazine, website, and social media channels.
• Utilize Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) to generate and refine visual assets, ensuring high-quality output.
• Participate actively in three weekly planning and training meetings, contributing to team brainstorming and strategy development.
• Work collaboratively with the design team and other Ke Alaka'i staff to ensure cohesive and impactful visual content across all platforms.
• Manage personal workload effectively, prioritizing tasks to meet strict deadlines for monthly publication cycles.
• Assist in multimedia training and project execution, both individually and as part of a team, expanding skill sets in emerging media.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the overall mission and output of The Ke Alaka'i magazine.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed are common for entry-level graphic designers in media publications. The emphasis on "client conferencing" (stakeholder communication) and "team collaboration" highlights the importance of soft skills in an operations context, where effective communication and teamwork are paramount for successful project delivery and process efficiency. The requirement to attend multiple meetings per week underscores the need for strong time management and a proactive approach to workflow.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Completion of lower-division courses, demonstrating foundational academic knowledge relevant to design or communications.

Experience: A minimum of 3 months of directly relevant work experience, ideally gained through internships, previous part-time roles, or significant project-based work in graphic design.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in graphic design principles and layout design.
• Expertise in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign for creating and editing visual assets.
• Demonstrated ability in concept development and creating sample layouts based on design principles.
• Experience in developing graphics for product illustrations, logos, and web design.
• Strong time management skills with the ability to meet deadlines consistently.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective client interaction and team collaboration.
• A strong portfolio showcasing design capabilities, including sample layouts and infographics.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with multimedia training and project execution.
• Familiarity with website and social media design principles.
• Ability to generate new images using computer software.
• Creative problem-solving skills and a keen eye for aesthetic design.
• Experience working within a team environment and contributing to collaborative projects.
• Understanding of brand guidelines and visual consistency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Lower Division Courses Completed" and "3 Months of Directly Relevant Experience" indicate an entry-level to early-career focus. For operations roles, this translates to individuals who are developing their core competencies in process execution and tool utilization. The emphasis on a portfolio is critical, as it serves as a tangible demonstration of an applicant's ability to translate theoretical knowledge into practical, impactful outputs, a key requirement for any operations professional.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of design projects, including print layouts, digital graphics, and web elements.
• Specific examples of two-page layouts demonstrating an understanding of visual hierarchy, typography, and reader flow.
• A dedicated section featuring an infographic, illustrating data visualization skills and the ability to communicate complex information clearly and concisely.
• Projects should highlight the applicant's proficiency with Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
• Portfolio should demonstrate an ability to adhere to design briefs and client specifications.

Process Documentation:

• While not explicitly stated, candidates are expected to demonstrate an understanding of the design process from concept to final output.
• The ability to articulate the steps taken to create a design, including research, sketching, digital execution, and revision, is implicitly valued.
• Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they manage their workflow and ensure quality control throughout the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for a portfolio containing specific deliverables (two-page layout, infographic) is a crucial aspect for operations roles. It signifies the need for candidates to present tangible proof of their skills and ability to execute complex tasks. This is analogous to operations professionals needing to demonstrate their process improvements, system implementations, or data analysis findings through case studies or project documentation. The expectation of understanding the design process also aligns with operations' focus on workflow mapping and optimization.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The base rate offered is $14.00 per hour. Given this is a part-time student position at a university, this rate is competitive for entry-level roles within an academic setting in Hawaii. For comparable entry-level graphic design roles in the broader Honolulu metropolitan area, hourly rates can range from $15-$20, depending on experience and specific duties.

Benefits: As a part-time student position at Brigham Young University–Hawaii, benefits typically include:

• Valuable hands-on experience in graphic design and media production.
• Opportunity for professional development and skill enhancement in Adobe Creative Suite.
• Exposure to a collaborative team environment and practical project management.
• Potential for networking within the university's media and communications departments.
• Flexible work hours that can accommodate academic schedules.
• Adherence to the university's Honor Code, fostering a principled work environment.

Working Hours: The role is part-time, with flexible work hours. However, candidates must demonstrate strong self-management skills to meet deadlines. The university also notes a preference for students who can work during academic breaks, suggesting potential for extended hours during those periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is clearly stated as $14.00/hour. The "benefits" section focuses on the experiential and developmental aspects, which are common for student positions. The mention of "flexible work hours" but also the need to "manage their own time and meet deadlines" is a critical insight into the operational expectations: autonomy paired with accountability. This is a common theme in many operations roles where individuals are empowered to manage their workflows but are held responsible for outcomes and timely delivery.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education / Publishing Company Size: Brigham Young University–Hawaii is part of a larger educational institution. Specific department sizes for student media can vary, but student roles typically involve working within a focused team. The university's overall size contributes to a structured environment with established processes. Founded: BYU–Hawaii was founded in 1955, highlighting a long-standing commitment to education and student development. This history suggests a culture that values tradition, mentorship, and continuous improvement.

Team Structure:

• The graphic designer will be part of the student magazine, "The Ke Alaka'i," likely working within a dedicated design team.
• This team will report to a faculty advisor or a professional staff member overseeing student publications.
• Collaboration is expected with other student staff members, including writers, editors, and potentially web developers, fostering cross-functional interaction.

Methodology:

• The design process will likely involve iterative feedback loops, from initial concept to final approval, ensuring alignment with publication goals.
• Emphasis on meeting publication deadlines will drive workflow planning and execution.
• Multimedia training suggests an openness to adopting new technologies and creative approaches.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding the context of a university environment is key. Operations within educational institutions often involve structured processes, a focus on student development, and a blend of academic and practical work. The "Ke Alaka'i" magazine acts as a training ground, meaning the operations here are geared towards learning and skill-building, with a strong emphasis on process adherence and mentorship.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level, student-focused position. It serves as a foundational experience for individuals looking to build a career in graphic design, visual communications, or media production.

Reporting Structure: The graphic designer will report to a supervisor within the student magazine's editorial or production team, likely a faculty advisor or a student editor-in-chief. This structure provides direct guidance and feedback.

Operations Impact: The graphic designer's work directly impacts the visual appeal and engagement of "The Ke Alaka'i" magazine, its website, and social media. High-quality visuals are crucial for attracting readership, conveying information effectively, and maintaining the publication's brand identity, which indirectly supports the university's communication and outreach goals.

Growth Opportunities:

• Develop a robust portfolio with professional-quality work, essential for future job applications in design or related fields.
• Gain practical, hands-on experience with industry-standard software (Adobe Creative Suite).
• Enhance skills in time management, project execution, and working within team-based creative environments.
• Learn about the editorial and production workflow of a publication.
• Potential for increased responsibility or specialized projects within the magazine based on performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, identifying growth opportunities within a role is vital. This position offers significant growth in technical skills (design software), project management (meeting deadlines), and collaborative abilities. These are transferable skills highly valued in any operations discipline, from sales operations to marketing operations, where efficiency and effective execution are key performance indicators.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work is likely performed in a university office or studio environment, providing access to necessary equipment and a collaborative workspace.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is BYU–Hawaii campus.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be a typical office or studio setting equipped with computers and design software.
• Collaboration with peers in a team setting is encouraged, facilitating idea sharing and project development.
• The environment supports focused work on individual design tasks while also fostering interaction for planning and training meetings.

Work Schedule: Flexible work hours are offered, allowing students to balance their academic responsibilities with their job duties. However, the need to manage time effectively and meet deadlines is paramount.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role means that candidates must be comfortable working within a structured physical environment. The emphasis on "flexible work hours" but the concurrent need for "time management and meeting deadlines" points to an operational expectation of autonomy and accountability, common in many operations roles where individual contribution directly impacts team or organizational output.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Resumes and any submitted portfolios will be reviewed for relevant skills and experience.
• Portfolio Submission & Sample Task: Applicants are required to submit a portfolio and will be asked to complete a sample two-page layout and create an infographic as part of the hiring process. This is a critical evaluation step.
• Interview: Candidates who pass the initial review and sample task will likely participate in an interview to discuss their experience, design approach, and fit with the team.
• Final Evaluation: Assessment will be based on portfolio quality, sample task performance, and interview responses.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Versatility: Include a diverse range of projects that demonstrate your skills across different design mediums (print, digital, web).
• Highlight Process: For the required two-page layout and infographic, briefly explain your thought process, design choices, and how you approached the challenge.
• Quality over Quantity: Ensure all presented work is high-resolution and error-free.
• Tailor to the Role: If possible, include projects that align with the style and content of "The Ke Alaka'i."
• Professional Presentation: Organize your portfolio logically and ensure it is easily navigable, whether digital or physical.

Challenge Preparation:

• Practice Layouts: Familiarize yourself with creating balanced, engaging two-page spreads. Consider grid systems, typography hierarchy, and image placement.
• Infographic Design: Study effective infographic design principles, focusing on data visualization, storytelling, and visual clarity. Practice translating data into compelling graphics.
• Software Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience and demonstrate your comfort level with Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for a portfolio review and practical design tasks is a significant indicator of how candidates will be evaluated. This mirrors operations hiring processes where candidates might be asked to complete case studies, present data analysis, or demonstrate proficiency with specific operational tools. Preparing thoroughly for these practical assessments is key to success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, and illustration creation.
• Adobe Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, and digital painting.
• Adobe InDesign: For layout design of magazines, brochures, and other print materials.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly stated for this role, understanding how design impacts engagement metrics (e.g., website traffic, social media shares) would be a plus.

CRM & Automation:

• Not applicable to this specific role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) is crucial. For operations professionals, identifying the core technology stack is vital for assessing skill alignment. This highlights the importance of tool proficiency, a cornerstone of operational efficiency and effectiveness.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity and Innovation: Encouraging new ideas and visually engaging solutions.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with team members to achieve common goals.
• Professionalism: Upholding standards of quality, communication, and ethical conduct, including adherence to the university's Honor Code.
• Efficiency and Timeliness: Managing workload effectively to meet publication deadlines.
• Continuous Improvement: Willingness to learn new skills and adapt to evolving design trends and technologies.

Collaboration Style:

• The team fosters a collaborative environment where members work together on projects, share ideas, and provide constructive feedback.
• Regular meetings are scheduled to ensure alignment and coordinated effort across the publication's various departments.
• Cross-functional collaboration with writers, editors, and potentially web or social media teams is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on the university's Honor Code and adherence to dress/grooming principles indicates a culture that values integrity, discipline, and a professional appearance. For operations roles, aligning with company values and demonstrating a professional, collaborative approach is just as important as technical skill.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Meeting Tight Deadlines: Balancing multiple design projects with strict submission deadlines for a monthly publication.
• Adapting to Feedback: Incorporating constructive criticism from editors and team members while maintaining creative integrity.
• Versatility: Designing for a range of content types, from articles and features to infographics and promotional materials for different platforms.
• Time Management: Effectively managing personal workflow and priorities as a student with other academic commitments.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas of graphic design, such as typography, illustration, or data visualization.
• Industry Software Mastery: Gaining advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite tools.
• Portfolio Enhancement: Building a strong, professional portfolio that can significantly boost future career prospects.
• Publication Workflow Understanding: Learning the end-to-end process of creating and publishing a magazine.

📝 Enhancement Note: Recognizing potential challenges and growth opportunities is a key part of interview preparation for any operations role. This section helps candidates anticipate hurdles and identify how the role can contribute to their professional development, aligning with career aspirations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Portfolio Walkthrough: Be prepared to walk through your portfolio, explaining your design process, rationale behind key decisions, and the impact of your work for specific projects.
• Design Challenges: Discuss your approach to the sample two-page layout and infographic assignment. Explain your design choices, tools used, and how you ensured clarity and visual appeal.
• Software Proficiency: Be ready to answer questions about your experience with Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, potentially including specific features or techniques you regularly use.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Describe your experience working in teams, how you handle feedback, and your approach to collaborating with editors and other designers.
• Time Management: Explain how you manage your workload and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines, especially when balancing multiple projects or academic responsibilities.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research BYU–Hawaii and "The Ke Alaka'i" magazine to understand their mission, audience, and style.
• Be prepared to discuss how your design philosophy aligns with the university's Honor Code and the publication's values.
• Consider how your contribution can enhance the visual communication efforts of the magazine and the university.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or client.
• Narrative: For each key project (especially the sample layout and infographic), tell a brief story about the challenge, your process, and the outcome.
• Clarity: Ensure your digital portfolio is easy to navigate and loads quickly. If presenting physical pieces, ensure they are clean and well-maintained.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your work effectively and efficiently within the allotted time.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation advice focuses on demonstrating practical skills, process understanding, and cultural fit. For operations roles, articulating your process, showcasing your ability to use tools, and demonstrating how you contribute to team objectives are critical components of a successful interview.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the BYU–Hawaii careers portal.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate your best graphic design work, ensuring it includes a diverse range of projects. Specifically, prepare a strong two-page layout example and a compelling infographic to meet the explicit application requirements.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your relevant coursework, any internship or part-time experience in design, and proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite. Use keywords from the job description such as "layout design," "visual communications," and "infographic creation."
• Practice Design Tasks: Familiarize yourself with creating two-page layouts and infographics. Be ready to discuss your process and design choices for these specific deliverables during the hiring process.
• Research the Publication: Understand the style, content, and audience of "The Ke Alaka'i" magazine to better align your application and potential interview responses.

⚠️ 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.