Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Kansas State University Foundation

Location: Manhattan, Kansas, United States

Job Type: Regular Full-Time, Exempt

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing

Date Posted: January 21, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and execute compelling graphic designs across print, digital, and video mediums to support organizational objectives.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to conceptualize and deliver visually engaging creative assets.

• Manage the end-to-end production process for print and digital design projects, ensuring quality and adherence to brand guidelines.

• Contribute to the visual storytelling and brand consistency of the Kansas State University Foundation.

• Maintain and organize digital assets, including photo archives, to facilitate efficient content creation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is classified under Creative & Media, specifically Art & Design, with significant overlap into Marketing functions due to its focus on brand identity, publications, and campaign materials. The experience level is inferred from the 3+ years of required experience.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce high-impact graphic assets for a diverse range of projects including magazines, brochures, websites, email campaigns, social media graphics, and video elements.

• Translate project goals and stakeholder requirements into creative design concepts that resonate with target audiences.

• Ensure a cohesive visual design strategy by integrating elements across online, video, and print communications.

• Oversee the production workflow for print materials, including vendor selection, bid management, proofing, and quality control to ensure accurate and timely delivery.

• Organize, categorize, and maintain digital asset libraries, including photographic archives, and provide support for photo shoots as needed.

• Proactively identify opportunities to enhance the visual appeal and effectiveness of marketing and communication materials.

• Stay current with design trends, software updates, and best practices to bring innovative ideas to the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Responsibilities are expanded to detail the full scope of a graphic designer role within a foundation setting, emphasizing cross-channel integration and production management, common in operations-adjacent creative functions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite: Expert-level skills in InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator for page layout, photo editing, and vector graphics creation.

• Digital Design Expertise: Demonstrated ability to create compelling visuals for web, email campaigns, and social media platforms.

• Print Production Management: Strong understanding of print processes, pre-press requirements, and vendor management.

• Concept Development: Ability to brainstorm, conceptualize, and translate ideas into effective visual designs.

• Interpersonal Skills: Excellent communication and collaboration abilities, with a customer-focused approach to working with internal stakeholders.

• Team Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively within a team environment, contributing to shared goals and meeting project deadlines.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Familiarity with Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook for general office tasks and content integration.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects).

• Familiarity with Content Management Systems (CMS) for web updates.

• Basic understanding of UX/UI principles for web design.

• Experience in managing photo archives and coordinating photo shoots.

• Knowledge of brand management principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Skill requirements are detailed based on the listed responsibilities and typical expectations for a graphic designer with 3+ years of experience, emphasizing technical proficiencies and collaborative competencies.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a diverse range of design projects, including print publications (magazines, brochures), digital assets (web graphics, email campaigns), and potentially video elements.

• Demonstrations of conceptual thinking and problem-solving through design.

• Examples that highlight the ability to integrate visual design across multiple platforms and media types.

• Clear presentation of before-and-after scenarios or project evolution to showcase design process and impact.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase examples of how design briefs were interpreted and translated into final designs.

• Illustrate the workflow from initial concept to final asset delivery, including revision cycles and stakeholder feedback integration.

• Provide insights into how design assets were organized and maintained within a digital asset management system or archive.

• Detail the steps taken to ensure brand consistency and quality control across all design outputs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Portfolio requirements are specified to align with the described responsibilities, emphasizing the need to demonstrate practical design skills, production management capabilities, and the ability to work within a structured environment.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $55,000 - $62,000 annually. This range is competitive for a Graphic Designer role with 2-5 years of experience in the Manhattan, Kansas area, reflecting the stated responsibilities and requirements.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Includes competitive health, dental, and life insurance plans.

• Financial Wellness: Voluntary benefits and company-paid Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions.

• Retirement Planning: 403(b) retirement plan with a generous 10% company contribution.

• Generous Paid Time Off: Includes holidays, vacation, wellness days, personal days, parental leave, and volunteer leave.

• Professional Development: Tuition and certification assistance, plus a $300 annual wellness reimbursement program.

• Supportive Work Environment: Embraces flexibility within a structured framework, fostering a positive work-life balance.

• Mission-Driven Work: Opportunity to engage in work that has a significant, positive impact.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week. The role is full-time and exempt, implying standard business hours with potential for occasional flexibility to meet project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary range is directly from the provided data. Benefits are detailed from the job description, highlighting aspects attractive to professionals seeking stability and growth. Working hours are inferred from the "Regular Full-Time, Exempt" status.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Education / Non-profit Foundation. The Kansas State University Foundation operates within the higher education support sector, focusing on fundraising and resource development for Kansas State University. This context implies a mission-driven culture centered on academic advancement and community impact.

Company Size: The organization's size is not explicitly stated, but a university foundation typically comprises a substantial team dedicated to development, alumni relations, marketing, and administrative functions. This suggests a mid-to-large sized organization with established processes and a diverse workforce.

Founded: The founding date is not provided, but university foundations generally have a long history tied to the establishment and growth of their respective institutions. This indicates a stable organization with deep roots and a long-term vision.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer likely sits within a Marketing or Communications department.

• This department may include other creative professionals, writers, editors, and digital marketing specialists.

• Collaboration is expected across various departments within the Foundation (e.g., Development, Alumni Relations, Events) to support their communication needs.

Methodology:

• Design projects are likely guided by established brand standards and strategic communication plans.

• A collaborative approach to concept development is expected, involving input from stakeholders.

• Production workflows will involve project management tools and clear communication channels with vendors.

• Emphasis is placed on creating cohesive visual narratives that support fundraising and university initiatives.

Company Website: https://ksufoundation.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: Company context is inferred from the name "Kansas State University Foundation" and common structures of university advancement organizations. This helps frame the operational environment for a creative role.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an intermediate-level position within the creative field, suitable for a Graphic Designer with 3+ years of dedicated experience. It involves significant responsibility for design execution, project coordination, and brand adherence, but typically without direct management oversight of other designers.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Creative Director, Marketing Manager, or a senior member of the Communications team. This structure provides guidance and oversight while allowing for creative autonomy on assigned projects.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer plays a crucial role in shaping the public perception and internal communication of the Kansas State University Foundation. Their work directly influences the effectiveness of fundraising campaigns, alumni engagement efforts, and the overall brand image of the organization, thereby contributing significantly to the Foundation's mission and success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific design areas such as publication design, digital marketing graphics, or even basic motion graphics.

• Project Leadership: Potential to take on lead designer roles for specific campaigns or publications, managing timelines and coordinating with stakeholders.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Gain exposure to different facets of marketing and communications within a non-profit and educational setting.

• Advancement: Potential to advance to a Senior Graphic Designer or Art Director role within the Foundation or a related organization, depending on performance and acquired experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth analysis is tailored to a mid-level creative role, focusing on skill development and potential career progression within a non-profit/educational foundation context.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is explicitly stated as "onsite" in Manhattan, KS, indicating a traditional office environment. This setting typically fosters direct collaboration, spontaneous idea-sharing, and a structured workday.

Office Location(s): 1800 Kimball Avenue Ste 200, Manhattan, KS 66502. This location provides a physical hub for the Foundation's operations, likely situated in a professional office building conducive to focused work and team interaction.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace likely includes access to dedicated design workstations equipped with necessary software and hardware.

• Opportunities for in-person collaboration with colleagues in marketing, communications, and other departments will be readily available.

• A professional office setting supports focused design work and client interactions.

• The environment is expected to be mission-oriented, with a focus on supporting the goals of Kansas State University.

Work Schedule: Standard business hours, 40 hours per week, are expected for this full-time exempt position. While the environment embraces flexibility within a framework, core working hours are likely consistent to ensure team collaboration and project continuity.

📝 Enhancement Note: Work environment details are derived from the "onsite" designation and physical address, contextualizing the daily experience for a designer in this setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and creative fit.

• First Interview: Likely with the hiring manager (e.g., Creative Director, Marketing Manager) to discuss experience, design philosophy, and alignment with the Foundation's mission. This may include behavioral questions.

• Design Challenge/Portfolio Review: Candidates may be asked to present their portfolio in detail, discussing their process, design choices, and problem-solving approaches for specific projects. A practical design exercise might also be assigned.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership or key stakeholders from departments the designer will support, focusing on cultural fit, communication skills, and strategic thinking.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase a range of skills (print, digital, concept development).

• Tell the Story: For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your role, the design process, challenges faced, and the outcome or impact. Use visuals to support your narrative.

• Highlight Process: Demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and how you approach design challenges. Show sketches, wireframes, or early concepts if appropriate.

• Showcase Versatility: Include examples that demonstrate your ability to adapt your style and approach to different project types and audiences.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, provide metrics or results that show the effectiveness of your designs (e.g., increased engagement, successful campaign metrics).

• Tailor to the Foundation: Consider including pieces that align with the non-profit/educational sector or demonstrate an understanding of their audience.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: If a design challenge is given, thoroughly read and understand the objectives, target audience, and any constraints.

• Time Management: Allocate your time wisely between conceptualization, design execution, and presentation preparation.

• Focus on Strategy: Be prepared to explain the strategic thinking behind your design choices, not just aesthetic preferences.

• Presentation Clarity: Practice presenting your work concisely and professionally, anticipating questions about your process and decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview and portfolio advice is tailored for a graphic designer role, emphasizing the presentation of creative work and the demonstration of relevant skills within a structured application process.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: This is the core requirement, specifically:

  • Adobe InDesign: For layout design of publications like magazines and brochures.
  • Adobe Photoshop: For photo editing, manipulation, and web graphic creation.
  • Adobe Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, icons, and illustrations.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Including Word (for text integration), PowerPoint (for presentations), and Outlook (for communication).

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• No specific CRM or automation tools are listed as required for the designer, but understanding how design assets are deployed through marketing automation platforms (e.g., for email campaigns) can be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is directly derived from the "Requirements" section, emphasizing the critical Adobe Creative Suite proficiency and standard office software.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission Alignment: A strong commitment to supporting the mission of Kansas State University through effective communication and design.

• Collaboration: Valuing teamwork and open communication to achieve shared goals and successful project outcomes.

• Creativity & Innovation: Encouraging fresh ideas and innovative design solutions that enhance the Foundation's outreach.

• Quality & Professionalism: Maintaining high standards in all design work and professional interactions.

• Customer Focus: A dedication to understanding and meeting the needs of internal stakeholders who rely on design services.

• Efficiency: Streamlining design and production processes to deliver timely and effective results.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with writers, marketing specialists, development officers, and other departments to ensure design aligns with overall communication strategies.

• Feedback & Iteration: A culture that embraces constructive feedback to refine designs and achieve optimal results.

• Proactive Support: Being responsive to the design needs of various teams within the Foundation, acting as a creative partner.

• Knowledge Sharing: Sharing design best practices and insights within the creative team and with stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: Values and collaboration style are inferred from the company's mission (university foundation) and the nature of a creative role within such an organization, emphasizing teamwork and mission focus.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Diverse Needs: Juggling design requests from multiple departments with varying priorities and brand interpretations.

• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring all creative output adheres to established brand guidelines across different media and projects.

• Meeting Tight Deadlines: Managing workload effectively to deliver high-quality designs within compressed timelines, common in fundraising and event-driven environments.

• Adapting to Evolving Trends: Staying current with design software updates and visual communication trends while aligning with a traditional institutional brand.

• Measuring Design Impact: Quantifying the effectiveness of design work in contributing to fundraising goals and other organizational objectives.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Techniques: Opportunities to attend workshops or online courses to master new features in Adobe Creative Suite or explore new design specializations.

• Industry Best Practices: Learning about effective design strategies for non-profit fundraising and educational institutions.

• Project Management Skills: Developing stronger skills in managing project timelines, resources, and stakeholder expectations.

• Mentorship: Potential to learn from senior members of the marketing and communications team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges and growth opportunities are framed around the specific context of a graphic designer in a university foundation, addressing common pressures and avenues for professional development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for taking a design brief from initial concept to final delivery." (Focus on workflow, stakeholder communication, and iteration.)

• "How do you ensure brand consistency across multiple projects and platforms?" (Highlight adherence to brand guides, style sheets, and quality control measures.)

• "Tell me about a time you had to manage competing design priorities. How did you handle it?" (Demonstrate prioritization, time management, and communication skills.)

• "What is your experience with print production, and how do you ensure quality output from vendors?" (Detail your understanding of pre-press, vendor liaison, and proofing.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for the Kansas State University Foundation specifically?" (Research the Foundation's mission, recent campaigns, and values.)

• "How do you see your design skills contributing to our mission of supporting K-State?" (Connect your abilities to their goals of fundraising and university advancement.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically, perhaps by project type or by demonstrating a progression of skills.

• Narrative: For each piece, clearly state the objective, your role, your process, the challenges, and the outcome. Use storytelling to engage the interviewer.

• Visuals: Ensure your digital portfolio is clean, professional, and easy to navigate. Be prepared to share your screen and zoom into details.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, software proficiency, and problem-solving approach.

• Enthusiasm: Show passion for design and genuine interest in the Foundation's work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation focuses on common graphic design interview topics, emphasizing the need to connect skills to the specific organizational mission and demonstrate a structured approach to creative problem-solving.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the recruiting.paylocity.com platform.

• Portfolio Preparation: Ensure your online portfolio is up-to-date, well-organized, and showcases 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects. Be ready to discuss your process and outcomes for each.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 3+ years of experience, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, and any relevant experience with publications, web graphics, or print production. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your design philosophy, collaboration style, and how your skills align with the mission of the Kansas State University Foundation. Practice presenting your portfolio.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with the Kansas State University Foundation's mission, recent initiatives, and overall brand identity to demonstrate your interest and understanding.

⚠️ 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.

---