Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer Company: Macomb County Government Location: Administration Building, Macomb County, MI Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Services Date Posted: September 17, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is instrumental in developing and executing visual communication strategies for Macomb County, ensuring brand consistency across all platforms.
• The Graphic Designer will be responsible for creating compelling visual assets that support marketing campaigns, departmental initiatives, and public engagement efforts.
• This position requires a strong understanding of design principles, digital and print production, and effective collaboration with internal stakeholders.
• The role involves managing design projects from concept to completion, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality creative solutions that align with county objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not strictly a "Revenue Operations" role, the Graphic Designer plays a crucial part in the broader GTM (Go-To-Market) strategy by creating visually engaging materials that support marketing and communications, which indirectly contribute to public perception, engagement, and potential service utilization. The emphasis on brand guidelines and cross-departmental collaboration is typical of operations-adjacent roles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute creative design concepts for a wide range of marketing materials, including digital campaigns, websites, social media content, presentations, print collateral, and promotional items.
• Collaborate with the Program Director for Marketing and Communications, senior designers, and various county departments to understand project requirements and deliver effective visual solutions.
• Ensure all creative outputs strictly adhere to Macomb County's brand guidelines, visual identity standards, and overall strategic messaging.
• Manage the design and production process from initial concept and draft development through to final file preparation for print and digital distribution.
• Conduct photo editing, illustration, and layout design to enhance the visual appeal and effectiveness of communication materials.
• Capture and edit event photography and videography, organizing assets for future use and archival purposes.
• Prepare design files for print production, working with internal resources like the Macomb County print shop and external vendors such as commercial printers and advertising suppliers.
• Maintain an organized library of all finished design products and digital assets for easy retrieval and future reference.
• Stay current with emerging design trends, software updates, and industry best practices to continuously elevate the quality and impact of creative output.
• Efficiently manage multiple design projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks to meet established deadlines and project milestones.
• Support special projects and marketing initiatives specifically within the Department of Planning and Economic Development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative execution and project management, common in operational support roles that facilitate broader GTM initiatives. The need to work with diverse stakeholders and manage multiple projects simultaneously is a key operational characteristic.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Required: An Associate’s Degree from an accredited college or university in Graphic Design, Design and Layout, or a closely related field.
• Alternative Required: A High School Diploma or GED equivalent, coupled with a Certificate from an accredited college or university in Graphic Design, Design and Layout, or a directly related field.
• Preferred: A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in Graphic Design, Design and Layout, or a directly related field.

Experience:

• Required: A minimum of two (2) years of professional experience working specifically as a graphic designer.

Required Skills:

• Adobe Creative Suite Proficiency: Expert-level knowledge and practical application of InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, and Lightroom for creating professional-grade graphics.
• Print and Digital Design Expertise: Proven ability to design for both print (brochures, signage, large format) and digital platforms (websites, social media, digital ads), understanding the unique requirements of each.
• Typography, Layout, and Color Theory: Strong foundational understanding and application of design principles to create visually appealing and effective compositions.
• Branding and Visual Identity: Demonstrated skill in developing and maintaining consistent branding across various media, including logo design and thematic development for initiatives.
• Time Management and Organization: Excellent ability to prioritize multiple projects, manage workflows efficiently, and consistently meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Communication and Collaboration: Strong interpersonal and written communication skills to effectively collaborate with diverse teams, stakeholders, and external partners.

Preferred Skills:

• Photography and Photo Editing: Experience in event photography, capturing subjects in various lighting conditions, and selecting/editing images for publication.
• Video Editing and Motion Graphics: Familiarity with motion graphics or video editing software to enhance multimedia content.
• Web and Social Media Design Best Practices: Knowledge of current trends and technical considerations for designing effective social media graphics and web content.
• Canva Proficiency: Experience using Canva for quick design tasks and broader campaign applications.
• Microsoft 365 Suite: Competency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for document creation, data handling, and presentation development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The skill set emphasizes core design competencies critical for marketing support. The inclusion of specific software like Adobe Creative Suite and Canva, alongside broader design principles, is standard for roles supporting GTM functions. The ability to manage multiple projects and collaborate is an operational requirement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of design projects demonstrating proficiency in both print and digital media, highlighting adaptability to different project scopes.
• Include examples of branding and logo design, illustrating the ability to develop and maintain visual identity for programs, initiatives, or campaigns.
• Present case studies or examples of infographics, maps, and branded merchandise ("swag") to showcase versatility and understanding of various design applications.
• Feature examples of print design, such as booklets, brochures, flyers, invitations, advertisements, and large-format prints like billboards or signage.
• Include examples of digital design, including social media graphics, digital advertisements, and effective presentation designs (e.g., PowerPoint).

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate the ability to articulate the design process, from initial client brief and concept development to final asset delivery, emphasizing workflow efficiency.
• Provide examples of how feedback was incorporated into design iterations, showcasing adaptability and client-centric problem-solving.
• Illustrate the process of preparing files for both print and digital production, ensuring technical accuracy and adherence to specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a design role supporting operations, a portfolio acts as a case study of their process and output quality. The emphasis is on demonstrating the application of design principles within a structured workflow, mirroring operational best practices for project execution and stakeholder satisfaction.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The stated salary range for this Graphic Designer position is $52,892.12 to $68,411.53 annually.
• This range is competitive for a mid-level graphic design role within a government or public sector organization in the Michigan region, considering the required experience and educational qualifications.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage options.
• Retirement Plan: Participation in a defined contribution retirement plan, likely with employer matching.
• Paid Time Off: Generous accrual of vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, workshops, and continuing education relevant to graphic design and marketing communications.
• Life Insurance & Disability: Employer-provided life insurance and short-term/long-term disability coverage.
• Other Perks: Potential for employee assistance programs, wellness initiatives, and other benefits typical of public sector employment.

Working Hours:

• The standard working hours for this full-time position are 40 hours per week.
• While a standard schedule is expected, there may be occasional flexibility required to meet project deadlines or cover events, typical for roles supporting marketing and communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is typical for a government position of this nature in the specified region. Benefits are generally robust in public sector roles, providing a stable employment package for operations-focused professionals. The standard 40-hour week is common, with potential for occasional overtime as needed for project completion.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Public Sector / Government Administration Company Size: Macomb County Government is a large public sector organization, employing thousands of individuals across numerous departments. This size implies a structured environment with established processes and diverse career paths. Founded: Macomb County was established in 1818. Its long history suggests a stable, established organization with a deep understanding of public service and community needs.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer reports to the Program Director for Marketing and Communications within the Department of Planning and Economic Development.
• This team likely includes other marketing specialists, communication coordinators, and potentially administrative support.
• Collaboration is expected with designers, marketing professionals, and representatives from various other county departments, requiring strong cross-functional integration.

Methodology:

• Design work is guided by established county brand guidelines and strategic objectives set by leadership.
• Projects are likely managed through a ticketing or request system, requiring adherence to departmental workflows for creative brief intake, design execution, and approval processes.
• Emphasis is placed on clear communication, adherence to deadlines, and delivering professional, high-quality outputs that serve the public interest.

Company Website: https://www.macombgov.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within a large government entity means the operations are likely well-defined and process-driven. The Graphic Designer's role is to support these established operational frameworks through effective visual communication, ensuring consistency and professionalism in public-facing materials. Collaboration across many departments is a key characteristic of government operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is classified as a Mid-Level Graphic Designer. It requires a solid foundation of design skills and practical experience, with the opportunity to contribute to significant county-wide initiatives. Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer reports to the Program Director for Marketing and Communications, indicating a clear line of management and oversight within the marketing and communications function. Operations Impact: While not directly managing revenue streams, the Graphic Designer's work has a substantial impact on public perception, brand reputation, and the effectiveness of county communications. High-quality visual assets can improve engagement with county services, programs, and events, indirectly supporting departmental goals and public trust.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Potential to deepen expertise in specific areas like motion graphics, UX/UI design for county websites, or advanced digital campaign design.
• Project Leadership: Opportunities to lead design aspects of larger county-wide campaigns or initiatives, taking on more responsibility for visual strategy.
• Cross-Departmental Experience: Exposure to various county departments allows for understanding diverse operational needs and tailoring design solutions accordingly, broadening professional experience.
• Advancement: Potential career progression to Senior Graphic Designer, Art Director, or related roles within county communications or marketing departments, dependent on performance and available opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Career growth in this role focuses on deepening design expertise and expanding project scope within the public sector framework. The impact is measured by the effectiveness of communications and public engagement, a key outcome for government operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in the Administration Building, suggesting a standard office environment typical of municipal government operations. Office Location(s): Administration Building, Macomb County, MI. This central location provides access to various county departments and resources.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be a professional office setting with access to necessary design software, hardware, and potentially a photography studio or equipment.
• Collaboration is encouraged, with opportunities to work alongside marketing and communications professionals, fostering a team-oriented environment.
• The environment likely supports a structured workflow, with clear processes for project requests, feedback, and approvals.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, typically during regular business hours (e.g., 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday).
• Occasional flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines or cover events outside of standard hours, though this is usually managed with advance notice.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role emphasizes the importance of physical presence for collaboration, access to equipment, and integration into the county's operational workflow. The environment is professional and structured, conducive to consistent output.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit resume, cover letter, and a portfolio showcasing relevant design work.
• Initial Screening: Review of applications and portfolios by HR and the hiring manager to assess qualifications and creative output.
• Skills Assessment/Design Test: Candidates may be asked to complete a design challenge or test to evaluate their practical design skills, problem-solving abilities, and adherence to brand guidelines.
• In-Person Interview: Discussion with the Program Director and potentially other team members to assess creative thinking, collaboration skills, understanding of project requirements, and cultural fit.
• Final Selection: Offer extended to the most qualified candidate.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase 5-8 of your strongest, most relevant projects that demonstrate a range of skills (print, digital, branding, etc.).
• Highlight Process: For key projects, briefly explain the project objective, your role, the design process, challenges faced, and the final outcome/impact.
• Brand Consistency: Ensure your portfolio itself is well-designed and reflects an understanding of branding and visual hierarchy.
• Tailor to Macomb County: If possible, include a project that shows an understanding of public sector communication or community engagement.
• Clear Navigation: Make your online portfolio easy to navigate with clear labels and descriptions for each project.

Challenge Preparation:

• Review Brand Guidelines: Thoroughly study Macomb County's existing brand guidelines and visual identity.
• Understand Target Audience: Consider who Macomb County's communications are intended for (residents, businesses, other government entities).
• Problem-Solving Approach: Be prepared to articulate your thought process for approaching a design brief, including how you gather information and develop concepts.
• Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your proficiency with design software and your ability to prepare files for various outputs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a design role within a government entity typically includes a practical assessment or portfolio review to evaluate technical skills and creative output. Preparation should focus on demonstrating an understanding of the organization's mission and brand.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for all design tasks. Proficiency in InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop is paramount. Lightroom for photo management is also noted.
• Canva: Mentioned as a tool to know, indicating its use for simpler or faster design tasks.
• Microsoft 365 Suite: Word, Excel, and PowerPoint are necessary for general office productivity, documentation, and presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus of this role, understanding basic analytics for digital content (e.g., social media engagement, website traffic) could be beneficial for optimizing design choices.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role, as it is focused on creative output rather than sales or marketing automation processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is standard for a graphic designer, with a strong emphasis on the Adobe Creative Suite. Familiarity with Canva and Microsoft Office is also expected for broader operational integration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Public Service: A commitment to serving the residents and businesses of Macomb County through effective communication and design.
• Professionalism: Maintaining high standards in all creative work and interactions, reflecting positively on the county.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders to achieve shared goals.
• Efficiency: Managing time and resources effectively to deliver quality work on time.
• Adaptability: Being open to feedback and adjusting designs to meet evolving project needs and client objectives.

Collaboration Style:

• The role requires a collaborative approach, working closely with marketing teams, departmental staff, and potentially external partners.
• Open communication and the ability to incorporate feedback constructively are key to successful collaboration within the county structure.
• Team members are expected to support each other and contribute to a positive, productive working environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values public service, professionalism, and collaboration, which are common in government organizations. The operational aspect emphasizes efficient project execution and responsiveness to stakeholder needs.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Brand Constraints: Effectively translating creative ideas within strict brand guidelines and diverse stakeholder requirements.
• Managing Diverse Project Demands: Juggling numerous projects from various county departments, each with unique needs and deadlines.
• Adapting to Evolving Technologies and Trends: Staying current with design software updates, digital platforms, and emerging visual communication trends.
• Feedback Integration: Skillfully incorporating feedback from multiple sources while maintaining design integrity and project goals.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Workshops and Seminars: Opportunities to attend training sessions on new design software, techniques, or marketing communication strategies.
• Industry Conferences: Potential to attend graphic design or marketing conferences to gain insights into new trends and network with professionals.
• Cross-Departmental Projects: Gaining exposure to the operational needs of different county departments can broaden design application knowledge.
• Mentorship: Opportunity to learn from senior designers or marketing professionals within the department.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges in this role are typical for creative professionals in structured environments, focusing on balancing creativity with operational constraints and stakeholder management. Growth opportunities are geared towards enhancing design skills and expanding professional experience within the public sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Describe your typical design process from receiving a brief to delivering final assets. How do you ensure brand consistency and meet client objectives?" (Prepare to walk through a project case study).
• Collaboration: "How do you handle feedback from multiple stakeholders with differing opinions? Can you provide an example of a challenging feedback situation and how you resolved it?"
• Problem-Solving: "Imagine you're tasked with designing a campaign for a new county initiative with a tight deadline. What are your first steps, and how would you manage your time and resources?"
• Company/Culture Fit: "What interests you about working for Macomb County specifically? How do you see your design skills contributing to public service?" (Research county initiatives and values).
• Team Dynamics: "Describe your ideal working relationship with a marketing team or other departments. How do you ensure smooth collaboration?"
• Impact Measurement: "How do you measure the success of your design work? While direct revenue isn't a factor, how do you assess the effectiveness of your visuals in achieving communication goals?" (Think about engagement, clarity, brand recognition).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by showcasing your most impactful work first.
• Storytelling: For each project, briefly explain the problem, your solution, your role, and the outcome. Quantify results where possible (e.g., increased engagement, successful event turnout).
• Visual Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is visually clean and easy to navigate, reflecting your design sensibilities.
• Technical Details: Be prepared to discuss the software and techniques used for specific projects.
• Macomb County Focus: Briefly mention how your skills align with the county’s needs and mission.

Challenge Preparation:

• Brand Adherence: If given a design challenge, pay close attention to any provided brand guidelines or specific instructions.
• Time Management: Practice working efficiently under timed conditions, focusing on delivering a complete concept even if not fully polished.
• Strategic Thinking: Be ready to explain the rationale behind your design choices, linking them to the project brief and objectives.
• Presentation: Practice presenting your work clearly and concisely, highlighting key design decisions and their intended impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should focus on demonstrating technical design skills, understanding of brand, collaborative abilities, and a commitment to public service through effective visual communication. Portfolio presentation is key.

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📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Workday job portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio highlights projects relevant to government communications, public engagement, or community-focused initiatives, alongside your core design skills. Tailor your project selection to showcase versatility in print and digital media.
• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your experience with Adobe Creative Suite, your understanding of design principles (typography, layout, color theory), and your ability to manage multiple design projects from concept to completion. Use keywords from the job description.
• Interview Preparation: Practice discussing your design process, how you handle feedback, and your understanding of brand consistency. Be ready to present your portfolio and explain the rationale behind your design choices. Research Macomb County's current initiatives and communications.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Macomb County's mission, values, and recent projects. Understand how effective graphic design supports public service and community outreach efforts.

⚠️ 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.