Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer
Company: Northeastern University - The GovLab (Burnes Center)
Location: Boston, MA (Main Campus)
Job Type: FULL_TIME
Category: Marketing & Communications / Design
Date Posted: 2026-01-12
Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Responsible for creating high-impact visual communications and design systems for civic tech projects, reports, social media campaigns, and events.
• Translates complex ideas into understandable and compelling visual narratives to support the GovLab's mission of redesigning how institutions improve lives.
• Collaborates closely with cross-functional teams including developers, researchers, and project leads to deliver cohesive design solutions.
• Focuses on both digital and print mediums, ensuring brand consistency and accessibility across all visual assets.
• Develops and maintains clear visual systems and style guides for various initiatives and projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a 1-year fixed-term position, renewable based on external funding, indicating a project-based or grant-funded aspect to the work. The focus on "civic tech, open government, and open data" strongly suggests a mission-driven environment where design directly supports public good initiatives. The collaboration with "developers, researchers, and project leads" highlights the need for strong communication and integration skills within a multidisciplinary team.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce compelling visual assets for digital platforms, including websites, social media graphics, and online reports, ensuring optimal performance and accessibility.
• Develop and maintain visual identities for projects, initiatives, and labs, encompassing logos, color systems, typography, and templates.
• Create engaging data visualizations, infographics, and explainer materials to simplify complex policies and research for non-expert audiences.
• Design presentation decks, one-pagers, and other collateral materials that clearly and persuasively communicate key messages.
• Collaborate with project teams to conceptualize and execute design strategies that align with project goals and target audiences.
• Manage design projects from inception to completion, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to project specifications.
• Contribute to the development and enforcement of brand guidelines and style guides to ensure visual consistency across all communications.
• Stay abreast of design trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in visual communication, particularly within the civic tech and public sector space.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative design execution and strategic visual communication. The mention of "data visualizations, infographics, and explainer materials" indicates a need for strong analytical thinking and the ability to translate data into accessible visual formats, crucial for operations and GTM communication. The emphasis on "brand systems" and "style guides" points to a need for meticulous attention to detail and a systematic approach to design, aligning with operational efficiency principles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, Fine Arts, or a related field is typically expected for this level of role. Relevant certifications or a strong portfolio can often substitute for formal education.
Experience: 2-5 years of demonstrated professional experience in graphic design, with a proven track record in creating both digital and print collateral. Experience in a non-profit, academic, or government-related setting is highly advantageous.

Required Skills:

• Exceptional visual design skills with a strong portfolio showcasing a range of digital and print work.
• Proven proficiency in industry-standard design software, including Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop) and/or Figma.
• Solid understanding of typography, layout, color theory, and visual hierarchy.
• Experience designing for web and social media, with an understanding of responsive design principles and image optimization.
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities, with the capacity to translate complex information into clear visual narratives.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration and presentation of design concepts.
• Meticulous attention to detail and strong organizational skills for managing files, versions, and design systems.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative, cross-functional team.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in developing and maintaining visual identities and comprehensive style guides.
• Familiarity with accessibility and inclusive design principles.
• Experience with data visualization tools or techniques.
• Basic understanding of HTML/CSS or web development processes.
• Motion design, illustration, or basic video editing skills.
• Experience collaborating with developers, researchers, and writers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "demonstrable background" and a strong "portfolio" for this role suggests that practical application and visual problem-solving skills are paramount. The inclusion of Figma alongside Adobe Creative Cloud indicates a need for adaptability to modern design workflows and collaborative tools. The preference for accessibility and inclusive design principles aligns with GTM and operations best practices for broader audience reach and user experience.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive digital portfolio showcasing a diverse range of design projects, with a clear emphasis on digital and web-based work.
• Projects should demonstrate problem-solving capabilities, particularly in translating complex information (e.g., data, policy) into accessible visual formats.
• Include examples of visual identity development, including logos, color palettes, and typography systems.
• Showcase experience with social media graphics and other digital marketing collateral.
• If applicable, include examples of print design, such as reports, brochures, or event materials.
• Clearly articulate your role, the challenges, your design process, and the outcomes for each project.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate understanding of design process workflow, from concept development and research to execution and final delivery.
• Illustrate experience in managing design projects using systematic approaches, including file organization, version control, and template creation.
• Show ability to adhere to and contribute to brand guidelines and style guides, ensuring consistency and efficiency in design output.
• Include examples of how you have collaborated with stakeholders (developers, researchers, project managers) to refine design solutions based on feedback and project requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio requirement is central to this role, acting as a direct demonstration of design process and problem-solving ability. For operations and GTM professionals, this translates to showcasing how design contributes to clarity, efficiency, and impact in communication, akin to how operations professionals document process improvements and ROI. The emphasis on translating "complex information" aligns with the need for clear, actionable communication in operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $59,425.00 - $83,935.00 USD per year

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Vision, and Dental insurance plans.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) for work-life balance.
• Tuition Assistance programs for continued education.
• Wellness & Life insurance coverage.
• Retirement savings plan options.
• Commuting and Transportation benefits.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week. While this is an on-site role, the university environment may offer some flexibility within standard business hours, subject to team and project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is competitive for a mid-level Graphic Designer role in the Boston area. The extensive benefits package is typical for a large educational institution like Northeastern University, offering strong support for employee well-being and professional development, which is crucial for retaining talent in creative and operations-adjacent roles. The "fixed-term" nature of the position should be considered alongside the benefits.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Education (Higher Education), Technology, Public Sector, Non-Profit Research.
Company Size: Northeastern University is a large, research-intensive institution with a global presence. The GovLab (within the Burnes Center) is likely a focused research center or lab, suggesting a dynamic, academic, and mission-driven environment.
Founded: Northeastern University was founded in 1898. The GovLab's founding date is not specified but operates within the university structure.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of The GovLab, likely working within the Burnes Center for Public Impact.
• The team consists of researchers, developers, project leads, and potentially other communication specialists.
• The designer will report to a project lead or a communications manager within The GovLab.
• Close collaboration with cross-functional teams is a key aspect of the team's operational methodology.

Methodology:

• Focus on research, innovation, and practical application of technology and design to address societal challenges.
• Emphasis on open government, open data, and civic tech principles.
• Data-driven decision-making and evidence-based approaches to problem-solving.
• Collaborative, iterative design and development processes.
• Commitment to accessibility, inclusivity, and impact in all projects.

Company Website: http://www.thegovlab.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is likely a blend of academic rigor and practical, project-oriented work. The emphasis on "civic tech, open government, and open data" suggests a passion for public service and leveraging technology for social good. This environment values critical thinking, collaboration, and a proactive approach to problem-solving, mirroring the operational ethos of efficiency and impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a Mid-Level position within the design and communications function. It requires independent work on assigned projects while also being a collaborative team member. The "fixed-term" aspect suggests it might be ideal for gaining specific project experience or for individuals seeking focused, impactful work over a defined period.
Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Project Lead, Research Director, or Communications Manager within The GovLab, providing clear direction and feedback.
Operations Impact: The designer's work directly impacts the GovLab's ability to communicate research findings, project outcomes, and strategic initiatives effectively. High-quality visual design enhances the clarity, reach, and persuasiveness of their work, thereby amplifying their impact on policy, public engagement, and institutional reform. This role bridges the gap between technical/research outputs and broader audience understanding, a critical function for GTM and operational success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in data visualization, infographic design, UI/UX principles for civic tech platforms, or motion graphics.
• Project Diversity: Exposure to a wide array of projects (InnovateUS, AIEP, Reboot Democracy) allows for varied portfolio development and experience across different problem domains.
• Cross-functional Learning: Collaboration with researchers and developers provides insights into data analysis, technology implementation, and research methodologies.
• Potential for Extension/Transition: While fixed-term, strong performance could lead to contract extension or opportunities within the broader university or its affiliated research centers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "fixed-term" nature of the role is a key consideration for long-term career planning. However, the project diversity and potential for skill specialization offer significant growth within the defined period, making it a valuable stepping stone for a designer interested in mission-driven work and public impact. The ability to "translate complex ideas" is a core operational skill that enhances career mobility.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site at Northeastern University's Boston campus. This implies a professional, academic setting with access to university resources and amenities.
Office Location(s): Boston, MA (Main Campus). Specific building details would be provided upon inquiry or offer.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative office environment where interaction with researchers, developers, and project leads is common.
• Access to university infrastructure, potentially including design labs, libraries, and networking events.
• The role requires dedicated time for focused design work, balanced with collaborative sessions and meetings.
• Expected to utilize university-provided technology and software, or bring personal devices if specified by policy.

Work Schedule: Primarily standard business hours (40 hours/week), with potential for some flexibility. Given the project-based nature, occasional extended hours might be necessary during critical project phases or event planning, though this is not explicitly stated.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in a university setting suggests an environment that values both focused individual work and collaborative team engagement. For operations professionals, understanding this dynamic is key to assessing fit and productivity. The blend of academic resources and project-driven goals creates a unique work atmosphere.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: CV, portfolio, and cover letter/video will be screened for qualifications and alignment with the role's requirements and mission.
• Portfolio Review Session: Candidates will likely present their portfolio, discussing key projects, design process, problem-solving approaches, and impact. This is a critical stage to assess design thinking and communication skills.
• Skills-Based Interview: May include technical questions about design software, principles, and processes, as well as behavioral questions assessing collaboration, problem-solving, and adaptability.
• Cross-functional Team Interview: Opportunity to meet and interact with potential collaborators (researchers, developers) to assess cultural fit and communication synergy.
• Final Interview: Possibly with a senior leader to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and role expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your ability to translate complex information into clear, impactful visuals, especially those related to data, policy, or social impact.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your approach, the tools used, the challenges overcome, and the results achieved. Quantify impact where possible.
• Highlight Process: Demonstrate your design thinking, research, iteration, and collaboration stages. Show how you arrived at the final solution.
• Showcase Versatility: Include examples of both digital (web, social media) and print work, if applicable, to demonstrate a broad skill set.
• Emphasize Accessibility: If you have experience or knowledge of accessibility principles, highlight it, especially for web and digital assets.
• Tailor to Mission: Connect your work and passion to the GovLab's mission of civic tech, open government, and improving lives.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a potential design exercise or case study that requires you to visualize data or a complex concept. Practice translating abstract ideas into concrete visual solutions.
• Anticipate questions about how you handle feedback, manage competing priorities, and collaborate with non-designers.
• Research The GovLab's current projects and publications to understand their visual language and communication style.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process heavily emphasizes the portfolio, which serves as the primary assessment tool for design proficiency and problem-solving capabilities. For operations candidates, this is akin to preparing a strong case study demonstrating process improvement or ROI. Candidates should be ready to articulate their design process and its impact, mirroring how operations professionals demonstrate efficiency gains and strategic contributions.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud: Essential suite including Illustrator (vector graphics, logos), InDesign (layout, print documents), and Photoshop (image editing, digital assets).
• Figma: Increasingly important for collaborative UI/UX design, prototyping, and design system management. Proficiency or willingness to learn is key.
• Prototyping Tools (e.g., Adobe XD, InVision): May be used for interactive mockups and user flow visualization.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary function, understanding how design impacts engagement metrics (e.g., social media reach, website click-through rates) is beneficial. Familiarity with basic web analytics tools could be an advantage.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but understanding how design assets are deployed through marketing automation platforms or website content management systems (CMS) is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud is a baseline requirement. The inclusion of Figma signals a modern design workflow that prioritizes collaboration and efficiency. For operations roles, understanding the technology stack means identifying tools that enable data analysis, process automation, and cross-functional collaboration. Here, the emphasis is on tools that facilitate creative output and efficient project delivery.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Impact-Driven: A strong commitment to using design to create tangible positive change in society and improve institutional effectiveness.
• Collaboration: Valuing teamwork, open communication, and mutual respect among diverse team members (designers, researchers, developers).
• Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the exploration of new design approaches and technologies.
• Clarity & Accessibility: Prioritizing clear, understandable communication and inclusive design practices to reach a broad audience.
• Continuous Learning: A culture that supports professional development and staying current with design trends and best practices.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The designer will work closely with non-designers, requiring the ability to explain design rationale clearly and incorporate diverse perspectives.
• Iterative Feedback: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback throughout the design process to refine solutions.
• Shared Ownership: A sense of collective responsibility for project success, with design playing a crucial role in achieving project goals.
• Mission Alignment: Team members are united by a shared passion for civic tech, open government, and using design and technology for public good.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture emphasizes mission, collaboration, and innovation. For operations professionals, this translates to a highly motivated and purpose-driven environment where design is seen as a critical enabler of broader organizational goals. The emphasis on "clarity and accessibility" directly aligns with operational objectives of clear communication and user-centric design.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complexity: Effectively visualizing highly technical or policy-heavy information into easily digestible formats for diverse audiences.
• Balancing Creative Vision with Constraints: Working within project scope, budget, brand guidelines, and technical limitations while maintaining design integrity.
• Managing Stakeholder Expectations: Aligning diverse perspectives and feedback from researchers, developers, and project leads on design direction.
• Fixed-Term Nature: Adapting to a contract role and focusing on delivering high-impact results within the defined period.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Design Skills: Deepen expertise in areas like data visualization, motion graphics, or advanced UI/UX design.
• Industry Exposure: Gain experience within the unique intersection of higher education, technology, and public policy.
• Portfolio Enhancement: Build a robust portfolio with impactful projects demonstrating a wide skill set.
• Networking: Connect with professionals in civic tech, open government, and academia.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge lies in the effective communication of complex information through design, a skill directly transferable to operations roles that require simplifying complex data or processes. The growth opportunities focus on skill enhancement and portfolio building, making this a valuable experience for career advancement in design, particularly within mission-oriented organizations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach designing a data visualization for a complex policy report aimed at the general public?" (Focus on process, audience consideration, tool choice, and clarity.)
• "Describe a time you had to balance creative vision with strict brand guidelines or technical limitations. How did you resolve it?" (Showcases problem-solving, adaptability, and negotiation skills.)
• "Walk us through your design process for [specific project in portfolio]. What were the key challenges and how did you overcome them?" (Assesses design thinking, methodology, and communication.)
• "How do you ensure your designs are accessible to all users?" (Demonstrates awareness of inclusive design principles.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about The GovLab's mission and our work in civic tech/open government?" (Requires research and genuine interest.)
• "How do you collaborate with technical teams like developers or researchers?" (Focus on communication, understanding technical constraints, and iterative feedback.)
• "Describe your experience working on fixed-term projects. How do you ensure maximum impact within a defined timeframe?" (Highlights project management and efficiency.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by showcasing your strongest, most relevant work first.
• Narrative: For each project, tell a compelling story that highlights the problem, your creative process, the solutions you implemented, and the measurable impact.
• Visuals: Use high-quality mockups and clear visuals. Ensure your digital portfolio is easily navigable and loads quickly.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key projects efficiently, focusing on the most critical aspects relevant to the role and the GovLab's mission.
• Engagement: Be ready to answer questions about your design choices and defend your creative decisions with rationale.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just design skill, but also strategic thinking, problem-solving capabilities, and an understanding of the GovLab's mission. The ability to articulate one's process and impact is crucial, mirroring how operations professionals present case studies of efficiency improvements and ROI.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your CV, portfolio (or link to your portfolio), and a brief letter or video detailing relevant project experience to [email protected].
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features projects demonstrating your ability to translate complex information into clear, impactful visuals, especially those involving data or policy. Tailor your selection to highlight experience relevant to civic tech and public impact.
• Resume Optimization: Clearly articulate your experience with Adobe Creative Cloud and Figma, and any experience with web design, social media graphics, or data visualization. Use keywords from the job description, such as "visual communication," "design systems," "accessibility," and "collaboration."
• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio, focusing on your design process, problem-solving skills, and how your work aligns with the GovLab's mission. Prepare to discuss your experience collaborating with technical and research teams.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research The GovLab, its projects (InnovateUS, AIEP, Reboot Democracy), and its overall mission. Understand their existing visual style and communication goals to better tailor your application and 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.