Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: The Barnes Foundation

Location: Philadelphia, PA, US

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing

Date Posted: April 14, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive creative output for The Barnes Foundation by designing and producing custom visual assets that align with the organization's brand identity and strategic objectives.

• Develop and execute compelling graphic designs for a diverse range of marketing materials, exhibitions, and special events, ensuring clear communication and aesthetic excellence across all mediums.

• Collaborate closely with the Art Director, curatorial teams, and internal stakeholders to conceptualize and deliver impactful visual solutions that enhance audience engagement and institutional messaging.

• Leverage advanced proficiency in design software and a strong understanding of user-centered design principles to create innovative and effective visual experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the Creative & Media, Art & Design, and Marketing categories, indicating a broad scope of creative responsibilities that extend beyond traditional graphic design. The hybrid work arrangement suggests a need for strong self-management and communication skills to maintain workflow efficiency and collaboration across different work settings.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and revise a wide array of organizational marketing materials for internal clients, including brochures, newsletters, advertisements, handouts, donor presentations, logos, posters, invitations, and web graphics.

• Conceptualize and produce unique graphic identities and visual assets for exhibitions and special events, in close collaboration with curators, exhibition designers, and internal stakeholders, ensuring brand consistency and project ownership.

• Present design concepts and proposed solutions to internal clients, including senior staff, effectively incorporating feedback and driving projects to successful completion.

• Conceptualize and animate motion graphics for social media marketing campaigns, special events, and exhibitions, utilizing animation software to create engaging visual content.

• Manage relationships and collaborate with external contractors, such as photographers and freelance designers, to ensure the delivery of high-quality creative assets that meet project specifications.

• Contribute to the institutional brand's evolution and maintenance by enforcing its consistent use across all organizational communications and materials.

• Stay abreast of current and future trends in the design landscape, maintaining cultural awareness and incorporating innovative approaches into design projects.

• Approach design challenges conceptually, demonstrating a keen attention to detail, innovation, and the ability to distill complex ideas into clear and compelling visual mockups delivered promptly.

• Perform other duties as requested to support the Creative team and broader organizational goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for strong project management capabilities, given the expectation to handle multiple priorities, work with external vendors, and present concepts to senior staff. The emphasis on conceptualization and distilling complex ideas suggests a role that requires strategic thinking beyond purely aesthetic execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience: Minimum of 3 years of professional experience with graphic design as a primary responsibility, preferably within an arts, cultural, or non-profit organization.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in MAC platform and Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Advanced skills in Adobe Creative Suite, with in-depth knowledge of InDesign and Photoshop.

• Strong typographic skills and a deep understanding of visual hierarchy and composition.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate design concepts, options, and decisions to diverse stakeholders.

• Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines, exercising sound judgment and diplomacy.

• Demonstrated ability to be self-motivated, work independently, and collaborate effectively within a team environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Adobe After Effects and/or other animation software for motion graphics creation.

• Familiarity with project management software such as Basecamp, Trello, Dropbox, or Google Drive.

• Knowledge and experience with print and video production processes involving external vendors.

• Demonstrated solid understanding of user-centered design principles, testing methodologies, and implementation strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for in-depth knowledge of InDesign and Photoshop, alongside experience with animation software, points to a need for a designer who can handle both static and dynamic visual content creation. The preference for project management software indicates a structured approach to workflow and task management is valued.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse projects that demonstrate a strong command of graphic design principles, including branding, layout, typography, and visual storytelling.

• Include examples of marketing collateral (brochures, invitations, presentations) that highlight your ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively for various audiences.

• Present at least one project involving exhibition or event identity design, demonstrating your capacity to create cohesive visual themes and assets.

• Feature examples of motion graphics or animated content, if applicable, to showcase experience with After Effects or similar software.

Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your design process from concept to completion, including how you approach client briefs, conduct research, develop initial concepts, incorporate feedback, and manage revisions.

• Demonstrate an understanding of print production workflows, including file preparation, color management, and working with printers.

• Explain your approach to user-centered design, if applicable, detailing how you consider audience needs and usability in your design decisions.

• Articulate your strategy for managing multiple projects, deadlines, and stakeholder expectations within a dynamic work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role, as it will serve as the primary evidence of design capability. Applicants should curate their portfolio to directly address the responsibilities and preferred skills mentioned in the job description, emphasizing versatility and the ability to execute a wide range of design tasks.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $55,000 - $60,000 per year.

Benefits:

• Hybrid work environment offering flexibility between on-site and remote work.

• Access to professional development opportunities, including training and workshops.

• Opportunities to engage with world-class art and cultural programming.

• Standard benefits package (details not specified, but typically includes health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans).

• Potential for involvement in high-profile exhibitions and events.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with a hybrid work setting combining on-site work at the Barnes Foundation's Philadelphia campus and remote work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is a baseline. Candidates with specialized skills, such as advanced motion graphics or extensive experience with exhibition design, may be able to negotiate towards the higher end of the range. The hybrid model necessitates effective time management to balance on-site collaboration with remote productivity.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts & Culture / Museum & Galleries

Company Size: The Barnes Foundation likely falls into the medium-sized organization category, with a dedicated team for marketing, communications, and creative services. This size often allows for close-knit teams and direct impact, while still providing structure and resources.

Founded: The Barnes Foundation was founded in 1922. Its rich history and commitment to art education and preservation provide a unique cultural context for its operations.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of the Creative team, working closely with an Art Director.

• This team likely collaborates extensively with marketing, communications, curatorial, education, and development departments.

Methodology:

• Design projects are approached conceptually, with a focus on innovation, detail, and the ability to distill complex ideas.

• Brand consistency and adherence to established institutional guidelines are paramount.

• A user-centered design approach is valued, considering the needs of various internal and external audiences.

• Collaboration and clear communication are essential for managing projects and stakeholder expectations.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within a renowned art institution like The Barnes Foundation offers a unique cultural immersion. The emphasis on brand integrity and the historical significance of the collection will likely influence design aesthetics and strategic considerations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an intermediate-level position within a creative department. It requires a solid foundation of technical design skills and experience, alongside the ability to manage projects and contribute to strategic creative initiatives.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer reports to the Art Director. This relationship is key for creative guidance, project assignment, and professional development.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the public perception and internal communication effectiveness of The Barnes Foundation. High-quality design enhances brand recognition, improves audience engagement with exhibitions and events, and supports fundraising efforts through compelling donor materials.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in motion graphics, animation, or specific areas of print production through project work and potentially external training.

• Creative Leadership: Potential to take on more ownership of design projects, mentor junior designers (if applicable), and contribute to higher-level creative strategy as experience grows.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining valuable experience within a prestigious cultural institution, which can open doors to further opportunities in the arts, non-profit, or museum sectors.

• Cross-Functional Learning: Developing a broader understanding of marketing, curatorial processes, and institutional operations through collaboration with various departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is focused on design execution, the emphasis on conceptualization and collaboration provides avenues for developing strategic thinking. The growth path would likely involve increasing project complexity and potentially moving into more senior design or art direction roles within the institution or similar organizations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work setting, combining on-site work at The Barnes Foundation's Philadelphia campus with remote work.

Office Location(s): Philadelphia campus, providing access to a vibrant cultural hub. Specifics about the remote work setup will be defined based on employee documentation.

Workspace Context:

• On-site workspace likely includes a dedicated desk within a creative studio or office area, providing access to necessary equipment and collaborative spaces.

• Remote workspace requires a reliable setup conducive to focused design work, video conferencing, and digital collaboration.

• The environment fosters collaboration, with opportunities for in-person brainstorming sessions and feedback meetings with the Art Director and team members.

• Access to institutional resources and a visually inspiring setting at the Barnes Foundation campus.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time work schedule (approx. 40 hours/week) with a hybrid arrangement, allowing for flexibility in managing work location while ensuring project deadlines and team availability are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role requires strong organizational skills to manage time effectively between remote and on-site work. Candidates should be comfortable with digital collaboration tools and proactive in maintaining communication with their team regardless of location.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and design aesthetic.

• Portfolio Review & Technical Interview: A deeper dive into selected portfolio pieces, discussing design process, rationale, and technical proficiency. This may include a design challenge or case study presentation.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Discussion with the Art Director and potentially other team members to assess collaboration style, problem-solving approach, and alignment with The Barnes Foundation's values.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss overall fit and strategic contributions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase the skills and experiences outlined in the job description, emphasizing versatility and impact.

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the brief, your process, the challenges you faced, your creative solutions, and the outcomes. Focus on the "why" behind your design decisions.

• Highlight Collaboration: If possible, showcase projects where you collaborated with others, explaining your role and how you contributed to team success.

• Demonstrate Brand Understanding: If you have prior experience with brand guidelines or institutional branding, highlight it.

• Prepare for Design Challenges: Be ready to tackle a hypothetical design problem or refine an existing concept under timed conditions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand The Barnes Foundation's brand and current visual communications.

• Practice articulating your design process and rationale clearly and concisely.

• Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a design brief related to an exhibition, event, or marketing campaign.

• Think about how you would balance creative vision with institutional constraints and stakeholder feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on the candidate's portfolio. Applicants should prepare to not only present their work but also to speak intelligently about their design decisions, problem-solving skills, and ability to collaborate effectively within a team and with various stakeholders.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for all design tasks.

  • InDesign: Critical for layout and print design (brochures, invitations, presentations).
  • Photoshop: Required for image manipulation, retouching, and digital asset creation.
  • Illustrator: Likely used for logo design, vector graphics, and icons.

• MAC Platform: The standard operating system for design professionals.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management Software: Experience with Basecamp, Trello, Dropbox, or Google Drive is preferred for task management, file sharing, and team collaboration.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Necessary for general office tasks, presentations, and communication.

Other Potential Tools:

• Adobe After Effects: Preferred for creating motion graphics and animations.

• Video Editing Software: May be useful for simple video edits or incorporating video elements into designs.

• Digital Asset Management (DAM) Systems: Familiarity with organizing and storing digital assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly InDesign and Photoshop, is non-negotiable. Experience with motion graphics software like After Effects is a significant advantage, reflecting the need for dynamic content creation. Familiarity with project management tools will streamline workflow in a hybrid environment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Accountability: Taking ownership of assignments, conducting thorough work, and communicating commitments reliably.

• Job Quality: Consistently delivering accurate, high-quality work, prioritizing effectively, and meeting expected output quantities.

• Service: Proactively identifying and solving problems collaboratively, interacting harmoniously with colleagues, and maintaining an open mind to new ideas.

• Leadership: Setting a positive example, demonstrating ethical conduct, and employing a solution-oriented, collaborative approach to decision-making.

• Collaboration: Seeking mutually beneficial outcomes, maintaining a helpful and respectful attitude, and actively contributing to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility initiatives.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional integration: Working seamlessly with marketing, curatorial, and development teams to translate their needs into effective visual designs.

• Process review and feedback: Openness to constructive criticism and a willingness to iterate on designs based on stakeholder input.

• Knowledge sharing: Contributing to a team environment where ideas and best practices are shared to improve overall creative output.

• Proactive communication: Maintaining clear and consistent communication with the Art Director and other team members, especially in a hybrid work setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Barnes Foundation emphasizes a culture of accountability, quality, and collaborative service. Candidates should demonstrate these values through their work ethic, communication style, and approach to problem-solving. The commitment to DEI&A is also a key aspect of their organizational values.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Brand Consistency: Effectively innovating within the established Barnes Foundation brand guidelines and ensuring all designs align with institutional messaging.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholder Needs: Navigating diverse feedback and priorities from various internal departments (curatorial, marketing, development) while maintaining design integrity.

• Adapting to Evolving Design Trends: Staying current with design best practices and incorporating new technologies and aesthetics while maintaining relevance and impact.

• Effective Hybrid Collaboration: Ensuring seamless communication and project continuity across on-site and remote work settings.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Techniques: Opportunities to hone skills in motion graphics, animation, and potentially advanced print production processes.

• Institutional Knowledge: Deepening understanding of art history, museum operations, and the specific needs of a major cultural institution.

• Cross-Departmental Exposure: Learning about marketing strategies, exhibition planning, and development campaigns from a design perspective.

• Professional Networking: Building connections within the arts and culture sector through institutional events and collaborations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for creative roles in established organizations. The growth opportunities are significant, offering a chance to develop specialized skills and gain unique experience within a prestigious cultural institution.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance creative vision with strict brand guidelines. How did you approach it?" (Prepare to discuss your process and decision-making.)

• "How would you approach designing marketing materials for a major upcoming exhibition, considering the target audience and the exhibition's theme?" (Be ready to outline your conceptualization and execution strategy.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about The Barnes Foundation and its mission?" (Research the foundation's history, collection, and current initiatives.)

• "How do you approach collaboration within a creative team, especially in a hybrid work environment?" (Highlight your teamwork, communication, and adaptability.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Presentation: Organize your portfolio by project type or by the skills demonstrated. For each project, provide context (client, goal), your process, challenges, solutions, and outcomes.

• Highlight Key Skills: Explicitly point out how your showcased projects demonstrate proficiency in InDesign, Photoshop, typography, branding, and any motion graphics experience.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify results where possible (e.g., "This campaign led to a X% increase in engagement"). If not quantifiable, describe the qualitative impact.

• Be Ready for Design Challenges: Practice sketching out ideas quickly and articulating your thought process verbally.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your design philosophy, your understanding of the Barnes Foundation's brand, and how you would contribute to their mission. Be ready to defend your design choices and demonstrate a collaborative spirit.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the ADP WorkNow portal, ensuring all required fields are completed accurately.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience and skills directly relevant to graphic design, Adobe Creative Suite proficiency, typography, and any experience with motion graphics or project management. Use keywords from the job description.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your abilities in creating marketing materials, exhibition identities, and potentially motion graphics. Ensure it's easily accessible (e.g., a link to a personal website or a well-organized PDF).

• Prepare Your Portfolio Walkthrough: Be ready to discuss your portfolio pieces in detail during an interview, explaining your process, rationale, and the impact of your work. Practice articulating your design thinking.

• Research The Barnes Foundation: Understand their mission, current exhibitions, brand identity, and overall aesthetic. This will help you 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.