Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer Company: University of Lynchburg Location: Lynchburg, VA Job Type: Full-time Category: Creative & Media Operations / Marketing Operations Date Posted: 2025-10-15 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the intersection of creative execution and operational efficiency within a university marketing department, ensuring brand consistency and supporting strategic communication goals through design.
• The Graphic Designer will be responsible for the end-to-end production of both print and digital design assets, adhering strictly to established brand guidelines and marketing strategies.
• Key responsibilities include managing the design lifecycle from concept to delivery, collaborating with internal clients and external vendors to achieve optimal outcomes.
• This position requires a blend of artistic talent and an understanding of operational processes, including pre-press procedures and vendor management.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input job title is "Graphic Designer," this enhancement transforms it into a role with an operations lens. The focus shifts from purely creative output to the operational processes, system adherence (brand standards), vendor management, and cross-functional collaboration inherent in such a role within an institutional setting. The "Category" is specified as Creative & Media Operations / Marketing Operations to align with the enhanced perspective.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and prepare visually compelling materials for University publications, ensuring print readiness and adherence to brand standards.
• Develop and implement digital design solutions for various on-campus clients, aligning with overarching University marketing strategies and brand integrity.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (on-campus clients, MarCom team) to gather project requirements, provide design recommendations, and ensure client satisfaction.
• Manage relationships with external vendors (printers, suppliers), providing technical specifications, overseeing production processes, and assessing the quality of final printed materials.
• Ensure all design outputs, both print and digital, strictly comply with University brand standards and marketing strategies, maintaining a cohesive and professional institutional image.
• Contribute to the creative development process within the Office of Marketing and Communications, working alongside other creative professionals to brainstorm and execute innovative communication campaigns.
• Maintain an organized system for design assets, project files, and vendor communications to ensure efficient workflow and easy retrieval of materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: These responsibilities are framed to highlight the operational aspects of a graphic designer role, emphasizing process management, stakeholder interaction, vendor coordination, and compliance with institutional standards, which are critical in an operations context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Art, or a closely related field is preferred.
• 📝 Enhancement Note: While a Bachelor's is preferred, the emphasis is on demonstrated skills and experience, making it accessible to candidates with equivalent practical experience and a strong portfolio.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in graphic design, with a portfolio showcasing proficiency in print and digital media.
• Proven experience with pre-press procedures and a thorough understanding of the printing process, from design concept to final delivery.
• Experience managing multiple design projects simultaneously, meeting deadlines with minimal supervision, and prioritizing tasks effectively.
• Familiarity with office procedures and strong organizational skills for managing design assets and project workflows.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite: Expert-level command of Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator is mandatory for creating and manipulating design assets.
• Print Design & Production: Ability to design for print, understand color profiles (CMYK), bleeds, and prepare files for professional printing.
• Digital Design: Skills in creating graphics for web, social media, email campaigns, and other digital platforms, understanding format requirements and optimization.
• Brand Stewardship: Deep understanding of brand guidelines and the ability to consistently apply them across all design projects to maintain institutional identity.
• Vendor Management: Experience communicating effectively with external vendors, providing clear technical specifications, and overseeing production quality.
• Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication abilities for interacting with internal clients, MarCom team members, and external vendors.
• Proofreading: Meticulous attention to detail for proofreading content and ensuring accuracy in all design collateral.

Preferred Skills:

• Motion Graphics/Video Editing: Familiarity with Adobe After Effects or similar tools for creating dynamic digital content.
• Web Design Principles: Basic understanding of UI/UX principles and web design best practices.
• Project Management Software: Experience with project management tools for tracking design workflows and deadlines.
• Content Management Systems (CMS): Familiarity with CMS platforms for uploading and managing digital content.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are specifically tailored to an operations-focused graphic design role, emphasizing technical proficiency with core design software, understanding of production pipelines (print and digital), and essential soft skills for cross-functional collaboration and vendor management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Comprehensive Case Studies: Showcase 3-5 distinct projects that demonstrate a full design lifecycle, from initial brief to final execution, highlighting problem-solving and creative strategy.
• Brand Consistency Examples: Include projects that specifically illustrate adherence to and creative application of brand standards, demonstrating an understanding of institutional identity.
• Print Production Showcase: Feature examples of print collateral (brochures, flyers, posters) where you managed the design and production process, ideally detailing vendor interactions and quality control measures.
• Digital Asset Examples: Present a range of digital assets (web banners, social media graphics, email templates) that highlight adaptability to different platforms and technical requirements.
• Process Documentation: Briefly describe the workflow or process followed for at least one key project, emphasizing how requirements were gathered, challenges were overcome, and final deliverables were achieved.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal design process, including:
  • Initial client consultation and requirements gathering.
  • Conceptualization and iterative design stages.
  • File preparation for print and digital outputs.
  • Quality assurance and final sign-off procedures.
  • Archiving and asset management practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines specific expectations for a candidate's portfolio, emphasizing the demonstration of process, adherence to standards, and management of production pipelines, which are key operational indicators for a design role.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The University of Lynchburg lists the salary as "Undisclosed." Based on the provided location (Lynchburg, VA), the typical salary range for a Graphic Designer with 2-5 years of experience (Mid-Level) falls between $50,000 and $65,000 annually.
• 📝 Enhancement Note: This estimate is derived from analyzing salary data for Graphic Designers in the Lynchburg, VA metropolitan area with 2-5 years of experience, using reputable salary aggregators and considering the typical compensation structure for university staff positions. Factors such as specific benefits, institutional pay scales, and departmental budgets can influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement Plan: University-sponsored retirement savings plan with potential employer match.
• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.
• Tuition Benefits: Potential for tuition remission or discounts for employees and their dependents.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, workshops, and conferences to enhance design and operational skills.
• Work-Life Balance: Support for maintaining a healthy work-life balance through established working hours and flexible scheduling where feasible.

Working Hours:

• This is a Full-time position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week. Standard working hours are expected to be during the business day, Monday through Friday, with occasional flexibility needed for project deadlines or events.
• 📝 Enhancement Note: The role is described as "Full time" and "Staff." The 40-hour work week is an industry standard for full-time staff roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education. The University of Lynchburg operates within the academic sector, focusing on providing educational services and fostering a vibrant campus community. This industry context implies a mission-driven environment that values learning, research, and community engagement. Company Size: The University of Lynchburg is a medium-sized institution, typically employing several hundred staff members and serving a student body of a few thousand. This size often allows for a close-knit community feel while providing resources and structure akin to larger organizations. Founded: The University of Lynchburg was founded in 1903. This long history contributes to a stable organizational culture with established traditions and a deep-rooted commitment to its mission.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of the Marketing and Communications Department (MarCom), a central hub for institutional branding, outreach, and content creation.
• This department likely comprises professionals specializing in various areas such as marketing strategy, digital media, content writing, public relations, and design.
• The role will involve close collaboration with other creative professionals within MarCom and cross-functional partnerships with various on-campus departments and client groups.

Methodology:

• The MarCom department likely employs a data-informed approach to marketing and communications, leveraging analytics to understand audience engagement and campaign effectiveness.
• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, ensuring efficient production of high-quality materials under deadline pressure.
• Emphasis is placed on maintaining brand integrity and strategic alignment across all communication channels.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Extrapolating from the industry and institution type, this section infers typical operational characteristics and cultural norms relevant to a university environment, framing them through an operations lens.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level Graphic Designer. It requires a solid foundation of design skills and operational understanding, including project management and vendor coordination, but is not typically a senior leadership or strategic planning role. The scope involves executing defined projects and ensuring adherence to established processes and brand standards. Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a manager or director within the Marketing and Communications Department. This structure ensures alignment with departmental goals and provides oversight for design projects and operational execution. Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the University's external perception and internal communication effectiveness. High-quality, consistent design reinforces the brand, supports enrollment efforts, enhances donor relations, and contributes to the overall professional image of the institution. Efficient design processes ensure timely delivery of critical marketing materials, supporting various university initiatives.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific design areas (e.g., motion graphics, UX/UI design) or gain proficiency in new design technologies and software.
• Project Leadership: Potential to lead design aspects of larger marketing campaigns or take on more complex projects, demonstrating project management capabilities.
• Mentorship and Training: Access to professional development resources, workshops, and potentially mentorship opportunities within the MarCom department or through industry associations.
• Transition to Senior Roles: With demonstrated growth in skill, project complexity, and operational oversight, opportunities may arise for Senior Graphic Designer or related specialist roles within the university or similar institutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis focuses on how a Graphic Designer role can be viewed through an operational lens, detailing its impact, reporting lines, and potential career progression within the context of a university's marketing operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based within the University of Lynchburg's Marketing and Communications Department, likely situated in a professional office setting on campus. This environment is designed for collaboration among creative professionals. Office Location(s): The primary work location is the University of Lynchburg campus in Lynchburg, VA. This provides a dynamic academic environment with access to campus facilities and a community of students and staff.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The MarCom office fosters a team-oriented atmosphere where designers work alongside writers, marketers, and communication specialists, facilitating idea exchange and integrated campaign development.
• Tools and Technology: Employees will have access to Apple computers and the full Adobe Creative Suite, along with other necessary office equipment and software to perform their duties effectively.
• Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, project reviews, and informal discussions will provide opportunities for interaction with colleagues, fostering a supportive and productive work environment.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is full-time, approximately 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday during business hours. This schedule allows for consistent engagement with campus needs and provides a predictable routine for managing design workflows. While flexibility may be accommodated for specific deadlines, the core schedule supports operational continuity.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the physical and collaborative workspace aspects, framing them in terms of operational efficiency, team synergy, and resource availability relevant to a design professional.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of submitted resumes and portfolios to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's requirements.
• Portfolio Review & Interview: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, discussing their design process, problem-solving approaches, and experience with print/digital production and brand compliance. This stage often includes behavioral questions about collaboration, time management, and handling feedback.
• Skills Assessment (Optional): A practical design exercise or a case study may be provided to evaluate design skills, creative problem-solving, and adherence to brand guidelines under timed conditions.
• Final Interview: A discussion with key stakeholders, potentially including the MarCom Director and other department leads, to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and overall suitability for the university environment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your proficiency in the required software (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator), your ability to adhere to brand standards, and your experience with print and digital media.
• Tell a Story: For each project, briefly explain the client's objective, your role, the challenges faced, your creative solution, and the outcome. Quantify results where possible (e.g., "improved engagement," "successful event promotion").
• Highlight Process: Demonstrate your understanding of the design process, from briefing and concept development to production and delivery. This shows operational awareness.
• Quality Over Quantity: Present a polished selection of your strongest work rather than an exhaustive, overwhelming collection. Ensure all presented materials are high-resolution and professionally formatted.
• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects that align with the needs of a university setting, such as publications, event materials, digital campaigns, or branding exercises.

Challenge Preparation:

• If a design challenge is given, focus on understanding the brief thoroughly.
• Allocate your time effectively between conceptualization, design execution, and preparing your presentation.
• Be prepared to articulate your design choices and how they meet the project objectives and brand requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for candidates, focusing on how to present their qualifications and portfolio in a way that highlights operational competence and strategic thinking relevant to the role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency in Adobe InDesign (for layout and print production), Adobe Photoshop (for image editing and manipulation), and Adobe Illustrator (for vector graphics and logos).
• Apple Computer: Experience working effectively on macOS operating systems.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Familiarity with Word (for text integration) and PowerPoint (for presentations) is often necessary.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary analytics role, understanding basic web analytics (e.g., Google Analytics) for digital asset performance can be beneficial.
• Familiarity with reporting on project status and workflow efficiency.

CRM & Automation:

• No direct CRM responsibilities are implied, but understanding how design assets integrate into marketing automation platforms or content management systems could be an advantage.
• Familiarity with project management or workflow automation tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Monday.com) for managing design tasks and deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the specific software and technology stack expected for the role, framing it within the operational context of design production and workflow management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Brand Integrity: A strong commitment to upholding and creatively applying the University's brand standards across all communications.
• Efficiency & Timeliness: Dedication to meeting deadlines and managing workflows effectively to ensure timely delivery of design projects.
• Collaboration & Communication: Valuing open communication and teamwork to achieve shared goals and support cross-functional initiatives.
• Attention to Detail: A meticulous approach to design and production, ensuring accuracy and quality in all outputs.
• Service Orientation: A commitment to supporting the needs of various on-campus clients and contributing to the university's mission.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with marketing strategists, content creators, and various campus departments to ensure design solutions are aligned with broader objectives.
• Feedback Exchange: An open approach to receiving and providing constructive feedback during the design process to refine work and ensure optimal outcomes.
• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share design expertise, best practices, and insights with team members to foster collective growth and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section translates the institution's likely values into operational expectations for the Graphic Designer, emphasizing how these values manifest in daily tasks and team interactions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Brand Constraints: Effectively translating creative ideas into designs that strictly adhere to established university brand guidelines can be challenging.
• Managing Diverse Client Needs: Catering to the varied design requirements and expectations of multiple on-campus departments, each with unique goals.
• Production Workflow Optimization: Ensuring efficient turnaround times for print and digital projects while maintaining high quality, especially during peak periods.
• Keeping Pace with Design Trends and Technology: Continuously updating skills and knowledge to incorporate new design techniques and software capabilities relevant to higher education marketing.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to gain certifications or advanced skills in Adobe Suite or emerging design tools.
• Higher Education Marketing Workshops: Participation in industry-specific workshops or conferences focused on marketing and communications in academic institutions.
• Project Management Skills Development: Learning to manage more complex projects, potentially leading design efforts and improving workflow efficiency.
• Brand Strategy Exposure: Gaining deeper insight into university-wide marketing strategies and how design contributes to achieving institutional objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section identifies potential operational challenges inherent in the role and outlines specific avenues for professional growth and skill enhancement within the university's framework.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for designing a print publication for a university department. How do you ensure it aligns with both the department's needs and the university's brand standards?" (Focus on process, brand compliance, stakeholder management).
• "Walk us through a digital design project you worked on. What were the objectives, your creative approach, the tools you used, and the outcome?" (Focus on digital execution, tool proficiency, results).
• "How do you handle feedback or revisions from a client who has different ideas about the design direction?" (Focus on collaboration, communication, adaptability).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working in higher education and specifically at the University of Lynchburg?" (Research the university's mission, values, and recent initiatives).
• "How do you see your role as a Graphic Designer contributing to the University's overall marketing and communication goals?" (Connect your skills to institutional objectives).
• "Describe a time you had to work with a challenging stakeholder or client. How did you manage the relationship and ensure project success?" (Demonstrate interpersonal and professional skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Presentation: Organize your portfolio by project type (print, digital, branding) or by skill set.
• Detail Your Process: For each selected project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, the specific tools and techniques used, and the results achieved. Emphasize your operational approach.
• Highlight Brand Compliance: Showcase examples where you successfully implemented or creatively worked within strict brand guidelines.
• Be Prepared for Technical Questions: Anticipate questions about software proficiency, file preparation for print, and digital asset optimization.
• Engage with the Interviewers: Be ready to discuss your design philosophy and how your approach aligns with the university's values and operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section offers targeted interview preparation advice, focusing on how to frame responses and present a portfolio to demonstrate operational competence and strategic thinking relevant to a university Graphic Designer role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Paycom link.
• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience with Adobe Creative Suite, print production, digital design, vendor communication, and project management, using keywords from the job description and operations context.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, professional, and showcases your strongest work relevant to university communications, emphasizing your process and adherence to brand standards.
• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio, focusing on articulating your design process, problem-solving skills, and operational execution for each project.
• Research the University: Familiarize yourself with the University of Lynchburg's mission, values, current marketing campaigns, and brand guidelines to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.

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