Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer Company: Upbring Location: Austin, Texas, United States Job Type: Full-time Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing / Social Services Date Posted: October 09, 2025 Experience Level: 2-5 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in shaping and maintaining Upbring's visual identity across all organizational platforms, ensuring brand consistency and mission-driven communication.
• You will conceptualize and execute compelling design solutions for multi-channel projects, including branding, digital assets, social media, print materials, and presentations.
• Collaboration is key, as you'll work closely with copywriters, strategists, project managers, and program teams to deliver client-ready campaigns and collateral.
• This position requires managing multiple programs and projects concurrently, demanding a keen eye for detail and a commitment to creative integrity and brand guideline adherence.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Graphic Designer," the context provided by the company's mission and the responsibilities suggests a strong alignment with marketing and communications operations. The role will likely involve close collaboration with GTM (Go-To-Market) teams, supporting campaign execution, donor engagement, and program awareness through visual storytelling.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the visual execution of multi-channel design projects from initial concept through final delivery, encompassing branding, digital assets, social media content, print collateral, presentation decks, and experiential event materials.
• Collaborate effectively with internal teams, including copywriters, brand strategists, project managers, and program stakeholders, to develop cohesive and impactful client-ready campaigns and organizational collateral.
• Simultaneously manage and prioritize multiple program brands and design projects, ensuring creative integrity, brand consistency, and meticulous attention to detail throughout each lifecycle.
• Confidently present design concepts, rationale, and executed work internally to program teams and leadership, articulating design decisions and their strategic alignment with organizational goals.
• Uphold and actively contribute to the evolution of Upbring's brand guidelines, ensuring consistent and compelling visual representation across all organizational touchpoints and program identities.
• Stay informed about current design trends, competitor creative strategies, and emerging industry tools and technologies to continuously inspire innovation and inform design approaches.
• Provide essential design support for new business pitches and fundraising initiatives, including the creation of mockups, branding elements, and presentation design to enhance proposals and engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities indicate a need for strong project management skills within a creative context. The emphasis on "client-ready campaigns and collateral" and "new business pitches" suggests this role will operate with a GTM (Go-To-Market) mindset, contributing directly to outreach and engagement efforts that drive organizational objectives.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a related field is preferred.

Experience:

• A minimum of three (3) years of professional graphic design experience is required.
• One (1) year of agency experience is preferred, indicating a potential preference for fast-paced, client-service-oriented environments.

Required Skills:

• Expert-level proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop, is essential for core design tasks.
• Demonstrated expertise in Figma and Canva for collaborative design workflows and broader accessibility across teams.
• Deep understanding of fundamental design principles: typography, layout composition, color theory, and visual hierarchy to create impactful and aesthetically pleasing designs.
• Proven experience designing effective assets for paid and organic social media campaigns, email marketing initiatives, landing pages, presentation decks, and event materials.
• Ability to interpret creative briefs accurately, apply strategic thinking to design challenges, and effectively iterate on designs based on constructive feedback.
• Strong time management and organizational skills to effectively manage multiple projects and meet evolving deadlines.
• Excellent client-facing communication skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts clearly and professionally.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in motion graphics and video editing software, such as After Effects and Premiere Pro, to enhance multimedia content.
• Experience working collaboratively within cross-functional teams, including strategists, media planners, and UX/UI designers, to ensure integrated campaign execution.
• Knowledge of print production processes, including pre-press requirements and vendor management, for high-quality print collateral.
• Familiarity with project management platforms like Asana, Trello, or Monday.com for workflow tracking and team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for proficiency in Figma and Canva, alongside Adobe Creative Suite, indicates a modern design workflow that values collaboration and accessibility. The mention of project management platforms hints at the need for candidates to demonstrate organizational skills beyond pure design execution, aligning with operations best practices for workflow management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A robust portfolio showcasing a diverse range of design work, including branding projects, multi-channel campaign executions, engaging digital experiences, and high-quality print collateral.
• The portfolio should demonstrate versatility across various industries and project types, reflecting the ability to adapt design approaches to different contexts.
• Evidence of conceptual thinking and strategic application of design principles to solve communication challenges and achieve specific objectives.
• Clear articulation of the design process, including initial ideation, development, and final execution, highlighting your role and contributions.

Process Documentation:

• The portfolio should implicitly or explicitly demonstrate an understanding of design workflows, from brief interpretation and concept development to final asset delivery and brand guideline adherence.
• Examples of how you've managed multiple projects with competing deadlines, showcasing organizational and prioritization skills.
• Visual examples of how design decisions contributed to campaign effectiveness, donor engagement, or program awareness, even if anecdotal.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Graphic Designer role, a portfolio is less about formal process documentation and more about showcasing the results of a well-managed design process. Candidates should aim to present case studies that explain the "why" behind their design choices and the impact they had, demonstrating an operations-minded approach to creative execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $55,000 - $75,000 annually.
• Methodology: This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for Graphic Designers with 2-5 years of experience in the Austin, Texas metropolitan area. Factors considered include the cost of living in Austin, the typical salary ranges for non-profit organizations, and the required skill set (Adobe Suite, Figma, Canva, branding, digital design). Specific salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Benefits:

• Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays, providing ample opportunity for rest and rejuvenation.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans designed to support employee wellbeing.
• 403(b) retirement savings plan, offering a pathway to long-term financial security.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing confidential support for personal and professional challenges.
• Discounted Gym Memberships, encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work week, typically 40 hours.
• The on-site nature of the role may offer opportunities for flexible scheduling within business hours, subject to team needs and manager approval, to accommodate project deadlines and workflow optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The estimated salary range is based on general market data for Austin, TX, and the specified experience level. For precise figures, candidates should consult Upbring's compensation structure or inquire during the interview process. The benefits package is strong for the non-profit sector, emphasizing holistic employee support.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Social Services / Non-profit. Upbring is dedicated to breaking the cycle of child abuse and advancing the wellbeing of children, families, and communities. This mission-driven environment fosters a culture of purpose and impact. Company Size: [Company Size Data Not Provided] - Inferred: Given the multiple responsibilities and departments implied (creative, programs, fundraising), Upbring likely operates as a mid-sized to large non-profit organization, offering a stable yet dynamic work environment. Founded: [Company Founded Data Not Provided] - Inferred: Upbring has a history that implies stability and established operations, suggesting a well-defined organizational structure and established processes.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Creative Brand Manager or a Marketing Director, working within a broader Marketing and Communications department.
• This role requires close collaboration with program managers, development/fundraising teams, and potentially external agencies or vendors.
• The team structure emphasizes servant-leadership and a family-like atmosphere, encouraging mutual support and dedication to the mission.

Methodology:

• Design execution will be guided by brand guidelines and strategic campaign objectives, emphasizing consistency and impact.
• Workflows will likely involve project management tools to track progress and facilitate collaboration.
• Data-driven insights from campaign performance may inform future design iterations, reflecting a continuous improvement mindset.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is deeply rooted in its mission, values ("Warriors," "Servants," "Family"), and a servant-leadership approach. For a Graphic Designer, this means creating visuals that authentically represent these values and resonate with stakeholders who share a passion for the cause. Understanding and embodying these values will be critical for cultural fit.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-level Graphic Designer. This role is positioned to execute established brand strategies and contribute to campaign development, rather than setting overarching design direction. The "lead the visual execution" phrasing suggests ownership of assigned projects. Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a Creative Brand Manager or similar leadership role within the Marketing/Communications department. This structure provides guidance and oversight while allowing for independent project management. Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the organization's ability to communicate its mission, engage donors, raise awareness for programs, and maintain a consistent, professional brand image. Effective visuals are crucial for fundraising success and community trust.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop advanced skills in motion graphics, video editing, or specific digital design areas based on project needs and personal interest.
• Brand Management: Potentially grow into a role with more responsibility for brand strategy, leading specific brand initiatives, or managing junior designers.
• Cross-Functional Expertise: Gain deeper experience in marketing campaign strategy, donor communications, and program outreach through close collaboration with other departments.
• Leadership Potential: With proven success and expanded responsibilities, opportunities for team leadership or management roles may arise within the creative department.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a solid foundation for growth within a mission-driven organization. The "Warriors, Servants, Family" ethos suggests that individuals who demonstrate dedication, a collaborative spirit, and a commitment to the mission will be well-positioned for advancement and increased responsibility within Upbring.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site. This role requires a physical presence at the Upbring office in Austin, Texas. Office Location(s): 8305 Cross Park Drive, Austin, TX 78754. This location provides access to the Austin metropolitan area's resources and talent pool.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is described as collaborative, with opportunities to work closely with copywriters, strategists, and program teams.
• Access to standard office technology and design software (Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, Canva) will be provided.
• The physical demands include sitting and using a computer for extended periods, with potential for occasional lifting up to 25 lbs.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours, likely Monday through Friday, within typical business operating hours.
• While predominantly on-site, there may be flexibility within the work schedule for project needs, subject to manager approval, to ensure efficient workflow and timely delivery of creative assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role fosters direct collaboration and team cohesion, which is often valued in creative environments for brainstorming and feedback. The Austin location offers a vibrant professional community.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and creative fit.
• Portfolio Review & Skills Assessment: This stage will likely involve a more in-depth discussion of your portfolio, with specific questions about your design process, decision-making, and problem-solving approaches. You may be asked to walk through specific projects.
• Skills Challenge: A practical design exercise or case study to evaluate your proficiency with required tools (Adobe Suite, Figma, Canva) and your ability to interpret a creative brief and deliver a relevant design solution under a time constraint.
• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with potential team members and key stakeholders (e.g., Creative Brand Manager, Program Leads) to evaluate cultural fit, communication style, and collaboration potential.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss overall fit and long-term potential within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase your skills in branding, digital design, and print. Prioritize work that aligns with Upbring's mission and aesthetic.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the objective, your role, the challenges faced, your design process, the solutions you developed, and the measurable impact or outcome. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
• Highlight Process: Briefly explain your design thinking, how you interpreted the brief, and why you made specific creative choices. This demonstrates strategic application of skills.
• Showcase Tool Proficiency: Ensure your portfolio reflects your expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, and Canva. If possible, include examples that demonstrate your ability to work across these platforms.
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate, whether it's a digital PDF or a website.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: Carefully read and understand the requirements of any design challenge. Ask clarifying questions if needed.
• Time Management: Allocate your time effectively across concepting, designing, and refining.
• Focus on Relevance: Ensure your design solution directly addresses the objectives outlined in the brief.
• Present Your Work: Be prepared to present your solution, explain your rationale, and discuss any trade-offs or alternative approaches you considered.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "robust portfolio showcasing a mix of branding, campaign work, digital experiences and print" means candidates should select projects that demonstrate breadth. For a non-profit, showcasing work that communicates impact, empathy, and mission is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Expert-level proficiency required in InDesign (layout, print), Illustrator (vector graphics, logos), and Photoshop (image editing, digital assets). These are the core tools for most design tasks.
• Figma: Essential for collaborative design, UI/UX prototyping, and creating shareable design assets, particularly for digital platforms.
• Canva: Valued for its accessibility and ease of use, likely employed for quick social media graphics, internal presentations, or by non-designers for basic content creation, requiring the designer to potentially guide its use or create templates.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary design tool, understanding how designs perform on digital platforms (social media engagement, email open rates, landing page conversion) is beneficial. The designer may need to interpret basic analytics to inform future design choices.

CRM & Automation:

• Familiarity with how design assets are utilized within CRM systems (e.g., email templates in Salesforce Marketing Cloud or HubSpot) or marketing automation platforms is a plus, though direct operational use is unlikely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, and Canva highlights the need for a designer proficient in industry-standard professional tools as well as collaborative, modern platforms. Understanding how these assets integrate into broader marketing campaigns is also valuable.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Warriors: Demonstrating resilience, courage, and passion in tackling design challenges and meeting project deadlines, especially during high-demand periods.
• Servants: Dedicating oneself to supporting the mission through impactful visuals, empowering program teams and donors with clear, compelling communication.
• Family: Fostering a collaborative and supportive environment with colleagues, sharing knowledge, and contributing positively to team morale.
• Data-Driven Approach: While a creative role, designers are expected to understand how their work contributes to organizational goals and to be open to feedback based on performance metrics.
• Efficiency & Optimization: Contributing to streamlined design processes and creating reusable assets to maximize efficiency across the organization.

Collaboration Style:

• Close collaboration with copywriters and strategists to ensure visual and textual messages are aligned.
• Openness to feedback and iterative design processes, working with project managers to keep projects on track.
• A willingness to support various departments, adapting design styles and content to meet diverse needs, from fundraising to program outreach.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's core values are central to its identity and will heavily influence team dynamics. A candidate who can embody "Warriors" (resilience), "Servants" (mission-focus), and "Family" (teamwork) will likely thrive in Upbring's culture.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Brands: Effectively managing distinct visual identities and design needs across various Upbring programs and initiatives.
• Mission-Driven Creativity: Translating complex social service needs and emotional stories into compelling, accessible visual narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
• Evolving Trends: Staying current with design trends while maintaining brand consistency and ensuring designs are timeless and impactful for a mission-oriented organization.
• Feedback Integration: Navigating feedback from multiple stakeholders and incorporating it effectively without compromising creative integrity or strategic goals.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software: Opportunities to deepen expertise in motion graphics, video editing, or explore new design tools and technologies.
• Brand Strategy Workshops: Participating in sessions focused on brand management, campaign development, and strategic communication.
• Industry Best Practices: Learning from experienced marketing and communications professionals within Upbring and potentially through external training or conferences.
• Cross-Departmental Projects: Gaining exposure to fundraising, program management, and community outreach, providing a broader understanding of the organization's operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge will be translating mission-critical work into impactful visuals that resonate with a broad audience, from donors to beneficiaries. This requires not just creative skill but also strategic thinking and empathy.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance multiple brand identities for different projects. How did you ensure consistency while maintaining individuality?" (Assesses: Brand management, organizational skills)
• "How do you approach translating a complex mission or sensitive topic into a clear, compelling visual message?" (Assesses: Strategic thinking, empathy, creative problem-solving)
• "Walk us through a campaign or project where your design significantly contributed to achieving a specific goal (e.g., donor engagement, program awareness). What was your process?" (Assesses: Impact orientation, process, results)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What resonates most with you about Upbring's mission and core values (Warriors, Servants, Family)?" (Assesses: Cultural fit, mission alignment)
• "How do you typically collaborate with copywriters, strategists, or program teams on projects?" (Assesses: Collaboration style, communication)
• "How do you stay updated on design trends, and how do you decide which trends are appropriate for a mission-driven organization like Upbring?" (Assesses: Industry awareness, strategic judgment)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly state the objective and how your design helped achieve it. Quantify results if possible (e.g., increased engagement, successful fundraising campaign).
• Explain Your 'Why': Articulate the strategic thinking behind your design choices – why you chose specific colors, typography, imagery, or layouts.
• Demonstrate Process: Briefly outline your workflow, from brief to final asset, highlighting any challenges overcome.
• Showcase Versatility: Present a range of work that demonstrates your adaptability across different mediums and styles.
• Be Prepared for Specific Tool Questions: Have examples ready that showcase your command of Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, and Canva.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for not just design talent but also for a candidate who understands and can visually represent the organization's mission and values. Demonstrating an understanding of how design supports business objectives (fundraising, awareness) will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Upbring careers portal.
• Tailor your Resume: Highlight experience with Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, Canva, branding, campaign design, and any relevant non-profit or social services sector experience. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase your expertise in branding, digital, and print design. Ensure it clearly articulates your process and impact, aligning with Upbring's mission.
• Prepare for the Interview: Research Upbring's mission, values, and current campaigns. Practice articulating your design process and how your work aligns with non-profit objectives. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail.
• Understand the Culture: Reflect on how your personal values and work style align with Upbring's core values of being Warriors, Servants, and Family.

⚠️ 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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