Graphic Designer, Creative Agency

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer, Creative Agency

Company: AMA - Alberta Motor Association

Location: Edmonton, AB, Canada

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Marketing / Art & Design

Date Posted: March 20, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive creative strategy and execution for marketing assets across print and digital channels, ensuring brand consistency and impactful communication.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including copywriters and marketing leaders, to translate business objectives into compelling visual narratives.

• Leverage advanced design software and conceptual development skills to produce high-quality creative for a leading Alberta-based organization.

• Contribute to innovative campaign development, embracing new technologies like AI for enhanced creative efficiencies and brand advancement.

• Actively participate in a dynamic, collaborative in-house agency environment focused on member-centric design and continuous professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within an in-house creative agency, indicating a strong focus on internal brand stewardship and direct collaboration with business units. The mention of "Centennial Year" suggests a period of significant brand evolution or celebration, potentially offering unique project opportunities. The emphasis on AI integration highlights a forward-thinking approach to creative workflows.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and maintain a diverse range of marketing assets, including billboards, in-centre signage, online digital ads, and video storyboards.

• Partner closely with copywriters to develop integrated concepts and present advertising materials to stakeholders.

• Collaborate with marketing leaders and business unit stakeholders to identify and creatively solve business objectives through design.

• Manage multiple design projects concurrently, ensuring visual tone, character, and messaging effectively communicate with target audiences and meet project goals.

• Apply a strong understanding of graphic design principles, typography, and design systems to inform all visual design output.

• Develop original, creative, and effective communications, advertising layouts, and a variety of visual designs that align with marketing and advertising plans.

• Work with external creative vendors, such as motion animators, copywriters, and photographers, to execute final artwork.

• Assist in archiving and organizing all creative assets to ensure efficient access and management.

• Maintain a keen awareness of industry trends, competitive landscapes, and best practices in graphic design and advertising.

• Ensure all marketing materials consistently reflect the AMA brand identity and strategic objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a hands-on design role with a strategic component, requiring the candidate to not only execute designs but also to contribute to concept development and align creative output with broader business goals. The management of multiple projects simultaneously points to the need for strong organizational and prioritization skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

Required Skills:

• High degree of competency in digital, static, and motion design.

• Strong conceptual development skills focused on creating clear, member/consumer-centric themes.

• Excellent proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite: InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator.

• Ability to procure and edit images to enhance conceptual themes.

• Strong understanding of graphic design principles and typography.

• Demonstrated ability to manage deliverables and meet project timelines effectively.

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with PowerPoint for presentations and asset development.

• Experience in video editing and animation (considered a strong plus).

• Experience with design systems and their application.

• Familiarity with AI tools for creative efficiencies and innovation.

• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within a team and with stakeholders.

• A growth mindset with a passion for learning new skills and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 3 years of experience in specific environments (agency or in-house retail) suggests the company values candidates who understand fast-paced creative production cycles and brand management within a commercial context. The explicit mention of AI points to an expectation for candidates to be open to or proficient in leveraging new technologies in their design process.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of design projects demonstrating versatility across print, digital, and motion media.

• Include case studies that highlight conceptual development and problem-solving for specific business objectives.

• Present examples of member/consumer-centric campaign design and execution.

• Demonstrate proficiency in typography and the application of design systems.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of workflow management for multiple concurrent projects, illustrating prioritization and timeline adherence.

• Detail how collaborative processes were utilized to develop concepts with copywriters and stakeholders.

• Showcase how feedback from stakeholders was incorporated into design iterations.

• Illustrate experience in asset archiving and organization for efficient retrieval.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical for this role, as it will be the primary demonstration of the candidate's conceptual abilities, technical skills, and understanding of brand communication. The emphasis on "member/consumer-centric" themes suggests a need to showcase work that clearly connects with and appeals to the target audience.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry standards for a Graphic Designer with 2-5 years of experience in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, the estimated salary range is CAD $55,000 - $75,000 annually. This estimate considers the cost of living in Edmonton, the specified experience level, and the nature of an in-house creative agency role within a large, established organization like AMA.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary.

• Flexible benefits package with five distinct options.

• Up to $3,000 in annual Health and Wellness Spending Accounts.

• Employer-paid retirement savings program, including a 5% AMA contribution and a 5% matching contribution.

• Employee-exclusive discounts on travel, insurance, memberships, driver education, registry services, and more.

• Complimentary travel medical insurance for the employee and their immediate family.

• Ongoing professional development opportunities with dedicated time for personal growth.

• Generous paid vacation starting at three weeks, plus a "Me Day," a Volunteer Day, and the option to purchase additional vacation time.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week), with flexibility offered through hybrid work arrangements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided benefits package is comprehensive and indicates AMA's commitment to employee well-being and professional growth. The inclusion of a "Me Day" and "Volunteer Day" alongside standard paid time off highlights a supportive company culture. The salary estimate is based on typical compensation for similar roles in the Canadian market, adjusted for location and experience.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Insurance, Automotive Services, Travel, Registries. AMA operates as a diversified member-based organization providing a wide array of essential services. This broad scope means the creative team supports numerous campaigns across different sectors.

Company Size: Large (likely 1,000+ employees, based on diversified operations and member base). A larger organization typically offers more structured processes, diverse projects, and opportunities for specialization and advancement within departments.

Founded: Over 100 years ago (AMA is entering its centennial year). This long history signifies stability, deep community roots, and established brand recognition, providing a strong foundation for creative work.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of an in-house "Creative Agency," reporting to the Creative Agency Director. This structure suggests a dedicated team focused on delivering creative services to various AMA business units, likely comprising designers, copywriters, and potentially project managers or art directors.

• Collaboration is expected with internal marketing leaders and stakeholders across different AMA divisions, indicating a cross-functional operational model.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Creativity: While not explicitly stated, the need to "creatively support and solve their business objectives" implies that creative decisions are informed by marketing goals and potentially performance metrics.

• Integrated Campaign Focus: The role emphasizes "integrated campaigns and big idea thinking," suggesting a strategic approach to creative development that spans multiple channels.

• Process Optimization: The mention of embracing AI for "creative efficiencies and innovations" points to a focus on streamlining workflows and improving output through technology.

• Brand Stewardship: A core methodology will be maintaining brand consistency and direction across all creative output.

Company Website: https://www.ama.ab.ca/

📝 Enhancement Note: Being part of an in-house agency for a large, established organization like AMA means the designer will be deeply embedded in the brand's identity and strategic goals. The culture appears to value collaboration, personal growth, and a strong sense of community, which is often a hallmark of member-based organizations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Designer. This role is suitable for individuals who have moved beyond entry-level tasks and can independently manage projects, contribute to conceptualization, and work with stakeholders. It represents a step from junior designer to a more autonomous and impactful contributor within the creative process.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer reports directly to the Creative Agency Director. This provides a clear line of communication and mentorship, with the Director likely guiding creative direction, project priorities, and professional development. Collaboration extends to marketing leaders and stakeholders across AMA.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly influences brand perception, marketing effectiveness, and the ability of AMA's business units to achieve their objectives. High-quality, strategically aligned creative assets are crucial for member engagement, acquisition, and retention across AMA's diverse service offerings. The role contributes to building and maintaining the brand's visual identity and communicating its value proposition effectively.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific design areas (e.g., motion graphics, digital advertising, UI/UX principles) through project work and development resources.

• Creative Leadership: Potential to evolve into a Senior Graphic Designer role, taking on more complex projects, mentoring junior designers, and contributing more significantly to creative strategy.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gaining broader marketing and business acumen by working with various AMA departments, which could lead to roles in marketing management or specialized creative fields.

• AI Integration Expertise: Developing advanced skills in leveraging AI tools for creative workflows, becoming a subject matter expert within the team.

• Professional Development: Access to unlimited learning opportunities and dedicated time for growth, as highlighted in the benefits section, can support career advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: AMA's emphasis on "investing in your growth and development" and "unlimited learning opportunities" suggests a commitment to employee advancement. The role offers a solid platform for a designer to grow within a stable, reputable organization, potentially leading to leadership roles or specialized creative positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid Work Model. This indicates a blend of in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility. The in-office component is crucial for team synergy, brainstorming, and direct interaction with stakeholders.

Office Location(s): Primarily based at the Administration Centre in Edmonton, AB, Canada. This location is the central hub for operations and creative teams.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The in-house agency structure fosters close collaboration with designers, copywriters, and project stakeholders, facilitating idea exchange and rapid iteration.

• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator) and potentially other creative tools. The company's forward-thinking approach suggests an openness to adopting new technologies, including AI tools.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with the Creative Agency Director and project teams will be central to daily work, promoting a cohesive and communicative atmosphere.

Work Schedule: While specific daily hours are not detailed, a standard full-time schedule (approximately 40 hours per week) is implied. The hybrid model suggests flexibility in how these hours are structured, balancing in-office days with remote work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model is a significant draw for many professionals, offering a balance between the collaborative benefits of an office environment and the flexibility of remote work. For a designer, this means opportunities for both in-person creative synergy and focused, independent work.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Resumes and portfolios will be screened for relevant experience, technical skills, and creative output.

• Portfolio Presentation & Discussion: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, discussing their design process, conceptual thinking, and the impact of their work. This might involve a live presentation or a recorded walkthrough.

• Conceptual/Design Challenge: A practical exercise or case study may be given to assess problem-solving skills, creative thinking, and ability to apply design principles to a specific brief, potentially under a time constraint.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with the Creative Agency Director, potential team members, and key stakeholders (e.g., marketing leaders) to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and cultural fit.

• Final Interview: Likely with a senior leader in marketing or creative to finalize assessment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 4-6 of your strongest projects that best represent the skills and experience required for this role (print, digital, motion, conceptual thinking).

• Showcase Process: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your role, the design process (ideation, iteration, feedback), the tools used, and the final outcome with measurable results if possible.

• Highlight Brand Alignment: Emphasize projects where you successfully adhered to brand guidelines or developed a strong visual identity for a campaign.

• Demonstrate Member-Centricity: Include examples where your design directly addressed the needs or preferences of a target audience.

• Prepare for Discussion: Be ready to discuss your design choices, challenges encountered, and how you leveraged feedback.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: Carefully analyze any design challenge prompt, identifying key objectives, target audience, and constraints.

• Think Strategically: Consider how your design solution will meet the business objectives and resonate with the intended audience.

• Sketch and Ideate: Quickly sketch out multiple concepts before committing to a final design direction.

• Focus on Clarity: Ensure your design is clear, impactful, and communicates the intended message effectively.

• Be Prepared to Justify: Articulate the rationale behind your design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and potential design challenge indicates that practical design skills and creative problem-solving abilities are paramount. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate their process and ability to translate business needs into compelling visual solutions.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:

  • InDesign: For layout design of print materials (billboards, signage, brochures, etc.).
  • Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, and digital asset creation.
  • Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, illustrations, and icons.

• PowerPoint: For creating presentations and potentially developing some marketing assets.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

Emerging Technologies:

• AI-powered creative tools: The company explicitly mentions embracing AI for creative efficiencies. This could include AI-assisted design tools, content generation tools, or automation software.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite is a fundamental requirement. The mention of AI tools indicates that candidates who are already exploring or using these technologies will be at an advantage. Experience with presentation software like PowerPoint is also noted as valuable.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A drive to design "awesome stuff" and "jaw-dropping graphic masterpieces," pushing creative boundaries.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasizing being a "true team player" and that "teamwork makes the dream work."

• Growth Mindset: Eagerness to learn new skills, processes, and embrace continuous development.

• Member/Consumer-Centricity: A focus on designing with the end-user in mind to effectively communicate and solve their needs.

• Efficiency & Adaptability: Thriving in fast-paced environments and embracing change, with a forward-thinking approach to creative processes (e.g., AI).

• Attention to Detail: A superpower for ensuring quality, accuracy, and brand consistency.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Campaign Approach: Working closely with copywriters and marketing leaders to develop cohesive concepts from start to finish.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Actively collaborating with stakeholders to understand business objectives and deliver creative solutions that meet those needs.

• Open Communication: Valuing clear communication (written, verbal, interpersonal) as essential for success.

• Feedback Integration: Open to receiving and incorporating feedback from team members and stakeholders to refine creative output.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture seems to foster a supportive, growth-oriented environment where collaboration and creativity are highly valued. The emphasis on member-centricity implies that the design work is purposeful and aimed at serving the organization's core mission.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Projects: Effectively managing a diverse workload with competing deadlines and priorities within a fast-paced agency setting.

• Translating Business Needs: Accurately interpreting and translating complex business objectives from various AMA units into clear and compelling visual communications.

• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring all creative output adheres to AMA's established brand guidelines while still pushing creative boundaries.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Keeping pace with new design tools, software updates, and emerging technologies like AI, and integrating them effectively into the workflow.

• Cross-Functional Communication: Navigating communication and feedback loops with diverse stakeholders who may have varying levels of design understanding.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Techniques: Opportunities to hone skills in motion graphics, video editing, or specialized digital design through project work.

• Creative Strategy Workshops: Learning to contribute more strategically to campaign development and big-idea thinking.

• AI Tool Proficiency: Becoming adept at using AI tools to enhance creative efficiency, explore new design avenues, and stay ahead of industry trends.

• Mentorship: Learning from the Creative Agency Director and senior team members.

• Industry Trends: Staying informed about the latest in graphic design, advertising, and digital marketing trends through company-supported learning resources.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents a dynamic challenge, requiring both strong execution skills and strategic thinking. The growth opportunities are tied to mastering new technologies and deepening creative expertise, supported by the company's commitment to professional development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance multiple design projects with competing deadlines. How did you prioritize and manage your workload?" (Assesses time management and organizational skills.)

• "How do you approach translating a complex business objective into a clear and effective visual design?" (Evaluates strategic thinking and problem-solving.)

• "Tell me about a project where you had to work closely with a copywriter or a stakeholder with a different vision. How did you collaborate to achieve the best outcome?" (Tests collaboration and communication skills.)

• "How do you stay current with design trends and new technologies like AI? Can you give an example of how you've incorporated a new tool or technique into your workflow?" (Assesses adaptability and continuous learning.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for AMA, particularly as we approach our centennial year?" (Gauges genuine interest and understanding of the company.)

• "Based on your understanding, what do you believe are AMA's core brand values, and how would you reflect them in your design work?" (Tests research and cultural alignment.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the challenge, your process (ideation, iteration, tools used), and the final result/impact.

• Highlight Key Skills: Visually and verbally emphasize your proficiency in InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, typography, conceptual development, and any motion/video experience.

• Showcase Versatility: Present a mix of print and digital projects, demonstrating your ability to adapt to different media and formats.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify results where possible (e.g., "increased click-through rates by X%," "contributed to Y campaign success"). If not quantifiable, explain the strategic intent and expected outcome.

• Be Ready for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, challenges, and how you'd approach specific scenarios relevant to AMA's services.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their design process, showcase their problem-solving capabilities, and demonstrate an understanding of how design contributes to business objectives. Familiarity with AMA's services and brand will be a significant advantage.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating strong conceptual development, print and digital asset creation, and experience with brand stewardship, ideally showcasing work relevant to services like insurance, automotive, or travel.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your 3+ years of experience in agency or in-house creative teams, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator), and any experience with motion graphics or AI tools. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving approach, and collaborative style. Prepare to discuss specific projects from your portfolio and how you'd contribute to AMA's creative goals.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with AMA's services, mission, and recent marketing campaigns. Understand their member-centric approach and consider how your design skills can support their centennial year initiatives.

⚠️ 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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