Job Description: Marketing and Graphic Designer
📍 Job Overview
Job Title: Marketing and Graphic Designer Company: GC Solar Location: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa Job Type: Full-Time Category: Marketing & Design Operations Date Posted: January 16, 2026 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Role Summary
- Drive brand identity and audience engagement through the creation of compelling visual and video content.
- Manage the end-to-end design and video production lifecycle, ensuring projects meet quality and brand standards.
- Collaborate effectively with marketing and internal teams to translate business needs into impactful creative assets.
- Utilize advanced proficiency in design and video editing software to produce optimized content for diverse platforms.
- Maintain a high standard of visual communication and brand consistency across all marketing materials.
📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while primarily focused on creative output, has significant operational implications for GC Solar's marketing efforts. The successful candidate will be responsible for the efficient execution of content strategies, requiring strong project management and process adherence. The on-site nature suggests a preference for direct collaboration and access to company resources, vital for integrated marketing campaigns.
📈 Primary Responsibilities
- Conceptualize, design, and produce high-quality digital graphics, print materials, logos, and social media assets that align with and elevate GC Solar's brand guidelines.
- Develop, shoot, and edit engaging video content, including short-form reels, tutorials, and brand stories, specifically optimized for platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and TikTok.
- Manage multiple design and video production projects simultaneously from initial concept through final delivery, ensuring adherence to timelines, scope, and specific project requirements.
- Actively collaborate with the marketing department and other internal stakeholders to understand project briefs, present creative concepts, and iterate on designs based on constructive feedback.
- Expertly operate and leverage design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and video editing tools (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, CapCut) to produce and optimize final files for various formats and distribution channels.
- Ensure all graphic and video content is accurate, error-free, of the highest quality, and consistently reflects the GC Solar brand. Proactively identify and solve creative challenges while staying abreast of emerging design, video, and social media trends.
📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibility for "shooting" video content implies a need for hands-on execution beyond just editing. This suggests the role may involve some level of on-site content capture, potentially requiring basic equipment knowledge or coordination. The emphasis on optimizing content for "multiple social media platforms" indicates a strategic approach to content distribution, requiring an understanding of platform-specific best practices.
🎓 Skills & Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, Film Production, Marketing, or a related field, OR equivalent practical experience demonstrating mastery in design and video creation.
Experience: 2-5 years of proven professional experience in graphic design and video production, with a strong portfolio showcasing a diverse range of creative projects and a clear understanding of brand application.
Required Skills:
- Graphic Design Proficiency: Demonstrated expertise in creating visual assets using Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).
- Video Production & Editing: Strong command of video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, CapCut) and principles of video storytelling.
- Social Media Content Creation: Proven ability to develop graphics and videos tailored for various social media platforms (Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok).
- Project Management: Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and meet deadlines.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: Effective communication and interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with internal teams and incorporate feedback.
- Brand Consistency: Keen attention to detail and a strong commitment to maintaining brand guidelines across all creative outputs.
- Technical Aptitude: Ability to effectively use design and video software for professional-grade output.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with motion graphics and animation (e.g., Adobe After Effects).
- Basic photography and videography skills, including camera operation and lighting.
- Familiarity with Content Management Systems (CMS) or Digital Asset Management (DAM) systems.
- Understanding of SEO principles as they apply to video content.
- Experience in the renewable energy or solar industry.
📝 Enhancement Note: The "2-5 years" experience level suggests that while core technical skills are essential, candidates are also expected to demonstrate a degree of independent problem-solving and project ownership. The inclusion of "After Effects" as a preferred skill indicates a potential for more dynamic and animated content creation within the role.
📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
- A comprehensive portfolio that clearly showcases a minimum of 3-5 distinct projects demonstrating graphic design capabilities and 3-5 distinct projects highlighting video production and editing skills.
- Each project should include a brief description of the objective, the candidate's role, the tools used, and the outcome or impact.
- Evidence of the ability to create content that adheres to and enhances specific brand guidelines.
- Examples of work created for diverse platforms, particularly social media, showing an understanding of format and engagement best practices.
- Projects demonstrating a range of creative outputs, from static graphics and print materials to dynamic video content.
Process Documentation:
- Ability to articulate the workflow and process followed for key design and video projects, from brief interpretation to final delivery.
- Showcase how feedback and revisions were managed to achieve the final product.
- Demonstrate an understanding of file management, optimization, and delivery standards for various media formats.
📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's creative nature, the portfolio is paramount. It serves as the primary evidence of a candidate's ability to translate requirements into tangible, high-quality assets. The emphasis on "process documentation" within the portfolio suggests that GC Solar values candidates who can explain their creative methodology and project execution rather than just presenting final work.
💵 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: Estimated at ZAR 250,000 - ZAR 400,000 per annum. This estimate is based on a mid-level (2-5 years) Marketing and Graphic Designer role in Cape Town, South Africa. Factors influencing this range include the specific scope of responsibilities, required technical proficiencies, and the company's financial standing within the renewable energy sector.
Benefits:
- Standard South African employee benefits, potentially including:
- Medical Aid contribution (partial or full)
- Provident Fund or Pension Fund contribution
- Paid annual leave
- Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives
- Opportunities for professional development and training in design and video technologies.
- Exposure to a growing industry (renewable energy) with a positive environmental impact.
Working Hours: 40 hours per week, standard business hours (e.g., Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM), with potential for occasional flexibility depending on project deadlines.
📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on data from South African job boards and industry benchmarks for similar roles in the Cape Town region, considering the specified experience level. Benefits are inferred based on typical employment practices in South Africa for full-time roles.
🎯 Team & Company Context
🏢 Company Culture
Industry: Renewable Energy / Solar Technology. GC Solar operates within a dynamic and rapidly growing sector focused on sustainable energy solutions, positioning it as a forward-thinking organization. Company Size: Small to Medium-sized Enterprise (SME). This suggests a more agile, hands-on environment where individuals can have a significant impact and potentially wear multiple hats. Founded: The founding date is not specified, but GC Solar is likely an established player or emerging leader within the South African renewable energy market.
Team Structure:
- The Marketing and Graphic Designer will likely be part of a broader Marketing team, potentially reporting to a Marketing Manager or Head of Marketing.
- Collaboration will extend to other departments, including Sales, Operations, and potentially Engineering, to gather information and create relevant content.
- The team structure in an SME often fosters close-knit relationships and direct communication channels.
Methodology:
- Data-Driven Creativity: While creative, the role will likely involve understanding marketing objectives and using data (e.g., social media engagement metrics) to inform content creation and refinement.
- Agile Project Execution: Given the SME environment, projects may be managed using agile principles, emphasizing flexibility, rapid iteration, and efficient delivery.
- Brand-Centric Approach: All creative output will be guided by a strong focus on maintaining and enhancing GC Solar's established brand identity and messaging.
Company Website: https://gcsolar.co.za/
📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on solar energy suggests a mission-driven culture that may appeal to candidates passionate about sustainability. The SME context implies opportunities for greater visibility and direct influence on marketing outcomes.
📈 Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Designer. This role is for an individual with foundational experience who is ready to take on more responsibility in content creation and project management. It's a step beyond an entry-level position, requiring independent work and creative problem-solving.
Reporting Structure: The role will likely report to a Marketing Manager or a senior member of the marketing team. This provides a clear line of communication for guidance, feedback, and career development discussions.
Operations Impact: The Marketing and Graphic Designer's work directly impacts GC Solar's brand perception, customer engagement, and lead generation efforts. High-quality, consistent, and engaging content is crucial for attracting and retaining customers in the competitive solar market.
Growth Opportunities:
- Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas like motion graphics, advanced video editing techniques, or digital marketing analytics.
- Creative Leadership: Potential to evolve into a Senior Designer or Art Director role, leading creative projects and mentoring junior team members.
- Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain experience working with various departments, understanding broader business objectives, and potentially transitioning into broader marketing strategy roles.
- Industry Expertise: Develop specialized knowledge within the renewable energy sector, becoming a valuable asset to companies in this field.
📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a designer in an SME can be varied. While formal promotions might be tied to team expansion, opportunities for increased responsibility and skill development are often driven by initiative and performance.
🌐 Work Environment
Office Type: Standard professional office environment. The on-site requirement suggests a dedicated workspace within GC Solar's facilities. Office Location(s): Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa. This implies working within a vibrant urban center with potential access to creative resources and networking opportunities.
Workspace Context:
- Collaborative Hub: The workspace will likely facilitate direct interaction with marketing colleagues and other team members, fostering a collaborative environment for brainstorming and feedback.
- Technology Access: Access to necessary hardware (computers, cameras if applicable) and software licenses for Adobe Creative Suite and video editing tools.
- Creative Atmosphere: While professional, the environment may encourage creative expression and innovation, especially within the marketing department.
Work Schedule: Primarily Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM, with a standard 40-hour work week. Flexibility may be required during critical project phases or for events, but core hours are expected for team collaboration and workflow continuity.
📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is key for this role, emphasizing the value GC Solar places on in-person collaboration, team synergy, and immediate access to resources.
📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
- Initial Screening: HR or recruitment team will review applications, focusing on resume and initial portfolio assessment.
- Portfolio Review & Technical Interview: A more in-depth review of the candidate's portfolio by the hiring manager or senior design/marketing team members. This stage may include technical questions about design principles, software proficiency, and creative problem-solving.
- Practical Assessment/Creative Challenge: Candidates may be asked to complete a small design or video editing task to assess their skills in a practical context.
- Team/Final Interview: Meeting with the hiring manager and potentially other key team members to assess cultural fit, communication style, and strategic thinking.
Portfolio Review Tips:
- Curate Ruthlessly: Select only your strongest, most relevant work. Quality over quantity is essential.
- Showcase Versatility: Include examples that demonstrate proficiency across different media (digital, print, video) and styles.
- Quantify Impact (where possible): If a project led to specific results (e.g., increased social engagement, successful campaign launch), highlight it.
- Tell a Story: For each project, briefly explain the brief, your approach, the challenges, and the outcome.
- Ensure Accessibility: Provide a clear, easy-to-navigate link to your online portfolio (e.g., personal website, Behance, Adobe Portfolio).
Challenge Preparation:
- Familiarize yourself with GC Solar's current branding and marketing materials.
- Be prepared to discuss your design process and how you approach creative briefs.
- Understand common social media content formats and best practices for engagement.
- Practice articulating your creative decisions and rationale clearly and concisely.
📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential creative challenge suggests that GC Solar prioritizes practical skills and creative problem-solving abilities over purely academic qualifications.
🛠 Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
- Graphic Design Software: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) are essential.
- Video Editing Software: Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, CapCut are expected.
- Motion Graphics/Animation (Preferred): Adobe After Effects.
Analytics & Reporting:
- Familiarity with social media analytics dashboards (e.g., Instagram Insights, LinkedIn Analytics, YouTube Analytics) to understand content performance.
- Basic understanding of website analytics (e.g., Google Analytics) to inform content strategy.
CRM & Automation:
- While not directly managing CRM, understanding how marketing assets are used within a CRM or marketing automation platform (e.g., for email campaigns, social posting) would be beneficial.
📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the specified Adobe Creative Suite and video editing tools is a non-negotiable requirement, forming the core technical foundation of this role.
👥 Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
- Creativity & Innovation: A commitment to generating fresh ideas and pushing creative boundaries.
- Quality & Excellence: Dedication to producing high-quality work that reflects positively on the brand.
- Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing input from others and working effectively within a team.
- Efficiency & Timeliness: Meeting deadlines and managing projects effectively.
- Brand Stewardship: A strong sense of responsibility for maintaining and enhancing the company's brand identity.
Collaboration Style:
- Open communication and active listening are likely encouraged.
- A willingness to give and receive constructive feedback is crucial for creative development.
- Cross-functional collaboration is expected to ensure marketing efforts align with broader business goals.
📝 Enhancement Note: The values suggest a dynamic and collaborative environment where creativity is encouraged, but adherence to brand standards and efficient execution is paramount.
⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
- Balancing Creative Vision with Brand Constraints: Ensuring unique creative output while strictly adhering to brand guidelines.
- Rapidly Evolving Social Media Landscape: Staying current with new platforms, features, and content trends.
- Managing Multiple Project Demands: Effectively prioritizing and delivering on various project timelines and requirements simultaneously.
- Translating Technical Concepts (Solar) into Engaging Visuals: Making complex industry topics accessible and appealing to a broad audience.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
- Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to attend workshops or online courses for mastering new features in Adobe Creative Suite or advanced video editing techniques.
- Industry Trends Seminars: Participation in webinars or industry events focused on marketing, design, and social media trends.
- Portfolio Enhancement: Guidance and opportunities to work on projects that can significantly strengthen the candidate's professional portfolio.
📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for adaptability and continuous learning, which are common in creative and marketing roles. The growth opportunities focus on practical skill enhancement and career progression within the design and marketing field.
💡 Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
- "Describe your process for developing a social media video from concept to final delivery." (Focus on workflow, ideation, execution, and optimization.)
- "How do you ensure brand consistency across diverse design and video projects?" (Highlight adherence to brand guides, attention to detail, and approval processes.)
- "Walk us through a project in your portfolio where you faced a significant creative challenge. How did you overcome it?" (Focus on problem-solving, adaptability, and the impact of your solution.)
Company & Culture Questions:
- "What attracts you to GC Solar and the renewable energy industry?" (Show genuine interest in the company's mission and sector.)
- "How do you approach receiving and incorporating feedback on your creative work?" (Demonstrate openness to constructive criticism and collaboration.)
- "Describe a time you had to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines. How did you prioritize?" (Highlight time management and organizational skills.)
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
- Prepare a concise, engaging presentation of 3-5 key projects.
- For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your role, your creative process, the tools used, and the results achieved.
- Be ready to discuss why you made specific design or editing choices.
- Have high-resolution examples readily available and ensure your online portfolio is flawless.
📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions will likely probe both technical proficiency and the candidate's ability to integrate creatively within GC Solar's marketing operations and company culture.
📌 Application Steps
To apply for this Marketing and Graphic Designer position:
- Submit your application through the provided link on the GC Solar careers portal.
- Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience and skills directly relevant to graphic design, video production, social media content creation, and project management. Use keywords from the job description.
- Curate Your Portfolio: Ensure your online portfolio is up-to-date, easily navigable, and showcases your best work in both graphic design and video editing, with clear project descriptions.
- Prepare Your Narrative: Be ready to discuss specific projects from your portfolio, explaining your creative process, problem-solving approach, and the impact of your work.
- Research GC Solar: Familiarize yourself with GC Solar's mission, values, current marketing efforts, and the solar energy industry to demonstrate your understanding and enthusiasm.
⚠️ 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.
Application Requirements
Candidates should have proven experience in graphic design and video editing, with proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and video editing software. Strong communication and time-management skills are essential, along with attention to detail.