Lead Graphic Designer - Intern | Remote

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Graphic Designer - Intern | Remote
Company: MBJ Network
Location: Lombard, Illinois, United States (Remote)
Job Type: Intern
Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing
Date Posted: December 10, 2025
Experience Level: 0-2 years
Remote Status: Fully Remote

🚀 Role Summary

• This internship focuses on providing hands-on experience in graphic design and marketing campaign coordination within the media production and entertainment industry.
• The role involves assisting in the management of a small graphic design team, guiding them on project execution and adherence to brand standards.
• Responsibilities include developing visually appealing and well-organized layouts for marketing materials, ensuring they align with current design trends and the company's brand identity.
• The intern will exercise judgment in interpreting instructions and identifying optimal solutions for design challenges, bringing visual ideas from concept to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for an internship and is unpaid, with the primary compensation being valuable work experience and executive letters of recommendation upon successful completion. The "Lead" title in an intern capacity suggests a responsibility for guiding 1-2 other interns or junior designers, requiring a blend of design skill and nascent leadership potential.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Assist in Marketing Campaign Coordination: Work collaboratively with the media team to coordinate and implement effective marketing campaigns, contributing to the overall outreach strategy.
• Manage Junior Design Staff: Support the management of a small team of 1-2 graphic designers, providing direction, feedback, and ensuring project milestones are met.
• Develop Marketing Material Layouts: Design and develop layouts for various marketing collateral, ensuring they are visually appealing, well-organized, and effectively communicate the intended message.
• Incorporate Design Trends: Integrate current design trends and styles into custom promotional materials to maintain a modern and relevant aesthetic for MBJ Network.
• Conceptualize and Execute Visual Ideas: Utilize strong conceptualization skills to translate written briefs into compelling visual ideas, managing the design process from initial concept through to final delivery.
• Problem-Solving and Judgment: Apply sound judgment in interpreting design briefs and instructions, identifying strengths and weaknesses of alternative design solutions to achieve optimal outcomes.
• Portfolio Development: Contribute to personal and team portfolios by producing high-quality design assets that showcase creativity and technical proficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative design execution and basic team coordination. The "Lead" aspect implies a need for proactive problem-solving and the ability to guide others, even in an intern capacity. The focus on "current design trends" suggests a need for awareness of contemporary visual communication in media and entertainment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Marketing, or a related field.
• Alternatively, a certificate from a Fine Arts or Graphic Design program, or equivalent relevant experience.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in graphic design, ideally with a focus on media, entertainment, or marketing materials.
• Previous exposure to project coordination or team guidance is beneficial.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite: Expert-level skills in Adobe InDesign, and strong proficiency in Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator are essential for creating high-quality visual assets.
• Mac OS and Software Proficiency: Familiarity with Mac operating systems and software upgrades, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office programs (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
• Graphic Design Fundamentals: Strong understanding of layout principles, typography, color theory, and visual hierarchy.
• Design Trend Awareness: Ability to research, identify, and apply current design trends relevant to the media and entertainment industry.
• Conceptualization Skills: Capacity to generate creative visual ideas from abstract concepts and briefs, translating them into tangible designs.
• Judgment and Problem-Solving: Aptitude for exercising good judgment when interpreting instructions and evaluating design solutions.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Proven ability to be a strong team player, collaborating effectively with colleagues and contributing to a positive work environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Marketing Campaign Experience: Familiarity with the principles of marketing campaigns and how graphic design supports them.
• Basic Project Management: Experience in organizing tasks, managing deadlines, or coordinating small projects.
• Visual Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills to articulate design concepts and provide constructive feedback.
• Adaptability and Openness to Feedback: Willingness to receive and incorporate constructive criticism and customer feedback to refine designs.
• Deadline Management: Ability to perform well in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment, managing multiple tasks efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Adobe Creative Suite is critical. For an intern role with "Lead" responsibilities, demonstrating a proactive attitude, a strong foundational understanding of design principles, and the ability to work independently while also guiding others will be key differentiators. Proficiency in Mac OS is a specific technical requirement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstration of Design Versatility: Showcase a range of design projects that highlight proficiency across different media (digital, print) and styles, demonstrating adaptability to various marketing needs.
• Layout and Composition Examples: Include examples of well-organized and visually appealing layouts for marketing materials, such as brochures, social media graphics, posters, or digital ads.
• Application of Design Trends: Feature projects where current design trends have been successfully integrated to create modern and impactful visuals.
• Conceptual Design Work: Present examples of visual ideas that have been brought from concept through to completion, illustrating the design process and problem-solving skills.
• Team Collaboration Evidence (if applicable): If group projects are included, highlight your specific contributions and role within the team.

Process Documentation:

• While formal process documentation may not be expected from an intern, candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal design process, from brief interpretation to final asset delivery.
• Be ready to articulate how you approach incorporating feedback and iterating on designs to meet project objectives.
• Demonstrate an understanding of workflow efficiency in design tasks, such as file organization and asset management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary requirement will be a strong visual portfolio. For a "Lead" intern, the portfolio should not only showcase individual design talent but also hint at an ability to understand and potentially guide creative direction. The ability to articulate one's design process is crucial for demonstrating a structured approach to creative work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• This is an unpaid internship.

Benefits:

• Executive Letters of Recommendation: Awarded upon successful completion of the internship contract (3-6 months), providing valuable professional endorsements.
• Valuable Work Experience: Gain practical, hands-on experience in graphic design, marketing, and media production within the entertainment industry.
• Portfolio Enhancement: Opportunity to produce professional-grade work that can significantly bolster your design portfolio.
• Industry Exposure: Exposure to real-world media production workflows and client-facing projects.
• Networking Opportunities: Potential to build connections within the media and entertainment industry.

Working Hours:

• The internship duration is 3-6 months.
• While specific daily hours are not detailed, a typical full-time internship commitment is usually around 40 hours per week. Flexibility may be available given the remote nature, but consistent availability for team coordination and project deadlines is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: It's critical for candidates to understand this is an unpaid role. The primary value proposition is the experience, skill development, and the letter of recommendation. The "Chicagoland" location context suggests proximity to a major media hub, which could offer networking advantages.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Media Production - Entertainment. MBJ Network operates in broadcasting and media production, covering Sports, Entertainment, Business, and Public Affairs. Company Size: Based on LinkedIn data (assuming MBJ Network is a typical media startup or smaller production house), it's likely in the range of 1-50 employees. This suggests a dynamic, potentially fast-paced environment where interns can have direct impact. Founded: Information not readily available, but the company describes itself as a "bold new source," implying a relatively recent establishment or a re-branding/new venture.

Team Structure:

• Production Team: The intern will report to and work closely with the production team.
• Graphic Design Team: The intern will assist in managing a small team of 1-2 other graphic designers, indicating a collaborative and hands-on team environment.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Will likely collaborate with other members of the media team, potentially including content creators, editors, and marketing personnel.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Insights: While not explicitly stated, a media company like MBJ Network would likely leverage audience data and market trends to inform their content and marketing strategies.
• Agile Workflow: Given the fast-paced nature of media production and marketing, an agile or iterative approach to project management is probable.
• Creative Innovation: Emphasis on incorporating "current design trends" and "fresh, compelling coverage" suggests a culture that values creativity and innovation.

Company Website: www.mbj-network.com

📝 Enhancement Note: MBJ Network positions itself as a modern, dynamic media entity. The culture likely values passion, motivation, and a willingness to contribute significantly, even in an internship role. The "Where Stories Move" slogan suggests a focus on impactful narrative and engagement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level internship role, designed for individuals early in their career journey in graphic design and marketing. It's an opportunity to gain foundational experience. Reporting Structure: The intern will report to the production team and will have oversight/management responsibilities for 1-2 junior graphic designers. This dual reporting/leadership dynamic is a key aspect of the role. Operations Impact: While this is an internship, the "Lead" responsibility means the intern's work will directly impact the visual quality and effectiveness of MBJ Network's marketing materials and campaigns. Successful campaign execution contributes to brand visibility and audience engagement, which are critical for a media company.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific design software (Adobe Suite) and design disciplines relevant to media and entertainment.
• Leadership Development: Gain initial experience in managing a small team, providing direction, and fostering collaboration.
• Industry Networking: Build professional connections within the media and entertainment sector through work with MBJ Network.
• Portfolio Building: Produce tangible work samples that can be added to a professional portfolio, crucial for future job applications.
• Mentorship: Potential for mentorship from experienced members of the production team, offering guidance on career paths and skill development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Lead" aspect of this internship is a significant differentiator, offering a chance to develop leadership and project management skills early on, which can accelerate career progression in design and media. The 3-6 month duration provides a structured period for focused growth.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "Remote," meaning the primary work environment will be digital. However, the company is "Based in Chicagoland," suggesting a physical headquarters or operational base. Office Location(s): While the role is remote, the company's operational base is in the Chicagoland area. The physical address listed is 330 East Roosevelt Road, Lombard, IL 60148, USA, which serves as a reference point for the company's origin. Workspace Context:

• Remote Collaboration: Expect to use digital tools for communication, project management, and asset sharing. This requires strong self-discipline and effective virtual communication skills.
• Digital Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Suite) is expected, likely provided or used by the intern on their own setup.
• Team Interaction: While remote, regular interaction with the production team and junior designers will be necessary through virtual meetings, calls, and messaging platforms.

Work Schedule:

• The internship is for 3-6 months.
• A standard 40-hour work week is implied for a full-time internship.
• Flexibility may be a characteristic of remote work, but adherence to project deadlines and availability for team syncs will be critical.

📝 Enhancement Note: The remote nature requires candidates to be self-motivated and adept at managing their time and communication without direct supervision. Familiarity with remote collaboration tools is a plus. The mention of "Chicagoland" might imply an expectation to attend occasional in-person meetings if based locally, though the role is listed as fully remote.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Submission of resume, cover letter (if requested), and portfolio link.
• Portfolio Screening: The hiring team will review submitted portfolios to assess design skills, creativity, and alignment with MBJ Network's aesthetic.
• Interview(s): Typically involves one or more interviews, likely with members of the production team and potentially other designers. These interviews will assess:
  • Design philosophy and approach.
  • Understanding of design principles and trends.
  • Ability to interpret briefs and solve design problems.
  • Teamwork and communication skills.
  • Motivation and enthusiasm for the role and company.
  • Judgment and problem-solving capabilities.
• Potential Task/Challenge: A short design task or case study might be assigned to evaluate practical skills under timed conditions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Your Best Work: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your skills relevant to media and entertainment marketing.
• Highlight "Lead" Potential: Include projects where you took initiative, managed a concept from start to finish, or demonstrated problem-solving.
• Showcase Trend Application: Feature designs where you've successfully incorporated current design trends.
• Organize Logically: Present your work clearly, perhaps chronologically or by project type, with brief descriptions of your role, the objective, and the outcome.
• Ensure Technical Proficiency: Make sure your portfolio is easily accessible (e.g., via a link to a website or PDF) and loads quickly.
• Professional Presentation: Ensure all your portfolio pieces are high-resolution and professionally presented.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand MBJ Network: Research MBJ Network's current content, target audience, and brand aesthetic.
• Practice Design Critiques: Be ready to discuss your own work and offer constructive feedback on hypothetical designs.
• Translate Briefs: Practice taking a marketing objective or brief and quickly brainstorming visual concepts.
• Time Management: If a design challenge is given, practice working efficiently within a set timeframe.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount. For this "Lead" intern role, demonstrating not just design talent but also initiative, problem-solving, and the capacity to guide (even if informally) will be key. A strong understanding of the entertainment/media landscape will be beneficial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe InDesign: Essential for layout and print design.
• Adobe Photoshop: Crucial for image editing, manipulation, and digital graphics.
• Adobe Illustrator: Necessary for vector graphics, logos, and illustrations.
• Mac OS: Proficiency in the Mac operating system is a specific requirement.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly a design tool, understanding how design impacts engagement metrics (e.g., click-through rates on digital ads, social media engagement) is beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but awareness of how marketing materials are deployed might be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator) on a Mac OS platform is non-negotiable for this role. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their skill level with these tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Passion and Motivation: MBJ Network seeks individuals who are passionate about media production and entertainment, and motivated to contribute significantly.
• Creativity and Innovation: A culture that values fresh ideas and the incorporation of current design trends to keep content engaging.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Emphasis on being a "team player" and working effectively with others to achieve common goals.
• Professionalism and Responsibility: Commitment to completing tasks independently and delivering high-quality work, especially given the "Lead" aspect of the internship.
• Adaptability and Openness: Willingness to accept constructive criticism and adapt designs based on feedback, essential in a client-facing or fast-paced environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Hands-on and Supportive: The team structure, with a lead intern guiding 1-2 others, suggests a collaborative environment where guidance and support are provided.
• Direct Communication: Expect clear and direct communication, typical of media production environments, to ensure efficient project execution.
• Feedback-Oriented: A culture that encourages constructive criticism and customer feedback to refine creative output.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture seems to foster growth and practical learning. Candidates who demonstrate enthusiasm, a proactive attitude, and a willingness to learn and contribute will likely be a good fit. The "Where Stories Move" slogan implies a value placed on impactful storytelling and audience connection.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Unpaid Internship: The primary challenge is the lack of monetary compensation, requiring strong intrinsic motivation and a focus on long-term career benefits.
• Balancing "Lead" Duties with Intern Role: Effectively managing or guiding other interns while also learning and executing design tasks requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Fast-Paced Media Environment: Adapting to tight deadlines and the dynamic nature of media production and marketing campaigns.
• Remote Work Self-Discipline: Maintaining productivity and communication effectively in a fully remote setting.
• Incorporating Diverse Feedback: Navigating potentially differing opinions or feedback from multiple sources (team, clients) to arrive at optimal design solutions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Practical Design Application: Gain real-world experience applying design skills to marketing campaigns and media content.
• Leadership Exposure: Develop foundational leadership and team coordination skills.
• Industry Insights: Learn about the operations and creative processes within the entertainment and media production industry.
• Portfolio Development: Create a robust portfolio of professional work.
• Professional Endorsements: Secure valuable executive letters of recommendation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This internship is designed to be a significant learning experience. Candidates should view the challenges not as obstacles, but as opportunities to develop resilience, leadership, and advanced problem-solving skills that will be invaluable in their future careers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• About Your Design Process: Be prepared to walk through your typical design process for a specific project in your portfolio, from initial brief to final delivery. Discuss how you incorporate feedback.
• Handling Design Challenges: Describe a time you faced a difficult design problem or received critical feedback. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?
• Teamwork and Leadership: How would you approach managing or guiding a small team of designers? Describe your experience working in teams and contributing to project success.
• Understanding MBJ Network: What do you know about MBJ Network? What aspects of our content or brand resonate with you, and how would your design skills enhance our message?
• Applying Design Trends: How do you stay updated on design trends, and how would you apply them to our specific media and entertainment context?

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation for Unpaid Internship: Be ready to articulate your strong motivations for pursuing an unpaid internship, focusing on the learning and career development aspects.
• Fit with MBJ Network: Why are you interested in the media and entertainment industry, and MBJ Network specifically?
• Working Remotely: How do you ensure productivity and effective communication in a remote work setting?
• Handling Constructive Criticism: Describe your approach to receiving and acting upon feedback from peers or supervisors.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each portfolio piece, don't just show the final product. Explain the objective, your role, the challenges, your creative approach, and the results (even if qualitative).
• Highlight "Lead" Contributions: If you have projects where you led a concept or guided others, clearly articulate this.
• Focus on Relevance: Tailor your presentation to the role; emphasize designs relevant to media, entertainment, and marketing campaigns.
• Be Concise and Clear: Present your work clearly and efficiently. Be prepared to answer questions about any aspect of your designs.
• Demonstrate Software Proficiency: Be ready to briefly discuss the tools and techniques you used in your designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a blend of strong design aptitude, an understanding of the media/entertainment space, and a proactive, team-oriented attitude. Demonstrating how you can add value despite the unpaid nature of the internship will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant design skills, software proficiency (Adobe Suite, Mac OS), any experience with marketing, and any instances of leadership or project coordination. Use keywords like "Graphic Design," "Marketing," "Layout Development," "Adobe Photoshop," "Adobe Illustrator," "Adobe InDesign," "Team Player," and "Remote Work."
• Curate Your Portfolio: Ensure your online portfolio is up-to-date and showcases your best work relevant to media and entertainment marketing. Include a strong variety of projects demonstrating your skill set and ability to incorporate design trends.
• Prepare Your Cover Letter (if applicable): Clearly articulate your passion for graphic design, the entertainment industry, and your specific interest in MBJ Network. Explain why you are motivated to pursue this unpaid internship and how you can contribute to the team.
• Practice Your Portfolio Presentation: Rehearse walking through your portfolio, focusing on telling compelling stories about your projects and highlighting your "Lead" capabilities and problem-solving skills.
• Research MBJ Network: Familiarize yourself with their website, content, and overall brand presence to demonstrate genuine interest and an understanding of their aesthetic and mission.

⚠️ 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.