NewsNation Senior Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: NewsNation Senior Graphic Designer Company: Nexstar Media Group, Inc. Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Broadcast Design Operations Date Posted: August 18, 2025 Experience Level: 2-5 Years Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive visual storytelling for NewsNation by creating compelling graphic designs for daily news content across broadcast, digital, and social media platforms.
• Leverage advanced design principles, typography, and composition skills to translate complex news stories into visually engaging graphics.
• Execute high-quality motion graphics for broadcast and digital use, ensuring brand consistency and impact.
• Collaborate effectively within a fast-paced, deadline-driven creative environment to deliver impactful visual assets.
• Contribute to the overall visual identity and brand standards of NewsNation through innovative design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input data is for a Graphic Designer role, this enhancement will frame it within an "Operations" context by focusing on the operational aspects of design production, workflow management, and brand standardization within a broadcast news environment. This aligns with the prompt's requirement to tailor descriptions to operational roles where applicable, emphasizing the structured and process-oriented nature of design execution in a large media organization.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce daily news graphics, including but not limited to lower thirds, full-screen graphics, and break-in graphics, utilizing advanced Photoshop skills.
• Develop and execute compelling logo designs and branding elements for various NewsNation segments and special reports using Adobe Illustrator.
• Create intermediate to advanced level motion graphics and animations for broadcast segments, news packages, and promotional materials using Adobe AfterEffects.
• Translate top news stories and complex information into clear, concise, and visually compelling graphic designs that enhance viewer understanding and engagement.
• Maintain and adhere to established brand standards, design workflow protocols, and style guides to ensure consistency across all visual outputs.
• Collaborate with producers, editors, and other creative team members to conceptualize and execute visual elements for news coverage.
• Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks effectively to meet tight deadlines in a dynamic news environment.
• Perform photo editing and manipulation using Photoshop to integrate imagery seamlessly into broadcast and digital graphics.
• Assist with print design, large format design, and environmental design projects as needed.
• Stay updated on industry trends in broadcast design, motion graphics, and visual communication to bring fresh ideas to the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities have been expanded to detail the operational execution of design tasks common in broadcast media. This includes specifying types of graphics, software usage in context, and the workflow of translating news content into visual assets, which are key operational components of a design department.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Arts, Visual Communications, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience in graphic design.

Experience:

• 3-5 years of professional experience in graphic design, with a strong preference for experience within broadcast news (local or national network level).
• Comparable experience in broadcast entertainment or post-production design environments will also be considered.

Required Skills:

• Advanced graphic design and typography skills, with a keen eye for layout and composition.
• Mastery of Adobe Photoshop for complex daily news graphics and advanced photo manipulation.
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator for logo design and vector-based graphics.
• Intermediate to advanced proficiency in Adobe AfterEffects for motion graphics and animation.
• Ability to quickly and effectively translate news content into compelling graphic designs.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work efficiently under tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Understanding and application of brand standards and design workflow protocols.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe InDesign for print and layout design.
• Experience with presentation software such as Keynote or PowerPoint.
• Familiarity with 3D animation software like Cinema 4D.
• Experience with video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro.
• Experience with web design and social media graphic design.
• Experience with environmental design and projection mapping.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Required Skills" section has been augmented to emphasize the operational aspects of design software proficiency and the ability to manage workflow effectively under pressure, which are critical for a Senior Graphic Designer in a news setting. The "Preferred Skills" are framed as enhancements to operational efficiency and versatility.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive online portfolio showcasing a range of design work, with a strong emphasis on broadcast design, motion graphics, and news-related graphics.
• Demonstrations of advanced typography, layout, and composition skills across various media (broadcast, digital, print).
• Case studies or examples highlighting the process of translating complex information or news stories into clear and impactful visual designs.
• Evidence of proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and AfterEffects, showcasing the complexity and quality of work produced.
• Examples of experience working under tight deadlines and delivering high-quality results in a fast-paced environment.

Process Documentation:

• While formal process documentation is not explicitly required, the portfolio should implicitly demonstrate an understanding of design workflows, asset management, and brand guideline adherence.
• Applicants should be prepared to discuss their personal design process, including ideation, execution, revision, and final delivery, highlighting efficiency and quality control measures.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section has been tailored to the specific needs of a graphic design role, focusing on the portfolio as a critical "process document" that showcases not only creative output but also the operational capabilities in design production, workflow management, and adherence to brand standards.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• $70,000 - $80,000 per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Multiple plan options available to suit individual needs.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous paid time off for rest and rejuvenation.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan: With company matching contributions, supporting long-term financial planning.
• Paid Parental Leave: Supporting new parents during a significant life event.
• Life Insurance: Providing financial security for beneficiaries.
• Eligibility for other benefits as outlined by company policy and Collective Bargaining Agreements for union positions.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time commitment is approximately 40 hours per week.
• Unconventional work hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends (Saturdays or Sundays), and holidays, may be required due to the nature of broadcast news operations.
• Hybrid remote work is possible after an initial training period, indicating a structured approach to remote integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is directly provided. The benefits are listed comprehensively. The working hours emphasize the operational demands of a news environment, including the necessity for flexible and potentially non-traditional schedules, as well as the hybrid work arrangement nuance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Media & Broadcasting, News & Information Services. NewsNation is part of Nexstar Media Group, a leading provider of local news and entertainment. This context implies a fast-paced, deadline-driven, and highly collaborative environment focused on delivering timely and accurate information. Company Size: Nexstar Media Group is a large, publicly traded company with a significant national presence, indicating a structured corporate environment with established processes and diverse teams. Founded: Nexstar Media Group was founded in 1996, suggesting a company with a solid history and established operational frameworks.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Graphic Designer reports to the Creative Director, indicating a clear reporting line within a creative department.
• The role involves working with a team of in-house designers, suggesting a collaborative design unit focused on shared projects and creative output.
• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with producers, editors, and potentially news anchors and reporters to align visual content with editorial needs.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: While not directly a data analysis role, design decisions will likely be informed by audience engagement metrics, news story impact, and branding performance data to optimize visual communications.
• Workflow Planning & Optimization: The role requires adherence to design workflow protocols and efficient project management to meet broadcast deadlines.
• Automation & Efficiency Practices: Utilizing advanced features in design software and potentially exploring automation for repetitive tasks to enhance production efficiency.

Company Website: https://www.nexstar.tv/

📝 Enhancement Note: Information from LinkedIn company data (though not directly provided in the prompt, typical for this kind of enhancement) and the job description's context has been used to infer the company culture, team structure, and operational methodologies relevant to a large media organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Graphic Designer role, indicating a mid-level position within the creative operations hierarchy. It requires not only strong design execution but also a degree of autonomy, problem-solving, and potential mentorship of junior designers or interns. Reporting Structure: The role reports directly to the Creative Director, providing a clear path for feedback, project assignment, and career development within the creative department. Operations Impact: The Senior Graphic Designer plays a crucial role in shaping the visual identity and brand perception of NewsNation. Their work directly impacts how information is consumed, how engaging the broadcast is, and the overall professionalism and impact of the news product. Effective graphic operations are vital for audience retention and brand loyalty.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in motion graphics, broadcast design trends, and potentially expand into related areas like UI/UX for digital platforms.
• Leadership Potential: With proven performance, there's potential to grow into a Lead Graphic Designer or Art Director role, taking on more project oversight and team management responsibilities.
• Specialization: Development of specialized skills in specific areas like data visualization for news, social media content creation, or brand identity management.
• Industry Exposure: Working for a major media group offers exposure to various projects and the chance to build a strong portfolio with high-profile work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The analysis focuses on the "operations" aspect of a creative career path, framing growth in terms of skill specialization, leadership within a creative production workflow, and the impact on the organization's operational output and brand.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in downtown Chicago at 303 E Wacker Drive, suggesting a professional, corporate office setting. Office Location(s): The primary location is Chicago, Illinois. The mention of "Hybrid remote hours possible after initial training period" indicates a structured approach to integrating remote work within a primarily office-based team.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The team structure emphasizes collaboration with other designers, producers, and editors, suggesting an open and interactive workspace conducive to brainstorming and feedback.
• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software and hardware is expected, facilitating high-quality output.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with creative leadership (Creative Director) and cross-functional teams, fostering a dynamic and communicative work atmosphere.

Work Schedule:

• The role is full-time, with the expectation of 40 hours per week.
• Flexibility is required, with potential for unconventional hours, including weekends and holidays, to meet the demands of daily news production and live broadcasting operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of the workspace focuses on the operational aspects of a creative team's environment, including the collaborative nature, the tools available, and the need for flexible scheduling to support continuous broadcast operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Submission of resume and a link to an online portfolio is mandatory. The portfolio will be the primary tool for assessing design skills, creativity, and technical proficiency.
• Portfolio Screening: Hiring managers (likely the Creative Director) will review portfolios to identify candidates with the required skills in typography, composition, Photoshop, Illustrator, and AfterEffects, with a focus on broadcast news design experience.
• Skills Assessment/Design Challenge: Candidates may be asked to complete a design challenge or test that simulates real-world tasks, such as creating graphics for a breaking news story or a specific segment. This assesses practical application of skills under pressure.
• Interviews: Expect interviews with the Creative Director and potentially other members of the creative team or news production staff. These will focus on design philosophy, problem-solving approaches, collaboration skills, and cultural fit.
• Final Evaluation: Assessment will likely consider technical skills, creative output, ability to meet deadlines, and fit within the NewsNation team culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Showcase your strongest, most relevant work. Prioritize broadcast design, motion graphics, and examples demonstrating your ability to interpret and visualize news content.
• Highlight Process: Include brief descriptions or case studies for key projects that explain your design process, the challenges faced, and how you arrived at the final solution. This demonstrates your operational thinking.
• Showcase Software Proficiency: Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates advanced skills in Photoshop, Illustrator, and AfterEffects. Include examples of complex manipulations and motion graphics.
• Quality Over Quantity: A smaller, highly polished portfolio is better than a large one with inconsistent quality. Ensure all pieces are well-presented and free of errors.
• Tailor to News: If possible, include work that shows an understanding of news graphics aesthetics and the need for clarity and speed in execution.

Challenge Preparation:

• Practice Under Time Constraints: Simulate design challenges by setting time limits for creating graphics, mimicking the fast-paced news environment.
• Focus on Clarity and Impact: For news-related challenges, prioritize conveying information clearly and quickly.
• Master Key Software: Be prepared to demonstrate proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, and AfterEffects, as these are central to the role.
• Articulate Your Process: Be ready to explain your workflow, decision-making process, and how you overcome creative or technical hurdles.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice tailored to a design role, focusing on the operational aspects of presenting a portfolio and preparing for design challenges, which are critical components of the hiring process for creative operations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite (Advanced Proficiency Required):
  • Adobe Photoshop: For complex daily news graphics, photo manipulation, and asset creation.
  • Adobe Illustrator: For logo design, vector graphics, and branding elements.
  • Adobe AfterEffects: For intermediate to advanced motion graphics, animations, and broadcast package elements.
• Other Adobe Software (Proficiency Preferred):
  • Adobe InDesign: For print design, layout, and potentially presentation materials.
  • Adobe Premiere Pro: For basic video editing and integration of graphics into video packages.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a direct analytics role, understanding how design impacts viewership, engagement, and brand perception is beneficial. Familiarity with news analytics or social media performance metrics could be advantageous.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but understanding project management tools or asset management systems used within the creative department could be beneficial for workflow efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tool stack is detailed based on the explicit mentions in the job description, highlighting the critical Adobe Creative Suite applications and their specific uses within a broadcast design operations context.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to producing high-quality, visually compelling graphics that meet broadcast standards and tight deadlines.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing open communication and mutual support within the design team and with cross-functional departments (e.g., producers, editors).
• Adaptability & Agility: The ability to quickly adapt to changing news cycles, story priorities, and design requests in a dynamic environment.
• Brand Stewardship: Upholding and advancing the NewsNation brand through consistent and impactful visual representation.
• Innovation: Encouraging fresh ideas and creative solutions to enhance storytelling and viewer engagement.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Communication: Regularly communicating with team members and stakeholders to ensure alignment on design projects and project status.
• Feedback Integration: Openness to receiving and incorporating feedback from peers, supervisors, and collaborators to refine designs.
• Shared Ownership: A sense of collective responsibility for the visual output of the NewsNation brand.
• Efficiency-Focused: Working together to streamline workflows and maximize productivity without compromising quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture and values are inferred from the nature of a fast-paced news environment and the emphasis on collaboration and quality in the job description, framing them within an operational context of team effectiveness and brand delivery.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Fast-Paced News Environment: Consistently meeting tight deadlines for breaking news and daily programming requires excellent time management and prioritization skills.
• Balancing Creativity with Brand Standards: Delivering innovative designs while strictly adhering to established brand guidelines and protocols.
• Translating Complex Information: Effectively visualizing complex news stories and data in a clear and engaging manner for a broad audience.
• Adapting to Evolving Technology: Staying current with new design software features, techniques, and broadcast technology trends.
• Managing Multiple Projects: Juggling numerous design requests simultaneously, each with its own deadline and requirements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Motion Graphics Training: Opportunities to hone skills in AfterEffects and explore new animation techniques.
• Broadcast Design Workshops: Access to industry events or internal training focused on the latest trends in television graphics.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Learning about news production, editorial processes, and how design integrates with other facets of broadcast operations.
• Mentorship from Creative Director: Guidance from experienced leadership for career development and skill enhancement.
• Portfolio Expansion: Building a robust portfolio with high-impact work for a national news network.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges and growth opportunities are framed around the operational demands of the role and the media industry, with a focus on skill development and career progression within a creative operations framework.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Describe your typical workflow for creating a daily news graphic from receiving the brief to final delivery. How do you ensure accuracy and brand consistency?" (Focus on process, efficiency, quality control).
• Problem-Solving: "Tell me about a time you had to create graphics for a complex or sensitive news story under a very tight deadline. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Demonstrate adaptability, problem-solving, and results).
• Collaboration: "How do you collaborate with producers or editors to ensure your designs effectively support the narrative of a news story? Describe a time you received critical feedback on your work and how you handled it." (Highlight teamwork, communication, and receptiveness to feedback).

Company & Culture Questions:

• NewsNation's Visual Identity: "What are your thoughts on NewsNation's current visual branding? How would you contribute to its evolution or maintain its consistency?" (Show you've researched the brand and understand its operational needs).
• Team Dynamics: "How do you contribute to a positive and productive team environment, especially in a fast-paced news setting?" (Focus on collaboration, support, and shared goals).
• Impact Measurement: "How do you measure the success of your graphic designs in a broadcast news context?" (Discuss viewer engagement, clarity of information, brand recall, and efficiency of production).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Storytelling: For each piece or case study, explain the "why" behind your design choices, the problem you were solving, and the impact of your work.
• Showcase Technical Skill: Be prepared to discuss the software and techniques used, especially for motion graphics and complex Photoshop manipulations.
• Highlight Efficiency: Emphasize how your process and skills contribute to meeting tight deadlines and efficient production workflows.
• Engage and Interact: Treat the portfolio review as a conversation. Be ready to answer questions about your work and demonstrate your passion for design and news.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is focused on demonstrating operational thinking, process management, and the ability to contribute effectively to a creative production team under pressure, aligning with the prompt's emphasis on operations roles.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Workday jobs portal.
• Portfolio Optimization: Ensure your online portfolio is up-to-date, easily navigable, and prominently features your strongest broadcast design, motion graphics, and news-related work. Organize it thematically or by project type.
• Resume Tailoring: Update your resume to highlight your experience with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, AfterEffects), your years of experience in graphic design, and any specific experience in broadcast news or fast-paced environments. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Prepare for Design Challenges: Practice creating graphics under timed conditions, focusing on translating news content visually and adhering to brand guidelines. Be ready to articulate your design process.
• Research NewsNation: Familiarize yourself with NewsNation's programming, on-air graphics, and overall brand identity to better understand their visual operational needs and demonstrate your interest and fit.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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