Student Summer Communications and Graphic Designer 2026

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Student Summer Communications and Graphic Designer 2026 Company: St. Olaf College Location: Northfield, Minnesota, United States Job Type: Part time Category: Communications & Marketing Operations / Student Employee Date Posted: January 14, 2026 Experience Level: 0-2 Years (Student/Entry-Level) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This is a seasonal, part-time student employee position focused on enhancing digital presence and communication materials for St. Olaf College's Piper Center for Vocation and Career.
• Key responsibilities include developing and updating web content, writing promotional materials, and contributing to marketing strategy with a focus on data analytics and content engagement.
• The role requires collaboration with internal marketing departments and external designers to ensure adherence to college website standards, utilizing platforms like WordPress.
• Aspirants will gain transferable skills in project management, data analysis, content creation, and professional collaboration within a higher education career services environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for a student employee during the summer, emphasizing practical application of communication and design skills within an academic institution's operations. The focus on web content, promotional writing, and data analysis aligns with foundational operations tasks in marketing and communications.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Web Content Management: Develop, update, and maintain web pages within the WordPress platform, ensuring content is current, accurate, and aligned with St. Olaf College's site standards.
• Content Creation & Editing: Write, edit, and proofread promotional content for various channels including print materials, emails, and the Piper Center website, as well as informative video clips for frequently asked questions.
• Project Coordination & Analysis: Support office staff with project management, organization, and analysis related to web content creation and review; coordinate the review process and interface with relevant stakeholders.
• Performance Evaluation & Benchmarking: Assist in evaluating the Piper Center website to identify redundancies, obsolete information, and inefficiencies; perform benchmarking against leading career centers to identify best practices and suggest improvements.
• Marketing Strategy Contribution: Analyze content engagement metrics and make data-driven recommendations to improve content effectiveness; contribute to the overall marketing strategy of the Piper Center.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with the Marketing and Communications Department and external website designers on content integration and site design standards.
• General Operations Support: As needed, perform general duties related to the day-to-day operations of the Piper Center.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of content operations and marketing support. The emphasis on 'analysis' and 'evaluation' points to operational aspects of content performance, while 'project management' and 'coordination' are core operational functions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's degree program at St. Olaf College.
• Preferred fields of study include Communications, Marketing, Graphic Design, English, or a related discipline.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a professional or academic setting, demonstrating foundational skills in communications and design.
• Previous experience with student employment or internships is beneficial.

Required Skills:

• Excellent Writing Skills: Demonstrated ability to write clear, concise, and engaging promotional and informative content.
• Communication & Collaboration: Ability to communicate effectively with staff, students, and external partners, and to collaborate in a team environment.
• Project Management Fundamentals: Ability to manage tasks, organize information, and meet deadlines for assigned projects.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to content editing, review, and implementation to ensure accuracy and quality.
• Reliability & Work Ethic: Consistent attendance, punctuality, and a dedicated approach to responsibilities.
• Flexibility: Willingness to adapt to changing priorities and assist with various operational needs within the center.
• Positive Attitude: Enthusiasm for the Piper Center's mission and resources.

Preferred Skills:

• Graphic Design Fundamentals: Creative ability to design visually appealing materials or a strong understanding of design principles.
• Data Analytics Acumen: Ability to interpret data to understand content engagement and make informed recommendations.
• Web Content Management: Basic proficiency with content management systems, particularly WordPress.
• Digital Content Tools: Familiarity with Adobe Illustrator for graphic design and video editing software.
• Prior Piper Center Exposure: Understanding of the Piper Center's events, programs, and resources.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualification requirements are geared towards students with developing skills, emphasizing core competencies like writing, communication, and reliability, with a preference for technical and analytical proficiencies relevant to digital content operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Content Samples: A curated selection of written work, including promotional copy, website content, or edited materials, demonstrating writing proficiency and ability to adapt tone for different audiences.
• Design Samples (if applicable): Examples of graphic design work such as flyers, social media graphics, or web banners, showcasing creativity and adherence to brand guidelines.
• Web Content Updates: A demonstration of ability to update or create web content, potentially through mock-ups or examples of past website contributions.
• Process Documentation (Optional): If available, examples of how a project was organized or managed, highlighting organizational skills.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Understanding: Ability to articulate how content is reviewed, edited, and published, showing an understanding of content lifecycle management.
• Content Strategy Contribution: Examples of how data insights or benchmarking could inform content strategy or improve user engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" might not be strictly required for a student role, candidates are expected to demonstrate their skills through samples. The focus is on practical output and an understanding of content workflows and strategic thinking.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $11.75 - $12.75 per hour Benefits:

• Professional Development: Opportunity to develop transferable skills in communications, graphic design, project management, and data analysis.
• Networking Opportunities: Direct interaction with professional staff at the Piper Center and the Marketing and Communications Department.
• Campus Experience: Gain valuable work experience within a reputable higher education institution.
• Flexible Schedule: Work 6-12 hours per week, scheduled to accommodate academic commitments and summer availability.

Working Hours:

• Part-time, 6-12 hours per week.
• Seasonal position for 8-12 weeks during the summer.
• Flexible scheduling, to be arranged with the supervisor, Lily Hollerug.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is typical for student or entry-level positions in Northfield, MN, reflecting the part-time and seasonal nature of the role. Benefits are focused on skill development and professional experience rather than traditional employee benefits.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education (Career Services & Communications) Company Size: St. Olaf College is a mid-sized institution with approximately 3,000 undergraduate students and around 1,000 employees, indicating a structured but collaborative environment. Founded: St. Olaf College was founded in 1874, signifying a long-standing tradition of academic excellence and community.

Team Structure:

• The role is within The Piper Center (Unit Number: 11560), which focuses on vocation and career development for students.
• The student will report to Lily Hollerug, the Contact Person/Supervisor.
• Collaboration will occur with other Piper Center staff and the college's Marketing and Communications Department.

Methodology:

• Data-Informed Decision Making: Emphasis on analyzing content engagement and benchmarking to improve effectiveness.
• Process Optimization: Focus on streamlining content, identifying inefficiencies, and suggesting improvements for the Piper Center website.
• Collaborative Content Development: Working with staff and external designers to ensure cohesive and high-quality communication materials.

Company Website: https://www.stolaf.edu/ (General College Site) | https://www.stolaf.edu/piper/ (Piper Center Site)

📝 Enhancement Note: The environment is academic, emphasizing student development and institutional communication. The operations within the Piper Center involve supporting student career progression through resources, advising, and effective communication, requiring a blend of student support and operational efficiency.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Student/Entry-Level. This role is designed to provide foundational experience in communications, marketing operations, and digital content management within a university setting. Reporting Structure: The student designer will report directly to Lily Hollerug, gaining direct mentorship and feedback. This close supervision is typical for student roles, allowing for focused learning and guidance. Operations Impact: The role directly impacts the Piper Center's ability to attract and inform students about its services through effective web content and promotional materials. Improvements in content engagement and website efficiency contribute to the Center's overall operational success in serving its student population.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop deep expertise in WordPress, content creation, basic graphic design, and data analysis for content performance.
• Industry Exposure: Gain practical experience in higher education communications and operations, valuable for future roles in marketing, communications, or operations within any sector.
• Networking: Build professional relationships with Piper Center staff and the Marketing and Communications Department, potentially opening doors for future opportunities.
• Portfolio Enhancement: Create tangible work samples that can be added to a professional portfolio for future job applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth is framed around skill acquisition and practical experience, rather than hierarchical advancement. The impact is measured by the improvement in the Piper Center's operational effectiveness through enhanced communication channels.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site within The Piper Center at St. Olaf College. This implies a professional office setting within a university campus environment. Office Location(s): Northfield, MN. The specific office will be within the Piper Center's facilities on campus.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The Piper Center fosters an environment where students are encouraged to contribute ideas and collaborate with professional staff.
• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary computer equipment, software (potentially including Adobe Creative Suite, WordPress), and campus network resources.
• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with the supervisor and other Piper Center staff, facilitating knowledge sharing and operational alignment.

Work Schedule:

• Flexible, part-time (6-12 hours/week) to accommodate the student's summer availability and academic commitments.
• The work is seasonal, lasting for 8-12 weeks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is a typical higher education office setting, emphasizing collaboration and access to campus resources. The flexibility in schedule is a key benefit for students balancing work with other summer plans.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Resumes and any initial work samples will be reviewed for alignment with required and preferred qualifications.
• Interview with Supervisor: An interview with Lily Hollerug to assess communication skills, understanding of the role's objectives, and fit with the Piper Center team.
• Skills Demonstration (Potential): May involve a small, timed exercise or discussion about past work to demonstrate writing ability, design thinking, or problem-solving skills related to content management.
• Portfolio Review: Discussion of submitted work samples to gauge practical skills, creative thinking, and understanding of content operations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Pieces: Choose 2-3 strong examples that best represent your writing and design skills relevant to web content and promotional materials.
• Highlight Impact: For each piece, briefly explain the objective, your role, the process you followed, and any measurable outcomes (e.g., improved engagement, clarity).
• Showcase Versatility: If possible, include examples of different types of content (e.g., web copy, social media post, flyer design) to demonstrate adaptability.
• Be Prepared to Discuss: Be ready to talk through your design choices, writing rationale, and how you approached any challenges.

Challenge Preparation:

• Content Update Scenario: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach updating an outdated piece of web content or creating new content for a specific Piper Center service.
• Process Improvement Idea: Think about a hypothetical inefficiency on a website and how you would suggest improving it.
• Communication Strategy: Consider how you would promote a Piper Center event or resource to the student body.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess practical skills and potential, typical for student roles. Emphasis is placed on portfolio demonstration and practical application of communication and operational thinking.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• WordPress: The primary platform for website content implementation and updates. Proficiency is preferred, but basic understanding and willingness to learn are key.
• Adobe Illustrator (Preferred): For graphic design tasks, creating visual assets for web and print.
• Video Editing Software (Basic Proficiency): For creating short informational video clips.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Content Engagement Analysis: Ability to review basic analytics to understand how content is performing. Familiarity with tools like Google Analytics (or similar) is a plus.

CRM & Automation:

• Email Marketing Tools (Potential): May involve drafting content for email campaigns, requiring familiarity with standard email composition.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on digital content creation and management, with WordPress being central. The emphasis is on practical application and a willingness to learn, rather than deep technical expertise.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Student-Centricity: A commitment to enhancing student development and career readiness through effective resources and communication.
• Collaboration: Valuing teamwork, open communication, and shared contribution to departmental goals.
• Data-Informed Approach: Using analytics and feedback to guide content strategy and operational improvements.
• Efficiency & Effectiveness: Striving to optimize processes and communication channels for maximum impact.
• Innovation: Encouraging creative solutions and new ideas for engaging students and improving services.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working closely with Piper Center staff, Marketing and Communications, and potentially external vendor designers.
• Feedback Exchange: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback on content and design.
• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing insights and learning from colleagues to foster a supportive and productive environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture emphasizes collaboration, student success, and a data-driven approach to operations and communications within St. Olaf College's mission.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Projects: Juggling content creation, web updates, and analysis tasks within a limited timeframe.
• Adapting to Institutional Standards: Learning and adhering to St. Olaf's specific brand guidelines and website architecture.
• Working with Diverse Stakeholders: Effectively communicating and incorporating feedback from various team members and departments.
• Bridging Creative and Analytical Tasks: Integrating creative design and writing with data-driven insights for content optimization.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Digital Content Mastery: Deepen skills in WordPress, content strategy, and digital asset creation.
• Marketing Analytics: Gain hands-on experience in analyzing content performance and translating data into actionable recommendations.
• Professional Communication: Enhance skills in professional writing, editing, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Higher Education Operations: Understand the operational dynamics of a university career services department.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed as learning opportunities, encouraging problem-solving and skill development relevant to operations roles in communications and marketing.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage multiple tasks with competing deadlines. How did you prioritize?" (Assesses project management and organizational skills).
• "How would you approach updating outdated information on a website to make it more engaging for students?" (Tests understanding of content operations, audience engagement, and problem-solving).
• "Imagine you need to write promotional copy for a new career workshop. What key information would you include, and where would you promote it?" (Evaluates promotional writing skills and marketing strategy thinking).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working with the Piper Center specifically, and what do you know about our services?" (Gauges genuine interest and research into the institution's mission).
• "How do you approach receiving constructive feedback on your work?" (Assesses adaptability and willingness to learn).
• "Describe a project where you had to collaborate with others. What was your role, and how did you ensure effective teamwork?" (Evaluates collaboration style and team integration).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Relevance: Showcase pieces most aligned with web content, promotional writing, and any graphic design relevant to digital platforms.
• Explain Your Process: For each piece, briefly describe the objective, your creative/writing process, and any tools used.
• Highlight Data/Impact (if applicable): If you have any metrics or insights into how your work performed, share them.
• Be Concise and Clear: Aim for a brief, impactful presentation of your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating core competencies relevant to content operations, marketing, and teamwork, with an emphasis on practical examples and understanding the Piper Center's mission.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the St. Olaf College careers portal.
• Resume & Cover Letter: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant communication, design, project management, and analytical skills. A brief cover letter expressing your interest in the Piper Center and how your skills align is recommended.
• Portfolio Preparation: Gather 2-3 strong work samples (written pieces, design examples) that showcase your abilities in content creation, editing, or graphic design. Be prepared to discuss them.
• Interview Readiness: Research the Piper Center's mission, services, and recent activities to demonstrate your understanding and enthusiasm. Prepare to discuss your experience with the tools mentioned and how you approach problem-solving.
• Understand the Role: Re-read the job description to ensure you can speak to each of the primary responsibilities and qualifications with specific examples from your academic or extracurricular experience.

⚠️ 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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