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, Temporary Category: Communications & Marketing Operations / Creative Services Date Posted: January 14, 2026 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for enhancing the Piper Center's digital presence by updating web pages and creating compelling communications content, directly impacting student engagement and career resource accessibility.
• The position demands a blend of strong writing, graphic design (preferred), and web content management skills, particularly within the WordPress platform.
• Successful candidates will contribute to project management, content analysis, and marketing strategy development, providing valuable operational support to the Piper Center team.
• This is a part-time, seasonal opportunity designed to offer practical experience in communications and operations within a higher education setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a student employee position, implying an entry-level focus and a strong emphasis on development and learning within a structured, part-time capacity. The "Communications and Graphic Designer" title, combined with duties like web page updates, content creation, and analysis, positions this role within a niche of operations focused on digital content strategy and execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and update various web pages for the Piper Center, ensuring content is current, engaging, and aligned with academic year preparation.
• Create promotional content for Piper Center events and resources, adapting messaging for print materials, email campaigns, and the official website.
• Implement content and site design changes within the WordPress platform, collaborating with the Marketing and Communications Department for site integration.
• Write and edit informative video clips addressing frequently asked questions about Piper Center services and resources.
• Conduct an evaluation of the Piper Center website to identify redundancies, obsolete information, and inefficiencies, proposing actionable changes for content streamlining.
• Perform benchmarking analysis against leading career centers to identify and implement best practices in digital content and platform management.
• Analyze content engagement metrics to make data-driven recommendations for improving user interaction and resource utilization.
• Coordinate and manage the content review process, interfacing with specialized coaches to ensure timely updates and adherence to content standards.
• Assist with general operations of the Piper Center as needed, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to support diverse departmental functions.
• Contribute to the overall marketing strategy by providing insights and executing content-related initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong operational component in managing digital assets, content workflows, and performance analysis. The "project management, organization, and analysis related to web content creation and review" specifically points to operations-focused tasks within a marketing context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Currently enrolled as a student at St. Olaf College. Familiarity with Piper Center events and resources is strongly preferred.

Experience:

• Demonstrated ability to manage projects effectively and meet deadlines.
• Experience working in a professional or academic setting that required strong organizational skills.

Required Skills:

• Excellent writing and editing skills, with a keen eye for detail.
• Strong communication and collaboration abilities, with experience working both independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in content management systems, specifically WordPress, for website updates and implementation.
• Basic proficiency with video editing tools for creating informative clips.
• Ability to perform data analysis and derive insights from content engagement metrics.
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and a flexible attitude to adapt to a fluid work environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Basic proficiency with Adobe Illustrator for graphic design tasks.
• Experience with other web editing tools beyond WordPress.
• Pre-existing familiarity with the Piper Center's programs, resources, and student services.
• Graphic design skills are a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "project management, organization, and analysis," combined with "WordPress" and "data analytics," indicates a need for operations-minded individuals who can systematically manage digital content workflows and improve efficiency. The preference for graphic design and Adobe Illustrator suggests a role that bridges creative execution with operational management of digital assets.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documentation of past projects involving website content updates or management, showcasing an understanding of digital content lifecycles.
• Examples of written promotional materials (e.g., event descriptions, resource summaries) that demonstrate clarity, conciseness, and persuasive communication.
• Case studies or project summaries detailing involvement in content review processes, highlighting organizational methods and timeliness.
• Demonstrations of work within content management systems (preferably WordPress) or similar web editing platforms.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of structured approaches to managing multiple content-related tasks or projects simultaneously.
• Examples of how data or analytics were used to inform content strategy or suggest improvements.
• Documentation of collaboration processes, illustrating how input was gathered from stakeholders (e.g., coaches, staff) for content refinement.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a "portfolio" in this context would likely refer to a collection of work samples demonstrating the candidate's abilities in writing, web content management, and potentially graphic design. For an operations-focused role, showcasing process efficiency and analytical thinking within these samples is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

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

• Gain valuable transferable skills in a professional setting.
• Opportunity to work with professional staff and contribute to impactful projects.
• Exposure to project management, organization, and data analysis within a higher education career services context.
• Flexible part-time schedule (6-12 hours per week) suitable for student availability.
• Potential for an 8-12 week employment period, offering consistent summer work.

Working Hours: 6-12 hours per week. Specific hours to be arranged with the supervisor, offering flexibility around academic commitments and other summer activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is set at the minimum wage for Minnesota plus a slight premium, which is typical for student positions. The benefits are largely developmental, focusing on skill acquisition and professional networking rather than traditional employee benefits. The flexibility in working hours is a key operational advantage for students.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education (Educational Services) Company Size: Large (1,000-5,000 employees). St. Olaf College is a well-established liberal arts college with a significant student and staff population. Founded: 1874. With a long history, St. Olaf College likely has established operational processes and a strong institutional culture focused on academic excellence and student development.

Team Structure:

• The Piper Center for Vocation and Career likely operates as a central hub for student career development, comprising career counselors, administrative staff, and potentially other student employees.
• This role reports to Lily Hollerug, indicating a direct reporting line within the Piper Center's operational structure.
• Collaboration is expected with the Marketing and Communications Department and external website designers, highlighting cross-functional operational integration.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making through content engagement analysis and benchmarking against best practices.
• Process optimization through website evaluation, identifying redundancies, and streamlining content.
• Collaborative content development, involving input from coaches, staff, and students.

Company Website: https://www.stolaf.edu/

📝 Enhancement Note: The context of a liberal arts college implies a culture that values holistic development, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary collaboration. For operations roles, this often translates to a focus on efficiency, student success metrics, and effective communication across departments.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level / Student Role. This position is designed for students to gain foundational experience in communications, digital content management, and operational support within a structured environment. Reporting Structure: Reports directly to Lily Hollerug, a supervisor within the Piper Center. This provides a clear line of communication and feedback for operational tasks and project management. Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the Piper Center's digital outreach. By improving website content and user experience, it enhances student access to career resources, indirectly supporting student success and vocational exploration – key operational goals for the center.

Growth Opportunities:

• Develop practical skills in web content management (WordPress), content creation, and digital analytics, which are transferable to various operations and marketing roles.
• Gain experience in project management and process optimization within a professional organizational setting.
• Build a professional network by interacting with Piper Center staff, Marketing and Communications Department members, and potentially external partners.
• Enhance portfolio with tangible projects demonstrating content strategy, web development, and analytical contributions.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is a student role, the responsibilities and expected outcomes align with foundational operations principles. Growth is measured by skill acquisition, project contribution, and professional development, setting a strong base for future operations roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site at St. Olaf College, likely within the Piper Center's facilities. Office Location(s): Northfield, MN. The role is performed at the college campus. Workspace Context:

• Opportunities for collaboration with Piper Center staff and potentially other student employees.
• Access to college resources, including technology and potentially design software.
• A professional office environment conducive to focused work on web content, writing, and analysis.
• The work will involve using computers and standard office equipment.

Work Schedule: Part-time, 6-12 hours per week. The schedule is flexible and to be arranged with the supervisor, allowing for integration with academic studies or other summer commitments. This flexibility is a key aspect of the operational environment for student workers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement suggests an environment where direct collaboration and access to specific tools are prioritized. The flexibility in hours is a key operational consideration for managing student workloads effectively.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application materials (resume, potentially cover letter) to assess qualifications, writing ability, and relevant skills.
• Interview: Likely a one-on-one or panel interview with Lily Hollerug and possibly other Piper Center staff. Questions will focus on qualifications, experience, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of the role's responsibilities.
• Skills Assessment (Potential): May involve a small practical exercise, such as editing a short piece of text, suggesting content updates for a mock webpage, or discussing how they would approach a specific content challenge.
• Portfolio Review: Candidates will be asked to present examples of their work, particularly in writing, web content, and graphic design if applicable.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Examples: Choose 3-5 strong pieces that best showcase your writing skills, web content management experience (even if academic projects), and any graphic design or video editing work.
• Highlight Process: For each piece, be prepared to briefly explain the objective, your role, the tools/platforms used (e.g., WordPress, Adobe products), and the outcome or impact.
• Focus on Relevance: Emphasize work that demonstrates attention to detail, organizational ability, and an understanding of audience communication.
• Quantify Impact (If Possible): If you have data on engagement or results from a project, be ready to share it.

Challenge Preparation:

• Content Strategy: Be ready to discuss how you would approach updating content for a specific section of a career center website or how you would create promotional material for a career fair.
• Problem-Solving: Think about common website issues (e.g., outdated information, poor navigation) and how you would diagnose and resolve them.
• Tool Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss your experience with WordPress and any design/editing software, even if basic.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess not just technical skills but also the candidate's ability to think operationally about content management, process improvement, and stakeholder communication, even at an entry level.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• WordPress: Essential for implementing content and site design changes on the Piper Center website. Proficiency in content editing and basic site management is expected.
• Adobe Illustrator: Preferred for graphic design tasks, creating visual assets for promotions and web content. Basic to intermediate skills would be beneficial.
• Video Editing Tools: Required for creating informative video clips. Specific software may vary, but the ability to edit and produce simple video content is key.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Website Analytics Tools (e.g., Google Analytics, or internal college tools): To analyze content engagement and make recommendations for improvement. Familiarity with interpreting basic web traffic data is advantageous.

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly mentioned, the role may involve using internal college systems for project tracking or communication, which could be considered part of the operational technology stack.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is geared towards digital content creation and management. Proficiency in WordPress is critical for operational execution, while Adobe Illustrator and video editing tools support the creative output necessary for effective communications.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Efficiency: Contributing to streamlined content processes and identifying inefficiencies on the website.
• Data-Driven Approach: Using content engagement analytics to inform decisions and improve user experience.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with Piper Center staff, Marketing, and other stakeholders to achieve content goals.
• Student Success: Contributing to resources that directly support student vocational exploration and career development.

Collaboration Style:

• Open communication and proactive engagement with the supervisor and team members.
• Willingness to share ideas and receive constructive feedback on content and design work.
• Cross-functional collaboration with the Marketing and Communications Department to ensure brand consistency and integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values emphasize a results-oriented and collaborative approach, typical of operations teams focused on improving service delivery and user experience.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Projects: Managing concurrent tasks for web updates, content writing, video creation, and analysis within a part-time schedule.
• Technical Learning Curve: Quickly becoming proficient with WordPress and any specific video editing or design software if not already familiar.
• Content Strategy Development: Moving beyond simple updates to contributing meaningfully to marketing strategy and content optimization based on analytical insights.
• Stakeholder Alignment: Ensuring content meets the diverse expectations of Piper Center staff, coaches, and the student audience.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Digital Content Operations: Gaining hands-on experience in managing content lifecycles, from creation to publication and analysis, within a professional content management system.
• Marketing Communications: Developing skills in writing promotional copy, creating visual assets, and understanding marketing strategy principles.
• Data Analysis for Content: Learning to interpret web analytics and translate them into actionable recommendations for content improvement.
• Professional Networking: Building relationships with staff in a career services department and a college's marketing unit.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges and growth opportunities are framed around developing operational competencies in digital content management, strategic thinking, and effective communication within a professional environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach updating the 'Internship Opportunities' section of our website to make it more engaging for students?" (Assesses content strategy, user focus)
• "Describe a time you had to manage multiple tasks with competing deadlines. How did you prioritize?" (Assesses project management, organizational skills)
• "If you noticed that a particular page on our website had very low engagement, what steps would you take to understand why and what could be done to improve it?" (Assesses analytical thinking, problem-solving)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for the Piper Center specifically?" (Assesses motivation, alignment with mission)
• "How do you typically collaborate with others on projects, and what is your preferred communication style?" (Assesses teamwork, communication)
• "What do you see as the key elements of effective career services for college students?" (Assesses understanding of the domain)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• "Select one project from your portfolio that best demonstrates your writing skills and be prepared to walk us through it, explaining your process and the intended audience."
• "If you have experience with WordPress or similar web tools, be ready to briefly describe a task you completed."
• "We'd like to see an example of your graphic design or video editing work, if available. Explain the context and your contribution."

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical skills but also an understanding of operational workflows, problem-solving methodologies, and the ability to contribute to the Piper Center's mission through effective content management and communication.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the St. Olaf College careers portal.
• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a small portfolio (3-5 pieces) showcasing your best writing samples, any web content management experience (academic projects are acceptable), and graphic design or video editing work if applicable.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight skills in writing, communication, project management, organization, attention to detail, and any experience with WordPress, Adobe Illustrator, or video editing software. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your experience with the required tools and your approach to content creation, analysis, and project management. Practice articulating your thought process for solving content-related challenges.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with St. Olaf College and the mission of the Piper Center for Vocation and Career. Understand their services and how effective communication and web presence support student success.

⚠️ 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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