Summer Student – Graphic Designer and Website Support

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Summer Student – Graphic Designer and Website Support

Company: CDN Controls ULC

Location: Calgary, AB, Canada

Job Type: INTERN

Category: Marketing Operations / Communications Support

Date Posted: April 15, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for supporting the Communications team by creating high-impact visual assets and digital experiences that enhance internal and external communication efficiency.

• The position bridges graphic design, information design, and web support, focusing on translating complex data into clear, structured visuals.

• The intern will gain hands-on experience in designing professional assets, optimizing digital content, and contributing to website improvements.

• This is an opportunity to take ownership of projects, develop a portfolio, and receive mentorship within a leading energy services company.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title suggests a graphic design focus, the description emphasizes "making things work better" and "information design," indicating a need for operations-minded thinking in visual communication. This role is positioned as a contributor, not just a helper, suggesting a dynamic and involved summer experience.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design clean, professional visual assets for internal communications, presentations, campaign materials, and social media content.

• Translate complex ideas and data into simple, structured visuals such as infographics, process maps, and dashboards.

• Support website updates and improvements, focusing on layout, content updates, and enhancing user experience (UX) clarity.

• Build and optimize digital content to ensure effectiveness and brand consistency.

• Maintain strict brand consistency across all designed materials and digital platforms.

• Provide basic support for video and motion design, including editing, thumbnails, and overlays.

• Collaborate with the team to streamline information flow, aiming for less clutter and greater clarity.

• Take ownership of small projects from conceptualization through to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design and functional communication that directly impacts operational efficiency by improving information clarity and accessibility. The emphasis on "making things work better" implies that design solutions should consider usability and impact on workflow.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Currently enrolled in a post-secondary program in Graphic Design, Digital Media, Web Development, Information Design, or a related field. Completion of at least two years of post-secondary education is required.

Experience: While this is a student role, prior experience or a demonstrated aptitude in design and web support is beneficial.

Required Skills:

• Strong design fundamentals, including a solid understanding of layout, typography, and visual hierarchy.

• Ability to simplify complex information into clear, digestible visual formats.

• Proficiency with design and production tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) and/or Figma.

• Basic web skills, including HTML and CSS.

• High attention to detail with a commitment to producing accurate and polished work.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines effectively.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with Content Management Systems (CMS).

• Experience with TurnKey GNU/Linux.

• Basic video editing or motion design skills.

• Exposure to information design principles and data visualization techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for basic HTML/CSS and CMS familiarity, alongside strong design skills, suggests that this role is not purely aesthetic but also functional, aligning with the operational goal of improving digital content and website usability. The preference for TurnKey GNU/Linux is specific and worth noting for candidates.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase clean, structured design work that demonstrates an understanding of visual hierarchy and branding.

• Include examples of information design, such as infographics, process maps, or data visualizations, to illustrate the ability to simplify complex ideas.

• Present any web or digital work, highlighting contributions to layout, content updates, or UX improvements.

Process Documentation:

• While formal process documentation is not explicitly required for this intern role, the ability to visually represent processes (e.g., process maps) will be a key aspect of the portfolio.

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process, from understanding requirements to final delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "information design" and "simplifying complex ideas" suggests that portfolios should highlight projects where the candidate successfully translated raw data or complex concepts into easily understandable visual formats. This aligns with operations' need for clarity and efficiency in communication.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a summer student position, compensation is typically hourly and based on local market rates for similar intern roles in Calgary, AB. Based on industry standards for student positions in technical/creative fields in Calgary, an estimated range of CAD $18 - $25 per hour is typical, depending on program year and specific skill set.

Benefits:

• Belonging to a strong, motivating team environment.

• On-the-job training and a commitment to mentorship from industry-leading professionals.

• Real project ownership, offering a chance to contribute meaningfully rather than just observe.

• Exposure to business-facing communications and brand execution strategies.

• Experience working across design, digital, and strategy domains.

• Opportunity to build a portfolio of impactful work.

• Opportunities for advancement within the company.

Working Hours: This is a full-time summer position. Standard working hours are expected to be 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

📝 Enhancement Note: The benefits listed are highly valuable for an intern, emphasizing learning, growth, and tangible contributions. The mention of "real project ownership" and "portfolio of work that actually matters" indicates a commitment to providing a substantial developmental experience. Salary estimation is based on typical intern rates in Calgary for roles requiring specialized skills.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: CDN Controls ULC operates in the energy services sector, specifically as a full-service provider focused on E&I maintenance, renewables/solar, major projects, combustion & emissions reduction, and measurement. This industry context means the role will involve creating communications for a technically oriented audience.

Company Size: CDN Controls ULC is a significant player in its industry, suggesting a structured organization with established processes but also room for impactful individual contributions.

Founded: (Information not provided in raw data) - The company's history is not detailed, but its leadership in the energy services sector implies a well-established presence.

Team Structure:

• The role supports the Communications team, indicating interaction with marketing, branding, and internal communications specialists.

• Collaboration is expected with professionals who manage brand execution and business-facing communications.

Methodology:

• Design and communication efforts will likely follow established brand guidelines and project management methodologies.

• There's an emphasis on translating complex technical information into accessible visual formats, suggesting a process that involves understanding technical details and then creatively simplifying them.

• The company values "Drive" and "Growth," suggesting an environment that encourages initiative and continuous learning.

Company Website: https://www.cdncontrols.ca/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's industry (energy services) is critical. It means the visual communication will likely need to be professional, clear, and potentially technical, requiring an understanding of complex systems and processes. The "intersection of graphic design, information design, and web" suggests a need for candidates who can bridge creative aesthetics with functional clarity.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level, internship role designed for students. It provides an opportunity to gain foundational experience in applied graphic design, information design, and digital content support within a corporate communications function. The role is framed as a "contributor" with "real project ownership," suggesting it's more than just an observational internship.

Reporting Structure: The intern will report to and be mentored by members of the Communications team. This provides direct guidance and exposure to experienced professionals in the field.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role in terms of process optimization or revenue generation, the impact is significant in enhancing operational efficiency through clearer communication. Well-designed internal documents, process maps, and website content can reduce confusion, speed up information dissemination, and improve employee understanding and engagement, indirectly supporting operational effectiveness.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Hands-on experience with industry-standard design tools (Adobe Creative Suite, Figma) and web technologies (HTML/CSS). Opportunity to develop skills in information design, data visualization, and digital content creation.

• Mentorship: Direct guidance from experienced professionals in communications and design, fostering learning and professional development.

• Portfolio Building: Opportunity to create impactful work for a reputable company, significantly enhancing the intern's professional portfolio.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining experience within the energy services sector, understanding its communication needs and challenges.

• Career Exploration: Exposure to roles in communications, marketing, and digital media within a corporate environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "information design" and "translating complex ideas into simple, structured visuals" is a key operations-adjacent skill. This role offers growth in applying design thinking to solve business communication challenges, which is a valuable skill in any GTM or operations support function.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as "On-site," implying a traditional office environment within CDN Controls ULC's Calgary location. This allows for direct collaboration and immersion in the company culture.

Office Location(s): Calgary, AB, Canada. This specific location suggests the intern will be working within a vibrant business hub in Alberta's energy sector.

Workspace Context:

• Collaboration: The role involves working closely with the Communications team, fostering a collaborative environment for brainstorming, feedback, and project execution.

• Tools & Technology: Access to design software (Adobe Creative Suite, Figma) and potentially company-specific web platforms and CMS.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with industry professionals, facilitating learning and networking. The company culture emphasizes "Connection" and "Growth," suggesting an environment that supports team dynamics and individual development.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time, 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. This consistent schedule allows for deep engagement with projects and team integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: An on-site role in Calgary offers direct access to the professional network and daily work rhythms of a leading energy services company, which can be invaluable for a student seeking practical experience.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application: Submit resume and portfolio via the company careers website.

• Portfolio Review: The primary focus will be on the quality and relevance of the submitted portfolio. Expect reviewers to look for design fundamentals, information design examples, and web/digital work.

• Interview(s): Shortlisted candidates will likely undergo interviews to assess their skills, experience, communication abilities, and cultural fit. This may include discussing design choices, portfolio projects, and understanding of the company's needs.

• Assessment: Potential for a small design challenge or task to evaluate practical skills and problem-solving abilities in real-time.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose your strongest, most relevant pieces. Quality over quantity.

• Showcase Versatility: Include examples of different types of design work (presentations, infographics, web elements) if possible.

• Highlight Information Design: If you have examples of translating complex data into visuals, make them prominent. Explain your process for simplification.

• Web/Digital Samples: Include any web mockups, UI elements, or content updates you've managed. If you have live links, provide them.

• Explain Your Process: For each piece, briefly describe the objective, your role, your design decisions, and the outcome.

• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and visually appealing.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your design process and how you approach translating requirements into visual solutions.

• Familiarize yourself with CDN Controls' brand identity (if publicly available) and their industry.

• Practice articulating how your design choices support clear communication and functional goals.

• Understand the importance of brand consistency and how you ensure it.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process heavily emphasizes the portfolio. Candidates should tailor their portfolio to showcase not just aesthetic talent but also the ability to solve communication problems and organize information effectively, which are key operational considerations for this role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Adobe Creative Suite (specifically InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) is explicitly required. Figma is also mentioned as a key tool.

• Web Technologies: Basic HTML and CSS are required. Familiarity with Content Management Systems (CMS) is a plus.

• Operating System: Familiarity with TurnKey GNU/Linux is noted as an asset.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• No specific CRM or automation tools are mentioned for this role, as it is focused on design and content creation rather than direct sales or marketing automation processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and Figma is paramount. Basic HTML/CSS is a practical requirement, suggesting the role might involve some direct web content implementation or close collaboration with web developers. The mention of TurnKey GNU/Linux is niche and could be a differentiator for candidates.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Character: Implies integrity, honesty, and a strong work ethic in all design and communication tasks.

• Connection: Encourages teamwork, collaboration with the Communications team, and building relationships within CDN Controls.

• Drive: Suggests initiative, proactivity, and a desire to contribute meaningfully to projects.

• Growth: Emphasizes a commitment to learning, skill development, and continuous improvement throughout the summer.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires working closely with the Communications team, implying a collaborative approach to understanding project needs and delivering solutions.

• Feedback Exchange: Openness to feedback and direction is explicitly stated, indicating a culture that values constructive criticism for improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: The emphasis on mentorship and on-the-job training suggests a culture where knowledge is shared, and team members support each other's development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's core values (Character, Connection, Drive, Growth) are directly applicable to a student intern. Demonstrating these values through proactive engagement, a willingness to learn, and strong teamwork will be key to success and positive performance reviews.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complexity: The primary challenge is translating complex technical information from the energy services sector into clear, accessible, and visually appealing assets.

• Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality: Ensuring that designs are not only visually appealing but also effectively communicate information and serve a functional purpose (e.g., improving website UX, clarifying processes).

• Meeting Deadlines: Managing multiple design tasks and website support requests within a fixed summer timeframe.

• Brand Consistency: Adhering to brand guidelines while also innovating and creating fresh visual content.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Skills: Deepening proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and Figma through practical application on real projects.

• Information Design Expertise: Developing skills in creating infographics, process maps, and data visualizations that enhance clarity and understanding.

• Web Content Management: Gaining experience with website updates, content optimization, and basic web development principles.

• Industry Exposure: Understanding the communication needs of the energy services sector and how design supports business objectives.

• Professional Networking: Building connections with industry professionals and gaining insights into corporate communications and design functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique opportunity to develop skills at the intersection of design and operational communication. The challenges presented are directly tied to improving business processes through visual clarity, making it a valuable learning experience.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to simplify a complex idea visually. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on information design, problem-solving)

• "How do you approach ensuring brand consistency across different types of visual assets and digital platforms?" (Focus on brand management, attention to detail)

• "Walk us through your design process for a project from initial brief to final delivery. What tools do you use?" (Focus on workflow, tool proficiency)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about CDN Controls and the energy services industry?" (Demonstrate research and genuine interest)

• "How do your personal values align with CDN Controls' core values of Character, Connection, Drive, and Growth?" (Connect personal attributes to company culture)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each portfolio piece, tell a brief story: the problem, your solution, your role, and the impact.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your presentation is clean, well-organized, and easy to follow. Use clear headings and concise descriptions.

• Highlight Process: Explain how you arrived at your design solutions, not just what the final product is.

• Demonstrate Impact: If possible, quantify the impact of your work (e.g., "improved clarity," "supported campaign goals").

• Web/Info Design Focus: Emphasize any examples of information design or web content updates, as these are key to the role's operational aspect.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your portfolio not just as a collection of pretty pictures, but as evidence of your ability to solve communication problems, organize information, and contribute to business efficiency through design.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this summer student position:

• Visit the CDN Controls careers page at www.cdncontrols.ca/careers and submit your application.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature examples of clean, structured design work, information design (infographics, process maps), and any web/digital projects. Ensure it highlights your ability to simplify complex information.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize relevant coursework, design software proficiency (Adobe Creative Suite, Figma), basic web skills (HTML/CSS), and any experience with information organization or presentation.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, how you handle feedback, and how your skills align with the company's values (Character, Connection, Drive, Growth). Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with CDN Controls ULC, its services in the energy sector, and its commitment to its core values to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with CDN Controls ULC before making application decisions. This role is a summer internship and not a permanent position.