Junior Graphic Designer

Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia
Full-timeβ€’Philadelphia, United States

πŸ“ Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Graphic Designer

Company: Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Marketing & Communications / Graphic Design

Date Posted: 2026-06-05

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

πŸš€ Role Summary

  • Execute creative visual content across digital, print, social media, and event platforms to support the mission and brand of a mission-driven organization.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring integrated marketing campaigns to life through compelling visual storytelling and cohesive design.

  • Maintain and evolve organizational brand standards, templates, and asset libraries to ensure consistent brand representation.

  • Support the creation of high-visibility initiatives, including community campaigns, donor communications, and advocacy efforts through impactful design.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This role is positioned for a Junior Graphic Designer, implying a focus on execution and supporting senior team members, with opportunities for growth in strategic design thinking and campaign development within a nonprofit context. The hybrid work arrangement suggests a need for strong self-management and remote collaboration skills.

πŸ“ˆ Primary Responsibilities

  • Design and produce a wide range of visual assets, including social media graphics, email marketing visuals, digital advertisements, print collateral, event signage, and presentation templates.

  • Resize and adapt creative assets across multiple platforms and channels to ensure consistent brand messaging and optimal user experience.

  • Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders from departments such as philanthropy, community engagement, events, and programs to understand project requirements and deliver effective design solutions.

  • Assist with photo selection, retouching, and basic motion graphics or video editing tasks to enhance visual content.

  • Prepare production-ready files for print vendors and coordinate with them to ensure timely and accurate delivery of printed materials.

  • Support the development and execution of integrated marketing campaigns by ensuring visual elements are cohesive and aligned with overall campaign objectives.

  • Help maintain and update brand systems, templates, and digital asset libraries to ensure brand consistency and accessibility.

  • Participate actively in creative brainstorming sessions and contribute to campaign concept development.

  • Incorporate feedback from stakeholders efficiently and professionally, iterating on designs as needed.

  • Stay current with design trends, nonprofit communication best practices, and digital engagement strategies to bring fresh perspectives to projects.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities emphasize hands-on design execution and a strong support role within a marketing and communications team. The breadth of asset types indicates a need for versatility and adaptability. Emphasis on collaboration and project management suggests the role requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a dynamic environment.

πŸŽ“ Skills & Qualifications

Education:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a related field is preferred. Experience:

  • 2–3 years of professional graphic design experience, which can include internships, freelance work, or previous full-time roles. Required Skills:

  • Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, with a strong emphasis on:

    • Adobe InDesign (for layout and print design)
    • Adobe Illustrator (for vector graphics and illustrations)
    • Adobe Photoshop (for image editing and manipulation)
  • Demonstrated understanding of fundamental design principles, including typography, layout, color theory, and visual hierarchy.

  • Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, essential for collaborating with internal stakeholders and incorporating feedback.

  • Ability to maintain a high level of attention to detail and accuracy in all design outputs.

  • A strong portfolio showcasing a range of digital and print design capabilities and problem-solving through design. Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with Canva for quick design tasks and template creation.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint for creating branded presentations.

  • Basic experience with motion graphics or video editing software.

  • Familiarity with the Philadelphia Jewish community or other Jewish communal organizations, providing context for mission-driven design.

  • A proactive and curious mindset, with a strong desire to learn and adapt to new design tools and techniques.

  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and collaboratively within a team setting.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The requirements highlight a blend of technical design skills and crucial soft skills for a collaborative, mission-driven environment. The preference for specific software like Canva and PowerPoint, alongside Adobe Suite, indicates a need for versatile design execution. Experience with motion graphics is a plus, suggesting potential future growth areas.

πŸ“Š Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a minimum of 5-7 diverse projects that demonstrate proficiency across both digital and print mediums.

  • Examples should include campaign-specific work (e.g., social media, email, digital ads) and collateral design (e.g., brochures, event materials).

  • Visuals should clearly articulate the design problem, the proposed solution, and the final execution, highlighting strategic thinking behind the creative choices.

  • Demonstrate ability to adhere to and evolve brand guidelines, showcasing consistency in visual identity across different applications.

  • Include examples of adapting designs for various platforms and formats, demonstrating an understanding of responsive design principles where applicable. Process Documentation:

  • Candidates are expected to articulate their design process, from initial brief and concept development through to final asset delivery and production.

  • Be prepared to discuss how feedback is incorporated and how revisions are managed to ensure project success.

  • Demonstrate an understanding of print production workflows, including file preparation and vendor coordination.

  • Explain how design choices support campaign objectives and organizational mission, linking visual strategy to desired outcomes.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is paramount for this role, serving as the primary evidence of design skill and process. The emphasis on articulating the design process and demonstrating adherence to brand standards is critical for evaluating a candidate's strategic approach and ability to work within organizational frameworks.

πŸ’΅ Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

  • Based on industry benchmarks for Junior Graphic Designers with 2-3 years of experience in the Philadelphia metropolitan area, a competitive salary range would typically fall between $50,000 - $65,000 annually. This estimate considers the cost of living in Philadelphia and the typical compensation for roles requiring proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and strong design execution skills within the nonprofit sector. Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage options for employees and their families.

  • Prescription Drug Program: Integrated coverage for prescription medications.

  • Life Insurance: Financial protection for employees' beneficiaries.

  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO): A robust policy for vacation, sick leave, and personal days, allowing for work-life balance.

  • 403b Retirement Savings Program: A retirement savings plan with potential employer contributions.

  • Hybrid Work Schedule: Flexibility to work remotely and from the office, promoting a balanced work environment. Working Hours:

  • Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week, with a hybrid work arrangement allowing for a combination of in-office and remote workdays.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical market rates for similar roles and locations. The benefits package is comprehensive and reflects common offerings for mission-driven organizations, with the hybrid schedule being a significant perk.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏒 Company Culture

Industry: Social Services / Nonprofit / Jewish Community Services

Company Size: The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia is a well-established organization, likely employing between 50-200 individuals based on its scope of operations and community impact. This size often fosters a collaborative environment with opportunities for cross-departmental interaction.

Founded: 1901. With over a century of service, the organization has a deep history and a strong foundation in the community, contributing to a culture of established practices and long-term commitment.

Team Structure:

  • The Junior Graphic Designer will be part of the Marketing & Communications team, which likely includes a Marketing Director, Marketing Managers, possibly a Content Creator, and other specialists.

  • This team typically reports to a VP of Marketing or Communications, who oversees strategic direction.

  • Collaboration is expected with nearly every department within the Federation, including Philanthropy, Community Engagement, Programs, and Development, requiring strong cross-functional communication skills. Methodology:

  • Data-Driven Design Support: While the primary focus is design execution, understanding how visuals contribute to campaign performance and donor engagement is key.

  • Mission-Centric Approach: All design work is expected to align with and advance the organization's mission of mobilizing resources to address critical priorities.

  • Collaborative Workflow: Emphasis on teamwork, brainstorming, and incorporating feedback to refine creative outputs.

  • Brand Stewardship: A commitment to maintaining and evolving a consistent and impactful brand identity.

Company Website: Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia (Note: The provided URL was null, this is a placeholder)

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The organization's long history and mission-driven nature suggest a culture that values community impact, collaboration, and dedication. The team structure implies a supportive environment with opportunities to learn from experienced professionals.

πŸ“ˆ Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Junior Designer

  • This role is an entry-to-mid-level position, focused on executing design tasks under guidance. It provides a foundational experience in graphic design within a professional, mission-driven context. The scope includes producing various assets and supporting larger campaigns. Reporting Structure:

  • The Junior Graphic Designer will report to a manager within the Marketing & Communications department, likely a Marketing Director or Manager. This provides direct oversight and mentorship. Operations Impact:

  • The graphic designer's work directly impacts the organization's ability to communicate its mission, engage donors, attract volunteers, and promote community initiatives. Effective visual communication enhances brand perception, drives engagement with marketing materials, and contributes to the success of fundraising and awareness campaigns. Growth Opportunities:

  • Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific design software (e.g., advanced Photoshop retouching, motion graphics using After Effects) or specialize in particular asset types (e.g., digital advertising, event branding).

  • Campaign Strategy Involvement: As experience grows, there may be opportunities to contribute more to the strategic development of visual elements for campaigns, moving beyond pure execution.

  • Leadership Potential: With significant growth and experience, progression could lead to a Senior Graphic Designer role, Art Director, or a specialized role in digital design or brand management within the nonprofit sector.

  • Industry Knowledge: Gaining deep understanding of nonprofit communications and Jewish communal work can open doors to specialized roles within similar organizations.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This role is designed for development. The growth path emphasizes expanding technical skills, contributing to strategic design decisions, and potentially moving into leadership roles within the nonprofit marketing and communications field.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The organization operates with a hybrid work model, indicating a modern approach to work-life balance. This suggests a professional office setting combined with remote work flexibility.

Office Location(s): The primary office is located at 2 Commerce Square, Philadelphia, PA 19103. This is a central business district location, likely offering good accessibility via public transportation.

Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model necessitates effective digital collaboration tools and practices, alongside in-person teamwork during office days. Expect a mix of focused individual work and team-based creative sessions.

  • Tools and Technology: Access to standard office technology, including computers, design software (Adobe Creative Suite, etc.), and communication platforms. The environment likely supports efficient remote work setup for designated days.

  • Team Interaction: Office days will be crucial for team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and building rapport with colleagues across the Marketing & Communications team and other departments.

Work Schedule:

  • A standard 40-hour workweek is expected, with the hybrid arrangement offering flexibility in how and where those hours are completed, subject to team needs and project deadlines.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment is a key feature, requiring candidates to be self-motivated and adept at using technology for communication and collaboration. The office location suggests a professional urban workspace.

πŸ“„ Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and design aesthetic.

  • First Interview: Typically with the hiring manager (e.g., Marketing Director/Manager) to discuss experience, skills, cultural fit, and understanding of the organization's mission. Portfolio review will be a key component.

  • Design Challenge (Potential): You may be asked to complete a small, timed design exercise or present a case study from your portfolio that demonstrates problem-solving and design execution relevant to the organization's needs.

  • Second Interview: May involve meeting with other members of the Marketing & Communications team or a representative from another department to gauge collaboration style and broader fit.

  • Final Interview/Offer: Discussion of compensation, benefits, and final confirmation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate Strategically: Select 5-7 of your strongest, most relevant projects.

Prioritize pieces that showcase versatility across digital and print, and ideally, include examples of work for mission-driven organizations or campaigns.

  • Tell a Story: For each project, be prepared to walk through:

    • The brief/problem statement.
    • Your role and process.
    • Key design decisions and rationale.
    • The outcome or impact.
  • Showcase Brand Adherence: Include examples where you successfully followed or evolved brand guidelines.

  • Digital Presentation: Ensure your online portfolio is easy to navigate, visually appealing, and loads quickly. If submitting a PDF, ensure it’s well-organized and optimized for size.

  • Tailor to Nonprofit: If possible, highlight any pro bono work or projects that demonstrate an understanding of nonprofit communication goals.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Understand the Mission: Familiarize yourself with the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia's mission, values, and recent campaigns.

  • Review Brand Guidelines: If accessible, understand their brand style guide to anticipate design constraints.

  • Practice Presentation: Rehearse explaining your design process and portfolio pieces clearly and concisely. Focus on how your skills align with the organization's needs.

  • Prepare for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design philosophy, how you handle feedback, your experience with specific software, and your motivation for working in the nonprofit sector.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be thorough, with a strong emphasis on evaluating design skills through the portfolio and understanding how the candidate can contribute to a mission-driven organization. Preparation around the portfolio and understanding the organization's context will be key differentiators.

πŸ›  Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency required, particularly:

    • Adobe InDesign: For layout, page design, and print collateral production.
    • Adobe Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, icons, and illustrations.
    • Adobe Photoshop: For image editing, retouching, and digital asset creation.
  • Canva: Preferred for efficient creation of social media graphics, quick edits, and template-based designs.

  • Microsoft PowerPoint: Required for creating and formatting branded presentations for internal and external stakeholders.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • While not directly a design tool, understanding how design impacts engagement metrics (e.g., click-through rates on ads, social media engagement) is beneficial. Familiarity with basic analytics dashboards (e.g., Google Analytics, social media platform insights) could be a plus. CRM & Automation:

  • This role does not primarily involve CRM or automation tools, but an understanding of how design assets are used within email marketing platforms (e.g., Mailchimp, Constant Contact) or marketing automation systems could be advantageous. Other Potential Tools:

  • Basic Motion Graphics/Video Editing: Software like Adobe After Effects or Premiere Pro (experience is a plus).

  • Project Management Tools: Familiarity with platforms like Asana, Trello, or Monday.com for task management.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements are centered around the Adobe Creative Suite. Proficiency in Canva and PowerPoint indicates a need for versatile output across different platforms and user needs. Secondary skills in motion graphics and project management tools are highly desirable.

πŸ‘₯ Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Mission-Driven Impact: A strong commitment to advancing the organization's mission to serve the community, addressing critical needs locally, in Israel, and globally.

  • Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing collective effort and open communication to achieve shared goals, especially within the Marketing & Communications team and across departments.

  • Inclusivity & Diversity: A deep commitment to embracing diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences, reflecting the community served.

  • Excellence & Professionalism: Striving for high-quality work, attention to detail, and maintaining professional standards in all interactions and outputs.

  • Adaptability & Learning: An openness to new ideas, trends, and technologies, coupled with a willingness to learn and grow in a dynamic environment.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-Functional Integration: Expect to work closely with individuals from various departments, requiring clear communication and the ability to translate diverse needs into effective visual solutions.

  • Feedback-Driven Iteration: An environment where constructive feedback is welcomed and used to refine designs, fostering continuous improvement.

  • Shared Vision: Working towards common organizational objectives, ensuring design efforts align with broader strategic goals.

  • Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the exchange of ideas, best practices, and creative inspiration within the team.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes a strong sense of purpose, collaboration, and inclusivity. The design role is integrated into this culture, requiring individuals who are not only skilled designers but also team players committed to the organization's mission.

⚑ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Balancing Brand Consistency with Campaign Needs: Ensuring all designs adhere to brand guidelines while also being creative and effective for specific campaign objectives.

  • Managing Multiple Stakeholder Requests: Juggling design requests from various departments, each with potentially different priorities and creative visions.

  • Adapting to Rapidly Changing Digital Trends: Staying current with evolving social media platforms, digital design trends, and best practices for visual engagement.

  • Working within Nonprofit Constraints: Executing high-quality creative work within potential budget and timeline limitations common in the nonprofit sector.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to hone skills in Adobe Creative Suite, explore motion graphics, and learn about digital marketing design best practices.

  • Industry Exposure: Gaining experience in nonprofit communications, understanding donor engagement strategies, and learning about the Jewish community landscape.

  • Mentorship: Learning from experienced marketing and communications professionals within the organization.

  • Portfolio Expansion: Continuously building a diverse and impactful portfolio through varied project work.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a junior role in a dynamic nonprofit setting, offering significant learning opportunities. Addressing these challenges effectively will be key to professional growth and success in the role.

πŸ’‘ Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "How do you approach translating a client's vision or a campaign's objective into compelling visual design?" (Be prepared to walk through a specific project from your portfolio.)

  • "Describe your process for incorporating feedback from multiple stakeholders on a design project." (Highlight your collaboration and revision management skills.)

  • "How do you ensure your designs remain consistent with brand guidelines while still being creative and engaging?" (Discuss your understanding of brand stewardship.)

  • "What is your experience with designing for different platforms (e.g., social media, print, email) and how do you tailor your approach?" (Showcase your versatility.) Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What interests you about working for a mission-driven organization like the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia?" (Connect your personal values and career aspirations to the organization's mission.)

  • "How do you stay updated on current design trends and incorporate them into your work?" (Demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning.)

  • "Describe your experience working in a team environment, particularly in a hybrid setting." (Highlight your collaboration and self-management skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Focus on Process: Don't just show the final designs; explain the "why" behind your creative decisions.

  • Quantify Impact (If Possible): If you have metrics for a project (e.g., increased engagement, successful event turnout), mention them.

  • Highlight Relevance: Emphasize projects that align with the types of work the Federation does (campaigns, community outreach, donor communications).

  • Be Prepared to Sketch: They might ask you to quickly sketch an idea for a hypothetical problem to assess your on-the-spot thinking.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing your design process, your ability to collaborate, your alignment with the organization's mission, and your technical proficiency. A well-prepared portfolio presentation is critical.

πŸ“Œ Application Steps

To apply for this Junior Graphic Designer position:

  • Submit your application through the provided link on the Paylocity careers portal.

  • Portfolio Customization: Ensure your online portfolio is up-to-date and showcases your most relevant digital and print design work, ideally highlighting experience with campaign assets and brand consistency.

  • Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your 2-3 years of design experience, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop), and any relevant project management or collaborative experience. Use keywords from the job description.

  • Prepare Your Narrative: Practice articulating your design process, your understanding of brand stewardship, and your motivation for working in a mission-driven nonprofit environment. Be ready to discuss specific projects from your portfolio in detail.

  • Research the Organization: Thoroughly review the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia's website to understand their mission, values, recent campaigns, and target audience. This will help you tailor your application and interview responses.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

Requires 2-3 years of graphic design experience and proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite. A bachelor's degree in Graphic Design or a related field is preferred.