Junior Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Graphic Designer

Company: Tennessee Board of Regents (Walters State Community College)

Location: Morristown, Tennessee, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Education / Marketing / Government & Public Sector

Date Posted: April 23, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develops and produces high-quality visual content across print, digital, and social media platforms to support the college's mission and recruitment efforts.

• Ensures all visual communications adhere to the institution's official brand guidelines, maintaining consistency in logos, typography, and color palettes.

• Collaborates closely with the Communications and Marketing team, faculty, and staff to translate concepts into engaging designs that meet project objectives.

• Manages and maintains the department's digital asset library, including photography, icons, and archived project files, ensuring accessibility and version control.

• Prepares print-ready files and coordinates with local printing vendors for quality production and timely delivery of materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within a community college environment, implying a need for design solutions that are both accessible and adaptable to diverse student demographics and institutional objectives. The emphasis on brand adherence and collaboration suggests a structured creative process.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce engaging digital assets for the college website and social media channels (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) to enhance online presence and student engagement.

• Create visually appealing print materials such as brochures, flyers, posters, campus signage, and advertisements to support college programs, events, and promotional campaigns.

• Maintain and enforce the college's brand identity across all media, ensuring consistent application of visual standards.

• Work collaboratively with internal stakeholders to understand project requirements and deliver effective design solutions that communicate institutional messages.

• Organize, update, and maintain the department's digital asset library, ensuring proper file management, accessibility, and version control for all creative assets.

• Assist in the preparation of files for print production and liaise with approved printing vendors to oversee quality and delivery timelines.

• Contribute to the overall visual strategy and aesthetic of the college's communications, aligning with institutional goals and target audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative execution and administrative organization, typical for a junior role within a marketing department. The focus on "student recruitment efforts" and "campus-wide communications" indicates that designs will often serve dual purposes: promoting academic programs and fostering a sense of community.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Minimum of an Associate’s degree in Digital Media, Graphic Design, Marketing, or a closely related field.

Experience: While not explicitly stated as a minimum, the title "Junior Graphic Designer" and the AI-derived experience level of "0-2 years" suggest that candidates with internships, co-op experience, or 1-2 years of professional design experience will be strongly considered.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop, for creating and editing visual assets.

• Competency in Microsoft Suite (Word, PowerPoint) for document creation and presentation materials.

• Strong understanding and application of fundamental design principles, including layout, typography, and color theory.

• Demonstrated ability to maintain brand consistency and adhere to established visual guidelines.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the capacity to receive and incorporate constructive feedback effectively.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working within an educational institution or non-profit organization, understanding their unique communication needs.

• Familiarity with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility standards for digital and print materials, crucial for public institutions.

• Basic understanding of web design principles and social media content optimization.

• Experience with digital asset management systems or organized file storage solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are standard for graphic design roles, but the emphasis on "brand guidelines" and "collaboration with faculty and staff" within an educational context is key. The preferred skill of ADA compliance is particularly important for government and public sector roles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated collection of design projects showcasing proficiency in layout, typography, and color theory across various media (print and digital).

• Examples demonstrating the ability to translate project briefs into compelling visual concepts and execute them effectively.

• Projects should highlight an understanding of brand integration, showing how designs align with specific organizational identities or campaign goals.

Process Documentation:

• While not explicitly stated as a formal requirement, demonstrating an understanding of the design process—from concept development to final production—is crucial.

• Be prepared to discuss your workflow for projects, including how you approach research, ideation, iteration, and final file preparation.

• Highlight any experience with or understanding of version control for design files and digital asset management.

• Showcase an ability to work within established guidelines and to coordinate with external vendors (printers) for successful project completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a junior role, the portfolio is the primary evidence of design capability. The emphasis should be on demonstrating potential and a solid grasp of fundamental design principles and processes rather than extensive experience. The ability to follow established brand guidelines and collaborate effectively will be key indicators of success.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $38,788 - $48,484 USD per year.

Benefits:

• The Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) offers a comprehensive benefits package for its employees. While specific details are not provided in the raw listing, typical benefits for state employees in Tennessee include:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage options.

• Retirement Plan: Participation in the Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System (TCRS) or a 401(k)-type plan, offering long-term financial security.

• Paid Time Off: Including vacation days, sick leave, and paid holidays.

• Life Insurance: Employer-provided and optional supplemental life insurance.

• Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability coverage.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, workshops, and continuing education to enhance skills.

• Deferred Compensation Plans: Optional plans for additional retirement savings.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule is typically 40 hours per week.

• The role operates with general supervision, implying a structured work environment where tasks are guided by broad policies and procedures. Work is checked for results rather than constant oversight of methods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for an entry-level graphic design position in Morristown, Tennessee. State employment often comes with robust benefits and job security, which are significant advantages. The "general supervision" indicates a degree of autonomy within a defined framework.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education / State Government

Company Size: The Tennessee Board of Regents is a large system overseeing 40 institutions across Tennessee, including community colleges, universities, and technical colleges. Walters State Community College is one of these institutions. This implies a structured, policy-driven environment with a focus on public service and educational mission.

Founded: The Tennessee Board of Regents was established in 1967. Walters State Community College was founded in 1970. This long history suggests a stable, established organization with a deep connection to its community and a commitment to its mission.

Team Structure:

• The Junior Graphic Designer will be part of the Communications and Marketing team at Walters State Community College.

• This team likely includes senior creative staff (e.g., Art Director, Marketing Manager) who provide guidance and supervision.

• Collaboration is expected with faculty, staff across various departments, and potentially external vendors.

Methodology:

• Designs are expected to adhere strictly to the college's official brand guidelines, ensuring a unified institutional image.

• A data-driven approach is implied through the use of social media analytics and website performance to inform design choices for digital assets.

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies will be employed to manage multiple projects and ensure timely delivery.

• Automation is less likely to be a primary focus for this specific role, but efficient file management and production processes are critical.

Company Website: https://www.tbr.edu/ (Tennessee Board of Regents) and https://www.ws.edu/ (Walters State Community College)

📝 Enhancement Note: Working for a state institution means navigating established protocols and procedures. The culture likely values stability, adherence to policy, and a commitment to serving the public good. The "respect for heritage" and "embracing important changes" suggest a balance between tradition and progress.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level position within the broader field of graphic design and marketing communications. It serves as a foundational role for individuals looking to build a career in visual design, particularly within the higher education or public sector.

Reporting Structure: The Junior Graphic Designer reports to senior creative staff within the Communications and Marketing department at Walters State Community College. This structure provides mentorship and oversight, crucial for skill development.

Operations Impact: While not a direct "revenue operations" role, the Junior Graphic Designer's work significantly impacts the college's external perception, student recruitment (a key revenue driver), and internal communications. Effective visual content can enhance enrollment numbers, promote program success, and foster a positive campus environment.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and explore specialized areas like motion graphics, UI/UX design, or advanced print production.

• Career Advancement: Progress to roles like Graphic Designer, Senior Graphic Designer, Art Director, or Marketing Specialist within the college, TBR system, or other organizations.

• Project Leadership: Gain experience leading design projects from concept to completion, managing client relationships, and potentially overseeing junior designers as experience grows.

• Industry Knowledge: Deepen understanding of higher education marketing, branding, and communication strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a Junior Graphic Designer typically involves mastering core skills, taking on more complex projects, and potentially specializing. Within a large system like TBR, opportunities may exist at other campuses or within the central administration.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site at the Walters State Community College campus in Morristown, Tennessee. The office environment is described as temperature-controlled, well-lit, and free from significant noise or interruptions, conducive to focused design work.

Office Location(s): Primary location is Morristown Campus. Employees may occasionally or regularly be required to work at other Walters State Community College locations, implying a need for flexibility and potential local travel.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to support focused design tasks, with ample time spent at a computer monitor.

• Collaboration is a key aspect, with opportunities to work with the Communications and Marketing team, faculty, and staff.

• Access to necessary design software and technology is implied.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected. While the environment is described as controlled, the role may involve occasional travel to local events, requiring flexibility. The role operates under general supervision, allowing for some autonomy in managing daily tasks and workflow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on an "office environment" and the mention of potential travel to "other WSCC locations" reinforces the on-site nature of this role. The description suggests a professional, stable work setting typical of an educational institution.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Applications will be reviewed based on qualifications, experience, and portfolio submission.

• Portfolio Review: A critical component. Candidates will be expected to present a portfolio demonstrating their design skills, creativity, and understanding of design principles. Be prepared to discuss your process for key projects.

• Interviews: Expect one or more rounds of interviews with the hiring manager and potentially other members of the Communications and Marketing team. These will assess your technical skills, understanding of design principles, communication abilities, and cultural fit.

• Skills Assessment: A practical design exercise or test may be administered to evaluate proficiency with design software and problem-solving abilities under timed conditions.

• Final Selection: Based on overall assessment of skills, portfolio, interview performance, and cultural alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 4-6 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills relevant to this role (print, digital, social media, brand adherence).

• Showcase Process: For each project, briefly explain the objective, your creative process, the tools used, and the outcome. Highlight problem-solving and how you met client needs.

• Emphasize Brand Application: Include any work that demonstrates your ability to work within established brand guidelines or create new ones.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Ensure your portfolio showcases your proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud applications.

• Professional Presentation: Organize your portfolio cleanly, whether digital or physical. A well-designed PDF or online portfolio is standard.

Challenge Preparation:

• Software Proficiency: Be ready for tasks that might involve creating a social media graphic, designing a simple flyer, or manipulating images within Adobe Creative Suite.

• Design Fundamentals: Prepare to answer questions about layout, typography, and color theory.

• Brand Understanding: Think about how you would apply brand guidelines to new design requests.

• Communication: Practice articulating your design choices clearly and concisely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount for a graphic design role. Candidates should meticulously prepare it, focusing on quality over quantity, and be ready to articulate their design choices and process. The inclusion of potential on-site assessments is standard for creative roles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud: Essential proficiency in InDesign (for layout and print), Illustrator (for vector graphics and illustrations), and Photoshop (for image editing and manipulation) is required.

• Microsoft Suite: Competency in Word (for text-based documents) and PowerPoint (for presentations) is necessary for integrated campus communications.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly a primary tool, familiarity with basic web analytics (e.g., Google Analytics) and social media platform insights could be beneficial for understanding content performance.

CRM & Automation:

• No specific CRM or automation tools are mentioned for this role. The focus is on content creation rather than system management. However, understanding how designs are deployed through various channels (website, email systems) is helpful.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core requirement revolves around the Adobe Creative Suite. Any additional familiarity with web content management systems (CMS) or social media scheduling tools would be a bonus, indicating a broader understanding of digital content deployment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Valued highly, with an emphasis on sharing information, listening effectively, and responding to requests for assistance.

• Personal Effectiveness & Accountability: Pursuing objectives with determination, accepting responsibility for actions, and demonstrating efficiency in resource utilization.

• Respect: Treating team members with respect and honoring the college's heritage while embracing necessary changes.

• Integrity & Discretion: Exercising sound judgment in the use of organizational resources, showing appreciation for benefactors.

Collaboration Style:

• Open sharing of information and active listening are encouraged.

• A willingness to assist team members is a key aspect of the collaborative approach.

• Designs are expected to align with institutional goals and be developed in coordination with various stakeholders.

• The culture values a blend of respecting tradition and adapting to necessary advancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on teamwork, respect, and accountability suggests a positive and supportive work environment. The mention of "honoring the past while embracing change" indicates a culture that values both stability and forward-thinking within its established framework.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Projects: Juggling design requests from various departments with competing priorities and deadlines.

• Adhering to Strict Brand Guidelines: Ensuring creativity within a defined visual identity system, which can be challenging for junior designers.

• Translating Abstract Concepts: Effectively visualizing institutional messages and academic programs for diverse audiences.

• Keeping Pace with Design Trends: Staying current with design software, techniques, and platform best practices while maintaining institutional consistency.

• Potential for Occasional Travel: Adapting to working at different campus locations as needed.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Formal Training: Access to training on new Adobe Creative Suite features or design methodologies through the TBR system.

• Mentorship: Learning from senior creative staff within the Communications and Marketing department.

• Workshops and Conferences: Potential to attend industry events or workshops focused on graphic design, higher education marketing, or digital media.

• Skill Expansion: Opportunity to explore areas like basic video editing, animation, or web design elements, expanding the design toolkit.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a junior role, focusing on managing workload and creative constraints. The growth opportunities are strong within a large educational system, offering structured learning and career progression.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Walk us through your process for developing a social media campaign graphic from brief to final delivery." (Prepare a specific project example).

• Brand Adherence: "How would you ensure a new design project aligns with Walters State's existing brand guidelines?" (Discuss understanding of brand manuals and the importance of consistency).

• Collaboration: "Describe a time you received constructive criticism on a design and how you handled it." (Focus on receptiveness to feedback and collaborative problem-solving).

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a department needs a brochure for a new program, but has limited information. How would you approach designing it?" (Highlight initiative, research, and communication strategies).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Walters State Community College and the Tennessee Board of Regents?" (Research the college's mission, values, and recent news).

• "How do you approach teamwork and collaboration?" (Reference the behavioral competencies mentioned in the job description).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each portfolio piece, tell a concise story about the project's challenge, your role, your creative solution, and the impact.

• Demonstrate Versatility: Showcase a range of work that highlights your ability to design for both print and digital media.

• Technical Skill: Be prepared to briefly discuss the software and techniques you used for specific projects.

• Focus on Relevance: Prioritize projects that best align with the responsibilities of this Junior Graphic Designer role (e.g., educational content, promotional materials, social media graphics).

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will likely assess both technical design skills and the candidate's ability to integrate into the college's culture. Demonstrating an understanding of the educational environment and a willingness to learn and collaborate will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Junior Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the careers page.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your resume and portfolio are tailored to highlight relevant design experience, particularly in areas like layout, typography, digital assets, and print production.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly list your proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) and Microsoft Suite. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Designed promotional materials that increased event attendance by X%").

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process and choices clearly. Be ready to discuss your portfolio pieces in detail and answer behavioral questions related to teamwork and communication.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Walters State Community College's mission, programs, and recent marketing efforts. Understand the Tennessee Board of Regents' role and values.

⚠️ 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.