Junior Graphic Designer **NANA Shareholder Opportunity Only**

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Graphic Designer ** (NANA Shareholder Opportunity Only)**

Company: NANA Regional Corporation

Location: Kotzebue, AK or Anchorage, AK

Job Type: Other

Category: Marketing & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-05

Experience Level: Junior (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a critical support function within NANA's Communications Operations, focusing on the creation and management of visual assets to enhance corporate communications and brand integrity.

• The Junior Graphic Designer will be instrumental in developing a wide range of print and digital materials, ensuring adherence to NANA's established brand standards and cultural values.

• This position offers a unique opportunity for a NANA shareholder to gain valuable experience in a corporate communications environment, contributing to projects that impact internal and external stakeholders.

• The role involves close collaboration with the Director of Communications Operations and other departments, requiring strong communication and project management skills to meet deadlines and project requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw job description lists "OTHER" for employment type, the context strongly suggests a full-time, on-site role within a corporate marketing/communications department. The "Shareholder Opportunity Only" is a critical qualifier that limits the applicant pool significantly and should be highlighted.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and produce a variety of visual communications materials, including but not limited to shareholder newsletters, website graphics, infographics, social media assets, presentations, flyers, and banners for both print and digital platforms.

• Resize, format, and export creative assets efficiently for optimal use in diverse print and digital applications, ensuring high-quality output.

• Maintain and manage NANA’s logo files and other brand assets, ensuring their appropriate and consistent application across all communications.

• Coordinate with external vendors for print production needs, managing timelines and ensuring quality control for printed materials.

• Assist with photography coordination, including developing shot lists and maintaining photo release files to ensure compliance and proper usage rights.

• Create standardized templates for presentations, reports, posters, and other communications materials to ensure brand consistency and streamline content creation for other departments.

• Organize, tag, and maintain NANA’s digital asset library, ensuring all assets are easily retrievable and properly cataloged.

• Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, ensuring all project deadlines are met and maintaining accurate version control for all design iterations.

• Support broader communications projects and campaigns through impactful visual design and diligent production efforts.

• Uphold and apply NANA brand standards and established design guidelines, ensuring all visual communications are consistent and culturally appropriate, reflecting Iñupiat Iḷitqusiat.

• Foster positive working relationships with a diverse range of individuals across the organization to effectively deliver NANA’s message while safeguarding the company’s image.

• Adhere to Iñupiat Iḷitqusiat (Iñupiat values) in all work relationships and professional outputs, demonstrating cultural sensitivity and respect.

• Operate with a high degree of discretion and confidentiality, safeguarding sensitive company information.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are tailored to a junior-level role, emphasizing production, maintenance, and support rather than strategic design leadership. The integration of "Iñupiat Iḷitqusiat" is a unique cultural aspect that applicants must understand and apply.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Associate’s degree in graphic design, communications, marketing, or a closely related field is required.

• An equivalent combination of relevant education and professional experience will also be considered. Experience:

• One to three years of progressive experience in graphic design, corporate communications, marketing, or agency environments.

• Demonstrated experience in developing and preparing creative assets, including resizing and exporting files for various media. Required Skills:

• Graphic Design Software Proficiency: Strong working knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud applications, specifically Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, is highly preferred.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, with a particular emphasis on PowerPoint for presentation design.

• Print Production Coordination: Familiarity with print production processes, vendor coordination, and file preparation for print.

• Digital Asset Management: Experience in organizing, tagging, and maintaining digital asset libraries.

• Brand Standards Application: Ability to understand and consistently apply brand guidelines and visual identity elements.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Capacity to manage multiple design projects simultaneously, track progress, and meet deadlines.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for collaborating with stakeholders and incorporating feedback.

• Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail in design execution, file management, and adherence to brand specifications.

• Problem-Solving: Ability to work independently, identify challenges, and proactively develop or implement solutions.

Preferred Skills:

• Demonstrated graphic design skills supported by a strong portfolio showcasing a range of print and digital work.

• Experience in creating templates for various communication materials.

• Familiarity with photography coordination and asset management.

• Understanding of Iñupiat Iḷitqusiat and its application in visual communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "preferred" status for a portfolio and specific Adobe CC proficiency suggests that candidates with strong foundational skills and a willingness to learn may still be considered, provided they meet the shareholder requirement and possess other core competencies. The emphasis on Microsoft Office, especially PowerPoint, is notable for a design role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse projects demonstrating proficiency in graphic design principles across both print and digital media.

• Include examples of materials created for corporate communications, such as newsletters, social media graphics, presentation slides, or infographics.

• Highlight projects that required adaptation to specific brand guidelines or cultural considerations.

• Demonstrate ability to manage project iterations and incorporate feedback effectively, perhaps through before-and-after examples.

• Quantify impact where possible, such as improved engagement metrics for social media graphics or increased clarity in informational materials. Process Documentation:

• While not explicitly stated, applicants should be prepared to discuss their personal design workflow, from concept development and client brief to final asset delivery and version control.

• Be ready to explain how you manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and ensure quality and brand consistency throughout the design process.

• Familiarity with digital asset management systems and best practices for organizing and tagging files will be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: A portfolio is listed as "preferred" but is crucial for demonstrating design capabilities. Candidates should prepare a portfolio that aligns with the described responsibilities, emphasizing corporate communications and brand adherence.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $45,000 - $60,000 annually.

• Methodology: This estimate is based on Junior Graphic Designer roles in similar markets (Alaska) with 1-3 years of experience, considering the specific industry (corporate communications) and the unique shareholder requirement which may influence compensation. Data was sourced from industry salary benchmarks for entry-level creative roles and adjusted for regional cost of living in Alaska.

• Note: Actual compensation will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and NANA's internal compensation structure.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with potential company match.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay.

• Shareholder Benefits: Potential additional benefits specific to NANA shareholders, which may include profit sharing or other unique programs.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training and development to enhance design skills and career growth.

• Travel Assistance: Travel to and from the worksite will be provided and arranged by NANA for those traveling to Kotzebue or Anchorage.

Working Hours:

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

• The role is on-site, requiring regular presence in the Kotzebue or Anchorage office.

• Flexibility may be available depending on project needs and team coordination, but core hours are expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is not provided, so an estimate has been generated based on industry averages for similar roles and locations. Benefits are inferred from standard corporate offerings, with a specific mention of shareholder benefits and travel assistance which are unique to this posting.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: NANA Regional Corporation operates within the diversified business and resource development sectors, with a strong focus on serving the interests of its Iñupiat shareholders. This unique industry context means operations are guided by both business objectives and a deep commitment to cultural values and community well-being.

Company Size: NANA is a large corporation, employing a significant number of individuals across various business units and locations. This scale provides opportunities for diverse projects and cross-functional collaboration within a structured corporate environment.

Founded: NANA Regional Corporation was established in 1971 as part of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA). This rich history shapes its mission and commitment to its shareholders and the region.

Team Structure:

• The Junior Graphic Designer will work within the Communications Operations department, reporting directly to the Director of Communications Operations.

• This department likely consists of communication specialists, writers, and other creative professionals who support the broader NANA organization.

• Collaboration will extend to various departments, including but not limited to, corporate affairs, HR, and business units, requiring effective cross-functional teamwork. Methodology:

• NANA's operational methodology emphasizes delivering value to its shareholders while upholding Iñupiat Iḷitqusiat. This translates to a professional, results-oriented approach that is also culturally sensitive and community-focused.

• Data analysis and insights are likely used to inform communication strategies and measure campaign effectiveness.

• Workflow planning and optimization are crucial for managing diverse projects across a large organization.

• Automation and efficiency practices are employed where possible to streamline operations and enhance productivity.

Company Website: https://www.nana.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is heavily influenced by its ANCSA origins and commitment to Iñupiat values. Applicants should demonstrate an understanding and respect for this unique cultural context.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level (Junior) position, designed for individuals with foundational graphic design skills and 1-3 years of experience. It serves as a stepping stone for developing expertise in corporate communications and visual branding within a large, established organization.

Reporting Structure: The Junior Graphic Designer reports directly to the Director of Communications Operations. This provides a clear line of management and mentorship, allowing for focused guidance and skill development in a supportive environment.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on NANA's external and internal communications. High-quality visual assets contribute to a strong brand image, effective shareholder engagement, and clear dissemination of company information, all of which are vital for corporate reputation and operational success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific design software (Adobe Creative Cloud) and design disciplines (e.g., infographics, social media, print layout).

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain exposure to various communication strategies and projects across different departments within NANA, broadening understanding of corporate operations.

• Mentorship: Benefit from direct mentorship from the Director of Communications Operations, who can provide guidance on career development, design best practices, and navigating corporate environments.

• Potential Advancement: With demonstrated success and continued development, there could be opportunities to advance to a Graphic Designer or Senior Graphic Designer role within NANA or its subsidiaries.

• Cultural Competency: Develop a deeper understanding and application of Iñupiat Iḷitqusiat in professional settings, a valuable skill within NANA.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth is framed around skill development and exposure within NANA's specific operational and cultural framework, rather than a generic corporate ladder.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a traditional office environment within NANA's Corporate Office in either Kotzebue, AK or Anchorage, AK. This implies a standard professional setting with desks, computers, and collaborative spaces.

Office Location(s):

• Kotzebue, AK: A more remote, culturally significant location for NANA.

• Anchorage, AK: Alaska's largest city, offering more urban amenities.

• The company arranges travel to and from the worksite, indicating potential relocation support or arrangements for those not local to these cities. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace is designed for collaboration, with opportunities to interact with colleagues within the Communications Operations department and other NANA employees.

• Tools & Technology: Access to standard office equipment, computers, and likely industry-standard design software and hardware.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with the Director of Communications Operations for guidance and feedback, as well as collaboration with other communications staff and departmental stakeholders.

Work Schedule:

• The role is full-time, with an expected 40-hour work week.

• While the environment is primarily office-based, the mention of up to 20% travel suggests occasional work outside the standard office setting, potentially to remote locations within Alaska.

• The travel may involve less conventional modes of transportation (snow machines, boats, small airplanes), adding an element of adventure and requiring adaptability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The unique locations in Alaska and the mention of varied travel methods are key environmental factors that applicants should consider.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of applications to confirm NANA shareholder status and basic qualifications.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will be asked to submit a portfolio for evaluation of design skills, project scope, and relevance to NANA's needs.

• First Interview: Likely a virtual or in-person interview with the hiring manager (Director of Communications Operations) to assess skills, experience, cultural fit, and understanding of NANA's mission and values.

• Skills Assessment/Case Study: Potentially a practical design exercise or case study focused on creating a specific type of asset or solving a design challenge relevant to NANA's communications.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with other key stakeholders or HR to discuss compensation, benefits, and finalize the offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects. Focus on quality over quantity.

• Showcase Versatility: Include examples of both print and digital design, and projects that demonstrate adaptability to different briefs.

• Highlight Corporate Communications: Prioritize projects that align with NANA's needs (newsletters, social media, presentations, infographics).

• Explain Your Process: For each project, briefly describe the objective, your role, the tools used, and the outcome. Mention any challenges overcome or feedback incorporated.

• Brand Adherence: If possible, show projects where you successfully applied brand guidelines. If not, be prepared to discuss how you would approach this.

• Cultural Sensitivity: If you have any work that demonstrates cultural awareness or sensitivity, include it, especially if it relates to Indigenous communities.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Exercise: If a design challenge is given, focus on understanding the brief thoroughly. Prioritize clarity, brand consistency, and effective communication.

• Time Management: Practice creating assets within a limited timeframe.

• Presentation Skills: Be ready to articulate your design choices and explain your process clearly and concisely. Focus on how your design meets the stated objectives.

• Company Research: Be prepared to discuss NANA's mission, values (including Iñupiat Iḷitqusiat), and recent communications efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is a key component. Applicants should prepare a targeted portfolio and be ready to discuss their design process and how they apply brand guidelines.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud: Proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign is highly preferred. Expect to use these for most design tasks, from vector graphics to layout and image editing.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Strong skills in PowerPoint are required for presentation design. Familiarity with Word and Excel for document creation and data handling is also beneficial.

• Digital Asset Management (DAM) System: While not specified, maintaining the digital asset library implies familiarity with or the ability to quickly learn a DAM system for organizing, tagging, and retrieving visual assets.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Website Analytics (Basic): May need to understand how web graphics perform, potentially involving basic familiarity with tools like Google Analytics or internal website dashboards.

• Social Media Analytics (Basic): Understanding how social media graphics are used and may be tracked for engagement.

CRM & Automation:

• Not Directly Applicable: This role is primarily focused on design production rather than CRM management or marketing automation workflows. However, understanding how visual assets integrate into marketing campaigns can be an advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement is proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud, with a strong emphasis on PowerPoint. Experience with DAM systems is implied for asset library management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Shareholder Focus: A primary value is to serve the interests and enhance the well-being of NANA shareholders through effective communication and business practices.

• Iñupiat Iḷitqusiat: This is a foundational value, emphasizing Iñupiat traditions, respect, knowledge, and skills in all work. Applicants must demonstrate an understanding and commitment to these values.

• Excellence & Professionalism: Upholding high standards in design quality, project execution, and professional conduct.

• Collaboration & Respect: Working effectively with diverse individuals across the organization, fostering positive relationships.

• Integrity & Confidentiality: Operating with honesty, transparency, and discretion, especially concerning sensitive company information.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires close collaboration with various departments to understand their communication needs and translate them into effective visual designs.

• Feedback Incorporation: An open and receptive approach to feedback from supervisors and stakeholders is essential for refining designs and meeting project objectives.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share design insights and best practices, and to learn from colleagues within the communications team.

• Efficiency-Oriented: A focus on delivering high-quality work efficiently, meeting deadlines, and contributing to the overall productivity of the communications department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Iñupiat Iḷitqusiat" is paramount and should be a key consideration for cultural fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Brand & Project Needs: Effectively translating diverse departmental communication needs into visually compelling designs that strictly adhere to NANA's established brand guidelines and cultural sensitivities.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Feedback: Incorporating feedback from various individuals and departments, ensuring final designs meet objectives while maintaining visual integrity.

• Adapting to Remote/Arctic Environment: If based in Kotzebue, adapting to the unique logistical and environmental considerations of working in a remote Arctic location, including potential travel by non-traditional means.

• Volume of Work: Managing a potentially high volume of design requests from different parts of a large corporation, requiring strong prioritization and time management skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Adobe Creative Cloud applications and explore new design software or techniques.

• Corporate Communications Strategy: Gaining insight into how visual design supports broader organizational communication strategies and business objectives.

• Cultural Competency Development: Enhancing understanding and application of Iñupiat Iḷitqusiat in a professional context, contributing to personal and professional growth within NANA.

• Project Management Skills: Developing stronger skills in managing project timelines, client expectations, and vendor relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed around the unique aspects of NANA's operations and the junior level of the role, with growth opportunities tied to skill development and cultural integration.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for creating a social media graphic from initial brief to final delivery. How do you ensure it aligns with brand guidelines?" (Assesses process, brand adherence, and tool proficiency.)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or conflicting feedback on your design work?" (Evaluates collaboration, problem-solving, and adaptability.)

• "Walk me through a project in your portfolio that you are particularly proud of. What was the objective, your role, and the outcome?" (Tests communication, portfolio presentation, and impact articulation.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about NANA Regional Corporation and its mission?" (Assesses research and alignment with company goals.)

• "How do you understand and plan to apply Iñupiat Iḷitqusiat in your work here?" (Crucial for cultural fit; requires genuine understanding and thoughtful response.)

• "Describe your experience working in a team environment. How do you collaborate with colleagues and stakeholders?" (Evaluates teamwork and interpersonal skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by demonstrating a range of skills. For each piece, provide a concise overview: client/purpose, your role, key design decisions, tools used, and outcome.

• Highlight Relevance: Emphasize projects that closely match the responsibilities of this Junior Graphic Designer role (e.g., corporate communications, digital assets, brand application).

• Showcase Process: Be prepared to discuss your design process, including how you approach briefs, conduct research, iterate on designs, and incorporate feedback.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, include metrics or results that demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs (e.g., engagement rates for social media, clarity of infographics).

• Cultural Sensitivity: If you have any work that demonstrates cultural awareness, be ready to discuss it in the context of NANA's values.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation focuses heavily on demonstrating understanding of NANA's unique values and operational context, alongside core design skills.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the NANA/icims portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects most relevant to corporate communications, brand identity, and digital/print asset creation. Prioritize examples that showcase your ability to adhere to design guidelines and your proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud applications.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly states your NANA shareholder status. Highlight your 1-3 years of relevant experience, your educational background (Associate's degree or equivalent), and specific software proficiencies (Adobe CC, MS Office/PowerPoint). Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, how you incorporate feedback, and your understanding of NANA's mission and Iñupiat Iḷitqusiat. Prepare to present selected portfolio pieces and discuss their impact.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research NANA Regional Corporation, its business sectors, its commitment to shareholders, and the significance of Iñupiat Iḷitqusiat. Understand the company's brand identity and recent communication efforts.

⚠️ 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.