Marketing Graphic Designer
π Job Overview
Job Title: Marketing Graphic Designer
Company: Knutson Construction
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Marketing & Design Operations
Date Posted: 2026-06-02
Experience Level: 2-5 Years
Remote Status: On-site
π Role Summary
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Develop and execute high-impact visual assets to support Knutson Construction's marketing initiatives, business development efforts, and client communications, ensuring consistent brand application.
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Collaborate with marketing, business development, and project teams to create compelling graphics for proposals, presentations, digital platforms, and community engagement materials.
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Manage the design and production of various marketing collateral, including social media graphics, website content, brochures, signage, and event materials, from concept to final delivery.
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Maintain and uphold Knutson's brand standards across all visual communications, ensuring a professional and cohesive brand presence in the construction industry.
π Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a construction company, implying a need for graphic design skills that can translate complex information into accessible visual formats for diverse audiences, including clients, community members, and internal stakeholders. The emphasis on "K-12 referendum campaign communications" suggests a specialized area of focus requiring clear, persuasive visual storytelling.
π Primary Responsibilities
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Create cutting-edge visual assets for marketing campaigns, including social media graphics, website banners, and digital content, adhering to brand guidelines.
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Design infographics and visual storytelling elements for proposals, client presentations, and project pursuits to enhance communication and impact.
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Update and apply Knutson's brand standards across all internal and external marketing materials, ensuring visual consistency and professional presentation.
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Provide quality control for all visual materials, verifying brand compliance, accuracy, and overall aesthetic quality before dissemination.
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Contribute design support for internal initiatives, such as annual meeting materials, core values visuals, and internal employee campaigns.
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Produce visual materials for evolving internal initiatives and department-specific collateral to support organizational goals.
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Design graphics and layouts for client presentations, community meetings, and stakeholder engagement materials, ensuring clarity and engagement.
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Develop sector-specific collateral and leave-behind materials that effectively support project pursuits and client education.
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Create visual materials for K-12 and municipal referendum campaign communications, including custom logos, booklets, flyers, and informational content.
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Coordinate with print partners for cost comparisons, file preparation, proof reviews, and quality assurance of printed materials.
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Develop motion graphics elements for video content to enhance marketing initiatives and client communications.
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Design jobsite branding materials, including site fencing banners, signage, and wayfinding graphics, to reinforce brand presence.
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Support the creation of environmental graphics that strengthen Knutson's brand presence on project sites and within the community.
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Design apparel graphics for t-shirts and promotional items, aligning with brand aesthetics.
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Create visual materials for trade shows, events, and conferences, such as pull-up banners, backdrops, and display graphics.
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Collaborate effectively with marketing and business development team members to deliver high-quality design solutions that support strategic objectives.
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Communicate and embody the organization's vision and values to foster teamwork and a positive work environment.
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Deliver "The Knutson Experience" (TKE), ensuring clients, partners, and employees feel Assured, Inspired, and Appreciated through design execution.
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Respond to and complete other assigned duties, tasks, and projects as needed, demonstrating adaptability and a proactive approach.
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Manage multiple projects with competing deadlines efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
π Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of traditional graphic design tasks with a strong focus on supporting business development and external communications within the construction sector. The mention of "K-12 and municipal referendum campaign communications" indicates a specialized need for design expertise in public engagement and advocacy.
π Skills & Qualifications
Education: Associateβs degree or equivalent experience in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a related field is preferred.
Experience: 3β5 years of professional graphic design experience in a marketing, agency, or in-house creative environment.
Required Skills:
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Strong working knowledge of the Adobe Creative Suite, specifically InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop for professional graphic design.
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Proficiency in developing visual layouts for both print and digital formats, including brochures, presentations, signage, and social media graphics.
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Ability to develop visual identities and logos, while strictly adhering to established brand guidelines.
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Deep understanding of brand standards and the importance of visual consistency across multiple platforms.
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Experience preparing print-ready files and coordinating effectively with print vendors for production.
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Strong organizational skills with a proven ability to manage multiple projects and meet competing deadlines.
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Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present ideas clearly in writing and verbally, adapting messaging for different audiences.
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Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with marketing teams, project teams, and internal stakeholders. Preferred Skills:
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Basic knowledge of video graphics or video support tools such as Premiere Pro, CapCut, After Effects, or similar software.
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A portfolio showcasing a diverse range of work across various media, including detailed descriptions of the design process and problem-solving approaches.
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Experience in the construction industry or B2B marketing environments.
π Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific Adobe Creative Suite programs (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) and the requirement for a portfolio demonstrating process are critical for this role. The preference for video graphics experience and construction industry knowledge suggests areas where candidates can differentiate themselves.
π Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
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A portfolio showcasing a diverse range of design work across various media, demonstrating proficiency in visual design principles and execution.
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Inclusion of case studies or detailed project descriptions that explain the design process, problem-solving strategies, and the rationale behind creative decisions.
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Examples of work that adhere to brand guidelines, illustrating the ability to maintain visual consistency and brand integrity across different applications.
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Demonstrations of work for print production, digital content creation, and potentially motion graphics, highlighting versatility in design output. Process Documentation:
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Showcase examples of how design briefs are translated into visual concepts, detailing the iterative design process.
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Illustrate experience in preparing files for print production, including pre-press checks and vendor coordination.
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Evidence of workflow management for handling multiple design projects simultaneously, from initial request to final delivery.
π Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to present a portfolio that not only displays aesthetic quality but also demonstrates a structured design process, problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to manage projects effectively within brand constraints.
π΅ Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $60,000 - $80,000 per year (Projected Minimum to Maximum Base Salary)
Benefits:
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Competitive Pay
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Performance-Based Career Advancement opportunities
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Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans
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Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution
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Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
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Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
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Company-paid Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance
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Mentorship Program for professional development
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Tuition Reimbursement for continuing education
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Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for personal and professional support
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Employee Referral Bonus Program
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Flex Fridays for improved work-life balance
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401k retirement plan with a company match
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Annual Discretionary Bonus Program
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Successful Annual Discretionary Profit-Sharing Program
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Paid Parental Leave
Working Hours: Standard 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility as indicated by "Flex Fridays."
π Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided, and the benefits package is extensive, indicating a strong commitment to employee well-being and professional growth. The "Flex Fridays" suggest a degree of workplace flexibility.
π― Team & Company Context
π’ Company Culture
Industry: Construction. Knutson Construction operates within the building and construction sector, a dynamic industry requiring strong visual communication for project development, client relations, and community engagement.
Company Size: Knutson Construction is recognized as a significant player, indicated by its inclusion in "Minnesota's Top Workplaces," suggesting a company culture that values its employees and fosters a positive work environment.
Founded: Information not explicitly provided, but the company's established presence and recognition imply a history of growth and successful project delivery.
Team Structure:
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The Marketing Graphic Designer will likely be part of a Marketing department, collaborating closely with marketing and business development professionals.
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This role will report to a Marketing Manager or Director, with potential for cross-functional interaction with project teams, K-12 teams, and senior leadership.
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Collaboration is key, with expectations to work closely with internal teams, design professionals, and trade partners to ensure cohesive communication efforts. Methodology:
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Knutson Construction emphasizes a collaborative approach, aiming to make the construction journey "stress-free" for clients and partners.
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The company is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering an environment where differences are valued and ideas are empowered.
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Design processes will likely involve understanding project goals, target audiences, and brand objectives to create effective visual solutions.
Company Website: https://knutson-construction.com/
π Enhancement Note: The company culture is presented as dynamic, collaborative, and inclusive, with a strong emphasis on employee well-being and professional growth. The "Together We Make Dreams Real" purpose highlights a team-oriented and impactful mission.
π Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This role is an intermediate-level Graphic Designer position, focusing on specialized marketing and design support within the construction industry. It requires 3-5 years of experience and proficiency in core design software.
Reporting Structure: The Marketing Graphic Designer will report to a Marketing leadership role, likely a Marketing Manager or Director. Collaboration will extend across various departments, including Business Development, Project Management, and potentially specialized teams like K-12 Referendum.
Operations Impact: The role's impact is significant in shaping the external perception and internal communication of Knutson Construction. Through compelling visuals, the designer contributes to successful business development efforts, client engagement, community relations, and reinforcing the company's brand and values. Effective design directly supports marketing initiatives and the overall success of project pursuits.
Growth Opportunities:
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Skill Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific design areas such as motion graphics, environmental graphics, or campaign-specific design for referendum initiatives.
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Leadership Potential: With strong performance and expanded responsibilities, potential to move into a Senior Graphic Designer role or a Design Lead position, mentoring junior designers or managing larger creative projects.
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Cross-Functional Exposure: Gaining broader understanding of the construction business by working closely with project teams and business development, potentially leading to roles with more strategic marketing input.
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Performance-Based Advancement: The company explicitly mentions "Performance Based Career Advancement" and "Annual Discretionary Bonus Program," indicating a meritocratic environment where high performers are recognized and rewarded.
π Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for skill development and career progression within a recognized and growing company, with opportunities to specialize and contribute strategically to marketing and business objectives.
π Work Environment
Office Type: The role is based on-site in Minneapolis, MN, within Knutson Construction's office environment. This setting is described as dynamic and inspiring, fostering collaboration and creativity.
Office Location(s): Minneapolis, MN. Specific office details are not provided, but it is implied to be a professional workspace conducive to creative work and team interaction.
Workspace Context:
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The work environment is designed to be collaborative, encouraging interaction with marketing, business development, and project teams.
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Access to necessary design tools and technology, including Adobe Creative Suite, is expected.
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Opportunities for direct interaction with colleagues will support idea exchange and foster a sense of teamwork, crucial for executing integrated marketing campaigns.
Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. The inclusion of "Flex Fridays" suggests a potential for some flexibility in the work schedule or an earlier end to the work week on Fridays, contributing to a better work-life balance.
π Enhancement Note: The on-site role in Minneapolis emphasizes a traditional office-based collaborative work environment, with a nod towards work-life balance through the "Flex Fridays" perk.
π Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
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Initial Screening: A review of applications and portfolios to assess qualifications, experience, and design aesthetic. Candidates should ensure their resume and portfolio highlight relevant experience with Adobe Creative Suite, brand management, and diverse design projects.
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Design Challenge/Portfolio Review: Candidates may be asked to present their portfolio, discussing their design process, problem-solving approaches, and the impact of their work. A practical design exercise or case study related to construction marketing or referendum campaigns might be included.
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Team/Hiring Manager Interviews: Interviews with the hiring manager and potential team members to assess cultural fit, collaboration skills, and understanding of Knutson's mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your design philosophy aligns with the company's purpose.
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Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership, focusing on strategic thinking and long-term contributions to the company's brand and marketing efforts.
Portfolio Review Tips:
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Curate Selectively: Choose 5-7 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in visual design, brand consistency, print and digital media, and ideally, any relevant experience in B2B or campaign-specific design.
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Detail Your Process: For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your role, the challenges, your design process (ideation, iteration, problem-solving), and the final outcome or impact. Use visual aids to show mockups and finished pieces.
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Highlight Brand Adherence: Showcase projects where you successfully worked within established brand guidelines or developed new visual identities.
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Showcase Versatility: Include examples of diverse deliverables, such as social media graphics, print collateral, presentations, and signage. If you have motion graphics or video editing experience, include relevant clips.
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Quantify Impact: Where possible, include metrics or testimonials that demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs.
Challenge Preparation:
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Familiarize yourself with Knutson Construction's projects, brand identity, and recent marketing efforts.
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Be ready to discuss how you would approach designing materials for a specific construction project, a community engagement initiative, or a K-12 referendum campaign.
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Practice articulating your design rationale clearly and concisely, focusing on how your visuals support strategic objectives.
π Enhancement Note: The interview process is expected to be thorough, with a significant emphasis on portfolio review and practical application of design skills relevant to the construction industry and public campaigns.
π Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
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Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency required in Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop for all core design tasks.
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Adobe Premiere Pro / CapCut / After Effects (Preferred): Basic knowledge or experience with these tools for motion graphics and video support is a significant advantage.
Analytics & Reporting: While not directly a design tool, understanding how design impacts digital engagement metrics (e.g., social media engagement, website click-through rates) is beneficial.
CRM & Automation: Not directly applicable to the design role itself, but understanding how marketing materials integrate with CRM or marketing automation platforms for distribution could be useful context.
Other Potential Tools:
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Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Asana, Trello, or Monday.com for managing design projects and deadlines.
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File Transfer/Sharing: Tools like Dropbox, Google Drive, or WeTransfer for sharing large design files with vendors and teams.
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Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams or Slack for internal team communication.
π Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement is mastery of the Adobe Creative Suite. Experience with video editing software and project management tools would be beneficial for efficiency and expanded capabilities.
π₯ Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
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Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasized through the company's purpose "Together We Make Dreams Real" and the need to work in concert with various stakeholders. Expect a strong culture of mutual support and shared goals.
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Creativity & Innovation: Valued in the dynamic environment where "opportunities to shine happen daily" and employees are empowered to act on ideas.
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Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): A stated commitment to cultivating and upholding DEI, fostering an inclusive environment where individuals are valued for their differences.
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Excellence & Quality: Driven by maintaining "a high standard of quality and consistency across all visual materials" and delivering "The Knutson Experience (TKE)."
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Client-Centricity: The "TKE" framework (Assured, Inspired, Appreciated) highlights a focus on delivering exceptional experiences to clients and partners.
Collaboration Style:
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Cross-functional Integration: The designer will work closely with marketing, business development, and project teams, requiring strong communication and the ability to translate diverse needs into visual solutions.
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Feedback & Iteration: A collaborative process involving feedback from various stakeholders is implied, necessitating an adaptive and responsive approach to design revisions.
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Knowledge Sharing: The "Mentorship Program" suggests a culture that encourages sharing expertise and supporting professional development among team members.
π Enhancement Note: The company culture is built on collaboration, inclusivity, and a commitment to delivering high-quality work that supports client success. The designer will be expected to be a proactive and integrated member of the marketing team.
β‘ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
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Balancing Brand Consistency with Creative Expression: Effectively maintaining strict brand standards while producing fresh, engaging, and innovative designs for diverse marketing needs.
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Managing Competing Deadlines: The fast-paced environment and requirement to handle multiple projects simultaneously will demand strong time management and prioritization skills.
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Translating Complex Information Visually: Simplifying technical or project-specific information from the construction industry into clear, compelling graphics for non-expert audiences (e.g., community members, potential clients).
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Adapting to Evolving Initiatives: Staying current with internal initiatives and department collateral needs, requiring flexibility and a proactive approach to design support.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
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Skill Advancement: Opportunities to gain proficiency in motion graphics and video editing tools (Premiere Pro, After Effects), enhancing the value and scope of design contributions.
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Industry Specialization: Deepening expertise in designing for specific sectors like K-12 education or municipal projects, understanding unique communication needs.
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Mentorship: Access to a mentorship program provides guidance, career advice, and professional development support.
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Tuition Reimbursement: Financial support for further education or certifications that can enhance design skills or broaden industry knowledge.
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Performance-Based Growth: Direct opportunities for career advancement and increased responsibility based on performance, as indicated by "Performance Based Career Advancement."
π Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to overcome design challenges by leveraging learning and development resources, pushing creative boundaries within brand frameworks, and contributing strategically to key company initiatives.
π‘ Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
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"Describe your process for developing visual assets for a complex marketing campaign, from brief to final delivery. How do you ensure brand consistency while also being creative?" (Focus on your workflow, Adobe Suite usage, and brand adherence.)
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"How would you approach designing communication materials for a K-12 school referendum campaign? What visual elements would be crucial for engaging parents and community members?" (Demonstrate understanding of audience, persuasive design, and potentially campaign branding.)
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"Walk us through a project in your portfolio where you had to manage multiple competing deadlines. How did you prioritize and ensure quality under pressure?" (Highlight project management skills, time management strategies, and problem-solving.) Company & Culture Questions:
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"What appeals to you about Knutson Construction's mission, 'Together We Make Dreams Real,' and how do you see your design role contributing to that?" (Connect your passion for design with the company's purpose.)
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"How do you approach collaboration with non-designers, such as project managers or business development leads, to ensure their needs are met effectively?" (Showcase communication skills and ability to translate technical needs into design.)
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"How do you stay updated on design trends, and how would you incorporate them while respecting our established brand guidelines?" (Demonstrate a balance of innovation and brand loyalty.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
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Storytelling: For each project, tell a story: the challenge, your solution, and the impact. Explain your design choices and how they addressed the brief.
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Process Focus: Clearly outline your design process, showing initial sketches, iterations, and the final refined product. This demonstrates your problem-solving approach.
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Brand Consistency Examples: Highlight projects where you effectively applied or evolved brand guidelines.
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Interactive Elements: If presenting digitally, be prepared to navigate your portfolio smoothly. If live, consider having high-resolution examples ready to share.
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Conciseness: Be mindful of time; prepare a presentation that covers your highlights efficiently.
π Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating technical proficiency, understanding of brand management, strategic thinking for specific campaign types, and strong collaborative and communication skills, backed by concrete examples from your portfolio.
π Application Steps
To apply for this Marketing Graphic Designer position:
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Submit your application through the provided link on Breezy HR.
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Portfolio Customization: Curate your online or PDF portfolio to prominently feature projects demonstrating proficiency in Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop. Prioritize work that showcases brand consistency, print collateral design, digital assets, and ideally, any experience with campaign-specific visuals or B2B marketing. Ensure your portfolio clearly outlines your design process for key projects.
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Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight 3-5 years of relevant graphic design experience, specifically mentioning experience in marketing, agency, or in-house creative environments. Use keywords from the job description such as "Adobe Creative Suite," "brand standards," "infographics," "print production," and "digital content creation." Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Designed X assets that increased social media engagement by Y%").
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Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process and rationale for key portfolio pieces. Prepare to discuss how you manage deadlines, collaborate with non-designers, and maintain brand consistency. Research Knutson Construction's recent projects and marketing initiatives to inform your responses.
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Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Knutson Construction's mission ("Together We Make Dreams Real"), values, and their commitment to DEI. Understand their focus on the construction industry and any specific initiatives like K-12 referendums. This will help you align your answers with the company's culture and objectives.
β οΈ 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 3-5 years of professional graphic design experience and proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite. An associate's degree in Graphic Design or a related field is preferred along with a portfolio of work.