Senior Graphic Designer, Health Sciences Development

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Graphic Designer, Health Sciences Development

Company: The Regents of the University of California on behalf of their Los Angeles Campus

Location: Los Angeles, California, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing / Healthcare

Date Posted: August 20, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Serves as a strategic visual leader and subject matter expert in graphic design for a leading academic health system, translating complex stories into compelling print and digital communications.

• Focuses on assignments requiring sophisticated design elements, complex execution, and a strategic visual mindset to advance healthcare innovations and research.

• Operates with a high degree of autonomy, providing recommendations and feedback to drive fundraising strategies and support transformational donor gifts.

• Mentors junior staff, guides external vendors, and ensures adherence to UCLA Health brand guidelines across all design outputs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior-level contributor within the Health Sciences Development department, emphasizing strategic impact and leadership in visual communications for fundraising. The hybrid nature indicates a balance between in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute sophisticated, high-quality graphic design concepts for print and digital platforms that effectively communicate complex healthcare innovations, research findings, and fundraising initiatives.

• Manage the end-to-end design production process, including concept development, layout, typography, print specifications, and digital asset creation, ensuring alignment with the UCLA Health brand and style guide.

• Collaborate closely with Health Sciences Development teams, researchers, clinicians, and external stakeholders to understand project objectives, interpret needs, and translate them into impactful visual strategies.

• Mentor and guide junior designers and support staff, providing constructive feedback and fostering a collaborative design environment to enhance team capabilities.

• Oversee and manage external vendors, including printers and specialized creative agencies, to ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery of design projects.

• Contribute to the development and refinement of visual communication strategies that support fundraising goals, donor engagement, and the overall mission of UCLA Health Sciences Development.

• Create and organize files for print, digital design, web-based platforms, site creation, and email marketing campaigns, ensuring best practices for each medium.

• Stay abreast of the latest design trends, technologies, and best practices in graphic design, UX/UI, and digital media to continuously innovate and elevate the visual output.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative execution, strategic thinking, project management, and team leadership, typical of a senior role in a development context. The emphasis on fundraising communications suggests a need to understand donor psychology and persuasive design principles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, Communications, or a related field is typically expected for senior-level design roles.

Experience: Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in graphic design within a marketing/communications environment, preferably in an agency, corporate client, or non-profit setting with a proven track record of original and impactful design work.

Required Skills:

• High-level proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (including InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator) and demonstrable ability to create motion graphics using AfterEffects.

• Expertise in Mac systems and Microsoft Office Suite; working knowledge of HTML/CSS.

• Advanced understanding of graphic design principles, layout, typography, and print production processes.

• Proven ability to develop sophisticated visual strategies and make bold aesthetic decisions.

• Strong experience in managing end-to-end design production, including file organization for print, web, and email marketing.

• Proficient in developing realistic production schedules, estimating project expenses, and tracking timelines with minimal supervision.

• Exceptional time and project management skills with the ability to work independently, interpret client needs, and manage multiple projects concurrently.

• Strong knowledge of User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) principles and best practices.

• Familiarity with local print vendors, their performance capabilities, and pricing structures.

• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to navigate ambiguity and apply sound judgment.

• Superior written communication skills, including proofreading and editing for grammar, punctuation, and syntax.

• Highly organized with meticulous attention to detail, accuracy, and deadline-driven performance.

• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, mentor staff, and communicate effectively through verbal and active listening skills.

• Strong problem-solving abilities, with a capacity to adapt to changes and offer creative solutions. Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of fundraising principles, techniques, and the effective application of graphic design to fundraising materials.

• Prior experience with Blackbaud CRM or other fundraising databases.

• Working knowledge of UCLA's organization, structure, and academic/administrative units.

• Familiarity with UCLA icons, history, and existing graphics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a comprehensive technical and creative toolkit, coupled with strong project management and interpersonal abilities. The preference for fundraising-specific knowledge and UCLA institutional familiarity is a key differentiator.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A robust portfolio showcasing a minimum of 7 years of diverse design work, with a strong emphasis on print and digital collateral for marketing, communications, or development purposes.

• Demonstrate expertise in creating sophisticated visual strategies and executing complex design projects, highlighting originality and a keen aesthetic sense.

• Include examples of end-to-end design production, from concept to final output, for various platforms including print collateral, web assets, and email marketing.

• Showcase proficiency in motion graphics and digital design, particularly with Adobe AfterEffects, and examples of UX/UI considerations in design work.

• Evidence of managing project components with minimal supervision, including realistic production schedules and budget awareness. Process Documentation:

• Examples of workflow design and optimization within design projects, illustrating how processes were streamlined for efficiency.

• Demonstrate the implementation of design best practices and automation where applicable, showcasing an understanding of efficient production methods.

• Include case studies that highlight the measurement and analysis of design effectiveness, particularly in relation to communication and fundraising goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical. Candidates should prepare to present case studies that not only showcase design quality but also demonstrate strategic thinking, project management capabilities, and an understanding of how design contributes to specific organizational objectives like fundraising and brand building.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on the experience level (5-10 years), the senior nature of the role, and the location in Los Angeles, California, a competitive salary range is estimated. For a Senior Graphic Designer at a major university in Los Angeles, typical salary ranges can fall between $85,000 - $120,000 per year.

📝 Enhancement Note: This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior graphic design roles in high-cost-of-living urban areas like Los Angeles, particularly within academic institutions which often have structured pay scales. Actual offers will depend on specific qualifications, budget, and internal equity.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage provided.

• Retirement Savings Plans: Robust 401(k) or 403(b) options with employer matching.

• Pension Plan: Participation in a defined-benefit pension plan, a significant long-term benefit.

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

• Life and Disability Insurance: Employer-provided coverage.

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

• Tuition Assistance: Potential for employee or dependent tuition benefits at UC institutions.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Support services for personal and professional well-being.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, totaling 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be required to work evenings and/or weekends as needed to meet project deadlines or special event requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The inclusion of a pension plan and robust retirement savings plans signifies a strong commitment to employee long-term financial well-being, which is a hallmark of many university and public sector employers.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education / Healthcare / Non-Profit Development

Company Size: The University of California system is one of the largest employers in the United States, with UCLA itself being a massive institution. Health Sciences Development operates within this large framework, likely comprising a dedicated team within a larger development or advancement division. This suggests a culture that values academic rigor, research, and significant institutional impact.

Founded: The University of California was founded in 1868, and UCLA was established in 1919, indicating a long-standing commitment to education, research, and public service. Health Sciences Development functions within this established legacy, focusing on securing resources to advance groundbreaking medical research and patient care.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Graphic Designer will likely be part of the Health Sciences Development communications team, which may include writers, marketing specialists, event planners, and other development professionals.

• This team will report up through a Director or VP of Communications or Development, ultimately contributing to the broader UCLA Health Sciences advancement efforts.

• Cross-functional collaboration will be essential, working closely with faculty, researchers, clinicians, administrative staff, and potentially external marketing or PR agencies. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Storytelling: Communications and development efforts are informed by research outcomes, patient success stories, and the quantifiable impact of donor contributions.

• Strategic Planning: Campaigns and individual donor appeals are developed with clear objectives, target audiences, and measurable outcomes.

• Brand Consistency: A strong emphasis on maintaining the integrity and recognition of the UCLA Health brand across all platforms and communications.

• Collaborative Execution: Design and content creation involve input from various stakeholders to ensure accuracy, relevance, and strategic alignment.

Company Website: https://www.ucla.edu/ and https://www.uclahealth.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within a large, prestigious university system like UCLA means operating within a structured environment that values tradition, academic excellence, and long-term impact. The development function is critical for securing the funding necessary for cutting-edge research and patient care.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior-level individual contributor role. It requires a high degree of autonomy, strategic input, and the ability to mentor others. It sits above entry-level or mid-level designer positions and is a key stepping stone for potential leadership roles within design or communications.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Graphic Designer will report to a manager or director within the Health Sciences Development department, likely overseeing communications or marketing functions. They will collaborate extensively with development officers, campaign managers, and potentially university leadership.

Operations Impact: The graphic design work directly impacts the organization's ability to attract and secure philanthropic support. High-quality, strategic visual communications are crucial for engaging prospective donors, articulating the value of UCLA Health's work, and fostering a sense of connection and commitment, ultimately driving revenue for critical research and patient care initiatives.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership in Design: Potential to move into a Lead Designer or Art Director role, managing a team of designers and overseeing larger creative projects.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas such as digital marketing design, campaign strategy, or UX/UI for development platforms.

• Cross-Functional Roles: Transition into broader communications or marketing management roles within the university or health system, leveraging design expertise.

• Mentorship and Training: Further develop leadership skills by mentoring junior staff and potentially contributing to internal training programs.

• Project Leadership: Take ownership of major design initiatives and campaigns, gaining experience in strategic planning and stakeholder management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement within a large, reputable institution. The emphasis on strategic contributions and mentorship suggests that growth is tied to leadership potential and specialized expertise in development communications.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as Hybrid, meaning it will involve a combination of working on-site at UCLA's Los Angeles campus and working remotely. This offers flexibility while maintaining in-person collaboration.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is specified as 10889 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, which is part of the UCLA External Affairs Development office. This location is situated in a prominent area of Los Angeles, offering access to the university's resources and a vibrant urban environment.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model encourages collaboration with team members and stakeholders both in person and virtually. Expect a dynamic environment where creative brainstorming and strategic discussions are common.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite), project management tools, and potentially specialized fundraising software. High-performance workstations are expected.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with the Health Sciences Development team, including designers, writers, fundraisers, and leadership, fostering a supportive and communicative atmosphere.

Work Schedule: The standard 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. schedule provides a structured workday, with the hybrid arrangement allowing for some control over personal work location. The expectation of occasional evening/weekend work indicates a commitment-driven culture.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of this role is a key aspect, suggesting a modern work environment that balances flexibility with the need for in-person collaboration critical for creative teams and development efforts.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application, resume, cover letter, and portfolio to assess qualifications and alignment with the role's requirements.

• Portfolio Presentation: An in-depth review of your portfolio, likely involving a presentation where you walk through selected projects, explaining your process, strategic thinking, challenges, and outcomes.

• Technical/Skills Assessment: Potential for a design challenge or a discussion focused on specific software proficiency, design principles, and problem-solving approaches.

• Behavioral & Situational Interviews: Questions designed to assess your ability to work collaboratively, mentor others, manage projects, handle ambiguity, and align with UCLA's culture and values.

• Final Interview: Discussions with hiring managers and key stakeholders to evaluate overall fit, strategic thinking, and potential impact.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best demonstrate your senior-level capabilities, strategic thinking, and relevance to healthcare development communications. Prioritize projects showcasing complex storytelling, sophisticated aesthetics, and measurable impact.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the objective, your role, the challenges faced, your design process, the solutions you implemented, and the results or impact achieved (e.g., increased donor engagement, successful campaign outcomes).

• Highlight Process: Demonstrate your understanding of the full design lifecycle, from concept and strategy to execution, production, and delivery. Showcase your ability to manage timelines and budgets.

• Showcase Versatility: Include examples of both print and digital design, and if possible, demonstrate motion graphics or UX/UI considerations.

• Brand Adherence: If you have experience with brand guides or style guides, highlight how you've successfully worked within or adapted them.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to design challenges, particularly those involving complex information or tight deadlines.

• Practice articulating your design rationale clearly and concisely.

• Familiarize yourself with UCLA's brand identity and the typical communication needs of a major university health system's development office.

• Think about how you would approach designing materials for fundraising campaigns, donor recognition events, or research impact reports.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio presentation and potential design challenges indicates that the hiring team will heavily scrutinize your creative process, strategic thinking, and ability to articulate the value of your design work in a development context.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Expert-level proficiency required in InDesign (layout, print production), Photoshop (image editing, digital assets), and Illustrator (vector graphics, logos).

• Adobe AfterEffects: Strong working knowledge for creating motion graphics, animations, and dynamic visual content.

• Mac Systems: Proficiency in macOS environment is essential.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Standard usage for documentation and communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated as a primary tool for the designer, an understanding of how design impacts digital engagement metrics (website analytics, email open/click-through rates) would be beneficial. Familiarity with tools like Google Analytics or similar platforms could be an advantage. CRM & Automation:

• Blackbaud CRM (Preferred): Experience with this or similar fundraising databases is a plus, indicating an understanding of the donor management ecosystem.

• HTML/CSS: Working knowledge for web-based platforms and email marketing, enabling designers to create or direct the creation of digital assets that function correctly online.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core requirement is mastery of the Adobe Creative Suite, with a specific emphasis on AfterEffects for motion graphics. Familiarity with the fundraising CRM ecosystem (Blackbaud) and basic web technologies (HTML/CSS) is also a significant differentiator for this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence and Innovation: A commitment to producing high-quality work that pushes creative boundaries and supports groundbreaking research and patient care.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and team members support each other to achieve common goals.

• Impact and Purpose: A deep understanding that the work contributes to a larger mission of advancing health sciences and improving lives through philanthropic support.

• Integrity and Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards, maintaining discretion with confidential information, and demonstrating accountability in all actions.

• Continuous Learning: Encouraging professional development and staying current with industry trends and technologies in design and development.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engaging with development officers, researchers, and administrative staff to ensure design solutions are strategically aligned with organizational objectives.

• Feedback-Driven Process: Openness to constructive criticism and iterative design processes to refine work and meet stakeholder expectations.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share expertise, mentor junior team members, and contribute to a culture of shared learning and best practices within the design and development teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at UCLA Health Sciences Development likely emphasizes a mission-driven approach, where design serves a critical purpose in advancing healthcare and research. Collaboration and a commitment to excellence are expected to be core tenets.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complex Information: Effectively communicating intricate scientific research, medical advancements, and financial data into visually accessible and compelling narratives for diverse audiences.

• Balancing Brand Consistency with Creative Innovation: Maintaining the integrity of the UCLA Health brand while developing fresh, impactful, and engaging design solutions.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholder Needs: Navigating the expectations and feedback from various departments, individuals, and donor segments, ensuring all requirements are considered.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Keeping pace with rapid changes in digital design tools, platforms, and best practices (e.g., AI in design, new interactive media).

• Driving Impact in a Large Institution: Demonstrating the tangible value and ROI of design efforts within a complex organizational structure.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Motion Graphics & Digital Design: Deepen expertise in AfterEffects, explore interactive design tools, and learn about emerging digital platforms.

• Fundraising Communications Strategy: Gain insights into donor psychology, campaign planning, and the strategic role of design in philanthropy.

• UX/UI for Development Platforms: Enhance skills in designing user-friendly interfaces for donor portals, websites, or internal development tools.

• Project Management & Leadership: Develop skills in leading design projects, managing teams, and contributing to strategic planning within the development office.

• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Access to professional development through relevant design and development conferences and specialized training.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle intellectually stimulating design challenges within a meaningful context. Growth is achievable through deepening technical skills, expanding strategic understanding of development, and developing leadership capabilities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex healthcare or scientific concept you've had to translate into a visual design. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on problem-solving, communication clarity, and impact.)

• "How do you balance adhering to a strict brand guide with the need for creative originality and impact, especially in fundraising materials?" (Showcase understanding of brand strategy and creative problem-solving.)

• "Walk us through a project where you managed multiple stakeholders with competing priorities. How did you ensure a successful outcome?" (Highlight project management, communication, and negotiation skills.)

• "How do you stay current with design trends, and how do you incorporate new technologies like motion graphics or UX/UI principles into your work?" (Demonstrate proactivity, learning agility, and technical curiosity.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for UCLA Health Sciences Development specifically, and how do you see your design skills contributing to our mission?" (Show research on UCLA, its mission, and how your skills align.)

• "Describe your experience mentoring junior designers or guiding external vendors. What is your approach to fostering collaboration and high-quality output?" (Assess leadership potential and teamwork ability.)

• "How do you measure the success of your design work, particularly in the context of fundraising or development communications?" (Focus on quantifiable results and impact.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Presentation: Begin with an overview of your philosophy, then present 3-4 key projects. For each, clearly state the objective, your role, the challenge, your process, the solution, and the measurable results.

• Highlight Strategic Thinking: Emphasize why you made certain design decisions, not just what you designed. Connect your choices to the project goals.

• Showcase Technical Skill: Be ready to discuss your software proficiency and any technical challenges you overcame.

• Be Concise and Engaging: Practice your presentation to ensure it flows well and stays within the allotted time. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible, or explain it if necessary.

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your process, decisions, and how you handle feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely test your creative acumen, strategic thinking, project management skills, and ability to articulate the business value of design within a development context. Your portfolio presentation is a critical opportunity to demonstrate these capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your comprehensive application, including your resume, a compelling cover letter, and a completed application via the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio is tailored to showcase projects relevant to fundraising, healthcare, or complex communications. Highlight your senior-level strategic thinking and execution capabilities.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to prominently feature your 7+ years of experience, high-level proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (especially AfterEffects), project management achievements, and any experience with fundraising databases or UX/UI principles. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, strategic rationale, and project outcomes. Prepare to present your portfolio effectively, focusing on the impact and results of your work.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research UCLA Health Sciences Development, its mission, current campaigns, and its brand identity. Understand the unique challenges and opportunities of designing for a leading academic health system.

⚠️ 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.

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