Student Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Student Graphic Designer

Company: Universities of Wisconsin

Location: Stevens Point, WI, United States

Job Type: Part-time

Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Services

Date Posted: August 24, 2026

Experience Level: 0-2 Years (Entry-Level/Student)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is designed for current students within the Universities of Wisconsin system, offering hands-on experience in graphic design and marketing support for Continuing Education programming.

• The position emphasizes practical application of design principles across digital and print mediums, including social media, email campaigns, and marketing collateral.

• It provides a unique opportunity for students to develop foundational skills in marketing operations, content creation, and campaign management within an educational institution.

• Successful candidates will contribute to the planning and promotion of educational programs, gaining exposure to the full lifecycle of marketing initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the core title is "Student Graphic Designer," the responsibilities clearly align with entry-level marketing operations and creative services support, focusing on content creation and campaign execution for educational programs. The role is ideal for students seeking to build a portfolio in these areas.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and manage engaging social media content to promote Continuing Education programs, ensuring brand consistency and audience engagement.

• Create compelling digital and print marketing materials, including flyers, brochures, advertisements, and other collateral, adhering to design briefs and institutional guidelines.

• Develop and execute email marketing campaigns, from design and copywriting to list segmentation and performance tracking, to drive program enrollment.

• Maintain and update program webpages, ensuring content is current, accurate, and optimized for user experience and searchability.

• Design and deploy surveys to gather feedback on programming and marketing efforts, contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.

• Assemble handouts and other materials for Continuing Education events and programs, ensuring timely and accurate preparation.

• Collaborate with supervisors and team members to brainstorm creative concepts and execute marketing strategies effectively.

• Assist with other assigned tasks and projects, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to support departmental needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed are typical for a student role supporting a department, but they directly translate to core functions within marketing operations and creative services. The emphasis on campaign execution (social media, email, digital/print) and content management (webpages) is particularly relevant for operations professionals.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Current student enrollment within the Universities of Wisconsin system is a mandatory requirement.

Experience: All experience levels are welcome, with a strong emphasis on learning and development. Training and mentoring in graphic design skills will be provided.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, OneDrive) for general office tasks and communication.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment, contributing to team projects and shared goals.

• A genuine interest in learning and developing graphic design skills, with a proactive approach to skill acquisition.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for managing multiple tasks and materials.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective collaboration and content creation. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity or experience with Adobe Creative Suite (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) for professional design work.

• Experience using Canva for graphic design and content creation, particularly for social media and digital assets.

• Basic understanding of digital marketing principles and social media best practices.

• Prior experience in a marketing or communications-related role, even if informal.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Required Qualifications" focus on foundational skills and a willingness to learn, which is standard for student roles. The "Preferred Qualifications" highlight specific design tools (Adobe, Canva) that are highly valuable in marketing operations and creative roles, indicating the desired direction for skill development.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not strictly required, applicants are strongly encouraged to submit samples of previous design work to showcase their skills and creative potential.

• The submitted samples should ideally demonstrate versatility across different mediums (digital, print) and project types (social media graphics, marketing collateral).

• Focus on showcasing projects that highlight an understanding of visual hierarchy, branding, and effective communication through design. Process Documentation:

• The role involves assisting with the creation and management of various marketing processes, including social media posting schedules, email campaign workflows, and webpage updates.

• While formal process documentation is not expected from the student, an understanding of how these tasks contribute to larger marketing campaigns will be beneficial.

• Applicants should be prepared to learn and follow established departmental processes for content creation, approval, and dissemination.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a student role, the portfolio requirement is supplementary rather than mandatory. However, for aspiring operations professionals, understanding the value of a design portfolio (even for student roles) is key. It demonstrates a candidate's ability to execute and present creative work, which is a crucial component of many marketing operations and GTM functions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• $13.50 - $15.00 per hour, based on experience. Benefits:

• This is a student hourly position, typically not eligible for traditional employee benefits packages.

• Key benefits include:

  • Hands-on training and mentorship in graphic design and marketing skills.

  • Opportunity to gain practical experience relevant to careers in marketing, design, and communications.

  • Flexible scheduling to accommodate academic commitments.

  • Contribution to resume building and professional portfolio development.

  • Exposure to the operational aspects of Continuing Education program promotion. Working Hours:

• Minimum of 15 hours per week, with a maximum of 25 hours per week.

• Standard operating hours are Monday – Friday, between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

• Students work with their supervisor to set a personalized schedule within these established hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is competitive for student positions in the Stevens Point, WI area. While traditional benefits are limited, the primary "benefit" is the professional development and experience gained, which is invaluable for early-career operations professionals. The flexible hours are a significant advantage for students balancing work and study.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education (University System)

Company Size: The Universities of Wisconsin system is a large public university system. UW-Stevens Point is a mid-sized public university.

Founded: UW-Stevens Point was founded in 1894.

Team Structure:

• The student will be part of the Continuing Education Department.

• They will report to a supervisor within this department, likely a Program Manager or Marketing Coordinator.

• Collaboration will occur with the Hiring Committee members (Colleen Meis, Anne Rogalski, Kelly Bird) and potentially other departmental staff involved in program planning and promotion.

• The role is designed to integrate students into the operational workflows of the department. Methodology:

• The department utilizes a data-informed approach to program promotion, likely involving analysis of past campaign performance and current market trends.

• Workflow planning and optimization are key, as the student will assist in creating and managing marketing assets and campaigns.

• Automation and efficiency practices are implicitly important, as the department aims to reach a broad audience effectively for its continuing education offerings.

Company Website: https://www.uwsp.edu/

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding the context of a large university system is crucial. This means operating within established brand guidelines, adhering to administrative processes, and potentially working with diverse stakeholders. The focus on Continuing Education suggests a practical, results-oriented approach to marketing and program promotion.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level student position, designed to provide foundational experience. It represents the beginning of a career path in marketing, communications, or operations.

Reporting Structure: The student designer will report directly to a supervisor within the Continuing Education Department, who will provide guidance, training, and oversight.

Operations Impact: The student's work directly contributes to the success of Continuing Education programs by increasing awareness, driving enrollment, and supporting program delivery through effective marketing and communication. This role impacts the department's ability to fulfill its educational mission.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Significant opportunity to develop proficiency in graphic design software (Adobe, Canva), digital marketing tools, and content management systems.

• Portfolio Building: The role provides a platform to create a professional portfolio with tangible design and marketing campaign examples.

• Industry Exposure: Gain practical experience in the higher education sector and the operational aspects of marketing and program promotion.

• Networking: Opportunity to build relationships with faculty, staff, and potentially external partners within the university system.

• Potential for Future Roles: Strong performance could lead to recommendations for future student positions or internships within the university or related organizations.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a student role, "growth" is primarily defined by skill acquisition and portfolio development. This is critical for building a career in operations, where practical experience and demonstrated abilities are highly valued. The role offers a stepping stone into more comprehensive marketing operations or GTM roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site role within the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point campus. The specific department and workspace will be within the Continuing Education area.

Office Location(s): Stevens Point, WI. The exact building and office location will be provided upon hire.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, involving interaction with supervisors and potentially other team members within the Continuing Education department.

• Access to necessary technology, including computers with design software and standard office applications, is anticipated.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with the operations of educational programming will be available, providing practical context for design and marketing tasks.

Work Schedule: Flexible schedule within standard business hours (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.), allowing students to balance work and academic responsibilities. This flexibility is ideal for managing ongoing projects and deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is standard for student roles that involve direct interaction with departmental operations and equipment. The collaborative workspace is typical for creative and marketing teams, emphasizing teamwork and communication.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application: Submit resume and the required statement of interest to cmeis@uwsp.edu.

• Portfolio Submission (Optional but Recommended): Include any samples of previous design work with the application.

• Screening: Applications and portfolios will be reviewed by the Hiring Committee.

• Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview. This may involve a discussion about their interest, skills, and experience, as well as a review of their design samples.

• Potential Skills Assessment: Depending on the committee's discretion, a small design exercise or discussion about problem-solving for a specific marketing challenge might be included.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Pieces: Choose 3-5 of your strongest and most relevant design projects.

• Showcase Variety: Include examples of social media graphics, digital ads, print materials, or any other relevant work.

• Highlight Process: Briefly explain the objective of each project, your design process, and the outcome (if known).

• Demonstrate Learning: If you have limited professional experience, emphasize projects from coursework or personal exploration that show your passion and learning trajectory.

• Clarity and Presentation: Ensure your samples are well-organized, easy to view, and professionally presented.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your interest in graphic design and marketing for educational programs.

• Review the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point's branding guidelines if accessible, to understand their visual identity.

• Think about how you would approach creating a social media post or an email graphic for a continuing education workshop.

• Be ready to articulate your experience with Microsoft Office and your willingness to learn Adobe or Canva.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes a statement of interest and optional portfolio submission, indicating a focus on potential and enthusiasm for students. For operations roles, this translates to understanding how to tailor application materials (resume, cover letter/statement of interest) to highlight relevant skills and demonstrate a proactive attitude towards learning and contributing.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Essential for general productivity, including Word for document creation, Outlook for email communication, and OneDrive for file storage and sharing.

• Graphic Design Software (Preferred):

  • Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign are industry-standard tools for professional graphic design. Experience here is a significant plus.
  • Canva: A user-friendly, web-based design tool popular for social media graphics, presentations, and quick marketing collateral. Experience is highly preferred.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed, the role may involve basic tracking of social media engagement or email campaign open/click rates. Familiarity with social media analytics dashboards or email marketing platform reports would be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Experience with CRM or marketing automation tools is not required but would be a bonus. Understanding how marketing efforts feed into broader customer relationship management is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Microsoft Office, Adobe Suite, and Canva clearly defines the core technical requirements. For operations roles, understanding the hierarchy of these tools – from essential productivity suites to specialized design and marketing platforms – is key. Proficiency in these areas is foundational for many marketing operations and GTM support functions.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Commitment to Education: A core value of the university system, driving the mission of Continuing Education.

• Collaboration: Emphasis on teamwork and shared responsibility within the department to achieve program goals.

• Efficiency: A need to maximize reach and impact with available resources, making effective marketing and design crucial.

• Continuous Improvement: Willingness to learn, adapt, and incorporate feedback to enhance program promotion and student experience.

• Inclusivity: As part of the UW-Stevens Point commitment, fostering a safe and inclusive learning community for all.

Collaboration Style:

• The role requires close collaboration with a supervisor to understand project requirements and receive guidance.

• Interaction with other departmental staff may occur, necessitating clear communication and teamwork.

• A proactive approach to seeking clarification and providing updates is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values of a university department often emphasize service, education, and collaboration. For operations professionals, understanding how these values translate into daily work—such as clear communication, adherence to processes, and a focus on supporting the overarching mission—is vital for cultural fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Academics and Work: Managing a part-time workload alongside demanding university studies requires strong time management and organizational skills.

• Learning New Tools: For students with limited experience, quickly learning and becoming proficient in design software like Adobe Suite or Canva can be challenging.

• Meeting Deadlines: Working under pressure to deliver marketing materials and campaign assets by specific deadlines.

• Brand Consistency: Adhering to university and departmental branding guidelines while also bringing creative flair.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in graphic design, digital marketing, and content creation.

• Industry Experience: Gain practical, real-world experience in marketing operations and creative services within a higher education setting.

• Professional Networking: Build connections within the university and potentially the wider marketing community.

• Portfolio Enhancement: Develop a strong portfolio of work that can be leveraged for future job applications.

• Understanding Marketing Campaigns: Learn the end-to-end process of planning, executing, and evaluating marketing initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: Identifying challenges and growth opportunities is key for any role. For operations, this means recognizing where skill gaps might exist (e.g., technical tools, project management) and how the role provides a pathway to bridge them. The growth opportunities are directly tied to building a robust professional foundation.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell us about your interest in graphic design and how you see it applying to marketing Continuing Education programs." (Focus on enthusiasm and relevance.)

• "Describe a time you worked collaboratively on a project. What was your role, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight teamwork and communication skills.)

• "How do you approach learning a new software or skill?" (Showcase your learning agility and proactive approach, especially regarding design tools.)

• "Walk us through a design project you're proud of. What was the objective, your process, and the result?" (Prepare to discuss your optional portfolio pieces.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about UW-Stevens Point and its Continuing Education department?" (Demonstrate your research and interest.)

• "How do you manage your time between academic responsibilities and work commitments?" (Emphasize organizational skills and reliability.)

• "What are your career aspirations after graduation, and how does this role fit into them?" (Connect the student role to your long-term professional goals in operations or marketing.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• If you submit design samples, be ready to briefly discuss them.

• For each piece, explain:

  • The project's goal or problem.
  • Your creative process and tool choices.
  • The final design and why you made those decisions.
  • Any learned lessons or potential improvements.

• Keep your explanations concise and focused on demonstrating your design thinking and execution skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for operations roles often involves behavioral questions, situational scenarios, and discussions about past projects. For this student role, the emphasis is on enthusiasm, learning potential, and basic communication skills, alongside showcasing any design aptitude.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application: Email your resume and a statement of interest to cmeis@uwsp.edu.

• Curate your design samples: If you have previous design work, select your best pieces that showcase your skills and include them with your application.

• Prepare your statement of interest: Clearly articulate your enthusiasm for graphic design, your interest in supporting Continuing Education programs, and how your skills align with the role's requirements.

• Research UW-Stevens Point: Familiarize yourself with the university's mission and the role of Continuing Education to better tailor your application and prepare for potential interview questions.

• Practice discussing your skills: Be ready to talk about your experience with Microsoft Office and your eagerness to learn design software like Adobe Suite or Canva.

⚠️ 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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