Web Designer Internship

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Web Designer Internship

Company: Great River Learning

Location: Dubuque, Iowa, United States

Job Type: TEMPORARY

Category: Web Design / Graphic Design / Marketing Operations

Date Posted: November 4, 2026

Experience Level: 0-2 Years (Internship)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This internship focuses on applying foundational web design principles to create accessible, engaging, and modern digital content for online educational materials.

• The role involves hands-on experience with core web technologies such as HTML and CSS within a content management platform, emphasizing user experience (UX) best practices.

• Candidates will gain practical skills in version control using GIT, essential for collaborative development environments and managing design iterations.

• The position offers exposure to both digital and print design, including cover art for ebooks and marketing collateral, broadening the intern's design portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the internship nature and the focus on "applying creative ideas to life," this role is categorized under Web Design/Graphic Design with a strong overlap into Marketing Operations due to the creation of marketing materials. The emphasis on UX and GIT suggests a modern development workflow.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Create and implement web designs for online books within Great River Learning's content management platform, utilizing HTML and CSS to ensure a responsive and user-friendly experience.

• Apply User Experience (UX) best practices to design intuitive and accessible web interfaces, ensuring content is easily navigable and usable by all students and faculty.

• Manage and maintain design versions and variations using the GIT version control system, fostering efficient collaboration and tracking of design changes.

• Design custom print cover art for both Great River Learning's print books and ebooks, adhering to brand guidelines and aesthetic appeal.

• Develop digital and print marketing materials, including brochures, social media graphics, and other promotional assets to support company initiatives.

• Utilize graphic design software such as Adobe Illustrator to create diagrams, infographics, and simple illustrations that enhance educational content and marketing collateral.

• Collaborate with the content development and marketing teams to understand project requirements and deliver design solutions that meet specific objectives.

• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned, demonstrating adaptability and a willingness to contribute across various design tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are detailed to reflect typical intern contributions in a creative and educational technology environment. The inclusion of GIT and UX best practices highlights a focus on modern web development standards, even at an intern level.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Web Design, Marketing (with a focus on web design coursework), or a related field.

• Coursework in computer sciences is beneficial, indicating a foundational understanding of technical principles. Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience, with a focus on academic projects, personal portfolios, or previous internship experience in design or web development.

• Demonstrated ability to apply design principles to create visually appealing and functional digital and print assets. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in web design languages, specifically HTML and CSS, for creating and styling web content.

• Experience with User Experience (UX) design principles to build intuitive and accessible interfaces.

• Familiarity with GIT version control management system for tracking design changes and collaborative development.

• Strong graphic design skills, with hands-on experience in photo and graphic editing software.

• Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, including Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe Dreamweaver (or similar web development tools).

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective collaboration and understanding project briefs.

• Proven problem-solving abilities to address design challenges and find creative solutions. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with content management systems (CMS) relevant to publishing or educational platforms.

• Basic understanding of animation principles or experience with animation software.

• Familiarity with accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG) in web design.

• A portfolio showcasing a range of design projects, including web layouts, print materials, and digital illustrations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications are tailored for an internship, emphasizing academic background and demonstrated skills over extensive professional experience. The inclusion of GIT and UX alongside traditional design tools positions this as a modern design internship.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated collection of design projects that demonstrate proficiency in HTML, CSS, and UX principles for web interfaces.

• Examples of digital and print marketing collateral, showcasing an understanding of branding and visual communication for promotional purposes.

• Visual assets such as infographics, diagrams, or illustrations created using Adobe Illustrator, highlighting creative problem-solving and artistic skill.

• Projects that reflect an ability to manage design versions or iterations, ideally showcasing the use of GIT or similar version control methods.

• Designs for book covers (print or ebook) that demonstrate an eye for aesthetic appeal and marketability within the educational publishing sector. Process Documentation:

• While formal process documentation is not expected at this intern level, candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process, from initial concept to final execution.

• Ability to articulate how they approach user-centered design and integrate feedback into their workflow.

• Understanding of how version control systems like GIT facilitate iterative design processes and team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an internship, the portfolio is crucial. The requirements focus on demonstrating core skills and a grasp of modern development workflows (like version control) rather than formal process documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As an internship position, compensation is typically structured as an hourly wage. Based on industry standards for design internships in the Midwest United States and considering Great River Learning's location in Dubuque, Iowa, an estimated hourly range of $12 - $18 per hour is anticipated. This range can vary based on the intern's specific qualifications, year in school, and demonstrated skills.

• Note: This is an estimated range. Actual compensation will be determined by Great River Learning based on their internal pay scales and the intern's profile.

Benefits:

• Flexible Scheduling: The company offers flexible scheduling to accommodate classes, allowing interns to balance academic commitments with work responsibilities.

• Career Growth Opportunities: Gain valuable hands-on experience in web design, graphic design, and digital media within the higher education sector, which can significantly enhance future career prospects. Many leadership roles within the company have been filled by individuals who started in entry-level positions or internships.

• Mentorship and Learning: Opportunity to learn from experienced design and content professionals in a supportive environment.

• Exposure to Industry: Work within an established company in the higher education publishing industry, gaining insight into content development and digital media strategies.

• Networking Opportunities: Build professional connections within Great River Learning and potentially its parent company, Kendall Hunt.

Working Hours:

• The internship requires availability to work 10-15 hours per week.

• The schedule is flexible, designed to accommodate the intern's academic commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on typical internship rates in the region and industry. Benefits focus on professional development and flexibility, which are key attractors for interns. The working hours are clearly defined.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education Publishing / Educational Technology. Great River Learning focuses on developing innovative, media-rich publications that move beyond traditional textbooks, integrating interactive elements and digital media to enhance student learning experiences. This positions them at the forefront of educational content innovation.

Company Size: Part of the Kendall Hunt family of companies, which has been established for over 75 years. While Great River Learning's specific size isn't detailed, its longevity and integration within a larger entity suggest stability and a robust organizational structure.

Founded: Kendall Hunt, the parent company, was founded over 75 years ago, indicating a long-standing presence and deep expertise in educational publishing. Great River Learning, as a distinct entity within this group, benefits from this heritage while focusing on modern, digital-first educational content.

Team Structure:

• The intern will likely be part of a dedicated design or content development team. This team probably includes experienced graphic designers, web developers, instructional designers, and content editors.

• Reporting will likely be to a Design Lead, Content Manager, or a similar supervisory role responsible for overseeing intern projects and providing guidance.

• Cross-functional collaboration is expected, involving interaction with subject matter experts, marketing teams, and potentially editorial staff to ensure design aligns with educational objectives and marketing strategies. Methodology:

• Data-Informed Design: While not explicitly stated for interns, the company's focus on engaging students suggests an approach that considers student engagement metrics and feedback to refine content and design.

• Iterative Development: The use of GIT implies an iterative approach to design and development, where changes are tracked, reviewed, and refined over time.

• Accessibility Focus: The explicit mention of UX and accessibility best practices indicates a commitment to inclusive design principles, ensuring content is usable by a wide range of learners.

Company Website: www.greatriverlearning.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context emphasizes its role in innovative educational publishing and its long history, providing a stable yet forward-thinking environment. The team structure and methodology are inferred based on the nature of the role and industry standards.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level internship, designed for students to gain foundational experience in web and graphic design within a professional setting. It serves as a stepping stone for future roles in design, digital media, or marketing within the educational technology sector.

Reporting Structure: The intern will report to a manager or lead within the design or content team. This structure provides direct supervision, mentorship, and clear project direction, crucial for learning and development at this stage.

Operations Impact: While an intern's direct operational impact is limited, their contributions to creating engaging and accessible digital content directly support Great River Learning's mission to improve the student and professor experience. Well-designed materials can enhance learning outcomes and contribute to the company's reputation for innovative educational products.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Enhancement: Significant opportunity to hone technical skills in HTML, CSS, GIT, Adobe Creative Suite, and UX design through practical application on real-world projects.

• Portfolio Development: Build a robust portfolio with diverse projects that can be leveraged for future job applications in design or related fields.

• Industry Exposure: Gain insight into the educational publishing industry, understanding content development cycles, market needs, and the role of digital media in learning.

• Potential for Future Employment: Successful interns may be considered for future full-time or part-time roles within Great River Learning or its associated companies, based on performance and business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth analysis focuses on the learning and development aspects inherent in an internship, highlighting how this role can contribute to a student's career trajectory in design and digital media.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is strictly on-site at the Great River Learning home office in Dubuque, Iowa. This indicates a traditional office environment where in-person collaboration and direct supervision are prioritized.

Office Location(s): The primary office is located at 4050 Westmark Dr, Dubuque, IA 52002. Dubuque is situated in a scenic area along the Mississippi River, offering a unique regional setting.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The on-site nature suggests a collaborative workspace where interns can interact directly with team members, ask questions, and participate in team discussions.

• Tools and Technology: Interns will have access to the necessary design software (Adobe Creative Suite) and development tools (HTML, CSS, GIT) within the company's IT infrastructure.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular check-ins, design reviews, and team meetings, fostering a sense of belonging and facilitating learning from experienced professionals.

Work Schedule:

• The work schedule is flexible, with a requirement of 10-15 hours per week. This flexibility is specifically designed to accommodate the intern's class schedule, allowing for a sustainable work-study balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment description emphasizes the on-site requirement and the benefits of a structured office setting for learning and collaboration, along with the flexibility offered for scheduling.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Candidates will submit their resume and potentially a link to their online portfolio.

• Screening Interview: A brief interview, likely conducted by HR or a hiring manager, to assess basic qualifications, communication skills, and interest in the role and company.

• Portfolio Review & Technical Assessment: Candidates may be asked to present their portfolio, discussing specific projects and their design process. This could also involve a small design exercise or a technical assessment focusing on HTML, CSS, or problem-solving skills.

• Final Interview: A more in-depth interview with the direct supervisor or team members to evaluate cultural fit, design approach, and overall potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-5 of your strongest projects that best showcase the required skills (HTML, CSS, UX, graphic design, GIT usage if possible).

• Showcase Process: For each project, briefly explain the problem, your approach, the tools used, and the final outcome. Highlight any challenges overcome.

• Emphasize Results: If possible, quantify the impact of your designs (e.g., improved user engagement, clarity of information).

• Tailor to the Role: Highlight projects that align with educational content, web design, and marketing materials, as these are key responsibilities.

• Ensure Accessibility: Make sure your portfolio is easily navigable and accessible on various devices.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your design process and how you approach problem-solving.

• Practice explaining your HTML and CSS code and how it contributes to the final design.

• Research Great River Learning's products and their approach to educational content to demonstrate genuine interest.

• Understand the importance of UX and accessibility in educational design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application and interview process details are inferred based on standard practices for internships in creative fields, with a strong emphasis on portfolio evaluation.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Web Design & Development: HTML, CSS, Adobe Dreamweaver (or similar IDE/code editor).

• Graphic Design Software: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator.

• Version Control: GIT.

• Content Management Platform: Great River Learning's proprietary platform (specific name not provided, but familiarity with CMS concepts is beneficial).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for this intern role, understanding how design impacts user engagement (e.g., through basic analytics concepts) is a plus. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to this design internship role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is based directly on the skills mentioned in the job description, focusing on the tools an intern would be expected to use or learn.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A drive to bring fresh ideas to life and develop engaging, modern materials.

• Accessibility & Inclusivity: Commitment to designing content that is usable and understandable by all learners.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with colleagues to achieve common goals and deliver high-quality products.

• Continuous Learning: A passion for learning new design techniques, technologies, and best practices within the educational technology field.

• Making a Difference: A shared goal of improving the educational experience for students and professors.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect to work closely with content creators, editors, and potentially marketing staff, requiring clear communication and an understanding of different departmental needs.

• Feedback Exchange: An open culture for providing and receiving constructive feedback on designs to ensure optimal outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Opportunities to learn from experienced team members and share new design perspectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture and values are inferred from the company's mission statement and the nature of the internship, emphasizing creativity, learning, and impact.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Academic and Work Commitments: Managing time effectively to meet both course requirements and internship responsibilities.

• Adapting to Proprietary Systems: Learning to work within Great River Learning's specific content management platform and design workflows.

• Translating Concepts to Visuals: Effectively interpreting educational content and abstract concepts into clear, engaging visual designs.

• Meeting Deadlines: Delivering design assets within project timelines, even with a flexible schedule.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Hands-on Skill Development: Gaining practical experience with industry-standard design and development tools.

• Industry Insight: Understanding the dynamics of the higher education publishing market and digital content creation.

• Portfolio Enhancement: Creating tangible work samples that will be valuable for future career steps.

• Professional Networking: Building relationships with professionals in the field.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed to reflect common internship experiences, while growth opportunities highlight the developmental benefits of the role.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a design project you're particularly proud of. What was your role, what challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and outcomes).

• "How do you approach ensuring your web designs are both visually appealing and user-friendly/accessible?" (Demonstrate understanding of UX and accessibility principles).

• "Describe your experience with HTML and CSS. Can you walk me through a piece of code you've written and explain its function?" (Prepare to discuss technical skills).

• "How do you manage your time when working on multiple projects with competing deadlines, especially when balancing with academic work?" (Highlight organizational and time management skills). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Great River Learning and our approach to educational publishing?" (Research the company's mission, products, and values).

• "How do you see yourself contributing to our team as a web designer intern?" (Align your skills and enthusiasm with the role's requirements).

• "What are your career goals after graduation, and how do you think this internship will help you achieve them?" (Show long-term vision and how this role fits). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by skill type (web design, print design, illustration) or by project complexity.

• Narrative: For each project, tell a concise story: the challenge, your solution, the tools used, and the result.

• Visuals: Use high-quality images or mockups of your work. For web projects, consider providing live links or interactive demos if possible.

• Technical Detail: Be ready to briefly explain the HTML/CSS or design choices behind your web projects.

• Enthusiasm: Convey your passion for design and your eagerness to learn and contribute.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored to the specific skills and context of a web designer internship at an educational technology company.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Web Designer Internship:

• Submit your application through the provided link on isolvedhire.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your online portfolio is up-to-date and prominently features projects demonstrating your HTML, CSS, graphic design, and UX skills. Tailor your project selection to highlight relevance to educational content and digital media.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your relevant coursework, technical skills (HTML, CSS, Adobe Suite, GIT), and any previous design experience (academic projects, personal work). Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare for Interview: Research Great River Learning's mission and products. Practice discussing your design process, technical skills, and how you would contribute as an intern. Be ready to present your portfolio and discuss specific projects.

• Understand On-site Requirements: Confirm your ability to work on-site in Dubuque, Iowa, for 10-15 hours per week, and confirm your availability for the Summer 2027 start date.

⚠️ 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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