Assistant Professor in Visual Communication Design

Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design•Lakewood, CO

9d•Onsite

About The Position

Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) is seeking a Full-Time Assistant Professor with expertise in Visual Communication Design, specifically focusing on Motion and Web Design, for its Graphic Design program. This faculty member will report to the Chair and Lead of the Graphic Design program and collaborate with students, faculty, and administrative staff to enhance teaching, student activities, co-curricular experiences, and curriculum development. The role involves working with academic leadership to monitor and improve student learning and success, support faculty, and fulfill assigned duties. RMCAD’s Visual Communication Department offers degree programs grounded in industry-aligned practices, emerging technologies, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The ideal candidate will possess demonstrated expertise in Graphic Design workflows, with a strong emphasis on digital media, including interaction design, motion graphics, and modern web design. A key requirement is proficiency in integrating AI-driven tools and emerging methodologies into the design process and curriculum, aligning with RMCAD's commitment to innovation. This position is crucial for the continued design, development, and delivery of dynamic, studio-centered curricula and the advancement of learning outcomes to prepare students for leadership in the evolving digital landscape. This position is campus-based in Lakewood, CO.

Requirements

A graduate degree (MA, MS, MFA, MDes, or equivalent) in Graphic Design, Digital Media, Motion Design, Web Design OR a Bachelor’s degree with a sustained record of professional or studio-based work in Digital Media, Graphic Design, Motion Design or Web Design demonstrated through credits, exhibitions, portfolio and live projects.
Proficiency using and teaching industry-leading design software, including, but not limited to After Effects, Figma, Adobe Suite, HTML/CSS/JavaScript, prototyping tools, and modern web/mobile design methodologies.
2+ years of teaching experience in an accredited postsecondary institution with proven expertise in teaching motion and web design, design principles and related software.
Examples of pedagogical approaches that align with the institution's mission and values, along with evidence of effective and inclusive teaching that values a diverse student body.
Comprehensive knowledge of graphic design, motion graphics, and web modernities, with a demonstrated ability to integrate AI-driven tools and emerging methodologies into the design process.
Expertise in motion graphics, responsive web design, dynamic typography, and interactive storytelling, alongside a modern pedagogical vision that prepares students to work across emerging digital platforms.
Ability to teach and mentor students from a broad range of life experiences and educational paths.
Demonstrated commitment to serving and respecting all students, staff, and faculty.
Broad knowledge of the history of art, contemporary art and design.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills across multiple teaching modalities.
Ability to work autonomously, taking initiative on tasks, and meeting deadlines.
Outwardly contribute to a respectful, positive, and professional workspace.
Interest in emerging trends and technologies in design education and practice.

Nice To Haves

A terminal degree (MFA or PhD) in Art, Design or a related discipline OR equivalent professional distinction recognized at a national or international level.
A sustained record of professional or studio-based work in Digital Media, Graphic Design, Motion Design or Web Design demonstrated through credits, exhibitions, portfolio and live projects.
Proficiency and the ability to teach industry-leading design software (including, but not limited to After Effects, Figma, Adobe Suite), HTML/CSS/JavaScript, prototyping tools, and modern web/mobile design methodologies.
Ongoing engagement with contemporary, emerging industry practices and pipelines with demonstrated expertise in media through creative interventions in areas such as but not limited to: artificial intelligence as medium and cultural system, platform culture and interface aesthetics, design for accessibility and emerging crossover disciplines.

Responsibilities

Teach a full instructional load as defined by RMCAD and commensurate with rank.
Hold regular office hours.
Advise students.
Participate in and contribute to the development of co-curricular activities.
Provide instruction and student engagement across both on-campus and online modalities.
Regularly give feedback and critiques using a combination of in-person and/or online written and video formats.
Teach courses in Typography, Vector Illustration, Layout Design, User Prototyping, Web Design, Visual Sequencing, Experience Design, Motion Design, Interaction Design, and Design Systems within the Graphic Design Program.
Maintain a high standard of teaching effectiveness as evidenced by student evaluations, retention, and other pedagogical metrics.
Support the Institutional Mission, Vision, and Value Statements, and the Department Mission.
Participate in institutional and Academic Division committees, program reviews, academic assessment, curriculum revision, and/or course development as needed.
Attend college events, meetings, and training sessions as determined by the Academic leadership and/or the Department Chair.
Engage with community organizations and associations that further and promote RMCAD.
Maintain a practice of scholarship, professional achievement, and ongoing professional/creative research.
Contribute discipline-based, interdisciplinary, and multidisciplinary scholarship that advances knowledge and learning.
Produce and exhibit creative works.