Director, Art Department (Productions)

Noisy Creek • Chicago, IL

17h

About The Position

Shape the Visual Future of an Iconic Publication Noisy Creek is looking for an Art Director to lead the visual direction of the Chicago Reader, one of the country's most influential independent media brands. This is a rare opportunity for a creative leader who loves journalism, design, and storytelling. You'll be responsible for upholding the Reader's visual identity across print, digital, social, and special projects, creating memorable covers, ambitious feature packages, and engaging visual experiences that connect with readers across platforms. As Art Director, you'll work closely with editors, writers, photographers, illustrators, designers, and production staff to bring stories to life. You'll help shape the creative vision of the publication while also ensuring that every issue is produced with excellence, consistency, and attention to detail. The ideal candidate is an exceptional designer and conceptual thinker who understands how strong visuals can elevate great journalism. You're comfortable leading creative conversations, managing production workflows, commissioning artists, and rolling up your sleeves to execute great work when deadlines demand it. This position reports to Noisy Creek's Creative Director and collaborates extensively with the Chicago Reader editorial team, as well as colleagues in marketing, sales, and product.

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in editorial design, newspapers, magazines, media organizations, agencies, or comparable creative environments.
• A portfolio demonstrating exceptional editorial design, visual storytelling, and creative problem-solving.
• Strong conceptual thinking and the ability to translate complex stories into engaging visual narratives.
• Experience developing covers, feature packages, and long-form editorial projects.
• Advanced proficiency in Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator.
• Deep appreciation for typography, photography, illustration, and publication design.
• Experience commissioning and directing freelance artists, photographers, and illustrators.
• Outstanding communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Familiarity with the Chicago Reader's editorial voice, audience, and cultural significance.

Nice To Haves

• Connections within Chicago's creative community are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead Creative Vision: Develop and champion the visual identity of the Chicago Reader across print, digital, social, and experiential platforms.
• Conceive and direct compelling covers that capture attention, spark conversation, and reflect the publication's editorial mission.
• Partner with editors and writers to create visual approaches for major stories, investigations, and special packages.
• Identify opportunities to evolve and strengthen the Reader's design language while respecting its legacy and audience.
• Create Outstanding Editorial Design: Design and art direct feature stories, cover packages, special sections, and editorial projects.
• Commission and direct illustrators, photographers, and other creative contributors.
• Collaborate closely with writers, editors, photographers, and freelancers to develop strong visual storytelling.
• Maintain a high standard of typography, photography, illustration, and overall design excellence.
• Lead Production: Manage the monthly print production process from concept through press.
• Lead and mentor the production team, fostering collaboration, accountability, and growth.
• Work closely with the Editor-in-Chief to establish and meet editorial and production deadlines.
• Coordinate with printers and vendors to ensure the successful execution of every issue.
• Review layouts, artwork, and production files to maintain quality and consistency.
• Collaborate Across the Organization: Support marketing, audience development, sales, and product teams with creative assets and design expertise.
• Contribute ideas and creative leadership to cross-department initiatives and special projects.
• Deliver projects on time, on budget, and at a consistently high level of quality.

Benefits

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision premiums
• Retirement Plan: SIMPLE IRA with employer matching contributions
• Paid Time Off: 16 paid holidays, birthday off (or a day off during your birthday month), vacation accrual starting after your first payroll, increasing up to 4 weeks after 5 years
• Employee Assistance Program: Free health, wellness, and financial support services
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Options to set aside pre-tax funds for medical, dependent care, and other expenses

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: No Education Listed