Environmental Graphic Designer & Visual Storyteller

Stockholm Environment Institute - U.S.•Davis, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) US Water Program is seeking a creative and motivated entry-level graphic designer for a 10-month contract working 20 hours per week. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to meaningful environmental research and science communication at a globally recognized policy research institute. The primary focus of this role is scientific illustration in support of two active water resources projects with state and municipal water agencies in the Western United States. Both projects involve translating complex water systems — including hydrology, infrastructure, water rights, and management trade-offs — into clear, compelling visual models for use with diverse audiences ranging from technical experts to elected officials and the general public. In addition to illustration work, we are looking for someone who can help us strengthen SEI's visual identity more broadly. This includes improving the look and feel of our website, logos, promotional materials, and research posters, and potentially supporting social media content and short written copy for outreach purposes. The SEI-US Center has three offices: Somerville, MA, Davis, CA, and Seattle, WA; you will be joining our eleven-person team based primarily in Davis, CA. The job location is in Davis, California.

Requirements

Diverse portfolio of illustration and/or graphic design work (submitted with application)
Proficiency with professional design tools (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Figma)
Ability to work independently, manage deadlines, and incorporate iterative feedback from a multidisciplinary team
Excellent visual communication skills and attention to detail and consistency

Nice To Haves

Experience in science communication, environmental illustration, or technical drawing (highly preferred)
Background or coursework in environmental science, water resources, ecology, or a related field
Familiarity with geospatial or data visualization tools (e.g., ArcGIS, Tableau, Python, R)
Ability to write clear, accessible copy for general audiences
Experience with social media content creation
Spanish language skills
Experience with video creation and editing

Responsibilities

Develop scientific illustrations, infographics, and diagrams depicting water systems, hydrologic processes, and infrastructure at multiple scales (watershed, basin, river/habitat)
Work iteratively with scientists to refine drafts based on technical feedback
Produce final illustration files in English and Spanish-ready formats where applicable
Support graphic design needs across SEI US, including website visuals, logos, promotional materials, and research posters
Assist with preparation of social media posts and short written copy for outreach and communications as needed