Graphic Designer

Associated Students of•San Jose, CA

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Graphic Designer develops and executes visually compelling design projects for Associated Students (A.S.), focusing on both print and digital media, including motion graphics, interactive media, and brand-aligned social media content. This role plays a vital part in enhancing A.S. programs, services, and events through innovative and engaging design solutions while ensuring consistency in branding and communication strategies. The Graphic Designer will work collaboratively within the A.S. Marketing Department, coordinating with multimedia, web, and social media teams to develop cohesive campaigns that enhance campus engagement and visibility.

Requirements

Must be a matriculated SJSU student in good academic standing.
Pursuing a degree in Graphic Design, Animation/Illustration, Digital Media, Marketing, Communication, or a related field.
Candidates must be able to provide examples of their best work that demonstrate expertise in both print and digital media, along with a solid foundation in graphic design principles, typography, and layout.
Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Premiere Pro, After Effects).
Familiarity with Figma, Canva, CapCut, and other industry-standard tools for both print and digital design.
Knowledge of social media trends, platform-specific design best practices, and content strategy for platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
Strong conceptual and critical thinking skills to translate marketing needs into effective visual storytelling.
Excellent time management and multitasking abilities, with a keen eye for detail.
Capacity to work effectively in a collaborative environment, including taking direction and incorporating feedback constructively.
Cultural competency and inclusivity in design, ensuring visuals are accessible and representative of SJSU’s diverse student population.

Nice To Haves

Print production knowledge is preferred but not required, as training will be provided.
Basic understanding of UX/UI (User Experience/User Interface) design principles and accessibility compliance (ADA, WCAG).
Ability to practice branding and creative strategy, contributing to the development of marketing campaigns and creative problem-solving initiatives.
Motion Graphics & Interactive Media: Proficiency in After Effects, Premiere Pro, and animation tools is a plus.
Social Media Design Experience: Understanding Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube branding. Micro-content design (GIFs, animated posts, carousel ads) is highly valued.
Accessibility & Inclusivity in Design: Knowledge of color contrast, alt text, and WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) is increasingly necessary.
Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Designers are expected to work closely with social media managers, content strategists, and marketing coordinators to create impactful campaigns.
AI & Automation in Design: Familiarity with tools like Adobe Firefly, MidJourney, Canva AI, and other emerging technologies is encouraged.
Experience in social media design, branding, and motion graphics is highly desirable.
Prior freelance, internship, or student organization design experience is beneficial but not required.

Responsibilities

Develop and design marketing materials for print and digital media, including posters, flyers, brochures, banners, annual reports, promotional giveaways, and branded merchandise.
Create digital-first content such as social media graphics, animated advertisements, GIFs, motion-based designs, and other interactive media.
Assist in brand identity development by ensuring consistency in typography, color schemes, and design language across all A.S. materials.
Collaborate closely with Marketing & Communications Manager, Multimedia Assistant, Web & Social Media Assistant, and Marketing Coordinator to execute cross-platform marketing campaigns.
Utilize emerging AI-powered design tools (e.g., Adobe Firefly, Adobe AI Generative Tools, MidJourney, Canva AI, and other platforms as applicable) to streamline workflow efficiency.
Maintain awareness of print production processes, including pre-press preparation, proofing, and working with vendors.
Manage multiple projects efficiently while meeting deadlines and addressing feedback from A.S. staff, student leaders, and campus partners.
Stay up to date with current industry trends, marketing psychology, and Gen Z audience engagement strategies.
Participate in staff meetings and professional development training.