Visual/Graphic Designer

University of Southern California•Los Angeles, CA

About The Position

The Office of Communications is seeking a creative and detail-oriented Graphic Designer to join its team. This position is responsible for designing visual materials and copy layouts for a wide range of print and digital media. The Graphic Designer works closely with departmental managers and internal clients to develop, advise on, and execute design solutions that support communication goals, brand standards, and project objectives. This role is responsible for creating high-quality visual materials, reviewing final artwork for accuracy and quality, and supporting the overall effectiveness of design projects. The Graphic Designer may also provide project-based guidance to others, including student workers, and reports to the Associate Director of Communications.

Requirements

Strong knowledge of layout principles, typography, color, composition, and visual design concepts.
Experience creating print and digital design materials for a variety of audiences and platforms.
Proficiency with design, publishing, image-editing, and page layout software.
Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines while maintaining strong attention to detail.
Excellent proofreading skills and commitment to producing accurate, high-quality work.
Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with internal clients, departmental managers, marketing representatives, and student workers.
Ability to provide creative direction, feedback, and task coordination on a project basis.
Strong organizational skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative communications team.
Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree
Minimum Experience: 2 years
Minimum Field of Expertise: Understanding of design issues, including browser usability and cross-platform compatibility.
Solid foundation in studio design, typography, printing and layout.
Work experience as a visual/graphic designer covering all aspects of artwork preparation, printing, and website creation.
Requires thorough knowledge of typography, printing processes, selection of paper or other printing surfaces, and paper folding, binding and finishing.
Knowledge of desktop publishing systems and specialized equipment related to periodical production.

Responsibilities

Design art and copy layouts for a variety of visual media, including illustrations, publications, graphs, charts, brochures, certificates, flyers, posters, slide presentations, and related materials.
Develop creative design concepts and visual solutions that align with departmental goals, project requirements, and established design standards.
Prepare presentation graphics for slides, digital presentations, and other visual communication platforms.
Use design and publishing software to manipulate images, prepare layouts, and create computerized typeset documents.
Produce a variety of freehand artwork, including drawings, illustrations, logos, and related creative assets.
Determine the size, arrangement, and placement of illustrations, graphics, and copy based on space availability, layout principles, and design concepts.
Select appropriate type styles, font sizes, colors, formats, and design elements to support clear and visually effective communication.
Work with advertising, marketing, and communications representatives to integrate copy and graphics effectively.
Review and proof final artwork before submission, checking for accuracy, design quality, color, formatting, alignment, and legibility.
Monitor the effectiveness and quality of final design products and recommend improvements as needed.
Develop design specifications for work produced by others and provide guidance to support consistency and quality.
Work closely with a small team of student workers by assigning design tasks, reviewing work, proofing materials, and submitting completed projects for review.
Lead or support design projects on a project-by-project basis, as needed.