Graphic Design Specialist

Wilkes University invites applicants for a Graphic Design Specialist to join our dynamic Marketing Communications team.

The Graphic Design Specialist will support the Marketing Communications department by designing visual assets that promote and enhance the university's brand. This role supports a variety of design projects, both print and digital, to engage and inform campus community members, prospective students, alumni, and the general public. The Graphic Design Specialist will also prioritize and track inbound design requests appropriately, collaborate with key stakeholders, and ensure open and responsive communication with all campus departments on design projects.

An ideal candidate will be experienced in developing print and digital design materials to suit a variety of purposes and audiences, while collaborating with others to source information, ensure accuracy, and achieve project goals. This role will work closely with members of the Marketing Communications team on a variety of projects to achieve university goals and offers the opportunity to learn and cross-train in other marketing and multimedia skills.

Job requirements include, but are not limited to:

• Conceptualize and produce graphic design projects, including but not limited to brochures, posters, social media graphics, digital ads, print ads, website graphics, email templates, campus signage, mailers, and promotional materials.
• Ensure all design materials align with brand and style guidelines while maintaining a consistent and strong brand identity.
• Collaborate extensively with fellow members of the Marketing Communications team, as well as stakeholders across campus, to achieve institutional goals.
• Use project management, file storage and cloud-based tools to track projects, create and distribute and contribute materials, maintain organized files and assets, and to conceptualize ideas for design projects that enhance our university's visual identity.
• Build knowledge of university programs and activities while establishing relationships with leadership, faculty, staff and students.
• Assist with the coordination of print and production for any designed assets.
• Stay updated on best practices in graphic design and design techniques.

Desired qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in graphic design, art, digital media, communications, advertising or related field;
• One to three years of relevant experience in graphic design;
• Highly proficient with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator);
• Demonstrated understanding of design principles, typography, color theory, layout and user experience principles;
• Exceptional communication, customer service, and interpersonal skills;
• High level of creativity and enthusiasm for designing materials for different audiences;
• Ability to balance multiple projects and meet deadlines;
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

Preference given to candidates with:

• Advanced skills in video editing, motion graphics, photography or web design
• Proficiency using project management software (e.g. Asana, Monday or similar)

Wilkes University is an independent, comprehensive university dedicated to academic excellence in the liberal arts, sciences, and selected professional programs. The University has approximately 2,000 students at the undergraduate level and over 1,500 full time equivalent students at the graduate and first professional levels.

Its institutional focus is on developing strong mentoring relationships with each of its students and contributing vitally to economic development of Northeastern Pennsylvania. The University is located in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, a revitalized city that is located on the lovely Susquehanna River and is within two and one-half hours driving distance of New York City and Philadelphia.

To apply, visit https://wilkesuniversitycareers.applicantpro.com/jobs/. Please be sure to include a cover letter, resume or curriculum vitae, portfolio and three references.

Wilkes University is constantly seeking to become a more diverse community and to enhance its capacity to value and capitalize on the cultural richness that diversity brings. The University strongly encourages applications from persons with diverse backgrounds. Wilkes University does not discriminate in its employment practices or in its educational programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, sex/gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital or family status, military or veteran status, or genetic information.

Employment at Wilkes is contingent upon the results of a thorough background screening.