Associate Graphic Designer

Location: San Jose, California
Type: Part-time
Salary: $70,701.28–$85,377.76 annually

About the role

Under general supervision, the Associate Graphic Designer transfers verbal and written ideas into effective visual presentations by creating varied graphic designs produced through computer applications and other graphic design tools. This includes digital ads, web banners, infographics, illustrations, posters, pamphlets, fliers, banners, displays, and materials for inclusion in publications.

The Associate Graphic Designer is the entry-level classification within the Graphic Designer series, receiving guidance on planning direction, completion schedules, and theme/design concepts for complex projects. This role is distinguished from the full journey-level Graphic Designer, who works independently on complex projects and may provide lead supervision over lower-level designers.

Responsibilities

• Plan, design, lay out, and create a variety of images and illustrations for reports, brochures, maps, posters, charts, graphs, banners, fliers, advertisements, logos, promotional items, graphical assets, and other educational/informational publications using computer and graphic design methods.
• Design digital communications, including social media graphics, infographics, online newsletters, web banners, and other graphics.
• Recommend methods of visual presentation (theme, styles, format) for simple projects; receive technical direction for complex, multi-page productions.
• Follow, implement, and support established County graphic design standards and policies.
• Take and edit digital photographs and videos at news conferences, community events, and photo shoots.
• Prepare specifications for printers and collaborate with internal/external printing and duplication services.
• Serve as a Disaster Service Worker (DSW) as required, including completing assigned training and responding to emergencies.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Associate degree in graphic design, visual communications, photography, or a closely related field; OR 60 college semester units (90 quarter units) with relevant coursework.
• One year of full-time equivalent experience in graphic art design, digital arts, or web applications using graphic design software.
• Relevant analytical, administrative, or supervisory experience (e.g., interpreting regulations, report writing) may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis.
• Ability to travel to alternate work locations; valid California driver’s license required if driving.

Skills

Knowledge of:

• Principles and methods of designing materials for publication.
• Desktop publishing, graphics, and word processing software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite).
• Photography, scanning, typography, and art materials/equipment.
• Reproduction and printing processes.
• Freehand drawing techniques and materials.
• Interpreting statistical data via charts/graphs.
• Effective composition materials and color theory.
• English usage, grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
• Common computer systems and applications.
• Inclusive design practices for diverse audiences.

Ability to:

• Exercise creative skills in drawings, tracings, charts, graphs, maps, and diagrams.
• Use a variety of media proficiently, including desktop publishing/graphics software.
• Transfer verbal/written ideas into effective visual presentations.
• Manage simple production projects from inception to completion.
• Work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Communicate effectively (orally and in writing) with diverse audiences.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, the public, and other agencies.