Designer, University Communications

About the role

University Communications is the strategic communications department for the University of Virginia. We unite writers, editors, spokespeople, marketers, designers, photographers, video producers, social media and operations experts, and web developers to create effective, engaging communications that showcase UVA as a model of excellence in higher education. The Brand Studio designer translates strategy and content into clear, effective, accessible, and on-brand visuals across digital and print channels, collaborating with writers, editors, developers, photographers, video producers, marketing professionals, licensing partners, social media managers, and other designers.

Responsibilities

• Create and produce visual content for marketing, digital, licensing, environmental, print, editorial, and social media applications as needed.
• Develop layouts, typography, graphics, photo treatments, illustrations, infographics, presentation materials, website assets, and production-ready files for marketing campaigns and other priorities.
• Select, size, crop, and retouch photography and other visual assets; create collages, photo illustrations, and supporting artwork when appropriate.
• Support digital storytelling by designing responsive page elements and helping determine effective placement of images, pull quotes, calls to action, and other content components.
• Apply University brand standards consistently while contributing fresh ideas and identifying opportunities to improve visual communication.
• Own assignments from concept through final file delivery, including file preparation, creative and internal review, version control, coordination with internal production partners, and proper cataloguing and archiving of files.
• Participate in creative briefings, critiques, project meetings, and team planning; clearly explain design choices and incorporate feedback constructively.
• Distill feedback from multiple stakeholders, exercising sound creative judgment to reconcile differing perspectives and develop and present thoughtful design options that advance project goals.
• Manage multiple assignments, maintain accurate project status information, and deliver high-quality work on schedule.
• Stay current with design, digital storytelling, accessibility, and production practices and apply relevant approaches to the work.

Requirements

• Working knowledge of graphic design principles, including typography, layout, composition, color theory, hierarchy, and the effective use of photography, illustration, and digital graphics.
• Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, particularly InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop; working knowledge of PowerPoint and Microsoft Office.
• Ability to design both digital and print environments and prepare accurate, production-ready files.
• Strong attention to detail, visual judgment, organization, and accuracy.
• Ability to receive direction, present work, explain design rationale, solve problems, and collaborate effectively with colleagues from multiple disciplines.
• Ability to manage several assignments at once in a deadline-driven environment.
• Familiarity with digital accessibility requirements and accessible design principles.
• Bachelor’s degree in graphic design, visual communication, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, consistent with University policy.
• 1 to 3 years of related professional experience strongly preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Figma, responsive web design, HTML/CSS, or website prototyping and wireframing.
• Experience with illustration, data visualization, or motion design.
• Experience in higher education, marketing agencies, or another strongly branded organization.

Application Materials

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Portfolio of materials showing examples of work, either via attachment or digital portfolio link