Graphic Design Lead

Lucas James Talent Partners is recruiting on behalf of UL Research Institutes for a Graphic Design Lead based in the Columbia, Maryland office.

About the role

The Graphic Design Lead guides and oversees the creative development of graphic design projects for Fire Safety, collaborating with other members of the digital media production team and cross-functional teams to conceptualize, design, and execute visually appealing and engaging visual design content across various platforms. The role utilizes innovative ideas, strategic thinking, and strong design skills to drive the creation of compelling visual experiences that resonate with target audiences.

About UL Research Institutes

At UL Research Institutes (ULRI), we expand the boundaries of safety science to create a more secure and sustainable world. For over a century, we have studied the unintended consequences of innovation, designed solutions to mitigate risk, and shared our findings with academia, scientists, manufacturers, and policymakers across industries. We identify critical safety and sustainability issues, asking tough questions because we believe a safer world begins with knowledge. Join us and work with our Fire Safety teams to conduct research that produces actionable insights.

About Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI)

UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) advances fire safety knowledge to address unresolved risks and emerging dangers. As part of UL Research Institutes, FSRI shares fire safety insights to support UL’s public safety mission of providing safe living and working environments. Through advanced fire science, rigorous research, and extensive outreach, FSRI equips stakeholders with the tools and resources to make informed, fire-safe decisions that save lives and property. Learn more at FSRI.org.

Responsibilities

• Lead creative direction and vision for graphic design projects, ensuring alignment with the organization's brand and goals, including brainstorming sessions, idea generation, and concept development to deliver impactful design solutions.
• Manage the end-to-end lifecycle of design projects, from concept to execution, ensuring deadlines and quality standards are met.
• Collaborate with project managers, content creators, and other stakeholders to define project scopes, objectives, and deliverables, allocating resources effectively and delegating tasks within the design team.
• Design and create graphic design content, including social/newsletter graphics, digital/web ads, print/event collateral, templated document systems, presentation materials, illustrations, and more, using various tools and software.
• Ensure design materials are visually compelling, user-friendly, and aligned with the organization's messaging and brand guidelines.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including marketing communications, instructional design, and research teams, to understand project requirements and deliver effective design solutions.
• Communicate design concepts, strategies, and rationales clearly and persuasively to team members and stakeholders.
• Conduct thorough reviews of graphic design content to ensure accuracy, consistency, and alignment with project objectives, providing constructive feedback to team members.
• Stay current on industry trends, tools, and best practices, and research and propose new design techniques and technologies to elevate the quality of the team's design work.
• Contribute to and/or lead other department-specific and cross-functional initiatives.

Work Environment

• People: Work with a diverse team of experts respected for their independence and transparency, collaborating across disciplines, organizations, and geographies to address global challenges.
• Interesting work: Engage in varied, boundary-pushing projects that advance public safety and sustainability.
• Growth and achievement: Participate in targeted development, reward, and recognition programs, learning and growing alongside colleagues.
• Values: Four core values guide our work: collaboration, respect, integrity, and beneficence.

Benefits

• All employees are eligible for bonus compensation.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
• Generous 401k matching structure of up to 5% of eligible pay, with an additional 4% contribution to your retirement savings fund after one year of continuous employment.
• Paid time off, including vacation, holiday, sick, and volunteer days.
• Potential for flexible working arrangements, depending on role.

Requirements

• Advanced knowledge and proficiency in visual design skills.
• Proficiency in graphic design tools such as Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and other relevant tools.
• Demonstrated experience with 2D and/or 3D animation or motion graphics is a plus.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire, guide, and mentor junior designers.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present and articulate design concepts effectively.
• In-depth understanding of design principles, typography, layout, and brand systems.
• Working knowledge of print production and prepress for physical deliverables preferred, including file preparation with bleeds, CMYK, and die lines, with the ability to work effectively with print vendors.
• Adept at managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Problem-solving mindset and adaptability to changing project requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Multimedia Design, Visual Communication, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum 8 years of relevant professional graphic design experience, with a portfolio showcasing digital/web ads, social/newsletter graphics, production-ready print work, and template/document systems.
• Illustration, icon design, animation, or motion graphics experience is a plus.

About UL Research Institutes and UL Standards & Engagement

UL Research Institutes and UL Standards & Engagement are nonprofit organizations dedicated to advancing safety science research through the discovery and application of scientific knowledge. We conduct rigorous independent research, analyze safety data, convene global experts to address risks, and share knowledge through education and public outreach. We develop standards to guide the safe commercialization of evolving technologies and foster communities of safety, from grassroots initiatives to global summits. Our collaborative and scientific approaches drive innovation and progress toward improving safety, security, and sustainability, ultimately enhancing societal well-being. Learn more at UL.org and ULSE.org.