Graphic Design Specialist

Typical Responsibilities

• Design and produce a wide range of print and digital materials, including brochures, flyers, posters, reports, presentations and web graphics
• Develop and maintain branded templates for use across campus departments and units
• Ensure all design work adheres to institutional brand standards and visual identity guidelines
• Partner with internal stakeholders to translate concepts into high-quality visual deliverables
• Create assets for digital platforms, including social media graphics, email headers and web visuals
• Support the development of common design components and systems to improve consistency and efficiency across communications
• Lead project management of design initiatives in collaboration with university partners
• Prepare files for print production and coordinate with vendors as needed

Communications Support

• Aid in content creation, including storytelling and editing for web, email and social media
• Support social media planning and execution, including graphic and light copy development
• Contribute to email marketing efforts (layout, formatting, and content preparation)
• Provide general communications support for campaigns and initiatives
• Collaborate with team members on messaging and storytelling strategies
• Occasionally provide event support

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, Arts or related field (or equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, and experience)
• Minimum of 4 years of professional graphic design experience
• Demonstrated experience leading or contributing to graphic design strategy within a complex organization and aligning visual communications with institutional priorities and long-term goals
• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) and Canva
• Strong understanding of design systems thinking, including asset libraries, reusable components and governance models that support large, distributed organizations
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Excellent organizational skills for managing multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work independently and initiative taking to anticipate needs
• Strong portfolio demonstrating expertise in both print and digital design
• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience collaborating on or supporting major institutional initiatives or campaigns, particularly those involving multiple departments and high visibility
• Proven ability to establish and evolve brand standards, ensuring consistency while allowing for unit-level flexibility
• Experience developing and scaling enterprise-level template systems (print, digital, presentations, and email) to improve brand cohesion across stakeholders
• Experience with motion graphics or video elements, including lower thirds, title animations and simple motion design
• Working knowledge of project management methodologies
• Demonstrated professional experience within higher education in either a graphic design or communications capacity