Graphic Designer

Graphic Designer Title: Graphic Designer Reports To: Creative Director Department: Office of Marketing and Communications Position Summary The Graphic Designer develops compelling, brand-aligned visual communications that support Transylvania University’s marketing and communications goals. This position creates print and digital assets for a variety of audiences and initiatives, with a primary focus on full-funnel enrollment marketing and prospective student engagement. Working closely with the Creative Director and other members of the Marketing and Communications team, the Graphic Designer combines creative thinking with hands-on design execution to effectively communicate the value and distinctive character of Transylvania University. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Creative Design & Production ● Conceptualize, design, and produce a wide range of print and environmental materials, including, but not limited to, viewbooks, brochures, programs, posters, displays, signage, billboards, cards and other university publications and promotional materials. ● Create digital assets for the university website, social media, email marketing, digital advertising, and other digital platforms. ● Develop creative assets that support enrollment marketing throughout the prospective student journey, translating campaign strategies and messaging into engaging visual communications. ● Prepare production-ready files and ensure accuracy, quality, and consistency across all creative deliverables. ● Design and support the production of the university’s alumni magazine and other institutional publications. Brand Management ● Maintain visual consistency across marketing and communications materials and ensure designs reflect Transylvania University’s brand identity and standards. ● Review promotional materials and provide guidance to faculty and staff on the appropriate use of university logos, typography, graphics, and other visual brand elements. ● Help maintain and organize university brand assets, templates, and other design resources. ● Apply brand standards creatively across a variety of audiences, channels, and communications needs. Print & Vendor Coordination ● Coordinate with commercial printers and production vendors throughout the lifecycle of projects, from requesting proposals and estimates through final printing or installation. ● Develop print specifications, prepare production files, review proofs, and ensure finished materials meet university quality and brand standards. ● Coordinate printing services and provide design and production guidance to university faculty and staff. ● Maintain knowledge of commercial printing methods, production processes, materials, and industry standards. Collaboration & Project Management ● Collaborate with the Creative Director and colleagues across Marketing and Communications to develop integrated, audience-focused creative that aligns with university priorities and desired outcomes. ● Partner with marketing, communications, photography, video, web, and content colleagues to ensure visual assets work effectively as part of broader campaigns and initiatives. ● Manage multiple design projects and deadlines simultaneously while maintaining accuracy, attention to detail, and a high standard of creative quality. ● Communicate effectively with campus partners and external vendors throughout the creative and production process. ● Incorporate creative direction and feedback while contributing design expertise and ideas to projects. Innovation & Continuous Improvement ● Stay informed of trends and emerging practices in graphic design, digital media, photography, print production, higher education marketing, and visual communications. ● Maintain current knowledge of design software, tools, technologies, and production processes. ● Explore new creative tools, techniques, and technologies that can improve the quality, efficiency, and effectiveness of the university’s creative work. ● Contribute ideas that strengthen Transylvania’s visual storytelling and enhance the effectiveness of marketing and communications initiatives. Qualifications ● Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Fine Arts, Marketing, or a related field. ● Demonstrated proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud, particularly Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. ● Strong portfolio demonstrating creative range, typography and layout skills, visual storytelling, and the ability to work effectively within an established brand. ● Knowledge of color correction, image retouching, and preparation of photographic assets for print and digital applications. ● Knowledge of commercial printing methods, production processes, file preparation, and industry standards. ● Strong understanding of design principles and best practices for print and digital communications. ● Proficient written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, campus partners, and external vendors. ● Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously. ● Demonstrated attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, high-quality work. ● Two or more years of professional graphic design experience in an agency, higher education, or in-house creative environment preferred. ● Experience working in higher education, nonprofit organizations, or similarly mission-driven environments preferred. ● Experience developing creative for integrated marketing campaigns across print and digital channels preferred. ● Knowledge of web design principles, HTML/CSS, and digital accessibility standards preferred. ● Experience with motion graphics, animation, or video editing tools such as Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro preferred. ● Illustration or drawing skills in digital and/or traditional media preferred. Working Conditions / Other Information ● Standard office environment with possibility for a hybrid work schedule (on-campus and remote). ● Occasional evening or weekend work may be required to support university events, projects, or deadlines. ● Must be able to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail, accuracy, and creative quality. ● Regular interaction with faculty, staff, students, vendors, and external partners requires professionalism, collaboration, and strong interpersonal skills. ● This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.