CREATIVE DESIGN SPECIALIST

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state's flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm. Occasional nights and weekends required.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ( hrweb@uga.edu).

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

* Bachelor's degree in graphic design or a related field, or equivalent work experience
* 5+ years of professional graphic design experience, preferably in a relevant industry or agency setting
* A strong and diverse portfolio showcasing strength in branding, print design, digital design, typography, and other relevant design work. Experience working within established brand guidelines
* Demonstrated experience working with print vendors

This position reports to the Assistant Director of Design within the Creative Services team and works closely with other creative design specialists to develop visual communication solutions that support the institution's marketing and communication strategy and uphold university brand standards.

The Creative Design Specialist III conceptualizes, leads, and executes design projects across a wide range of media, including print (magazines, mailers, invitations), digital (web, social media, digital advertising), illustration, motion graphics, signage, promotional items, and event and environmental design. This position also consults with campus partners on the development and execution of marketing and communication strategies that elevate the university brand. This position may serve as design lead on complex, high-visibility, or concurrent projects, providing creative direction and ensuring alignment with project objectives, timelines, and brand standards.

This position manages multiple projects within established production schedules and stays current with creative best practices, emerging tools and technologies, accessibility standards, and trends in higher education marketing and communications. A significant portion of the position's time is devoted to high-level institutional projects that require advanced design expertise, independent judgment, and strong collaboration with division staff and campus partners.

This is an in-person position based on the University of Georgia's Athens campus.

* Expert proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator.
* Working knowledge of WordPress, including building and updating pages within established themes and templates.
* Working knowledge of accessibility standards and best practices for print and digital design
* Advanced design, typography, and layout skills.
* Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a fast-paced, collaborative team.
* Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.
* Demonstrated success in producing complex, high-quality print communications and a thorough understanding of print production processes.
* Excellent client relationship and communication skills, including the ability to present, explain, and advocate for design concepts to a range of audiences.

Work in a standard office environment

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Conceptualize, lead, design, and produce a variety of print and digital materials that reflect an advanced knowledge of design principles, accessibility standards, and visual communication and help the university and its campus partners achieve their marketing and communication goals. Serve as lead designer complex, high-visibility, or concurrent projects as assigned.

Collaborate with marketing & communication professionals and campus partners to identify project parameters and develop creative briefs outlining objectives, target audience, budgets, and timelines. Apply the university visual identity and promote brand consistency across the UGA design community.

Manage production workflow and project schedules; track project time and progress; report milestones; and participate in creative reviews. Coordinate multiple projects and priorities while maintaining established production schedules and quality standards.

Complete and review final products and prepare materials for printing or online publication. Review proofs, identify corrections or revisions, and obtain client approvals, and work closely with vendors on printing specifications and production requirements to ensure quality control.

Conduct competitive reviews and contribute to defining team best practices. Monitor trends and emerging technologies in print and digital design, particularly within higher education marketing and communications. Evaluate and adopt new tools, technologies and approaches when appropriate. Participate in professional development and evaluate procedures, equipment, and software, recommending improvements or purchases as needed.