Graphic Designer

For more than 150 years, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) has been a leader in educating the world’s most influential artists, designers and scholars. Located in downtown Chicago with a fine arts graduate program consistently ranking among the top four graduate fine arts programs in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, SAIC provides an interdisciplinary approach to art and design as well as world-class resources, including the Art Institute of Chicago Museum, on-campus galleries and state-of-the-art facilities. SAIC’s undergraduate, graduate and post-baccalaureate students have the freedom to take risks and create the bold ideas that transform Chicago and the world—as seen through notable alumni and faculty such as Michelle Grabner, David Sedaris, Elizabeth Murray, Richard Hunt, Georgia O’Keeffe, Cynthia Rowley, Nick Cave, and LeRoy Neiman.

Please click on the links below to view our competitive, comprehensive benefits package:  

• Hiring Range: $47,000 - $57,044
• Benefits
• PTO Overview
• Job Classification: Full Time Salaried Staff 
• Grade Level:  6

Basic Function:

Responsible for the conceptualization and application of a variety of designed print and digital materials in support of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s mission, including providing graphic design, production, and administrative support for recruitment marketing and institutional projects. Working closely on design initiatives, the Graphic Designer is an essential part of the enrollment marketing strategy and an important collaborator on creative projects supporting departments across the School.

Responsibilities:

• Responsible for assisting in the conception and development of a variety of designed projects in print and digital media, including brochures and viewbooks, advertising campaigns, social media graphics, email and web graphics, direct mailings, and more
• In support of the Director of Enrollment Marketing Projects, prepare required elements of an assigned project, including visual concepts, photo-sizing, typesetting, layout and typography, proofing, production edits
• Support the development of design visual concepts for undergraduate, graduate, and continuing studies recruitment marketing and other institutional initiatives
• Coordinate direct mailings with print vendors and other suppliers, including preparation and delivery of design files and specifications, and reviewing printer’s proofs to ensure on time delivery
• Support project management of design projects and regularly update in PM software and team meetings
• Participate in in-person department meetings and immersion sessions; contribute to overall strategy development
• Assist with photography shoots on and off campus when necessary
• Remain current on design software, current design trends and developments, and marketing strategies

Please be sure to submit a design portfolio with your resume and application. 

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in graphic design or closely related field required.
• Minimum 3-5 years of studio or in-house graphic design experience required. Freelance work will also be considered. 
• Outstanding portfolio, with proven design experience in both print and digital formats required.
• Minimum 3-5 years of professional experience in Adobe Creative Cloud with demonstrated proficiency required; Additional demonstrated proficiency in AfterEffects preferred.
• Demonstrated experience managing multiple projects simultaneously with sensitivity to deadlines required.
• Experience with KeyNote and PowerPoint programs highly desired.
• Knowledge of print production, coordination, general UX/web design, and vendor management; motion design skills are a plus.
• Possess strong organizational skills, ability to multi-task and meet deadlines.
• Demonstrate a high level of detail, accuracy, and special attention to typography.
• Strong service and interpersonal skills.
• Strong collaborative nature with other designers and interdisciplinary teams.

Union

This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by AFSCME Council 31.

About The Organization

The Art Institute Of Chicago Is An Equal Opportunity Employer That Recruits, Hires And Promotes Qualified Individuals Without Regard To Race, Religion, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Age, National Origin, Ancestry, Veteran Status Or Citizenship. The Institute Complies With Federal And State Disability Laws And Makes Reasonable Accommodations For Applicants And Employees With Disabilities. If Reasonable Accommodation Is Needed To Participate In The Job Application Or Interview Process, Please Contact The Department Of Human Resources At Apply_help@Artic.Edu.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees may be required to follow other job- related instructions and to perform other job-related duties as requested, subject to all applicable state and federal laws. Certain job functions described herein may be subject to possible modification in accordance with applicable state and federal laws.