Graphic Designer

Job Description

The Graduate School has an outstanding opportunity for a part-time, 50% FTE, Graphic Designer to join their team.

About this Opportunity

Reporting to the Director of Communications, the Graphic Designer is responsible for crafting designs and visual stories that elevate the impact of graduate education across web, print, and digital media. This position conceptualizes, plans, and produces creative materials that advance the Graduate School's communications goals and strengthen how the University connects with students, faculty, and the public. The role requires strong creative judgment, collaboration, and the ability to visually interpret messages while maintaining alignment with the UW and Graduate School brand standards.

This position is located on the University of Washington Seattle campus and is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES  

Media Content Development / Implementation

• Design and produce materials for public dissemination using graphic design, video editing, and web development applications

• Create original artwork for the Public Lectures series' collateral pieces, including posters and digital images for social media

• Establish brand/graphic standards for UW Graduate School websites and printed collateral, in consultation with Graduate School staff, to complement the overall UW brand

• Develop and customize communications templates

• Ensure media content meets standards for HTML, CSS, search engine optimization, federal accessibility guidelines, and best practices, consistent with UW and Graduate School identity standards

Operations

• Support email newsletter design and production (email build and approval)

• Capture and edit photos and videos at events

• Provide backup support for the Graduate School website

Project Management

• Apply strong project management skills, ensure timely delivery of simultaneous communications products by creating, tracking, monitoring, and maintaining accurate records of projects and project status

• Work in a collaborative environment and advocate for best practices

Miscellaneous

• Other duties as assigned to support the mission, goals, and strategic plan of the Graduate School and the University of Washington  

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS  

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Media, Design, or a related field.

• Three years of experience in a communications, marketing, or public information capacity, including experience and/or training in visual communication, graphic design, and/or illustration.

Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.  

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS  

• A combination of formal training, education, and/or practical experience in graphic design, visual communication, information design, communication, or a similar field may substitute for the educational requirement.

• Familiarity with the fundamentals of digital design and experience creating graphic design work for web, email, and social media, including communicating technical information through charts and diagrams.

• Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Dreamweaver, and Acrobat), Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Canva. 

• Self-starter with an ability to work with minimal supervision to accomplish goals and manage multiple tasks. Proactive and adaptable to changing environments.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS   ​

• Experience designing and maintaining websites in Drupal, WordPress, or other web content management systems (CMS).

• Experience with website accessibility and usability practices.

• Familiarity with Canva and Associated Press (AP) Style.

• Experience working in higher education.

• Familiarity with copyright laws, including public domain and Creative Commons image licensing.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT  

• Hybrid position requiring at least one day of onsite work per week at the Seattle UW campus during regular business hours.

• Occasional evening or weekend events may be required.

• Extended or non-standard hours may occur based on project or business needs.

Interviews are scheduled to take place in early January.

Pay Rate Information  

The salary information provided below is for a full-time position and will be prorated for part-time. 

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Shift:

Temporary or Regular?

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

Union/Bargaining Unit:

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at or  

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.