Graphic Design Specialist - Office of Development Communications

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

Penn State is currently seeking a Graphic Design Specialist in the Office of Development Communications to support both graphic design and multimedia production across a broad range of fundraising communications and marketing objectives at the University. As a member of the Division of Development and Alumni Relations, you can play an integral role in Penn State’s future and contribute to one of the most successful fundraising and alumni relations operations in the country. 

For full consideration, applicants are asked to attach a cover letter and resume/CV, . Candidates should provide a link to a digital portfolio showcasing strong storytelling, concept execution, and technical craft, for review as part of their application.

As part of a visual communications team within the Office of Development Communications, the Graphic Design Specialist will:

• Design, edit, and produce graphic art, visual communications, and multimedia products for promotional, advertising, educational, and administrative purposes
• Create and manipulate graphic images, illustrations, and photography into integrated multimedia solutions across print and digital platforms
• Design, develop, and update websites, landing pages, and other digital communications that adhere to the latest accessibility and user experience best practices.
• Collaborate with stakeholders, subject matter experts, content authors, and project teams to ensure visual and multimedia solutions align with institutional objectives, messaging, and mission
• Create proofs, prototypes, mock-ups, wireframes, and other visual aids to communicate design concepts and support project development
• Participate in the creative direction, planning, production, and quality review of video and audio content
• Design and develop presentation materials, templates, branding assets, and communication tools for promotional, developmental, operational, and administrative purposes
• Maintain consistency with established branding, visual identity, style guides, and communication standards
• Review, revise, and update existing multimedia and graphic products to ensure accuracy, relevance, quality, and effectiveness
• Research and apply emerging design trends, technologies, tools, and best practices to enhance communication and user engagement
• Ensure compliance with accessibility requirements, contractual obligations, copyright requirements, confidentiality and privacy policies, and applicable organizational standards and guidelines

The successful candidate will have:

• Strong knowledge of graphic design principles, visual communication strategies, and user-centered design
• Understanding of current design technologies to support visual and multimedia products for print, digital, video, web, social media
• Proficiency with Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop, as well as experience with Adobe Premiere
• Understanding of Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and excel as well as OneDrive/SharePoint
• Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills
• The ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues
• A proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team
• A commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored

DDAR is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Graphic Design Specialist – Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Associate degree and 2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

If filled as Graphic Design Specialist – Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor’s Degree and 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $54,060.00 - $86,400.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

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