Sonoran University of Health Sciences is hiring: Graphic Designer in Tempe

Summary:

Reporting to the Director of Marketing, the in-house Graphic Designer will create and deliver compelling, brand-aligned visual communications that engage, inspire, and inform our audiences. This role will bring Sonoran University’s mission to life through multiple design mediums, including but not limited to: print and digital collateral, social media content, video editing, campus signage, email marketing, and website graphics. You will work on the Marketing team, collaborating closely with various campus departments, external agencies, and community partners to maintain brand consistency, elevate the University’s visual presence, and support campaigns that drive student recruitment, enhance community engagement, and build institutional pride.

We are looking for a creative professional who is detail-oriented and collaborative, thrives on transforming ideas into impactful designs, and is passionate about using visual storytelling to help Sonoran University shape a healthier future through the healing power of nature.

Medical, dental, vision and 401K, and generous time off available. Additional benefits include free visits to our on-campus medical facilities and discounts at our natural Medicinary.

Responsibilities:

Design & Collateral Production

• Fulfill internal and external design requests for brochures, flyers, advertisements, presentations, and other marketing materials.
• Build and maintain branded templates for recurring projects and campaigns.
• Design and produce campus graphics and signage, including event banners, wayfinding, and promotional displays.
• Prepare press-ready files for print production, ensuring correct specifications, color profiles, and proofing before submission to vendors.
• Coordinate with outside printers and vendors to ensure quality control and on-time delivery.
• Create mock-ups or prototypes to visualize final products for stakeholder approval.

Digital Content Creation

• Create social media content, including static graphics, motion graphics, and short-form video edits.
• Design email marketing templates and graphics to support campaigns and announcements.
• Develop infographics and data visualizations for reports, research communications, and community outreach.
• Produce graphic assets for webinars, live streams, and other virtual events.
• Ensure all designs meet accessibility standards and follow brand guidelines.

Website & Layout

• Perform basic website updates, including page layout adjustments, image replacements, and content formatting.
• Create seasonal and campaign-specific website graphics to support enrollment, fundraising, or event initiatives.
• Collaborate with the Marketing team and partners to ensure website visuals align with campaign messaging.
• Optimize images and layouts for web performance and mobile responsiveness.

Brand Stewardship

• Maintain and apply Sonoran University's brand identity across all media.
• Manage and organize the University's digital asset library for efficient access and consistent usage.
• Provide brand compliance guidance and resources to other departments to ensure cohesive visual communication.
• Assist in the creation and documentation of updated brand guidelines and visual standards.

Collaboration & Workflow

• Work closely with the Marketing team to prioritize design requests and meet project deadlines.
• Participate in creative brainstorming sessions for campaigns and institutional initiatives.
• Communicate with campus departments to clarify needs and deliver effective visual solutions.
• Provide basic photography or videography support for events and marketing needs.
• Stay informed about design trends, tools, and best practices to continuously improve creative output

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Fine Arts, or related field OR 2–5 years of professional graphic design experience.
• A strong portfolio showcasing print, digital, video, branding, and collateral work is required.
• Optional: Adobe Certified Professional or similar credentials are a plus.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Design Principles: Deep understanding of graphic design fundamentals, including typography, color theory, visual hierarchy, and brand standards.
• Production & Digital Media: Strong knowledge of both print production processes and digital design best practices for web, email, and social media.
• Accessibility & Technology: Awareness and advocate of accessibility standards (like WCAG) and working familiarity with common platforms, including content management systems (WordPress) and email marketing software (Pardot/Salesforce Account Engagement).
• Adobe Creative Suite: Expert proficiency in key Adobe programs like InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator.
• Visual Communication: Ability to create compelling layouts, infographics, and data visualizations. Experience with photography, video editing, and motion graphics is a plus.
• Project Management: Proven ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet tight deadlines.
• Strategic Thinking: Translate strategic goals and abstract concepts into effective and visually engaging solutions.
• Collaboration: Work effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, from team members to vendors, to maintain brand consistency and achieve project goals.
• Problem-Solving: Proactively identify opportunities for improvement and apply data-driven insights to design solutions.

About Sonoran University:

Sonoran University of Health Sciences (formerly SCNM) is a non-profit, higher education institution. An internationally recognized institution of natural health sciences, the University’s College of Naturopathic Medicine, College of Nutrition, and School of Mental Health’s evidence-based program offerings shape a healthier future by supporting students as they train to excel as healthcare professionals. Sonoran University’s Sage Foundation for Health contributes to the missions and operations of Community Clinics focused on providing free medical care to local underserved communities. The Ric Scalzo Institute for Botanical Research is a state-of-the-art molecular biology/phytochemistry laboratory that seeks to improve therapies for global health concerns by exploring traditional medicine at the cellular, molecular and cultural level to create novel botanical solutions that support people, plants, and planet.

The University campus is home to two open-to-the-public clinics. The Medical Center provides naturopathic healthcare for a wide range of patients including but not limited to; family medicine, nutrition and digestive health, mental health and well-being, dermatologic conditions, endocrine and auto-immune concerns, and acute symptoms. The Neil Riordan Center for Regenerative Medicine focuses on non-opioid solutions to pain and pain management. Treatments range from cupping and acupuncture to regenerative injection therapies. The Medicinary is the largest natural medicinary in Arizona offering an expansive collection of the highest quality, professional-grade supplements, herbs, and health products. Every purchase made at the Medicinary helps support the Sage Foundation and its mission to provide free healthcare to those in need.

Working Environment

This will be a local to Arizona in-office position with flex-hybrid with local travel. Extensive periods of sitting, keyboarding, and manipulating a computer mouse. Required to stand for varying lengths of time and walk moderate distances to perform work. Frequent bending, reaching, lifting, pushing and pulling of up to 25 pounds. Regular activities require ability to quickly change priorities which may include and/or are subject to resolution of conflicts. Communicate to perform essential functions.

Background/Screening:

All candidates offered a position at Sonoran University undergo a background and drug screen prior to hire. All employees must show documentation of vaccinations or provide titer results for measles prior to first day of work (unless religious or medical exemption is on file). Employment is contingent upon satisfactory outcome of all screens required of this position.

Sonoran University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status.

Sonoran University is a smoke-free campus.

A COVID-19 vaccination (or qualifying exemption) is required.