Inside Higher Ed is hiring: Creative Design Specialist in Athens

Creative Design Specialist

Posting Number: S14220P

Working Title: Creative Design Specialist

Department: DAR-Communications (Division of Development and Alumni Relations)

Posting Type: External

Employment Type: Employee, Full Time

Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience

Schedule: 8:00am–5:00pm; willing and able to work evenings or weekends as necessary

Location: Athens Area, University of Georgia

Proposed Starting Date: 12/01/2025

Open Until Filled: Yes

Retirement Plan: TRS or ORP

FLSA: Exempt

Full/Part Time: 100% (FTE 1.000)

Benefits Eligibility: Benefits Eligible

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a related field, or equivalent professional experience, with a minimum of two years’ experience in graphic design—preferably within a relevant industry or agency environment
• A strong and diverse portfolio showcasing proficiency in branding, print design, digital design, typography, text hierarchy, and other relevant design work. Experience working within brand guidelines
• Demonstrated experience working in the core Adobe Creative Suite design software
• Experience in working with print vendors
• Experience creating motion graphics in After Effects or Adobe Express a plus
• Knowledge of CSS, JavaScript, or other web programming a plus
• Some photography experience is a plus

Position Summary

This position reports to the Creative Director who leads the visual identity for all of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) and works closely with other Creative Design Specialists within the DARCOMM department. The role provides graphic design for clients and units within DAR across multiple communication mediums including web, social media platforms, digital advertising, signage, photography, promotional items, illustration, animation, products, events, environmental design, and print products such as mailers, invitations, and magazines. The position also assists in the development and execution of marketing and communication strategies and serves as a lead to design staff on larger design projects. The role ensures all design work complies with the visual identity and branding of the University of Georgia and the Division of Development and Alumni Relations.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

• Self-starter who can work independently as well as in a team environment
• Demonstrates initiative and accountability throughout all stages of project development and delivery
• Strong time management and organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines
• Ability to collaborate with others and enlist buy-in from different groups
• Demonstrates a commitment to outstanding service
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) and other design software as applicable
• Solid understanding of design principles, including layout, color theory, typography, text hierarchy, and composition
• Experience with image/photo editing and retouching
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate ideas and collaborate with clients and team members
• Creative problem‑solving abilities with a track record of providing innovative design solutions
• Adaptability to new design trends, technologies, and industry changes
• Professionalism, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-caliber work
• Ability to be consistently receptive to feedback or edits and to maintain a solution‑focused approach
• Exhibits behavior that supports the mission, vision, and values of the University of Georgia
• Communicates and employs interpersonal actions that model high standards of professional, responsible, accountable, and ethical conduct

Additional Division Expectations

• Through open, honest, and respectful communication, all staff, supervisors, and colleagues of the Division of Development & Alumni Relations interact with fairness, compassion, and decency. All employees will be held accountable for meeting the expectation of promoting a stable, productive, and healthy work environment.
• Adherence to CASE standards and commonly accepted industry standards relating to fundraising reporting are expected of all fundraisers.

Physical Demands

• Some after‑hours work and/or traveling may be required
• Work in a standard office environment
• Sit and work at a computer workstation for extended periods of time
• Work using electronic communications, telephone, face‑to‑face discussions, paper‑form correspondence
• Communicate effectively in writing, speaking, and listening
• Organize and establish priorities; remember detail; multi‑task
• Lift and/or move up to 20 pounds
• Walk, stand, stoop, lift, kneel, climb

Classification Title

Graphic Designer I

FLSA Status

Exempt

EEO Policy Statement

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, 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 at hrweb@uga.edu.

USG Core Values Statement

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as 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.

Recruitment Contact

Name: Development & Alumni Relations’ Office of Talent Management

Email: dartalent@uga.edu