Creative Design Services Intermediate

Job Summary
The Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Michigan is seeking a creative and detail-oriented design professional to support and enhance the department’s marketing, communications, and brand strategy. This role will develop and execute a wide range of design projects across print, digital, web, audio, video, and photography platforms.

Key responsibilities include creating graphic designs, developing visual assets, guiding web design, producing creative imagery, selecting art and color themes, and maintaining the department’s graphic standards, techniques, and methods. The individual may also advise internal clients on identity, branding, and design standards and policies.

The successful candidate will use graphics software, web-based design tools, and other creative applications to produce high-quality materials that align with departmental and university standards. This position requires the application of design knowledge, theories, principles, and concepts gained through education, certification, professional experience, on-the-job training, or vocational training.

This role works with a limited degree of supervision and requires the ability to prioritize, organize, and make decisions related to assigned work in order to meet project objectives and deadlines. The individual will take initiative in analyzing design challenges, developing creative solutions, and addressing moderately complex or infrequently occurring problems. They will work to understand customer and stakeholder needs and identify solutions for non-standard requests.

The position may also serve as a resource or escalation point for less experienced employees, explain design-related information to others, and occasionally persuade stakeholders regarding creative direction or standards. Work performed in this role requires invention, imagination, originality, and talent in a recognized artistic or creative field. Primary responsibilities involve a high degree of creativity and broad latitude to develop original work products.

Responsibilities
50% - Graphic Design, Digital Media & Marketing Materials

Manage rotation and intake of digital signage (GGB screens) and design/update event
ews slides using established templates.

Fulfill design requests from faculty and staff (flyers, posters, presentations, web/digital assets) aligned with branding standards.

Serve as lead for longer-format videos for website and YouTube; plan, produce, and edit content, reducing reliance on freelancers as appropriate.

Capture department events and research/lab photography for communications use.

Refresh and maintain print collateral and digital templates annually; create new materials in partnership with the MarComm team.

Design and coordinate production of annual report (print/abbreviated) as needed (internal and/or external vendor).

Select branded swag items, coordinate with vendors for quotes/artwork, and maintain inventory documentation.

30% - Program/Unit Communications (ARC)

Write and pitch stories to College/CoE marketing & communications.

Manage ARC social media channels, including strategy, content calendar, photography/video, and post creation.

Assist with communications tied to events, speaking engagements, and the ARC annual review.

15% - Events & Internal Communications Support

Produce and distribute internal communications such as seminar announcements and monthly newsletters (content compilation, layout, and distribution).

Provide logistics and communications support for internal events (e.g., faculty/staff welcome-back), including planning coordination as needed.

5% - Event Coordination (as assigned; may include)

Support planning and logistics for selected department events such as endowed professorship events and annual lectures, and advisory board meetings.

Handle room reservations, catering, travel/hotel arrangements, and day‑of support.

Coordinate with stakeholders and stewardship as applicable.

Create event programs and printed materials.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in graphic design, visual communications, commercial art, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

2-3 years of professional design experience producing print and digital deliverables.

Proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign); ability to learn/update templates and follow brand standards.

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and work collaboratively with stakeholders.

Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third-party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

U‑M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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