Visual Communications Designer

Job Summary

The Visual Communications Designer works under the general direction of the Associate Director of Creative Services and supports the design of multi-platform communications that promote the university. This role develops creative solutions across print and digital media, including time-based and motion design projects. Responsibilities include designing layouts, preparing production-ready materials, and coordinating production for short-, medium-, and long-term projects. The Visual Communications Designer collaborates closely with members of the creative team to plan, organize, and deliver projects that support university marketing and communications goals. While the position includes a variety of design assignments across the university environment, it has a strong emphasis on motion graphics and time-based visual storytelling.
Key Responsibilities

Develop design concepts by researching project information and materials; create layouts for art and copy; present draft concepts for approval; and prepare final production-ready designs.
Design visual materials—including charts, graphs, diagrams, and motion graphics—for use in presentations, videos, events, and other communications.
Select and apply appropriate visual elements, including imagery, typography, and layout styles, ensuring alignment with university brand standards and communication goals.
Consult with campus clients to understand project objectives, audiences, and messaging needs, and develop design solutions that effectively support those goals.
Test and review presentation or time-based outputs to ensure quality, functionality, and client satisfaction.
Assist in developing, documenting, and presenting design and production standards that support consistent visual communications across the university.
Contribute to the development and organization of campus visual resources and digital asset libraries.
Recommend improvements to creative workflows, file management practices, and production processes.
Assist with print and environmental production specifications, including preparing materials for cost estimates and vendor quotes.
Under the guidance of the Associate Director of Creative Services or Senior Designer/Art Director, provide creative direction to student assistants, designers, photographers, or other contributors as assigned.
Conduct vendor or printer checks as needed to ensure quality control of final output.
Participate in occasional evening or weekend work when required to support production schedules or events.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Extensive knowledge of communications and graphic design theory, typography, color, tone, shading, harmony, and layout principles
Advanced skills in graphic art, illustration, motion graphics, animation timing, and integrated print/digital/motion media
Strong ability to conceptualize, design, and execute complementary materials across print, web, video, and emerging technologies
Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (including After Effects), presentation software (PowerPoint, Prezi), and interactive technologies, including file formats, peripheral software, and graphics delivery
Knowledge of production techniques, vendor services, and processes for print, broadcast, compressed video, and web content
Thorough understanding of copyright laws and Section 508 accessibility standards
Ability to implement art direction, manage post-production processes, and adapt creative concepts in response to feedback or evolving project requirements
Strong skills in project planning, organization, and budget management; ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines with minimal supervision
Strong consultative and persuasive skills, including presenting branding and design concepts to clients and partners
Demonstrated professionalism, sound judgment, flexibility, and composure under pressure
Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree and/or equivalent, in graphic design, fine arts, or a related field of study
Three years of full-time experience with graphic application and publishing tools
Preferred Qualifications

BFA in Design or related field
Two to five years in an institution or creative agency
Time-based (AI), presentation and video editing experience
Experience creating graphic resource or pattern library and its many applications and uses
Compensation

Classification: Graphic Designer III
Anticipated Hiring Range: $6,236/month - $6,750/month (Step 4 - Step 8)
CSU Salary Range: $5,877/month - $8,561/month (Step 1 - Step 20)
San Jose State University offers employees a comprehensive benefits package typically worth 30-35% of your base salary. For more information on programs available, please see the Employee Benefits Summary.
Equal Employment Statement

San Jose State University is an equal opportunity employer. The university prohibits discrimination based on age, ancestry, caste, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military status, nationality, race, religion, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, sex stereotype, and veteran status. This policy applies to all San Jose State University students, faculty, and staff, as well as university programs and activities. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and certain other federal and state laws, prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex in all education programs and activities operated by the university (both on and off campus). Reasonable accommodation is made for applicants with disabilities who self‑disclose. San Jose State University employees are considered mandated reporters under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and are required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.

#J-18808-Ljbffr