Graphic Design Specialist

Starting placement will generally not exceed 15% of the advertised initial salary range and is based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity.

This position uses all forms of visual communications, design theory, and multimedia to promote, market, and further develop the Leon County Public Library’s programs and services. Work involves designing marketing materials, from printed collateral to social media graphics  to digital advertisements, with opportunities to lead and support multimedia web and video projects. The position must use various Adobe Creative Cloud applications to create engaging designs and layouts, and must also manage time-sensitive projects and deliverables associated with effectively communicating the value of Leon County Government. All creative work and design will be performed with a team of communications experts who are driven to exceed all expectations.
 
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Designs and creates Leon County marketing collateral used to promote library programs and services. Designs collateral (flyers, posters, brochures, booklets), digital and online advertisements, and effective, eye-catching social media posts for all County platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, et cetera).

Assists in fulfilling Community and Media Relations' photography responsibilities. Takes photos using professional DSLR camera at events during and (occasionally) outside work hours. Selects the best photos from each photo assignment. As needed, edits photos for color, clarity, exposure, et cetera, using Adobe Lightroom. Uploads selected, processed photos to LeonPhotos.org.
 
Coordinates with local print and design vendors to meet deadlines and expectations of County leadership. Place detailed orders for basic marketing collateral (flyers, posters, brochures, booklets). Review final proofs provided by print vendors. Order specialty products like promotional items, interior and exterior signage, banners, et cetera. Coordinate with vendors off-site, such as in preparation for a signage installation.

Coordinates with communications experts to maintain visual consistency with the County's brand identity. Assistant in monitoring the usage of the Leon County seal and Leon County photos in documents, presentations, and elsewhere to ensure representation is of the highest quality.

Maintains awareness of graphic design principles, technological developments, and emerging library trends. Attend training sessions and webinars to keep informed of developments in graphic design, web technology, and library services.

OTHER IMPORTANT OR MARGINAL DUTIES
None.

 All Leon County employees (regular full-time and part-time, OPS, and PRN) are required to work before, during and after a Declared Local State of Emergency (DLSOE). Participation is considered a condition of employment. 
DIFFICULTY
Work requires decisions that focus on day-to-day activities within the County. Decisions made at this level help to ensure that daily activities proceed smoothly and therefore help to move the County toward reaching a strategic goal. They have short-term consequences.
 
RESPONSIBILITY:
Supervision Received
The supervisor sets the overall objectives and resources available. Supervisor and employee, in consultation, develop deadlines, projects, and work to be done. The employee plans and carries out the assignment, resolves most of the conflicts, coordinates work with others and interprets policy on own initiative. The employee keeps the supervisor informed of progress, potentially controversial matters, or far-reaching implications. Employee must be highly autonomous.
 
Supervision of Others
None.
 
INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL CUSTOMER CONTACT
Employee interacts with internal library staff to complete assigned tasks.
 
EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS USED
Tools and equipment used are personal computer, word processing software, spreadsheet software, and specialized software that includes Adobe Creative Cloud, HTML, and CSS.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Employee will work primarily indoors, mainly at a desk, usually seated in a chair. Must be able to remain in a stationary position at a desk and/or computer for extended periods of time.  Must be able to lift/push/pull in excess of 20 pounds.  
 
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Knowledge of creative and visual design principles, such as negative space, alignment, margins and bleed, color coordination, and color space specifications; Knowledge of desktop publishing techniques and practices, print layout and production and digital design; Knowledge of photography techniques and practices; Knowledge of the principles and techniques of public relations, public information, mass communications, journalism, news reporting, editing, advertising, or marketing; Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with others; Ability to follow through on assignments with attention to detail; Ability to make independent judgement in the absence of supervisor; Ability to maintain a courteous and professional demeanor while interacting with customers.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Requires a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Communications, Public Relations or a related field and two years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. 

Necessary Special Requirements:

None. 

Selection Guidelines:

Formal application,  rating of education and experience, oral interview, reference check, and drug testing.

FLSA STATUS:  Exempt.  Duties generally meet the administrative/creative professional exemptions. Essential duties require employee to exercise discretion and independent judgment though decisions are reviewed by a higher level.