What are the responsibilities and job description for the Junior Graphic Designer, Office of Communications and Marketing - UTK position at The University of Tennessee?
Job Description
The Office of Communications and Marketing at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville is currently seeking applications for a junior graphic designer to join our dynamic creative team. Our team manages the university's visual brand identity and editorial guidelines. The junior graphic designer assists in creating visual assets and designs various collateral for print, digital, and multimedia applications that work within the established brand guidelines. This role offers the chance to develop your skills while contributing to impactful projects that reflect the university's mission, vision, and values.
UT is the state's flagship research university, a campus of choice for outstanding undergraduates, and a premier graduate institution. As a land-grant university, the institution fulfills its access mission through a commitment to excellence in learning, scholarship, and engagement.
The Office of Communications and Marketing is dedicated to advancing the university's reputation. Staff members support the institution's mission and goals, promote its successes and achievements, inform and engage its stakeholders, and ensure the integrity of its brand. We craft audience-focused communications based on data, best-practices, and emerging trends.
The division comprises several cross-functional teams, employing more than 50 full-time professionals with expertise in design, development, video production, content strategy, feature writing, editing, marketing, media relations, internal communication, and special events.
Responsibilities
Creates high-quality graphics and visual designs for smaller-scale projects, such as internal communications, social media assets, and event-specific materials.Applies existing brand guidelines to produce design deliverablesLearns and applies industry standards and best practices to create cohesive and effective designs.Adapts and applies designs to specified formats and platform requirements, ensuring quality and adherence to brand standards.Expands upon or adds to library of existing brand assetsActively participates and contributes ideas in brainstorming and ideation sessions, Works collaboratively with team members and stakeholders to understand project goals and requirements.Receives and incorporates feedback on design work, using revisions as opportunities to learn and improve.Develops skills in presenting and explaining design concepts and solutions in a professional setting.Assists with additional tasks as needed to support team operations and further enhance technical and creative skills (eg. photoshoots, print production, etc.)Qualifications
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Required
Willingness and ability to learn and follow established brand guidelines.Foundational knowledge of industry-standard design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Figma).Basic understanding of best practices in print and digital communication, with an eagerness to deepen expertise.Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a focus on presenting ideas and receiving feedback constructively.Works independently as well as under guidance from senior team membersDisplays adaptability and maintains focus when working under time constraints or on deadlines.Ability to assist with and manage multiple projects, prioritizing tasks with support and oversight as needed.Preferred
This position will support creative work applied across various channels. Basic exposure or introductory knowledge in one or more of the following areas is beneficial, with opportunities to develop further on the job :
Print : Familiarity with basic print processes, file preparation, and production techniques.Digital : Understanding of fundamental digital design principles, responsive layouts, or beginner knowledge of CSS and UX / UI concepts.Multimedia : Interest or basic experience in video production, photography, or related tools (e.g., Adobe Premiere, Lightroom, After Effects).Qualifications
Required :
High School Diploma and at least 2 years professional experience in Graphic Design or related field; orAssociate's Degree and at least 1 year of professional experience in Graphic Design or related field; orBachelor's degree
Salary
The hiring range for this position is MR08. Salary is dependent on qualifications and experience.
About Us
With over 225 years dedicated to education and research, and as one of the 100 largest employers in Tennessee, there is endless potential to discover at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. This advanced academic center comprises 17 degree-granting colleges and schools, 900 programs of study, 547 graduate programs, and is home to over 7,500 employees statewide who support the continued growth of the state's flagship land-grant university. The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Anthropological Research Facility, Space Institute, and the UT Institute of Public Service are acclaimed entities of the UT system and with nearby affiliate, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Rocky Top is a university on the rise. UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset and with values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovative leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices that attract and retain a diverse community and that support a culture where everyone matters and belongs. Apply today and join the Vol Family for life!
Ranked nationally as "Best Employer for New Graduates", "One of America's Best Large Employers", "Best Workplace for Women," and has been designated as "Best Place for Working Parents" by Forbes Magazine.
