Graphic Designer II

Job Summary: The Graphic Designer II creates and implements moderately-complex graphic design projects for a department or the University under moderate supervision. Produces graphic designs and illustrations using computer and traditional methods. Formats and edits text. Prepares layouts and specifications for pre-print publications and other promotional media. May provide guidance and training to entry-level Graphic Designers.

Additional Department Summary: Supports the Division for Research’s visual communication and brand strategy by creating accessible, audience-centered materials for digital and print channels. Designs web and email graphics, social media content, publications, presentations, signage, event materials and other communications using established university brand standards. Translates research information, data and institutional impact into clear visual communications. Develops templates and visual standards that strengthen the division's visual identity while improving consistency and efficiency across recurring communications. Produces visual materials for major research proposals, executive communications and other high-priority strategic initiatives. Collaborates with division leadership, research institutes and communications colleagues to develop effective visual solutions for a range of audiences and objectives.

Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and two (2) years of art, commercial art, graphic design, or visual communication experience; OR master's degree and some art, commercial art, graphic design, or visual communication experience.

Skills and Knowledge: Excellent visual, written and verbal communication skills. Strong command of typography, layout, composition, color and brand application. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud, particularly InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator. Ability to translate complex information, data and research concepts into clear, audience-appropriate visual formats. Knowledge of web design principles and digital accessibility standards. Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in graphic design, fine arts or a related field and three (3) or more years of professional graphic design experience. Experience designing in a higher education, research, science communication or related setting. Ability to provide a strong design portfolio.

Background Investigation Statement: Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.

Equal Employment Opportunity: The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment or volunteer status without regard to any legally protected basis and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases.

The University of Alabama affirms its longstanding commitment to institutional neutrality, free speech, and academic freedom.

Organization

The University of Alabama embodies an academic community that demands excellence in teaching, research and service and provides an inclusive, nurturing environment for the discovery of knowledge and the development of well-rounded leaders. Founded in 1831 as Alabama's first public college and known as the Capstone of Higher Education, UA provides a premier undergraduate and graduate education built upon global engagement, high-quality scholarship, outstanding teaching, and diversity and inclusivity throughout the community.

Our Mission

The University of Alabama will advance the intellectual and social condition of the people of the state, the nation and the world through the creation, translation and dissemination of knowledge with an emphasis on quality programs in the areas of teaching, research and service.

Our Vision

The University of Alabama will be known as the university of choice for the best and brightest students in Alabama, and all students who seek exceptional educational opportunities. The University of Alabama will be a student-centered research university and an academic community united in its commitment to enhance the quality of life for all Alabamians and the citizens of the nation and the world.

Our Core Values

The University of Alabama is committed to:

• Undergraduate education that produces socially-conscious, ethical and well-rounded leaders who are grounded in their subject matter and capable of controlling their own destinies.
• Graduate education that is deeply vested in subject matter knowledge, professional content, research skills and creative activity.
• Public outreach and service that is held in the highest regard and fosters impactful public engagement to enhance the quality of life for the citizens of Alabama, the nation and the world.
• Campus life that embodies collaboration, collegiality, respect and a culture of inclusivity.

Our Strategic Goals

• Provide a premier undergraduate and graduate education that offers a global perspective and is characterized by outstanding teaching, high-quality scholarship and distinctive curricular and co-curricular programs. Increase the University’s productivity and innovation in research, scholarship and creative activities that impact economic and societal development.
• Enrich our learning and work environment by providing an accepting, inclusive community that attracts and supports a diverse faculty, staff and student body.
• Provide opportunities and resources that facilitate work-life balance and enhance the recruitment and retention of outstanding faculty and staff.