Job Opening for Graphic Design Specialist in University of Akron (302 Buchtel Common, Akron, OH 44325)

Produce, coordinate and construct finished graphic design, artwork, illustration and photography for all promotional print material and electronic media to reinforce the University’s brand and enhance the University’s image.
Perform research and consult with clients to create and produce designs which are consistent with the image of the University and its brand. Respond to requests for support on additional assignments, including photographing campus functions and events. Working with clients on final job approval and maintaining quality control when collecting artwork and sending to printers for output. Assist Graphic Designer with administrative duties and general maintenance procedures for the office including organizing electronic art files on the server.
Work with the Graphic Designer to develop extensive printing specifications to contract outside vendors and solicit bids for producing major documents for the University. Develop and maintain strong working relationships with printers, photographers, illustrators, freelance artists and paper merchants to take advantage of new developments that would improve quality, speed and cost effectiveness. Attend press checks (as needed) for major documents for the University like the annual viewbook. Keep up with current graphic design trends.
Maintain relationships with University clients for the purpose of arranging production timelines for promotional or visual materials as well as relaying University and UCM standards, regulations and procedures.

Required Qualifications

Requires a relevant Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 2 years’ experience in promotional or advertising print materials and publication design. Excellent organizational and communication skills required. Familiarity with printing processes as well as a working knowledge of current graphic design software programs required. Ability to create original designs, execute artwork, conceptualize design layouts and coordinate final production of a finished product required. Must be able to manage multiple projects simultaneously, often with competing deadlines. Ability to work independently and as part of a team required.

Preferred Qualifications

Photography experience is preferred.

Compensation/Grade & Benefits

Competitive
The University of Akron offers a competitive total compensation package comprised of a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits for eligible employees including medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, life insurance, and paid leave of absences including time off for illness, vacation, and maternity or paternity leave. In addition, eligible employees and their dependents are provided tuition remission. All staff, contract professionals, and eligible non-bargaining unit faculty have the option to request a Flexible Work Arrangement (FWA). The University of Akron participates in state retirement systems and offers alternative retirement options with competitive employer contributions. Optional investment opportunities are available including deferred compensation programs (403(b) and 457(b). Please visit our benefits home page for more information.

About UA

The University of Akron is a vibrant community driven by collaboration, partnership and a steadfast determination to provide opportunity and success to all learners The University of Akron believes diversity is a vital element of an equitable and thriving workplace. A diverse workforce is essential as we strive to create a dynamic academic environment that prepares students to be citizens of the world around them, and as we deepen the value we place on our connection to the Greater Akron community.
We celebrate the power of uniqueness, and the strength that coalesces when unique voices are heard. We seek to empower employees to lead in their colleges, departments, offices and divisions. People of all backgrounds work on our campus every day, and we value the contribution of each individual in their commitment to a better University of Akron.
We welcome candidates who are passionate about shaping and inspiring the next generation of thinkers, experts, artists and leaders. Bound and determined to meet every challenge, we continue to climb, to forge new paths and reach new heights – and we want you to join us. Bring your voice. Bring your uniqueness. Bring you. We are Akron. We rise together.
For more information about The University of Akron or the Akron community please visit our About UA page.

Application Instructions

To apply for this position, you must complete the on-line application and attach a resume/curriculum vitae and a list of three professional references to your profile. Please include contact information, including email addresses for your professional references.

After submission of your application, return to the “My Activities” link and upload the required documents to your profile under the “Cover Letters and Attachments” section.

Applicants should fully describe their qualifications and experience with reference to the minimum and preferred qualifications. This is the information on which the initial review of materials will be based. A resume/curriculum vitae will not be accepted in place of any information requested on the application. For assistance with your application or attachments please call Judy Casserman, Human Resources at (330) 972-7097.

Application Deadline

March 29, 2022

Background Check Statement

The University of Akron is committed to providing a safe environment for all students and employees. The University endeavors to protect the health, welfare and safety of all students, employees and visitors on our campus. As such, all offers of employment with The University of Akron are contingent upon verification of credentials, proof of Covid-19 vaccination, and satisfactory completion of a criminal background check. Some positions may require additional credit investigation and a pre-employment driving record search.
New hires must present proof of COVID-19 vaccination, if vaccines are available and the employee is eligible, at time of hire. If a new employee is not fully vaccinated at the time of hire, the offer of employment will be contingent upon the employee becoming fully vaccinated within 60 days of hire, unless a qualifying medical or religious exemption is granted.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Akron, as an equal education and employment institution, is committed to achieving a diverse and inclusive workforce. All qualified individuals in its education programs or activities, including applicants for admissions or employment, will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, genetic information, military status or status as a veteran. To further this commitment, the University complies with state and federal laws which prohibit discrimination. Questions or concerns about the administration of this commitment can be directed to the University’s Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Office (uakron.edu/hr/eeoaa).
The University also strives to provide an environment free from the negative impacts of gender-based discrimination and harassment as prohibited by Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972. Questions about Title IX can be referred to the University’s Title IX Coordinator, the Assistant Secretary for the U.S. Department of Education or both. For more information on Title IX at the University of Akron, including how to contact the Title IX Coordinator, how to file a complaint under Title IX with the University or the Title IX process at the University of Akron, please visit the University’s Title IX page at uakron.edu/title-ix/at-uakron.