Graphic Designer

Associated Students (A.S.) is dedicated to supporting and representing the students of San José State University. The Graphic Designer will develop and execute visually compelling design projects for both print and digital media, enhancing A.S. programs and services through innovative design solutions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and design marketing materials for print and digital media, including posters, flyers, brochures, banners, annual reports, promotional giveaways, and branded merchandise
• Create digital-first content such as social media graphics, animated advertisements, GIFs, motion-based designs, and other interactive media
• Assist in brand identity development by ensuring consistency in typography, color schemes, and design language across all A.S. materials
• Collaborate closely with Marketing & Communications Manager, Multimedia Assistant, Web & Social Media Assistant, and Marketing Coordinator to execute cross-platform marketing campaigns
• Utilize emerging AI-powered design tools (e.g., Adobe Firefly, Adobe AI Generative Tools, MidJourney, Canva AI, and other platforms as applicable) to streamline workflow efficiency
• Maintain awareness of print production processes, including pre-press preparation, proofing, and working with vendors. (Print production knowledge is preferred but not required, as training will be provided.)
• Manage multiple projects efficiently while meeting deadlines and addressing feedback from A.S. staff, student leaders, and campus partners
• Stay up to date with current industry trends, marketing psychology, and Gen Z audience engagement strategies
• Participate in staff meetings and professional development training

Skills

• Must be a matriculated SJSU student in good academic standing
• Pursuing a degree in Graphic Design, Animation/Illustration, Digital Media, Marketing, Communication, or a related field
• Candidates must be able to provide examples of their best work that demonstrate expertise in both print and digital media, along with a solid foundation in graphic design principles, typography, and layout
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Premiere Pro, After Effects)
• Familiarity with Figma, Canva, CapCut, and other industry-standard tools for both print and digital design
• Ability to practice branding and creative strategy, contributing to the development of marketing campaigns and creative problem-solving initiatives
• Knowledge of social media trends, platform-specific design best practices, and content strategy for platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and LinkedIn
• Strong conceptual and critical thinking skills to translate marketing needs into effective visual storytelling
• Excellent time management and multitasking abilities, with a keen eye for detail
• Capacity to work effectively in a collaborative environment, including taking direction and incorporating feedback constructively
• Cultural competency and inclusivity in design, ensuring visuals are accessible and representative of SJSU's diverse student population
• Print production knowledge is preferred but not required, as training will be provided
• Basic understanding of UX/UI (User Experience/User Interface) design principles and accessibility compliance (ADA, WCAG). (Not required, as training will be provided, but familiarity is a plus.)
• Experience in social media design, branding, and motion graphics is highly desirable
• Prior freelance, internship, or student organization design experience is beneficial but not required

Benefits

• Part-time work hours are Monday through Friday, between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, with flexibility based on academic schedules. (Flexibility is earned through consistent good work and prompt deliverables.)
• The position allows for hybrid work opportunities when appropriate, determined by project needs and work performance.
• Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed.
• Weekly Department Meetings: Fridays (schedule may adjust based on team availability)
• Marketing Department Staff Training: Bi-semester professional development sessions (dates TBD and communicated in advance)
• CMEG Student Assistant Training: Full-day orientation sessions for all CMEG department student staff (CCCAC, Marketing, Events, Garden)
• All Associated Students employees must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 no later than September 30, 2021, unless they are exempt from this requirement because an exemption has been granted based on a medical contraindication or sincerely held religious beliefs.
• A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily after a conditional offer of employment. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect a conditional offer of employment.
• A.S. provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities who self-disclose.

Company Overview