Graphic Design Specialist

This position is responsible for providing design services and support to the department’s Field and Campaigns unit, as well as other projects as assigned.  This includes developing and designing print and digital assets for AFSCME’s priority campaigns and initiatives. Assets include digital ads, landing pages, social media, electronic signage, motion graphics, logos, print design for leaflets, mailers, brochures and more.

Duties:

• Designs digital and print assets, including social media content, short videos, infographics, micro-sites, leaflets, brochures, direct mail pieces and other communications collateral for organizing, political, legislative and other priority campaigns.
• Designs creative assets for online ad campaigns, including web banners.
• Stays up to date on specifications for different ad types and platforms and current trends and best practices for effective online ad creative.
• Improves existing graphics and images for campaigns, including making suggestions, providing updated images and designs, and implementing approved changes as instructed.
• Assists in building a repository of campaign content and designs that can be easily modified by staff on the ground.
• Assists with editing field campaign videos.
• Consults with originating field staff requesting artwork to discuss logistics, methods of production, budgetary, scheduling and production requirements.
• Ensures effective use of AFSCME brand and latest research in creative content.
• Works alongside the graphics unit and supports additional design needs assigned by the Assistant Director of Visual communications.
• Works closely with the Assistant Director of Field and Campaigns on field priorities; as well as the field communications team to explore and execute creative solutions to elevate issues related to priority campaigns.
• Participates in weekly field communications team meetings to review messaging needs.

REQUIREMENTS:

Education and Experience

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with degree in graphic design, communications, motion graphics or related field.
• A minimum of three (3) years of experience in advocacy communications campaigns and design work, or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience & Skill Requirements:

• Progressively responsible experience in graphic design or front-end web development, content development and online communications related to advocacy or campaign work.
• Thorough knowledge of digital design, art design and layout; demonstrated experience in the use of advanced graphic design hardware and software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects and XD.
• Proven ability to work across multiple operating system platforms, including mobile. 
• Adaptability and ability to absorb and gather new information on deadline and turn around projects quickly and effectively under pressure.
• Advanced level of English language proficiency, with a good grasp of grammar and attention to detail; ability to copy edit in accordance with AP style guidelines.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to function well as part of a team, and equally comfortable performing solo tasks.
• The ideal candidate will have an eye for efficiency, with the capability of working with reusable content blocks, tags and other common Content Management System features.
• Electoral campaign, issue advocacy, or public policy experience strongly preferred.
• Performs other duties as assigned in support of departmental and organizational objectives.

Preferred Skills/Experience:

• Familiarity with Facebook Ads Manager.
• Familiarity with creating videos using editing software, such as Adobe Premiere.
• Professional language proficiency in Spanish preferred.

Extended Hours and Travel:

• Travel and extended work hours including weekend work required.
• A valid driver’s license is required.