Position Summary

The Visual Designer creates compelling, on-brand visual materials that support Dillard University’s mission, enhance its reputation, and advance strategic marketing and communications initiatives. This role requires a highly creative professional who can translate concepts into visually engaging designs across print, digital, and social media platforms. The Visual Designer collaborates closely with internal clients, university leadership, and the communications team to ensure a consistent and distinctive visual identity across all communications. The ideal candidate will also possess strong photography skills and provide photographic coverage for campus events and initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and design creative materials including flyers, brochures, reports, advertisements, social media graphics, web assets, and signage that align with Dillard University's brand standards.
• Collaborate with the Director of Communications and Marketing and other team members to develop visual concepts that support strategic campaigns and storytelling.
• Maintain and reinforce visual identity standards across all university communications and platforms.
• Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, ensuring high-quality results and timely delivery.
• Provide photography services for university events, marketing campaigns, and publications; edit and catalog photos for institutional use.
• Support the design and layout of university publications and digital newsletters.
• Work collaboratively with internal stakeholders—including academic departments, student affairs, and advancement—to produce creative materials that meet institutional goals.
• Assist with brand management and the development of templates and visual guidelines for campus partners.
• Stay current on design trends, technology, and best practices in higher education marketing and communications.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in graphic design, visual communications, or a related field required.
• Minimum of 3 years of professional design experience, preferably in higher education, marketing, or a creative agency environment.
• Demonstrated experience in photography and photo editing.

Skills and Competencies:

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Lightroom, and Premiere Pro or After Effects).
• Strong understanding of typography, color theory, and layout principles.
• Experience designing for both print and digital platforms, including responsive design for web and social media.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills; ability to interpret feedback and adapt designs accordingly.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to producing high-quality, polished work.
• Familiarity with branding and marketing strategy in higher education is a plus.

Working Conditions

• Standard office environment with occasional evening and weekend work to support university events.
• Some local travel for photography assignments and event coverage may be required.