Graphic Designer, Marketing and Communications Job at University of Colorado Bou

Graphic Designer, Marketing and Communications

Join to apply for the Graphic Designer, Marketing and Communications role at University of Colorado Boulder.

Overview

The CU Advancement Marketing and Communications Division seeks a highly creative and technically skilled Graphic Designer to develop compelling digital and print media that supports the university's branding, fundraising, alumni relations, and communication goals. This position requires a strong design aesthetic, a storytelling approach, and a proven track record of producing polished multimedia assets across print and digital platforms. The designer will be a key member of a collaborative marketing and communications team within the Office of Advancement, partnering with colleagues across the university to deliver visually engaging, strategy-aligned work that supports fundraising and engagement goals.

Responsibilities

• Produce and be responsible for creative solutions from concept to execution, across multiple platforms and formats.
• Visually communicate mission, goals and brand identity across digital channels (websites, social media, email) and print materials (signage, brochures, reports, event programs, proposals, packaging and merchandise).
• Present work and creative rationale to colleagues.
• Generate creative concepts and collaborate with the Advancement Marketing and Communications team, including editors, writers, visual designers, content developers, photographers and videographers to work on multi-platform and integrated marketing and communication plans.
• Build assets for digital channels like email, web and social media.
• Participate in group critiques to support consistent and best-in-class creative work.
• Collaborate with various departments and team members on concept, art direction, and production; work with outside vendors to meet production timelines.
• Supervise and mentor a student designer, helping grow professional skills and establish productive workflows.
• Help support Advancement’s digital asset management system, including building editable templates and uploading assets as needed; coordinate with central marketing and communications and unit teams to ensure brand consistency.
• Stay up to date with industry trends and tools; represent the team in meetings and initiatives.

What You Should Know

• This role is in a hybrid work situation, with a mix of on-campus and remote days.
• Occasional travel may be required based on business needs.

What We Can Offer

The salary range is $58,200 - $65,000 annually. Relocation assistance is available within Advancement guidelines.

Benefits

The University of Colorado offers benefits including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefits, and ECO Pass.

What We Require

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• 1 year of professional graphic design experience for both digital and print media, including:
• Experience presenting creative rationale to a range of partners.
• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams (writers, digital strategists, videographers, photographers).
• Software Proficiency: Microsoft Office, Zoom, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

What You Will Need

• Proficient knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite and relevant design/digital tools.
• Understanding of how marketing strategies inform creative concept development and output.
• Advanced design principles: typography, composition, hierarchy and color.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Negotiation and problem-solving abilities; proactive self-starter who can work independently and seek feedback.
• Ability to balance design details with high-level strategy; understanding of email, web and digital capabilities and processes.
• Team-oriented mindset with a focus on meeting project/partner needs.

What We Would Like You To Have

• Professional graphic design experience for both digital and print media.
• Experience in higher education or mission-driven organizations.
• Familiarity with UI/UX and digital accessibility standards.
• Working knowledge of HTML and CSS.
• Strong creative thinking and adaptability to new technologies.
• Experience managing brand design assets and systems.

Special Instructions

To Apply, Please Submit The Following Materials: a current resume; a cover letter describing how your background aligns with the requirements, qualifications, and responsibilities; a PDF sample of work/portfolio; and an optional link to an online portfolio. We may request references later. Please apply by October 6, 2025 for consideration. Application materials should be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs. Colorado Job Application Fairness Act guidance on redacting age-identifying information is provided in the materials.

Seniority level

• Entry level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Design, Art/Creative, Information Technology
• Industries: Higher Education

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