ASCD is hiring: Sr. Graphics Designer in Arlington

POSITION SUMMARY The Sr. Graphics Designer shapes and maintains ASCD+ISTE's visual identity. This role is instrumental in positioning the organization's brand and visual identity as a leader in the education space. The position oversees the design of all programs, products, services, and marketing materials, ensuring they meet the highest industry standards for creativity, accuracy, consistency, and appearance.SALARY - $75,000HYBRID/REMOTE: Must be able to travel into the Arlington, VA, office 1-2 days per week.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIESLead the creative development of high-priority programs, products, services, marketing, and communication projects.Translate business strategy, audience needs, and digital/print capabilities into visually engaging products and marketing campaigns.Develop and maintain the organization's visual identity and brand across all platforms.Manage, mentor, and develop the design team, fostering a culture of high performance and innovation.Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop marketing plans, identify UX improvements, analyze results, and identify opportunities.Oversee the design phase of projects, including visual concepts, layout, illustration, photo selection, and file preparation for print, digital, and web use.Ensure all design outputs are suited for a range of audiences and mediums, adapting styles as needed for high school-focused challenges, professional development products, and more.Create innovative design solutions using state-of-the-art computer graphics software and hardware, including AI-generated art.Manage freelance designers, photographers, and illustrators as needed.Stay current with emerging design, computer, and printing technologies.Analyze brand tracking, market trends, consumer needs, and the competitive landscape.Manage resources across engagements based on short- and long-term needs.TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTSExperience (at least at an intermediate level) with the following types of software/tools:Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)Figma/Sketch for UI/UX workMotion design tools like After EffectsAI tools like Midjourney, Firefly, etc.ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTSWell-versed in design for both print and digital, including catalog covers and other standard projects.Capable of managing executive expectations, including working directly with the CEO and Executive Team, collecting feedback, clearly articulating design rationale, and incorporating feedback into future designs.Skilled in designing for different mediums and audiences, including AI-based designs for younger audiences and refined imagery for professional products. The ability to adapt to different styles across varied project needs is essential.QUALIFICATIONSKnowledgeBachelor’s degree in graphic design or related fieldExpert knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, prototyping tools (e.g., Figma, Adobe XD), and presentation tools (e.g., PowerPoint, Google Slides)Preferred knowledge of Generative AI platforms (Midjourney and Firefly) and the ability to create custom illustrations and original artStrong understanding of UX/UI best practices and trendsIn-depth knowledge of graphic design theories, techniques, and state-of-the-art print production methodsWorking knowledge of photography, illustration, and basic web codingThorough understanding of online publishing techniques and interactive/motion and video designSkills and AbilitiesExcellent leadership, communication, and project management skillsAbility to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environmentStrong creative and innovative artistic talentAbility to translate complex ideas into compelling visual solutionsExcellent organizational and time management skillsAbility to mentor and develop team membersStrong problem-solving and decision-making skillsAbility to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and be flexible and approachableCritical Success Factors / Leadership AttributesMust be able to create value for the organization.Possess the ability to make meaning by keeping others well-informed on the big issues.Applies learning by seeking new learning from various disciplines and addressing obstacles immediately and directly.Recognizes the importance of acting together by encouraging imagination and creating opportunities for others to step up and contribute.Executes accountability by creating clear plans to achieve goals and monitoring hours, costs, progress, and results.Continuously reinvents by demonstrating the ability to change.Leads by setting a personal example of authenticity and inspiring others to follow.Experience7+ years of graphic design experience3+ years in a creative direction or management roleExperience in both print and digital design, including web and mobile platformsProven track record of developing and maintaining brand identitiesExperience managing budgets and resources for creative projectsExperience with marketing and advertising campaigns across various channelsWORK ENVIRONMENTMust be able to travel into the Arlington, VA, office 1-2 days per week.Normal demands are associated with a deadline-driven office environment.The noise level is generally quiet to moderate.Daily contact with external customers, vendors, colleagues, associates, supervisors, and staff at all levels of the organization.PHYSICAL DEMANDSAbility to remain at a desk for extended periods.Ability to communicate and exchange information with others.Ability to perceive and inspect records in a document management system.Ability to travel to off-site meetings up to 5%.