Graphic Design Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

A graphic designer is responsible for creating design solutions that have a high visual impact. The role involves listening to clients and understanding their needs before making design decisions.

Their designs are required for a huge variety of products and activities, such as websites, advertising, books, magazines, posters, signage, vehicles, product packaging, exhibitions and displays, corporate communications and corporate identity, i.e. giving organizations a visual 'brand'.

The work demands creative flair, up-to-date knowledge of industry software, and a professional approach to time, costs and deadlines.

A graphic designer works to a brief agreed with the client, creative director, or account manager. They develop creative ideas and concepts, choosing the appropriate media and style to meet the client's objectives.

Typical work activities:

A graphic designer's job may involve managing more than one design brief at a time and allocating the relevant amount of time according to the value of the job.

Typical activities include:

• meeting clients or account managers to discuss the business objectives and requirements of the job
• interpreting the client's business needs and developing a concept to suit its purpose
• estimating the time required to complete the work and providing quotes for clients
• developing design briefs by gathering information and data through research
• thinking creatively to produce new ideas and concepts
• using innovation to redefine a design brief within the constraints of cost and time
• presenting finalized ideas and concepts to clients or account managers
• working with a wide range of media, including photography and computer-aided design (CAD)
• proofreading to produce accurate and high-quality work
• contributing ideas and design artwork to the overall brief
• demonstrating illustrative skills with rough sketches
• working on layouts and art working pages ready for print
• keeping abreast of emerging technologies in new media, particularly design programs such as InDesign, QuarkXPress, FreeHand, Illustrator, Photoshop, 3ds Max, Acrobat, Director, Dreamweaver, Corel Draw and Flash
• developing interactive design
• working as part of a team with printers, copywriters, photographers, stylists, illustrators, other designers, account executives, web developers and marketing specialist
• Education:

An associate’s degree (in a related field) preferred but not necessary, related experience and/or training with a proven track record of success, or an equivalent combination of education and experience; strong mechanical aptitude and a focus on continuous learning.