Graphic Designer

Lenoir-Rhyne University seeks a dynamic and highly skilled Graphic Designer to join our marketing and communications team. This position plays a pivotal role designing and executing innovative marketing materials that effectively energize, steward and communicate the Lenoir-Rhyne brand across print and digital platforms.

The Graphic Designer is responsible for leading the creative process from concept through completion and is passionate about translating strategic ideas into compelling creative executions. The position collaborates closely with marketing and communications colleagues and project manager to develop design solutions that energize and elevate LR’s brand presence, driving engagement with key audiences including prospective and current students, parents, alumni, donors, faculty, staff and the broader community.

Key Responsibilities

• Design original university marketing materials from concept to final execution, ensuring adherence to Lenoir-Rhyne’s visual identity and brand standards.
• Collaborate with the marketing and communications team and institutional clients to develop creative solutions that enhance the university’s image and promote key initiatives.
• Develop high-impact print materials including brochures, booklets, flyers, postcards, ads, one-sheets, posters, banners, newsletters and event collateral.
• Serve as the lead designer for "Profile," the university’s bi-annual alumni magazine, and "Southern Bulletin," Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary’s bi-annual newsletter; overseeing the creative direction, layout and production to ensure each publication reflects brand identity while engaging its audiences.
• Create engaging digital assets for emails, social media and other platforms.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, maintaining design excellence while ensuring adherence to deadlines.
• Ensure all designs reflect Lenoir-Rhyne’s values, mission and institutional goals.
• Review designs submitted through the university’s licensing portal and digital signage ensuring compliance with brand standards and providing recommendations and guidance for submissions not meeting standards.
• Route files and communication through the department project management system and work closely with the marketing and communications office’s project manager for all projects as per established processes.
• Provide guidance to campus units and departments on university branding and design guidelines.
• Assign, monitor and provide training to student employees.
• Keep up to date and informed of design trends and industry best practices
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of professional graphic design experience with a proven track record of success in both print and digital mediums.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat, etc.) and other design software. Familiarity working with Mac computers. 
• Deep understanding of fundamental design principles, including typography, color theory and layout. A keen eye for selecting appropriate fonts, mastering visual hierarchy and maintaining consistent branding.
• Demonstrated excellence in creative concept development, visual communication and execution.
• Strong understanding of marketing strategies and how visual design can enhance storytelling and engagement.
• Extensive experience with the full printing process, including traditional and digital printing methods, offset printing and reviewing printer proofs to ensure high-quality output. Familiarity with designing for apparel, swag and merchandise, including knowledge of screen printing, embroidery and other production techniques to ensure designs are adapted effectively for various mediums and materials.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meeting tight deadlines while maintaining high-quality design standards.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail and design integrity.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism and discretion.
• Demonstrated planning and exceptional organizational skills.
• Excellent customer service and leadership skills.
• Experience working within a university or similar environment is a plus.

This is an exciting opportunity for a creative professional to have a lasting impact on the Lenoir-Rhyne University brand and bring design expertise to a vibrant academic community. 

• Department: Marketing and Communications
• Division: Advancement
• Reports: Associate Vice President for Marketing and Communications

This is an fully onsite position at our campus in Hickory, North Carolina. 

Apply

Submit a resume, cover letter and a link to a professional portfolio showcasing design work.