The Office of Communications and Marketing at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville is currently seeking applications for a junior graphic designer to join our dynamic creative team. Our team manages the university’s visual brand identity and editorial guidelines. The junior graphic designer assists in creating visual assets and designs various collateral for print, digital, and multimedia applications that work within the established brand guidelines. This role offers the chance to develop your skills while contributing to impactful projects that reflect the university’s mission, vision, and values.

Required

Education:

• High School Diploma and at least 2 years professional experience in Graphic Design or related field; or

• Associate's Degree and at least 1 year of professional experience in Graphic Design or related field; or

• Bachelor’s degree

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Willingness and ability to learn and follow established brand guidelines.
• Foundational knowledge of industry-standard design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Figma).
• Basic understanding of best practices in print and digital communication, with an eagerness to deepen expertise.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a focus on presenting ideas and receiving feedback constructively.
• Works independently as well as under guidance from senior team members
• Displays adaptability and maintains focus when working under time constraints or on deadlines.
• Ability to assist with and manage multiple projects, prioritizing tasks with support and oversight as needed.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status

Preferred

Education: Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design or related field

This position will support creative work applied across various channels. Basic exposure or introductory knowledge in one or more of the following areas is beneficial, with opportunities to develop further on the job:

Print: Familiarity with basic print processes, file preparation, and production techniques.

Digital: Understanding of fundamental digital design principles, responsive layouts, or beginner knowledge of CSS and UX/UI concepts.

Multimedia: Interest or basic experience in video production, photography, or related tools (e.g., Adobe Premiere, Lightroom, After Effects).

Work Location

• Knoxville, TN

• This is an onsite position with some hybrid work schedule flexibility

Compensation and Benefits

• UT market range: MR08
• Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here

The university offers a highly competitive benefits package that includes health insurance and retirement plans through the State of Tennessee, generous annual and sick leave accruals, longevity pay, tuition waivers and discounts, and more. Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions

For full consideration, applicants must apply electronically and submit a cover letter, resume, and a portfolio of work (link, or PDF are fine) as well the names, addresses and phone numbers of three references. A minimum of two references should be current or previous supervisors.

About The College/Department/Division

The Office of Communications and Marketing is dedicated to advancing the university’s reputation. Staff members support the institution’s mission and goals, promote its successes and achievements, inform and engage its stakeholders, and ensure the integrity of its brand. We craft audience-focused communications based on data, best-practices, and emerging trends.

The division comprises several cross-functional teams, employing professionals with expertise in design, development, video production, content strategy, feature writing, editing, marketing, media relations, internal communication, and special events.

Additional Information on all postings provided by UTK

• Creates high-quality graphics and visual designs for smaller-scale projects, such as internal communications, social media assets, and event-specific materials.
• Applies existing brand guidelines to produce design deliverables.
• Learns and applies industry standards and best practices to create cohesive and effective designs.
• Adapts and applies designs to specified formats and platform requirements, ensuring quality and adherence to brand standards.
• Expands upon or adds to library of existing brand assets
• Actively participates and contributes ideas in brainstorming and ideation sessions, Works collaboratively with team members and stakeholders to understand project goals and requirements.
• Receives and incorporates feedback on design work, using revisions as opportunities to learn and improve.
• Develops skills in presenting and explaining design concepts and solutions in a professional setting.
• Assists with additional tasks as needed to support team operations and further enhance technical and creative skills (e.g., photoshoots, print production, etc.).