OVERVIEW
Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI) seeks a Graphic Design Intern to support our team in planning and designing promotional materials. The overall goal of the position is to enhance the administrative and creative functions of DGRI’s marketing and event initiatives. The position provides support to the communications department and presents an opportunity to directly assist an experienced communications team but also work on independent projects. This is a meaningful opportunity to learn and hone skills in concept development and creative design while working in a highly collaborative environment. The position reports to Graphic Designer Brian Hedrick.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Supports the communications department with administrative tasks primarily related to marketing and events.
• Based on provided direction, designs collateral materials and digital pieces for events. The process will include creating concepts with rough layouts for art and copy, obtaining approvals, and preparing files for production.
• Participates in efforts to publicize events.
• Supports social media accounts through the creation of custom-design elements, such as cover photos, event page banners and other visual elements that support overall organizational communications.
• Assists in the completion of projects by coordinating with outside agencies, art services, printers, etc.
• Monitors event timelines and ensure deadlines are met.
• Provides event support as needed. May include administrative duties, photography, or design-related assistance.
• Maintains an inventory of projectors, equipment, display materials, and marketing collateral.
• Organizes digital assets. For photographic assets, this would be completed through the creation and maintenance of photo contact sheets.
• Contributes to team effort by participating in other projects as needed.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
Required Qualifications:
• High level of expertise using Adobe Creative Suite including Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and Adobe Acrobat.
• Creative skills in preparing layouts and working within brand guidelines.
• Professional demeanor.
• Must be highly attentive to details.
• Must be flexible and adaptable.
• Excellent written communication skills with the ability to create and edit copy.
• Organizational and prioritization skills, with the ability to meet deadlines and manage multi-step projects in a fast paced environment. Excellent task management and follow-through.
• Ability to think creatively and solve problems independently while providing an atmosphere of confidentiality and discretion.
• Ability to work successfully with diverse groups and must be team-oriented.
• Must demonstrate ability to operate and make decisions at a level appropriate to this position.
• Must be detailed and results-oriented with strong organizational skills; ability to take directions effectively and work well with others in a collaborative environment, while displaying the capability of working independently with little supervision.
Preferred Qualifications
• Photography skills.
• Experience using Adobe Dreamweaver, Fireworks, and Flash.
• Knowledge of HTML.
• Previous experience with a business office or nonprofit organization.
EQUIPMENT TO BE USED
Macbook and/or PC, AV equipment, printer, scanner, and telephone system.
POSITION ENVIRONMENT
The Graphic Design Intern will work in the intern designated space of the DGRI administrative office in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. The Graphic Design Intern may be required to interface with business and property owners, residents, community members, government staff, vendors, and professional service providers from time to time. Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to complying with State and Federal laws including fair employment practice laws which provide equal opportunity in employment to all persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, veteran status, or disability.
START / END DATE
November 1st - February 1st
SCHEDULE
The Graphic Design Intern will work a flexible schedule of 20-24 hours a week.
COMPENSATION
The Graphic Design Intern is a non-exempt employee. Compensation shall be $12.50 per hour worked.
TO APPLY
Send cover letter, resume, references, and 5-10 portfolio examples to Brian Hedrick at bhedrick@downtowngr.org by October 15, 2015. No phone calls please. Incomplete submissions will not be considered.
