Position Focus Statement

The graphic designer is responsible for creating visual content that helps showcase and promote ITS services and initiatives on multiple channels. Working as part of the Integrated Communications team within the Information Technology Services (ITS) department, the graphic designer takes concepts and ideas and converts them into designs that connect with the FSU community. This employee works closely with teams across the organization to add color to campus technology and illustrate the many ways technology is being used at FSU to enhance the student and employee experience. The successful candidate will have a thorough understanding of branding and design and solid experience in current design software.

Why is a Graduate Assistant required for this role instead of a standard intern?

A graduate assistant is required for this graphic design role because the position demands a level of technical expertise and professional autonomy that goes far beyond a typical entry-level internship. The description calls for a candidate who possesses two years of prior experience and expert knowledge of industry-standard software, specifically Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign and Canva. Furthermore, the role requires an advanced proficiency level in graphic design layout and the critical analysis of graphic images. A standard undergraduate intern usually enters a role to develop these foundational skills, whereas this position requires an advanced student who can immediately manage university brand standards, interpret design specification documents, and operate as a functional peer alongside full-time marketing professionals.

What responsibilities or projects will this GA complete that require graduate-level knowledge or skills?

The responsibilities of this role require graduate-level knowledge to successfully execute high-stakes visual communication and strategic collaboration across the department and university. The assistant is responsible for conceptualizing and transforming abstract written content into original, high-quality digital and print marketing collateral, which requires an advanced grasp of typography, color theory, visual hierarchy, and layout techniques. Additionally, the role demands strategic participation in creative planning sessions where the assistant must brainstorm alongside marketing professionals, research and apply cutting-edge design trends, and evaluate project goals to determine the most appropriate media for specific graphic assets. This graduate-level skill set extends to technical pre-press production, as the assistant must independently interface with external printing vendors to troubleshoot and finalize press-ready files.

What outcomes or deliverables do you expect this GA to produce by the end of the semester?

By the end of the semester, the graduate assistant is expected to deliver a comprehensive portfolio of production-ready visual assets that align with university brand standards. These tangible deliverables include a wide range of original digital and print marketing materials, specifically web banners, online advertisements, posters, flyers, stickers, and social media graphics designed to promote ITS. Beyond the creative concepts, the assistant will produce finalized press files and meet strict project specifications and deadlines across multiple campus communication channels.

Interested in applying? Please submit your resume to Anna Prentiss at aprentiss@fsu.edu.