The University of Chicago Library
Requisition Number: 082606
Departmental Title: Web & Graphic Design Specialist
Department: Digital Library Development Center (DLDC)
Classification: IT 8
Work Schedule: 37.5 hours/week
GENERAL SUMMARY:
The Web and Graphic Design Specialist is responsible for designing and producing web sites as well as some print materials that support the Library’s strategic and communication goals. The position is responsible for the graphic design, production, and ongoing maintenance of the Library’s web pages (e.g. public web sites, digital collections, staff intranet), as well as for designing and producing some print materials such as brochures, giveaways, and posters. The position provides expertise in web standards, in new web and digital media software, and in web-based scripting, and will contribute this expertise towards departmental decision-making and inter-departmental collaborations. The position works as part of a team-based environment, and is responsible for producing designs and code which meet Library needs and which can be incorporated into programmed applications, template-driven or dynamically-produced web sites, and print-based mediums. An ability to collaborate with others towards a common goal is imperative. The ideal candidate will combine a knowledge of design processes and technologies with visual communication skills and will be able to apply usability and information architecture principles and knowledge of applicable standards. The position reports to the Co-director of the Digital Library Development Center and works closely with the Director of Communications to ensure Library communication goals are met.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Design and Development of Web and Print-based Products (50%)
planning, graphic design, web coding, project development and production, project documentation
Lead the design development and production of digital products including public web sites, the staff intranet, video displays, presentations, and other materials that support the Library's strategic and communication goals. Develop brochures, posters, and other print materials. Work with Library staff to incorporate graphic identity, usability, and accessibility needs into their online and print-based offerings. Work with programmers to accomplish web application development in team-based environment.
Creating and Implementing Design Standards (20%)
graphic design, documentation, production, training
Develop and maintain graphic identity standards for Library materials, including development of graphics, logos, standard layouts, etc. and production of derivatives for varying purposes. Develop templates and train Library staff in maintaining graphic identity standards.
Vendor Product Customization (10%)
graphic design, web coding
Provide graphic elements and redesign layouts in web-based vended products used by the Library
Maintenance & Upgrades of Existing Web Projects (10%)
Ongoing maintenance of existing web sites.
Research & Training, Committees (10%)
learning and investigating new technologies and methods
Keeps current on developments in the field of graphic design and web-based technologies and software. Serves on task forces, committees, and workgroups, etc. inside and outside the Library as necessary.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required: Minimum of 3 years professional design experience including producing and maintaining complex Web sites and working with print vendors; strong graphic design skills; mastery of standard design and Web software applications such as: Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Flash essential with knowledge of QuickTime, Fireworks and/or ImageReady a plus; demonstrated mastery of HTML and CSS; solid understanding of accessibility and usability, including cross-platform and browser issues; ability to translate Library objectives into concrete design directives; ability to create attractive graphic designs incorporating usability and information architecture principles and using standards-based code; excellent interpersonal, analytical and communication skills in order to work with Library staff to meet strategic communication and service goals. Demonstrated ability to work within a team-based environment as well as ability to act on own initiative to identify and solve problems; Bachelor degree.
Preferred: Knowledge of Mac and Unix computing environments; knowledge of one scripting language (e.g. PHP, JavaScript, Perl); knowledge of XML; experience working in academic, library, or research environment.
MENTAL DEMANDS:
Conceptual, analytical, organizational skills; oral communication; multiple concurrent tasks; written communication; detailed work; problem solving; training.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Ability to work with computers; ability to work with Library staff on-site.
The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
To apply for this position, submit a profile and resume to https://jobopportunities.uchicago.edu/
Resumes sent via mail, fax or email will not be considered.
