Graphic Design Specialist

POSITION TITLE: Graphic Design Specialist

DIVISION: Administration

DEPARTMENT: Marketing & Communications

REPORTS TO: Design Director

PAY TYPE: Exempt

WORKER TYPE: Full-Time (Anticipated start date on/after 1/16/2026)

UPDATED: October 2025

PAY: $45,000 - $50,000

This position offers an exciting opportunity for a talented individual to contribute to the visual identity and communication efforts of one of the nation's leading art and design colleges. The Graphic Design Specialist will work within the Marketing and Communications team to create visually compelling materials that reflect the essence of KCAI's mission, programs, and events.

Essential Functional Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the Marketing and Communications team to conceptualize and execute design projects, including print materials, digital assets, social media graphics, and promotional materials.
• Actively participate in group discussions and meetings.
• Develop and maintain a strong understanding of KCAI's brand guidelines, ensuring consistency and cohesiveness across all design deliverables.
• Create visually engaging designs for various mediums, including posters, brochures, banners, advertisements, newsletters, and digital platforms.
• Assist in the production process, including preparing files for print, conducting quality checks, and coordinating with external and internal stakeholders when necessary.
• Contribute innovative ideas and concepts to enhance the visual presence of KCAI across different channels and audiences.
• Stay informed about current design trends, techniques, and technologies to continuously improve design quality and effectiveness.
• Review work, from concept to delivery, ensure accuracy, consistency, and brand adherence. This includes proofreading, visual verification, and file formatting checks to identify and rectify issues, delivering polished, effective work.
• Stay informed about KCAI's events, faculty and staff achievements, and innovative design projects. Provide a comprehensive view of KCAI's contributions to the arts through project outcomes.
• Support the Marketing and Communications team in other design-related tasks and projects as needed.

Supervises the following:

• N/A

Knowledge, Skills, and Qualifications:

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and other design software.
• Strong understanding of design principles, typography, layout, and color theory.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple projects simultaneously and meeting deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills and attention to detail.
• Passion for art, design, and education, with a commitment to the mission and values of the Kansas City Art Institute.
• A portfolio/body of work is required for consideration.

Required Experience/Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in graphic design
• A minimum of one year experience working in a professional/business setting

Preferred Experience/Education:

• Experience in motion graphics and/or animation
• Experience working in an Advertising Agency or related field

Submission Materials:

• Resume
• Design Portfolio

Statement

Kansas City Art Institute is fully committed to Equal Employment Opportunity and to attracting, retaining, developing, and promoting the most qualified employees without regard to their race, gender, gender identity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited by federal, state or local law. KCAI provides reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in the job application process. If you have any difficulty using our online system and you need accommodation due to a disability, you may contact the Human Resources Department about your interest in employment. Any questions or concerns can be directed to Kansas City Art Institute's Human Resource Administrator .

EOE/AA: Minorities/Females/Disabled/Vets

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S.

We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.