Graphic Designer at University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma

Job Description:

The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History Graphic Designer is a mission-critical position that will be responsible for the creation of graphic design packages and illustrations that integrate across all museum departments, including exhibits, public relations and marketing, visitor services, education, and community outreach and collections and research and assist with the setup and tear down of temporary exhibitions. This position creates designs that convey the museum’s mission and vision. This full-time 12-month staff position will report to the Head of Exhibits and may supervise student employees.

• Performs desktop publishing and graphic design of visual communications and web design.


• Formulates original design responses using appropriate media, materials, tools, technology, platforms, and techniques to create visual communications.  


• Applies multiple ideation and analytical strategies throughout the design process.


• Incorporates exemplary design principles (composition, balance, hierarchy, harmony, and contrast).


• Aligns graphic approach and content with industry best practices and unit guidelines. 


• Employs effective composition and color theory that considers focal point, eye path, and value.


• Ensures projects are completed in a timely manner and on budget.


• Performs various duties as needed to successfully fulfill the function of the position.

Located on the University of Oklahoma Norman campus, the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is part of exceptional academic and research communities. Furthermore, with affordable living costs and a diverse range of recreational activities, the city of Norman offers the appeal of a vibrant community with a small-town feel, paired with the cultural and educational opportunities presented by the University of Oklahoma. There are many perks to employment at The University of Oklahoma, including but not limited to:

• 27 days of annual paid time off, increased with years of service


• 14 paid holiday days off


• Healthcare plan options to meet healthcare and financial needs


• Retirement plan options


• Two weeks of paid parental leave


• Employee wellness program featuring activities to earn up to $300/year


• Discounted athletic and cultural event tickets


• Tuition Waiver Program; Discounted tuition and fees for yourself and other dependents


• On-campus fitness and recreation centers, museums, gardens, and restaurants

Required Education: Bachelor's degree, AND: 

• 12 months working as a professional graphic designer.

Equivalency/Substitution Will accept 48 months (about 4 years) of related experience in lieu of the Bachelor's degree for a total of 60 months (about 5 years) of related experience.

Skills:

• Detail-oriented for accuracy of data and information


• Highly organized and able to handle multiple projects and deadlines


• Able to work well with interdepartmental teams and initiatives


• Knowledge of graphic design principles


• Knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud applications

Certifications:

• None

Departmental Preferences:

• Ideal candidates will have experience in one or more of the following areas:


• Development, printing, and installation of exhibit graphics.


• Working with vendors to produce material needed for the exhibits (e.g., vinyls and banners).


• Creating in-house exhibit identities and branding working with curators and staff.


• Creating physical labels and exhibit specimen-specific/scientific information text panels, either printed or produced with a laser engraver.


• Creation of designs utilized for educational and/or community outreach programs and events.


• Designing print/web-based text, advertising, and promotional materials for the department to convey their specific education content/goals.


• Creating illustrations for use with youth and adult educational programming, onsite, offsite, and online.


• Creation and design of promotional materials.


• Creating designs (e.g., graphical elements,) utilized for museum-wide promotional materials, marketing, and signage, including logos, brochures, newsletters, flyers, posters, annual reports, and web design.


• Working within the contractual obligations and with outsider exhibit vendors’ marketing and design teams to create public-facing marketing and design pieces to be used for temporary exhibits.


• Experience in the use of a large-format printer


• Experience in the use of a laser engraver.

Advertised Physical Requirements:

• Ability to engage in repetitive motions


• Moderate to heavy lifting is required


• Working at tall heights may be required. (Less than 16’)


• Use of computers and other graphic design tools


• Sit for prolonged periods. Stand, reach, and bend


• Ability to uphold the stress of a fast-paced environment


• Ability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and non-traditional hours


• Moderate exposure to machinery and lasers 


• Moderate exposure to dust and hazardous chemicals


• Moderate exposure to loud or annoying sounds

Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy.  To view the policy, visit https://hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.

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