Graphic/Production Specialist

Title: Graphic and Production Specialist
Job code: 8342GD
Employee Group: M&C Pro 2-Graphic&Vis Des
Full/Part Time (FTE): 75%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
$32.06 to $36.26/hour ($50,000 - $55,000 @ .75 FTE)

About the Job:
The purpose of this position is to design, produce, and maintain visual communications for the Center for Transportation Studies and its programs.

Location and Work environment: The position is mostly remote; working at the office (2221 University Avenue SE. Minneapolis, MN 55414) and off-site locations are occasionally required (generally a few days per month).

Work Schedule: 30 hours during 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. on weekdays.

Primary Responsibilities:
85% Multimedia Design and Production
* Create concepts, designs, and layouts in various digital and print media for internal and external clients. These include, but are not limited to, annual reports, proposals, newsletters, websites, videos and motion graphics, promotional products, environmental applications, event materials, and social media campaigns.
* Manage design projects and determine budget and production needs, including requesting estimates and directing and approving the work of vendors and contractors.
* Recommend photography, video, illustrations, infographics, iconography, and other graphic assets. Provide guidance on photo shoots and oversee aesthetic judgments and design strategy in filming and production.
* Ensure that designs comply with UMN brand standards and accessibility guidelines
* Create visual assets and storyboards to convey messages, stories, and concepts through video and animation.
* Pursue professional development opportunities to remain at the forefront of design trends, tools, technologies, and creative leadership.
5% Strategic Collaboration
* Collaborate with CTS's communications team, leadership, UMN stakeholders, and external partners to understand outreach expectations and present creative solutions that elevate engagement and visual storytelling of CTS programs.
* Develop and implement visual brand strategies, including identities and brand elements, for CTS and its programs that accord with CTS and University standards.
* Lead and manage visual design standards, documentation, and processes.
* Recommend improved processes, tools, and applications that reflect design standards and trends.
* Direct contractors, partners, staff, and student workers on the use of graphics and design layouts.
5% Team, Support, and Training
* Train and mentor staff on use of basic graphic editing software, tools, and programs (e.g., Adobe products such as InDesign) to maintain workflow, quality, and consistency across communication materials.
* Provide support for communication software (e.g., Adobe products, font management system).
* Train and guide team members on design best practices, accessibility standards, and effective visual communication strategies.
* Work with CTS's Communications team to build relationships with University departments and external stakeholders to align design efforts with broader institutional and external engagement goals.
5% Center-wide Programs and Services
Assist in the design and implementation of center-wide initiatives and special projects as needed.

Required Qualifications:
* Bachelor's degree in Design, Graphic Arts, or related field plus 2 years professional experience, or 6 years combined equivalent education and experience.
* Excellent design and communications skills and proven success in:
o creating and implementing designs, layouts, and brand strategies
o providing strong customer service and support
o communicating effectively with diverse staff, stakeholders, and clients
o balancing multiple tasks and projects while meeting deadlines
* Expertise in Adobe Creative Cloud

Preferred Qualifications:
* Experience with Google Workspace
* Familiarity with accessible document design standards and best practices
* Demonstrated expertise in Canva and similar platforms
* Skill in illustration
* Familiarity with online data visualization and/or mapping platforms (e.g. ArcGIS StoryMaps)
* Working knowledge of Drupal content management system
* Ability to complete projects with a high degree of originality and quality
* Experience resolving technical issues
* Organizational skills, attention to detail, quality control
* Ability to translate technical/design issues to non-technical audiences
* Ability to work independently and as part of a communications team

The Center for Transportation Studies (CTS) conducts transportation research, education, and engagement in a broad number of areas, including transportation policy and planning, infrastructure engineering, connected and automated vehicles, and safety. These activities are carried out through relationships with University faculty, government agencies, and private industry, including an extensive advisory committee structure. An annual operating budget is provided by the state legislature to support a base level of research, education, and engagement services. This operating support is supplemented by other grants that CTS attracts.

The Center has a strong commitment to the University's goal of creating a positive and inclusive campus climate by advancing equity and diversity.

Pay Range: $32.06/hour to $36.26/hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 75% Time Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Work Profile: This position has been designated as Work Profile 4 - Fully remote with occasional office visits: The employee typically spends 4 or less days per month working in the office. The dedicated office space will be the employee's remote work location.

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment. This position is not eligible for H-1B or green card sponsorship.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.