Personnel Commission
CLASS TITLE: Graphic Design Specialist
DESCRIPTION OF BASIC FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES
To perform complex graphic artwork in the design and creation of materials, illustrations, and publications of a Branch or division in the County Office of Education. This job class is responsible for the creation and production of brochures, newsletters, displays, charts, diagrams, transparencies, promotional materials, web-ready artwork, and other publication projects. This job class requires working knowledge of publishing and graphic software packages, skill in creating visual materials and presentations, and knowledge of production components used for various types of printed materials.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
A Graphic Design Specialist prepares specialized reports, documents, and publications that focus on the production of textual and related multimedia material that incorporates graphic artwork and publishing elements. Employees in this classification receive general to limited supervision within a framework of standard policies and procedures. This class differs from the Graphic Designer in that incumbents of the ladder possess technical knowledge and specialized skill in graphic design, theory, and practice and oversee and participate in a variety of graphic projects from concept to completion.
TYPICAL DUTIES
Plans, prepares, and creates the design and publication of a wide variety of complex graphic artwork, including but not limited to brochures, newsletters, displays, charts, graphs, maps, diagrams, transparencies, promotional materials, and web pages
Consults with clients and department staff requesting artwork, in the creation, planning and development of materials, illustrations, and publications incorporating graphic artwork
Prepares digital files for printing web pages and web-based graphics, image collections, multimedia presentations, CD-ROM's or other electronic media
Designs and layouts two to four colors and multi-page, presentations, publications, and reports for both print and the web
Process completed artwork and layouts to develop print-ready specifications
Arranges multicolor printing with internal print shop services, working with external resources and assisting with printing and production specifications
Confers with Graphic Designer or publications and print shop staff for technical guidance or to coordinate production of graphic materials
Designs, organizes and lays out the content of publications, recommends types styles, and makes suggestions to improve and clarify headline/body copy
Maintains image library and graphic design, artwork, and publication archive
Remains abreast of innovative theories, practices, and techniques related to graphic design
Prepares detailed specifications and costs estimates for productions; ensures conformance to those specifications and costs
Prepares detailed print specifications and costs estimates of productions; researches print costs to affirm estimates
May review the work of staff assigned to assist with projects
May design and prepare graphics for television studio settings
Recommends the purchase of related software and hardware
Performs related duties as assigned.
EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS
Knowledge of:
Principles and techniques of graphic design and production and communication theory including a basic understanding of marketing and promotional concepts
Applicable software programs including, but not limited to, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe PhotoShop, QuarkXPress, Page Maker, Microsoft word, PowerPoint, and other software programs
Computer hardware systems and peripheral equipment including digital camera scanners, and CD burners
Basic design and electronic pre-press processes used in the production of complex publications
Basic printing and other vendor services to prepare specifications for printing and other services
Basic copyright laws applicable to design work and creative properties
Proper English usage, spelling, grammar, punctuation, vocabulary, and sentence structure
Ability to:
Apply creativity in skillfully preparing a wide variety of graphic artwork
Effectively plan, design, layout, and create visual elements for publications, brochures, reports, web pages, and other assigned documents
Artistically translate communication needs into an artistic design
Use interactive technologies and to create new methods for combining software and graphic packages to address communication and visual product goals
Create camera-ready materials
Understand instructional and curriculum concepts and convey them graphically
Plan, coordinate, organize, and direct multiple graphic art communications projects simultaneously
Communicate effectively in both oral and written form
Consult with all levels of staff and interpret and translate their needs into effective visual formats
Operate and care for computer hardware systems and peripheral equipment
Utilize a variety of graphic design software and digital media tools
Edit and proof graphic artwork
Work productively and efficiently in both a team environment as well as independently with limited supervision
Understand and carry out oral and written instructions in an independent manner
Recommend methods of visual presentations
Research and prepare specifications and costs estimates for graphic design, colors, materials and presentations
Remain abreast of innovative materials, methods, and techniques as related to graphic design
Establish and maintain a cooperative and tactful relationship with those contacted in the course of assigned duties
Possession of:
A valid California Driver's License with a driving record that meets the insurance requirements of the Santa Clara County Office of Education.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Generally, any combination of education and experience that could provide the required knowledge and abilities is considered qualifying. A typical method of demonstrating these qualifications would be:
BARGAINING UNIT: Office, Technical, and Business Services (OTBS) Unit
WORKING CONDITIONS: Duties are primarily performed in an office environment while sitting at a desk or desktop computer. Incumbents are subject to interruptions and demanding deadlines. Occasionally must drive to vendors and other locations to conduct work.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: An employee in this class must sit for long periods of time, use hands and fingers to operate an desktop computer keyboard or other equipment; reach with hands and arms. Must see, hear, and speak at normal levels. On occasion, will move and transport objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
Approved by the Personnel Commission: 06/24/99 Revised: 01/2002 (Pending)
The California State University System
Graphic Specialist 1