Creative Specialist

The ideal candidate for our Creative Specialist position can create visual concepts to communicate original ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. Using computer design software our Creative Specialist will develop the overall layout and production designs for print, video and social media while also having a role in the implementation phases of these campaigns. 

They are not only also responsible for creating, designing, and managing individual projects from concept to completion for Hired Hand clients but also will insure the integrity and continuity of our Hired Hand brand.

The majority of work includes, but not limited to-

• Designing for digital: social media campaign graphics, responsive/adaptive websites, email marketing templates, digital display ads and multimedia/video

• Internal graphics support

• Design/print collateral

• Social Media

• Marketing planning & implementation

The ideal Creative Specialist candidate loves design, is passionate and relentlessly curious, wants to be challenged and likes working with others.

Responsibilities

• Utilize creative insight, collaboration and desktop publishing skills to design and produce a variety of marketing initiatives and materials for both web and print including but not limited to:Websites, E-blasts, Social Media graphics, Animated GIFs, Video/Animation, Web banners, magazine advertisements, logos, promotional brochures/materials, etc.

• Work with our Partner/Owner in charge of Marketing on initiatives and be responsible for providing a high level of design by strategically ensuring that all marketing creative is consistent with the Hired Hand brand guidelines; attracts positive attention with a distinctive appeal; is attractive and visually appealing; and is technically correct

• Take accountability for all aspects of conceptual graphic design, layout, design production and general aesthetics for our print and online communications

• Take ownership of projects. Work effectively under deadlines and manage multiple projects with evolving requirements. Self-manage schedules and tasks, and assist with the tracking and billing of time to clients.

• Maintain professional rapport and have communications with all clients, outside printers, and other firms regarding the production of material within the agreed deadlines, specifications, and budget for each job.

• Design in a Mac environment, using expert-level skills and experience with Adobe Creative Suite

• Stay abreast of current design and creative software trends while developing best practices for projects and ensure all work is produced in accordance with approved standards.

• Provide regular briefings and status updates for all projects. Work closely with our Office/Project Manager and our Partner/Owner in charge of Marketing & Sales. 

• Supervise and collaborate with our Social Media Marketing Manager to plan and execute successful campaigns for both Hired Hand and various clients. 

Important Qualities

• Strong graphic design background

• Creative Flair

• Communication skills

• Originality

• Ability to handle critique/rejection and revise work quickly

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment on simultaneous multiple projects in various phases and under tight deadlines. Able to work in a high-volume, fast-paced, and deadline-driven environment.

• Detail-oriented

• Demonstrated ability to work independently, set priorities, use resources, identify and address problems, and meet deadlines

• Strong interpersonal, organizational and problem-solving skills; a team player who is also a positive, innovative thinker

• Ability to work within brand identity guidelines for multiple brands.

• Pride of work

• Willingness to immerse themselves in research to better learn about the Industries we serve

Requirements

• College degree in Graphic Design or related field

• 2+ years of professional experience in graphic design, advertising, layout and brand building in a design studio, ad agency or in-house marketing department preferred. Will also consider a very strong portfolio and references. 

• Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat) as well as Mac OS platform. Working knowledge or willingness to learn to create video and motion graphics using Adobe Premiere and AfterEffects desireable. 

• Proven top-notch concept development abilities, superior design aptitude, fast production skills and an eye for detail across all media

• A passion for the creative process and meticulous with design details and quality of work

• Ability to create engaging infographics from raw data is a plus

• Basic knowledge of various social media platforms and designing for Social Media

• Background in Agriculture or with animals a plus

Job Type: 25-35 Hours/Week

Job Location: Cedar Falls, Iowa