Arizona Education Association

Graphic Design & Communications Specialist

Based in Phoenix, AZ

 

Position: Graphic Design & Communications Specialist
Date of Posting: Thursday, November 6
Application Deadline: Wednesday, November 19
Reports to: Senior Director of Public Affairs
Location: Arizona Education Association Headquarters, 345 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix, AZ 85004

How to Apply:
Please submit your résumé, work samples (Graphic Design Portfolio that contains 6-8 pieces of branding, print, digital, social media graphics, web design, infographics, 1-2 writing samples), and a cover letter to:

Ms. Nicole Adams
Arizona Education Association
Email: nicole.adams@arizonaEA.org

Position Summary:
The Graphic Design & Communications Specialist is a member of the Program Team who works closely with the Communications Director to advance the Arizona Education Association’s (AEA) communications strategy. This role produces high-quality, brand-consistent graphic design, print, and digital materials—including newsletters, press releases, and other internal and external documents—and supports local affiliates with their communication.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned graphic design professional with excellent writing and copywriting skills. They can turn complex ideas into engaging visual stories and feel comfortable working in collaborative, cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities:
Apply knowledge of design and communication principles to develop layouts and production designs for AEA communications, including but not limited to:

• Quarterly magazine
• Website content and updates
• Brochures, flyers, and digital communications
• Event signage and promotional materials
• Logos and other creative projects
• Review and refine visual and written content to ensure accuracy, clarity, and consistency—providing proofreading and copyediting support as needed.
• Manage the full design process—from concept development through final production—for both commercial print and digital platforms.
• Collaborate with AEA staff, field organizers, and local affiliates to support their communications efforts, including graphic and logo design (as needed).
• Ensure consistency across all materials by managing and maintaining AEA’s image and brand standards.
• Maintain and organize AEA’s digital asset library, including photo files, graphics, and design templates for easy staff access and retrieval.
• Gather, organize, and present information effectively to inform design work and communication strategies.
• Provide creative recommendations and exercise sound judgment in visual storytelling and layout decisions.
• Schedule, operate, and complete in-house print jobs as needed to support events and outreach.
• Proofreading and copywriting (as needed) in collaboration with Communications Director.
• Maintain and update the organization’s website, ensuring accessibility, functionality, and brand alignment in collaboration with the Communications Director.
• Operate and maintain a high-speed production printer; perform copy shop duties as needed.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Strong graphic design and layout skills, with attention to detail and quality
• Expert understanding of 4color printing process and production knowledge to skillfully prepare files for commercial printing, screen printing, large format, as well as in-house color digital printing
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator proficiency required, Premiere and After Effects proficiency preferred)
• Strong writing and proofreading skills
• Proficiency in HTML/CSS and basic web editing
• Experience with Drupal, Salesforce Marketing Cloud, Cvent, or similar CMS platforms.
• Understanding of print production processes and best practices
• Ability to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work collaboratively across departments
• Excellent organizational skills, including digital file management
• Ability to take initiative, provide creative input, and work both independently and as part of a team

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, Art/Design, Marketing, or a related field.
• Prior experience in a union, nonprofit, or advocacy-based organization
• Experience working with diverse communities and an understanding of equity-focused communications