Graphic Designer

Public Strategies Overview
Public Strategies (PS) is a nationally respected project consulting firm, based in Oklahoma City, providing federal, state, and local clients with a range of services to include project management, program development and management, and communications/marketing. A large-scale service center in Oklahoma City provides vulnerable Oklahomans with a range of supports for gaining or improving their employment situations or strengthening families, two areas where PS is widely respected for its implementation of innovative and research-informed solutions. Other team members provide training and technical assistance to hundreds of government agencies and/or programs across the country that are working to become change agents in either the human services or employment fields, with PS providing expertise in performance management, best practices, and effective adult learning strategies. Finally, a full-scale marketing division provides modern-day technology and effective communication solutions to meet the demands of PS programs and for businesses and organizations that seek the expertise of a unique and dynamic communications team.

Public Strategies programs currently serve a number of populations including low-income new parents, financially and otherwise vulnerable families, non-custodial fathers, TANF and SNAP recipients, veterans, the historically unemployed or underemployed, individuals with a criminal background including those re-entering society from incarceration, incumbent workers, low skilled or wage workers, and the long term unemployed. These programs aim to demonstrate the value and efficacy of well-thought approaches to family empowerment and self-sufficiency. Programs centered on family empowerment are anchored in research-informed strategies designed to build adult capacity and healthy relationships. Its workforce development and training programs include incorporating soft skills, vocational training, continuing education, job placement, job coaching, and career advancement in ways that make obtaining consistent gainful employment in areas that pay a living wage more accessible to these groups. Public Strategies continuously looks for opportunities to innovate within both the family empowerment and workforce development fields, and where appropriate, seeks to develop and foster social enterprises that include employment opportunities for the populations we serve and whose financial success can be reinvested in the community.

Position Summary

Under the guidance of the Creative Director, the Graphic Designer creates graphics to meet specific project or promotional needs for Public Strategies and its clients. Projects may run the gamut of marketing tactics, from the web and social media to brochures and course curriculum to billboards and print advertising. The Graphic Designer must be able to follow branding guidelines to design visually compelling pieces that communicate concepts clearly.
The Graphic Designer is a vital member of a culturally and professionally diverse team committed to helping systems, organizations, and individuals reach their full potential while maximizing their impact on the public good. The Graphic Designer designs or creates graphics to meet specific project or promotional needs and may use a variety of mediums to achieve the desired effects for Public Strategies and its clients in collaboration with the Creative Director.

Essential Job Functions

Create designs, concepts, and materials based on knowledge of layout principles and aesthetic design concepts
Determine size and arrangement of illustrative material and copy, and select style and size of type
Use computer software to generate new images
Mark up, paste, and assemble final layouts to prepare layouts for printer
Draw and print charts, graphs, illustrations, and other artwork, using computer
Develop concepts by studying relevant information and materials
Visually communicate ideas and conceptualize design materials based on varying client needs and industry standards
Develop and design illustrations, multi-page layouts, posters, infographics, logos, and other designs using software or by hand
Work with creative director and clients to produce designs and amend designs after feedback
Ensure final graphics and layouts are functional, visually appealing, and on-brand
Package and prepare final layouts for printer
Other duties as assigned

Education/Training

Bachelors Degree in Graphic Design or related field preferred
Extensive coursework and equivalent experience will be considered in lieu of a degree

Experience

Five years of experience or more working in an in-house marketing department, an advertising agency, or a design firm
Five years of experience or more using the most recent version of Adobe Creative Suite on a weekly basis
Video editing and motion graphics experience (Adobe After Effects, Final Cut Pro, etc.), preferred
Special Requirements

Portfolio of at least ten samples of original graphic design work (published or coursework)
Excellent organizational, communication, and analytical skills
Strong attention to detail and excellent follow-through
Adaptive design eye and skill
Ability to absorb and apply constructive criticism from peers and clients
Creative problem-solving and methodical judgment
Ability to work well independently and with others
Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines
Familiarity with visual communication techniques used on popular social media channels
Video editing and animation skills preferred
*Please submit your portfolio with your application*

Essential Physical Requirements
Sufficient mobility and strength to move about the facility. Ability to be mobile throughout the community.