Missouri Institute for Defense & Energy

The dual-hatted () graphic artist and front-end web developer will create original graphic artwork and web designs upon request. The role demands an understanding of graphic design practices, front-end website user interface (UI), and the ability to meet the unique needs of each funding unit while maintaining cohesive brand identity across UMKC's digital platforms.Additionally, the position will develop websites according to industry best practices and university standards. This position will be under the direct supervision of the Director of Research and Institute Programs. Web and graphic design projects will align with, and be equitable to, the strategic objectives of all funding units.

Roles

1. Graphic Artist
2. Front-End UI

Responsibilities

• Create compelling graphic designs for digital and print media, with a focus on research proposals and presentations.
• Possess the ability to collaboratively develop and refine graphic designs, working closely with internal researchers to transform their sketches or written concepts into final visuals through a process of ongoing iteration and co-creation.
• Co-develop visual concepts across multiple platforms based on input from internal researchers and ensure alignment with the university's branding and communication strategies.
• Design and develop user-friendly websites, tailored to the requirements of university units, notably the internal researcher's vision and co-ideation.
• Ensure compliance with website accessibility standards, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, WCAG 2.1 levels A and AA, and the Americans with Communications Act (ACA).
• Work collaboratively with the UMKC Information Services department and the Division of Strategic Marketing and Communications for website domains and site, site approvals, and incorporate any UMKC framework required.
• Perform duties while adhering to the highest standards of security, which includes ensuring secure handling of sensitive information and compliance with data protection and cybersecurity protocols to safeguard the integrity and privacy of the projects and the university.
• Other duties as assigned.

Duties

• Quick turn graphic designs for digital and print media, specifically research proposals and presentations.
• Create wireframes, storyboards, infographics, and prototypes as needed.
• Produce presentation templates and generate marketing posters and graphics.
• Create website UI design, iteration, launch, and updating as necessary in compliance with UMKC brand standards and content approval collaboration.

Expectations

• Adapt to the needs of internal researchers by assessing priorities to meet proposal or presentation deadlines.
• Self-monitor and achieve equal share of time, on average, between the units served.
• Meet deliverables and internal deadlines as agreed to by both parties.
• Possess the ability to judiciously balance the use of artificial intelligence tools in creating web pages, websites, graphic designs, and videos, employing sound judgment to ensure optimal outcomes and adherence to design standards.
• Follow best practices for image format, digital access, and archiving processes in compliance with UMKC standards.

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 2 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

-A strong portfolio showcasing a range of graphic design, website UI, multimedia content creation, and data visualization projects

-B.A. or B.S. in Graphic Design, Scientific Illustration, or related field

-Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, Daz Studio or Blender

-Knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript

-Experience with project and client management

-Experience with AI tools for design and video production

-Familiarity with web analytics and performance tracking

-Experience with MATLAB or Python with Matplotlib, or similar design software

-Specialty training in Graphic Illustration/web development and/or UI

-Experience in establishing and tracking the output of web analytics

-Knowledge of science or scientific concepts

-Ability to obtain and maintain a US Security Clearance

$50,368 to $58,000 annually, commensurate with experience, education, and internal equity.

Open until filled, review of applications to begin immediately.

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at

Values CommitmentWe value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person's success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research, and engagement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy applies to all employment decisions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions and terminations. For more information, visit or call Human Resources at 816-235-1621.To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 816-235-6910.