What are the responsibilities and job description for the Graphic Designer position at Champaign Park District?
Graphic Designer
Champaign Park District - Full Time, Exempt
About the Job:As a Graphic Designer with the Champaign Park District, you’ll bring our programs, parks, and community events to life through creative, high-quality visual design. Your work will directly support communication efforts across the District—shaping materials that thousands of residents interact with every year. From program guides and banners to digital assets and photography, you’ll play a key role in how the community experiences our brand.
Summary of Responsibilities:
- Design and produce print and digital materials including program guides, newsletters, posters, banners, flyers, t-shirts, and advertisements.
- Lead photography efforts for programs, events, and facilities.
- Prepare files for print and coordinate with print vendors, including obtaining quotes and reviewing proofs.
- Maintain organized graphics and digital photo libraries.
- Assist with website content updates in coordination with the Technology Manager.
- Manage the park banner schedule and placement updates.
- Ensure accuracy of program information used in marketing materials.
- Collaborate with staff, vendors, and the public to support District-wide communication efforts.
- Participate in departmental tasks such as budgeting, long-range planning, and report preparation.
- Maintain confidentiality, follow safety protocols, and uphold Park District policies.
- Complete required training and perform other duties as assigned.
Why Work With Us?
You’ll join a mission-driven team that values creativity, collaboration, and community impact. This role gives you the opportunity to expand your design portfolio across diverse project types, gain experience working with print vendors and digital platforms, and contribute to meaningful public programs. You’ll enjoy a supportive work environment where your ideas are valued and your professional development is encouraged.
About the Champaign Park District:
The Champaign Park District’s mission is to enhance our community’s quality of life through positive experiences in parks, recreation, and cultural arts. With 62 parks spanning more than 700 acres and 14 facilities offering diverse recreational opportunities, we provide spaces and programs that bring people together, inspire healthy living, and celebrate creativity.
Who This Position Is Ideal For:
This role is perfect for a creative professional who thrives on variety, enjoys turning ideas into compelling visuals, and wants their work to make an impact in the community. If you’re detail-oriented, collaborative, and eager to expand your skills across print, digital design, and photography, we encourage you to apply.
The Champaign Park District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employees are required to comply with our equal opportunity and harassment laws, policies, and procedures.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design, Communications or related field.
- Minimum two years of experience in graphic design or related field. Five or more years preferred.
- Proficiency in Adobe InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator, and web design programs.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office Suite or similar software.
- Ability to manage detailed information accurately and meet multiple deadlines.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience preparing files for print and working directly with print vendors.
- Experience maintaining digital asset libraries (graphics, photos, etc.).
- Basic familiarity with website content management or web design tools.
- Demonstrated ability to promote programs using a variety of graphic methods.
- Valid Illinois Driver’s License with clean driving record.