What are the responsibilities and job description for the Creative Design Specialist position at Inside Higher Ed?
Posting Number:
S15153P
Working Title:
Creative Design Specialist
Department:
PSO-Sea Grant Program
About The University Of Georgia:
Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.
About The College/Unit/Department:
For more than 50 years, UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant has served the state through integrated research, education, and extension programs that promote the responsible use and stewardship of Georgia’s coastal resources.
By serving as a bridge between scientists, local governments, and marine industries, we help communities protect coastal resources through sustainable, science-based solutions. Our extension specialists connect university expertise with local needs to strengthen the economic vitality and resilience of coastal communities. Education staff enhance environmental literacy and inspire stewardship by engaging the public, teachers, and students in programs that highlight the importance of Georgia’s coastal ecosystems. We also prepare the next generation of educators and marine scientists through workforce development opportunities for college students. Meanwhile, our research program supports applied studies across Georgia that expand understanding of coastal and estuarine systems and address pressing environmental challenges.
Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant is managed through a federal-state partnership between the University of Georgia (UGA) and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Sea Grant College Program, a network of 34 Sea Grant programs located in coastal and Great Lakes states and territories.
College/Unit/Department Website:
https://gacoast.uga.edu/
Posting Type:
External
Retirement Plan:
TRS or ORP
Employment Type:
Employee
Benefits Eligibility:
Benefits Eligible
Full/Part Time:
Full Time
Additional Schedule Information:
Monday – Friday with occasional evening and weekend work
Advertised Salary:
Commensurate with experience
Posting Date:
05/18/2026
Open Until Filled:
No
Closing Date:
05/22/2026
Proposed Starting Date:
06/08/2026
Location of Vacancy:
Savannah Area
EEO Policy Statement:
The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).
USG Core Values Statement:
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02.
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.
Classification Title:
Digital Content Pro II
FLSA:
Exempt
FTE:
1.00
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent and 2 years of professional experience
Preferred Qualifications:
Serves as the primary visual communications professional for UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, curating and producing content across digital and print platforms in support of the unit’s mission to improve the environmental, social, and economic health of the coast through research, education, and extension. Collaborates with faculty, staff, and partners to develop and refine design concepts, integrating input from across the unit’s education, research, and extension divisions to produce materials that meet established branding and style guidelines. Organizes and maintains a unit-wide visual asset database to ensure content remains accessible, compliant, and useful to staff across all program areas. Leads brand compliance efforts, recommends content strategy improvements, and stays current on best practices in digital accessibility and multimedia production. Independently manages photo and video projects from concept through publication and provides design guidance and training to unit staff to elevate the overall quality of communications across the organization and with stakeholders statewide.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities And/or Competencies:
Yes
Is this a Position of Trust?:
Yes
Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?:
No
Does this position require a P-Card? :
No
Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? :
No
Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?:
Yes
Does This Position Have Security Access (e.g., Public Safety, IT Security, Personnel Records, Patient Records, Or Access To Chemicals And Medications):
No
Credit And P-Card Policy:
Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.
Background Investigation Policy:
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.
Duties/Responsibilities:
Conceptual Design, Collaboration, and Training
25
Duties/Responsibilities:
Visual Content Creation for Diverse Communication Outlets
Database and Asset Management
20
Duties/Responsibilities:
Brand Compliance and Strategy
15
Duties/Responsibilities:
Multimedia Production
For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.
Recruitment Contact Name:
Emily Kenworthy
Recruitment Contact Email:
ekenworthy@uga.edu
S15153P
Working Title:
Creative Design Specialist
Department:
PSO-Sea Grant Program
About The University Of Georgia:
Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.
About The College/Unit/Department:
For more than 50 years, UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant has served the state through integrated research, education, and extension programs that promote the responsible use and stewardship of Georgia’s coastal resources.
By serving as a bridge between scientists, local governments, and marine industries, we help communities protect coastal resources through sustainable, science-based solutions. Our extension specialists connect university expertise with local needs to strengthen the economic vitality and resilience of coastal communities. Education staff enhance environmental literacy and inspire stewardship by engaging the public, teachers, and students in programs that highlight the importance of Georgia’s coastal ecosystems. We also prepare the next generation of educators and marine scientists through workforce development opportunities for college students. Meanwhile, our research program supports applied studies across Georgia that expand understanding of coastal and estuarine systems and address pressing environmental challenges.
Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant is managed through a federal-state partnership between the University of Georgia (UGA) and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Sea Grant College Program, a network of 34 Sea Grant programs located in coastal and Great Lakes states and territories.
College/Unit/Department Website:
https://gacoast.uga.edu/
Posting Type:
External
Retirement Plan:
TRS or ORP
Employment Type:
Employee
Benefits Eligibility:
Benefits Eligible
Full/Part Time:
Full Time
Additional Schedule Information:
Monday – Friday with occasional evening and weekend work
Advertised Salary:
Commensurate with experience
Posting Date:
05/18/2026
Open Until Filled:
No
Closing Date:
05/22/2026
Proposed Starting Date:
06/08/2026
Location of Vacancy:
Savannah Area
EEO Policy Statement:
The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).
USG Core Values Statement:
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02.
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.
Classification Title:
Digital Content Pro II
FLSA:
Exempt
FTE:
1.00
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent and 2 years of professional experience
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in a higher education, research, or extension communications environment
- Familiarity with coastal issues, the marine environment and NOAA Sea Grant
- Background in multimedia production, including video and photography
- Experience managing digital asset databases and visual archives
- Prior experience providing design training or mentorship to staff
Serves as the primary visual communications professional for UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, curating and producing content across digital and print platforms in support of the unit’s mission to improve the environmental, social, and economic health of the coast through research, education, and extension. Collaborates with faculty, staff, and partners to develop and refine design concepts, integrating input from across the unit’s education, research, and extension divisions to produce materials that meet established branding and style guidelines. Organizes and maintains a unit-wide visual asset database to ensure content remains accessible, compliant, and useful to staff across all program areas. Leads brand compliance efforts, recommends content strategy improvements, and stays current on best practices in digital accessibility and multimedia production. Independently manages photo and video projects from concept through publication and provides design guidance and training to unit staff to elevate the overall quality of communications across the organization and with stakeholders statewide.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities And/or Competencies:
- Advanced proficiency in graphic design and multimedia production software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite)
- Knowledge of brand management principles and federal digital accessibility requirements
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple complex projects simultaneously
- Strong communication and collaboration skills; ability to guide and train staff
- Experience with content management systems, email marketing platforms, and social media channels
- Familiarity with FERPA requirements as they relate to digital asset management
- Knowledge of web, mobile, and print production standards and best practices
- Ability to operate standard office equipment and computer hardware/software.
- Prolonged periods of computer use.
Yes
Is this a Position of Trust?:
Yes
Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?:
No
Does this position require a P-Card? :
No
Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? :
No
Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?:
Yes
Does This Position Have Security Access (e.g., Public Safety, IT Security, Personnel Records, Patient Records, Or Access To Chemicals And Medications):
No
Credit And P-Card Policy:
Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.
Background Investigation Policy:
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.
Duties/Responsibilities:
Conceptual Design, Collaboration, and Training
- Collaborates with faculty, staff, and partners to develop concepts and layouts for digital and print materials that promote UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant programs and projects.
- Guides staff on layout principles and aesthetic design concepts, with attention to arrangement of material, style, and formatting based on deliverable type.
- Creates drafts and rough sketches of materials, incorporates feedback from staff and supervisors, and provides design and digital media-related training to unit staff.
25
Duties/Responsibilities:
Visual Content Creation for Diverse Communication Outlets
- Creates visual content for a multitude of communication mediums, including core communication outlets (social media, website, and MailChimp) as well as special projects such as exhibits, technical reports, brochures, advertisements, educational activities, and manuals or guides.
- Leads production of high-quality digital and print deliverables essential to outreach, education, and stakeholder engagement.
Database and Asset Management
- Manages internal and external project folders, assets, and visual databases.
- Maintains archive of images, photographs, and work products.
- Ensures the communications team adheres to the established organizational structure of the project database.
- Maintains accessibility and integrity of assets in compliance with applicable regulations, including FERPA.
20
Duties/Responsibilities:
Brand Compliance and Strategy
- Manages unit-wide brand compliance by reviewing outputs, overseeing logo approval, and coordinating production and ordering of print materials and giveaways.
- Develops and maintains unit-wide brand resources and guidance to ensure a consistent visual identity across all platforms and divisions.
15
Duties/Responsibilities:
Multimedia Production
- Manages and produces photo and video projects, taking the lead on planning, filming, editing, and publishing outputs.
- Independently oversees each phase of multimedia production, including concept development, filming, editing, and final publication for videos, photo stories, and interactive story maps that support the unit’s outreach and communications goals.
For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.
Recruitment Contact Name:
Emily Kenworthy
Recruitment Contact Email:
ekenworthy@uga.edu