Graphic Designer

JOB SUMMARY:

The National Aquarium is seeking a Graphic Designer to support marketing initiatives by developing thoughtful and imaginative creative solutions that adhere to brand guidelines while challenging our visual aesthetic in ways that are bold and innovative. Working directly with the marketing communications team, internal clients and external vendors in the development of publications, brochures, newsletters, ads, flyers and other printed and digital materials, the Graphic Designer is a self-starter with an energy for collaboration and active iteration. This multi-faceted creative team member will have an ability to multi-task while utilizing various resources to execute design tasks within a deadline-driven environment.

KEY REQUIREMENTS:

Essential responsibilities include:

• Develop and apply a rich understanding of the Aquarium's mission, with a thoughtful application of brand aesthetic and guidelines.
• Maintain a consistent brand look and feel for all aspects of design while still evolving designs in ways that are fresh, new, and on-trend.
• Conceptualize and design marketing pieces across print and digital platforms. Projects include, but are not limited to: social media, illustrations, infographics, presentations and print media such as brochures, posters, and flyers.
• Contribute to the growth of digital campaign tactics by researching and implementing new trends and strategies.
• Actively participate in creative brainstorming across all creative disciplines. Spark curiosity and drive motivation of team members through constructive input, innovative inspiration, and creative exploration.
• Communicate creative concepts to stakeholders, articulating creation rationale clearly and effectively in an eloquent and professional manner.
• Assist the team with asset and file organizational tasks, including maintenance of a design asset library.
• Adhere to all organizational and departmental policies and procedures.
• Support company mission.
• Adhere to all organizational and departmental policies and procedures.
• Other duties as assigned or required.

The National Aquarium is committed to diversity and invites individuals who bring a diversity of culture, experience and ideas to apply.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts, Arts, Graphic Design, or another design-related field.
• 3-4 years of relevant professional experience

Technical Skills & Software Proficiency:

• Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop).
• Demonstrate strong layout and design skills, acute attention to detail, accuracy, creativity, and self motivation.
• Knowledge of animation, motion graphics, and After Effects is a plus.
• Knowledge of print production processes is a plus.
• Knowledge of data visualization a plus.

Work Ethic & Collaboration:

• Ability to take constructive input and adjust designs as needed to accomplish project goals.
• Capable of juggling multiple projects and thriving in both independent and team-based work

environments.

• Ability to communicate creative ideas effectively.
• Familiarity with project management software is a plus.

Additional Requirement:

• Portfolio required with submission.

TOTAL COMPENSATION INFORMATION:

Salary range ($58,660-71,399 annual). National Aquarium provides an excellent benefits package, including four weeks paid time off, and six paid floating holidays and up to four weeks of paid family leave. Employees are eligible for health care (single and family) after 30 days of full-time work. Conservation day leave and 401(k) plan with employer match available.

About the National Aquarium

Established in 1981, the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to connect people with nature to inspire compassion and care for our ocean planet. The Aquarium’s award-winning habitats are home to thousands of animals representing hundreds of species of fish, birds, amphibians, reptiles and mammals. We are proud to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and exceed industry standards in all aspects of animal care and welfare.

More than 1.2 million people visit the Aquarium each year to experience our immersive exhibits, and we reach far more through our science-based education programs and hands-on field conservation work. The National Aquarium is one of the top three aquariums in the United States and the largest paid cultural attraction in Maryland.

Our Mission and Goals

The Aquarium’s mission—to connect people with nature to inspire compassion and care for our ocean planet—begins within the walls of its buildings, but it does not end there. The Aquarium protects, enhances and restores natural resources through education and engagement, habitat restoration, animal rescue and sustainable business practices, with its conservation work guided by three overarching goals—to combat climate change, save wildlife and habitats, and stop plastic pollution.

Our Values

At the National Aquarium, our core values form the basis for our beliefs about our organization, our colleagues and ourselves, and serve as the framework to guide our behaviors and actions to achieve our mission.

Connection: We take the time to build lasting connections with each other, our guests, the animals in our care and the nature that surrounds us. We communicate clearly and collaborate readily within and across teams. We engage thoughtfully with our partners. We practice shared accountability.

Curiosity: We center learning and growth in all that we do. Our people are empowered to explore new approaches. We support taking risks. We value diverse perspectives and bold ideas. We embrace change.

Optimism: We celebrate the power of positive moments and shared experiences. We seek out opportunities to have fun. We reconnect with our purpose through sharing successes with our colleagues.

Service: We are in service to each other, our guests and our communities. We make intentional decisions and actions for the benefit of the people and animals within our organization.

Wellbeing: We ensure our people and animals have what they need mentally and physically to thrive. We are committed to improving the wellbeing of communities and sharing the healing power of natural for all.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice

National Aquarium values an inclusive and diverse environment for all employees, volunteers, and interns. Our goal is to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a candidate pool representative of the variety of communities we serve. With a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice, the Aquarium is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and promotes an environment free from all discrimination and harassment.

In the selection and retention of employees, volunteers, and interns, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social, or ethnic origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical, mental, or sensory disability, sex (including pregnancy or childbirth), marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, arrest record, family or caregiver status, HIV status, socioeconomic status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Our organization is dedicated to this policy with respect to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to recruitment, training, promotions, performance management, and separation, and general treatment during time of employment.

Salary : $58,660 - $71,399