Temporary Graphic Designer

Job

375090

Twin Cities

Supplemental Employee

Part-Time

Regular

0006

Civil Service

Responsibilities and

Hours:

This is a flexible, 15 hours per week, freelance hybrid position beginning mid-September 2026 through late-January 2027 (20 weeks). Scheduled hours will take place between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday with the ability to work in-person at Northrop at least one day per week.

Overview: The Temporary Graphic Designer services the Business Development & Customer Support team, dedicated to elevating Northrop's brand by designing captivating print and digital materials. The freelancer collaborates with the Creative Director to uphold branding standards and deliver high-impact marketing, education, engagement, fundraising, and operational assets. The freelancer will manage and organize multiple projects, have an acute eye for detail, and have expertise in both typography and layout.

Design and Produce Print and Digital Northrop Materials

• Using Adobe Creative Suite software, design print and digital materials for all Northrop marketing, fundraising, ticketing, engagement, operations, and other initiatives. This includes (but is not limited to) brochures, posters, ads, direct mail, videos, social media content, signs, newsletters, performance programs, stationery, promotional items, web and email graphics, etc. Strong knowledge and experience using Adobe InDesign and Illustrator is preferred.
• Create and modify images using Photoshop.
• Edit and produce videos using Adobe After Effects and Premiere programs.
• Design materials that adhere to Northrop and University branding and editorial standards, as well as artist and promoter guidelines.
• Seek out alternative imagery, photography, video, or design techniques to promote Northrop's programming in the best possible way.
• Follow timelines and work with Northrop staff and partner organizations to route pieces for proofing and make revisions promptly.
• Use the Asana project management tool for all projects.
• Participate in collaborative and independent creative ideation of design solutions and options for Northrop's business objectives.
• Work collaboratively with teammates and other stakeholders, with a proactive willingness to assist other colleagues and departments in the spirit of teamwork.

• Maintain shared server structure and adhere to the server style guide.
• Keep organized files for all materials produced, as well as files of all Northrop photography, logos, and branding standards using naming conventions.
• Source inventive methods of printing and production within the designated budget.
• Attend meetings and provide creative input on marketing and publicity strategies and design techniques.
• Evaluate the effectiveness and quality of design techniques and adjust as needed based on outcomes.
• Uphold the mission and vision of Northrop and the University of Minnesota at all times, while maintaining a positive and professional attitude.

• BA/BS or BFA in Graphic Design plus 2 years of work experience in graphic design; or a combination of relevant education and graphic design experience to total 4-6 years.
• Established access to Adobe Creative Cloud programs
• A computer with internet access
• Expert knowledge and advanced creative skills with InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere, After Effects, and other relevant programs.
• Ability to design and produce original print and digital pieces creatively and independently.
• Experience following a brand/style guide.
• Pre-press and print production experience.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and learn new areas quickly.
• Proven track record of seeing projects through to completion.

The Organization: Northrop shapes Minnesota's rich cultural environment through arts presentations and commissions that celebrate excellence and innovation, community engagement, and creative exchange. Considered a Minneapolis architectural treasure, Northrop is an enduring symbol of the University of Minnesota, and the focal point of the Twin Cities campus and community.

Since opening in 1929, Northrop has served as the University's primary gathering place for the performing arts, concerts, lectures, academic ceremonies, and major civic events. Our performances and engagement activities reach far beyond the student body and University community to citizens all across Minnesota. Programming has focused on bringing world-class dance, music, film and conversations to Northrop, where the arts are incorporated into the student experience and shared with regional audiences.

Mission: Rooted in the belief that the arts are essential to the human experience, we are committed to cultivating intersections between performing arts and education for the benefit of all participants now and for generations to come.

Vision: Directly aligned with the teaching,…