Web and Graphic Design Specialist - University of Chicago

The Digital Library Development Center (DLDC) collaborates with Library staff, University faculty, departments and other groups on campus, and colleagues at other institutions, to enable discovery of the Library's information resources, make the campus community aware of the Library's services, build digital collections, and ensure the persistence and usability of the Library's digital resources over time.

Reporting to the Web Program Director, and working closely with the Director of Communications, the Web and Graphic Design Specialist is responsible for designing and producing websites, software interfaces, and some print materials. This position excels in working collaboratively with software developers and system administrators, as well as librarians, user experience researchers, and other subject matter experts. This position has expertise in software tools for graphic design, prototyping, accessibility, and web content management, and can customize applications with CSS, JavaScript, and Python. This position supports Library websites by maintaining documentation and coordinating end-user support and training. This position employs a user-centered design approach, and applies relevant web standards, including those regarding mobile access and accessibility. These products will advance the communication and service goals of the Library, and will meet the needs of University faculty, students, and staff, as well as library staff members and other researchers and users of the Library.

Responsibilities

• With guidance from the Web Program Director, designs, develops, produces, and documents digital products including public web sites, the staff intranet, web exhibits, presentations, e-mail templates, and content for social media.
• Maintains accessibility compliance of library sites, and coordinates with campus departments setting accessibility requirements.
• Ensures consistent site appearance and behavior across browsers and devices using CSS and SASS.
• Creates concept sketches, wireframes, and mockups for websites and applications.
• Develops templates and functionality within the Library’s content management system.
• Manages user accounts and access within the content management system, and coordinates end-user support and training for the system.
• Configures interfaces of web-based vended products used by the Library.
• Designs signage, floorplans, and other print materials and manages production processes.
• Curates the Library’s graphic design assets, and ensures the application of University and Library graphic identity and style guide standards.
• Serves on task forces, committees, and workgroups, etc. inside and outside the Library as necessary.
• Accomplishes assigned duties through two or more of the following: written communications; visual/graphic media, which may include Web site development and maintenance; speeches and personal contact. The incumbent is still acquiring higher-level knowledge and skills.
• Solves a range of straightforward problems, as work assignments are difficult and broad in nature, usually requiring originality and ingenuity.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications 

Education:

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Work Experience:

• Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years professional design and web developer experience.
• Working in an academic, library, or research environment.
• Experience working with print vendors.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Web analytics tools, and usability testing and user research methods.
• Producing and maintaining complex websites.
• Working knowledge of video and audio, HTML5, responsive/mobile design.
• Deep understanding of WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards, and of tools for testing and troubleshooting accessibility issues.
• Apply principles of user-centered design, universal design, interaction design, and information architecture to development of products.
• Working knowledge of Python. Proficiency with JavaScript.
• Knowledge of front-end development frameworks, such as Django and React or other JS libraries.
• Use of prototyping tools, such as Figma, Sketch, or InVision.
• Experience using enterprise accessibility software, such as SiteImprove.
• SQL queries.
• Demonstrated mastery of design software, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign.
• Strong graphic design skills.

Preferred Competencies

• Working collaboratively as part of a software development team.
• Excel in a team-based environment, participate in code reviews, and use code management platforms such as GitHub.
• Excellent interpersonal, analytical, and communication skills.
• Comfortable collaborating with stakeholders and translating their objectives into concrete designs.

Working Conditions

• Hybrid.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover Letter addressrf to David Bietila (required)
• Reference Contact Information (required)

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

https://uchicago.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/External/job/Chicago-IL/Web-and-Graphic-Design-Specialist_JR19513