Graphic Designer
Controller Job Description
Graphic designers create visual content in both print and digital form. They might work on advertisements, newsletters, publications, digital media, film, web or app design, product packaging, or interior or architect designs. A company, client or art director will give a graphic designer a message or idea to communicate visually. The designer then uses text, images, and color to form that visual element. A graphic designer creates useful, meaningful, and functional visuals using various means of technology. The work depends largely on a client’s or company’s needs, but general designer responsibilities may include: developing visual assets to support a marketing campaign, designing a graphic overlay for social media posts, formalizing the layout for a print ad, and retouching photos for digital signage.
Graphic designers must think of new and exciting ways to visually communicate ideas. In addition to coming up with ideas, graphic designers must have the artistic talent to draw, illustrate or computer-generate images. They should also be comfortable using different mediums. Graphic designers should clearly discuss messages and ideas with the art director, client or other artists to make sure they are creating an effective design. Today, most designers use graphic design software to create or edit images and layouts. They might need to understand how to use photo editing, layout and publishing software. Graphic designers often work on strict deadlines and multiple projects at once. They must prioritize projects and use their time efficiently to meet these deadlines. Graphic designers should be able to take a complex idea or data set and determine the best visual representation.
Some graphic designers can get a job with a certificate or a two-year associate’s degree alone. However, most graphic designers have received a Bachelor of Arts or Fine Arts degree in graphic arts, graphic design or a similar field. Some colleges have programs that focus specifically on art and design and the courses needed to prepare graduates for graphic design jobs. Many of these are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. Graphic designer jobs do not typically require an advanced degree beyond a bachelor’s.
Typical duties of a Controller
• Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.
• Illustrating concepts by designing examples of art arrangement, size, type size and style and submitting them for approval.
• Preparing finished art by operating necessary equipment and software.
• Coordinating with outside agencies, art services, web designer, marketing, printers, and colleagues as necessary.
• Contributing to team efforts by accomplishing tasks as needed.
• Communicating with clients about layout and design.
• Creating a wide range of graphics and layouts for product illustrations, company logos, and websites with software such as photoshop.
• Reviewing final layouts and suggesting improvements when necessary.
Skills:
• Demonstrable graphic design skills with a strong portfolio.
• Proficiency with required desktop publishing tools, including Photoshop, InDesign Quark, and Illustrator.
• A strong eye for visual composition.
• Effective time management skills and the ability to meet deadlines.
• Able to give and receive constructive criticism.
• Understanding of marketing, production, website design, corporate identity, product packaging, advertisements, and multimedia design.
• Experience with computer-aided design.
Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in graphic design or related field.