Colorado State University
Art Director/Creative
Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, us, 80523
Posting Detail Information
Working TitleArt Director/Creative
Position LocationFort Collins, CO
Work LocationPosition qualifies for hybrid/in-office work
Research Professional PositionNo
Posting Number202402066AP
Position TypeAdmin Professional/ Research Professional
Classification TitleManagement I
Number of Vacancies1
Work Hours/Week40
Proposed Annual Salary Range$96,000-$106,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience
Employee Benefits
Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, commitment todiversity, equity and inclusion (https://inclusiveexcellence.colostate.edu/about/) , and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.
Review our detailed benefits information here. (https://hr.colostate.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/25/2021/01/benefits-summary-afap.pdf)
Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.
For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator (https://hr.colostate.edu/total-compensation-calculator/) .
Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in (https://hr.colostate.edu/prospective-employees/our-community/) !
Desired Start Date03/24/2025
Position End Date (if temporary)
To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by 11:59pm (MT) on01/20/2025
Description of Work Unit
The Division of University Marketing and Communications (MarComm) oversees Marketing and Brand Management; News and Media Relations; Social Media, Video and Photography; and Community Engagement. MarComm provides central marketing, media and community relations, design, photography, video, social media to build a strong, compelling and effective brand position for the entire university and its units. This work unit also supports the operational, strategic, marketing and communications needs of CSU Spur, the CSU System administration, including the Office of the Chancellor and the CSU System Board of Governors.
Position Summary
As a member of the Marketing and Brand Management team, the Art Director will demonstrate exceptional conceptual thinking and the ability to develop big, breakthrough ideas across all mediums including storytelling, motion/video, static/print, native social, content creation, digital experiences and activations. The Art Director will bring a high level of visually creative craft and experience pushing conceptual boundaries and bring strong, industry-disruptive ideas and tactical thinking to our team. The ideal Art Director is ambitious and hungry for challenges and design craft. They’re equal parts dreamer, doer and maker. The Art Director conceptualizes ideas, sketches, designs and manages visual content across all mediums, such as storytelling, static, social media, digital experiences, activations and content creation. Experience includes, but is not limited to, print design, digital design, web, broadcast, experiential, mobile, video and social media campaigns. The Art Director works closely with the Executive Creative Director, project coordination and design teams to brainstorm ideas, create concepts, and develop messaging to audiences, platforms and achieve relevant cultural disruption. The Art Director should confidently sell ideas to internal teams, senior leaders, and campus partners. This is a position for a seasoned, driven, results-oriented, and highly creative individual with the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously, manage deadlines, and produce highly effective creativity.
The department is also currently recruiting for a Copywriter position. Interested team duos should apply individually to the open position that corresponds to their area of expertise.
While this position qualifies for hybrid/in-office work, it is not a remote position.
The successful candidate must be legally authorized to work in the United States by the proposed start date; the department will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.
Required Job Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree, preferably in Advertising, Graphic Design or related major
Five years of relevant experience
Excellent conceptual skills and creative visuals with demonstrated experience in strategic and conceptual design including (but not limited to) branding, print, broadcast, web, mobile, experiential, video and social media
Experience in MAC software and Adobe Creative Cloud, including InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator
A strong knowledge of typography, image manipulation, printing techniques, vector graphics
Demonstrated ability to concept, pitch and execute integrated marketing communication campaigns
Candidate must be legally authorized to work in the United States by the proposed start date; the department will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.
Preferred Job Qualifications
Ten or more years of experience, preferably in an agency setting
Experience in an environment working with marketing, advertising or PR campaigns, print and social media preferred
Ability to translate contextual, strategic, and business goals of designated campus partner through your conceptual and visual expertise
Be able to understand web and digital language and manage projects in those fields
Experience with motion and/or web design
Expertise in Figma, Adobe After Effects, Adobe Premiere and other creative design, digital, web and video software
Working effectively with outside suppliers and guiding the selection of directors, cast, voice talent, sound design and music as required
Comp creative mockups and presentation decks quickly
Adaptability and able to handle changes in briefs, priorities and edits at every level of detail
Strong presentation and verbal communication skills
Ability to work cross-functionally and with a fast-paced team
Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
Ability to own projects, demonstrate good judgment when working with team members and client contacts, and take initiative
Diversity Statement
Reflecting departmental and institutional values, candidates are expected to have the ability to advance the Department’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Essential Duties
Job Duty CategoryArt Direction
Duty/Responsibility
Produce concepts, ideas and visual designs in a variety of formats, including advertising, print, collateral (marketing materials), TV/video, web and interactive content, presentations and other thought-leadership pieces, considering responses from the target community
Prioritize ideas, craft and executions that are in-line with brand tone, voice, objectives, and KPIs.
Ensure concepts, ideas and designed executions are uniquely creative as well as clear, concise and persuasive to help bring a marketing strategy to life
Understand target audience to translate visual and written ideas into compelling creative
Collaborate with a team from concept development to delivery of final product
Present creative concepts in the forms of creative decks, printed materials and final deliverables to teams
Revise concept, idea and visuals based on feedback/direction
Juggle multiple assignments and work in a high-pressure environment
Manage time and establish priorities while maintaining flexibility to respond to changing demands
Help communicate creative ideas in presentations
Percentage Of Time100
Application Details
Special Instructions to Applicants
To apply, please submit a current resume, cover letter and portfolio samples and contact information of three professional references. References will not be contacted without prior notification to applicant. Portfolio (website link OK) should contain 5-7 samples of your previous work and must contain strategic and conceptual visual design work done by yourself. (If part of a team, identify clearly what your role was). Your portfolio should contain published work in (but not be limited to): strategic branding campaigns, advertising campaigns, TV/video, digital/web, social, publication design (long and short form) and demonstrate excellence in conceptual thinking, design craft and typography.
The department is also currently recruiting for a Copywriter position. Interested team duos should apply individually to the open position that corresponds to their area of expertise.
CSU is committed to full inclusion of qualified individuals. If you are needing assistance or accommodations with the search process, please reach out to the listed search contact. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.
Conditions of EmploymentPre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for new hires)
Search ContactLaura Hamrick, laura.hamrick@colostate.edu
EEO Statement
Colorado State University is committed to providing an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based on race, age, creed, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, or pregnancy in its employment, programs, services and activities, and admissions, and, in certain circumstances, marriage to a co-worker. The University will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. Colorado State University is an equal opportunity and equal access institution and affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all Federal and Colorado State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. TheOffice of Equal Opportunity (https://oeo.colostate.edu/) is located in 101 Student Services.
The Title IX Coordinator is the Director of the Office of Title IX Programs and Gender Equity, 123 Student Services Building, Fort Collins, CO 80523-0160, (970) 491-1715,titleix@colostate.edu.
The Section 504 and ADA Coordinator is the Director of the Office of Equal Opportunity, 101 Student Services Building, Fort Collins, CO 80523-0160, (970) 491-5836,oeo@colostate.edu.
The Coordinator for any other forms of misconduct prohibited by the University’s Policy on Discrimination and Harassment is the Vice President for Equity, Equal Opportunity and Title IX, 101 Student Services Building, Fort Collins, Co. 80523-0160, (970) 491-5836,oeo@colostate.edu.
Any person may report sex discrimination under Title IX to theOffice of Civil Rights, Department of Education (https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/howto.html) .
Background Check Policy Statement
Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.
References Requested
References Requested
Minimum Requested3
Maximum Requested3
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Do you have bachelor's (or higher) degree, preferably in Advertising, Graphic Design or related major?
Yes
No
Do you have a minimum of five years of relevant experience?
Yes
No
Do you have experience in MAC software and Adobe Creative Cloud, including InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator?
Yes
No
The successful candidate must be legally authorized to work in the United States by the time of hire. Will you be legally authorized to work in the US by the proposed start date?
Yes
No
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
Cover Letter
Resume
Portfolio
Optional Documents
Working TitleArt Director/Creative
Position LocationFort Collins, CO
Work LocationPosition qualifies for hybrid/in-office work
Research Professional PositionNo
Posting Number202402066AP
Position TypeAdmin Professional/ Research Professional
Classification TitleManagement I
Number of Vacancies1
Work Hours/Week40
Proposed Annual Salary Range$96,000-$106,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience
Employee Benefits
Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, commitment todiversity, equity and inclusion (https://inclusiveexcellence.colostate.edu/about/) , and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.
Review our detailed benefits information here. (https://hr.colostate.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/25/2021/01/benefits-summary-afap.pdf)
Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.
For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator (https://hr.colostate.edu/total-compensation-calculator/) .
Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in (https://hr.colostate.edu/prospective-employees/our-community/) !
Desired Start Date03/24/2025
Position End Date (if temporary)
To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by 11:59pm (MT) on01/20/2025
Description of Work Unit
The Division of University Marketing and Communications (MarComm) oversees Marketing and Brand Management; News and Media Relations; Social Media, Video and Photography; and Community Engagement. MarComm provides central marketing, media and community relations, design, photography, video, social media to build a strong, compelling and effective brand position for the entire university and its units. This work unit also supports the operational, strategic, marketing and communications needs of CSU Spur, the CSU System administration, including the Office of the Chancellor and the CSU System Board of Governors.
Position Summary
As a member of the Marketing and Brand Management team, the Art Director will demonstrate exceptional conceptual thinking and the ability to develop big, breakthrough ideas across all mediums including storytelling, motion/video, static/print, native social, content creation, digital experiences and activations. The Art Director will bring a high level of visually creative craft and experience pushing conceptual boundaries and bring strong, industry-disruptive ideas and tactical thinking to our team. The ideal Art Director is ambitious and hungry for challenges and design craft. They’re equal parts dreamer, doer and maker. The Art Director conceptualizes ideas, sketches, designs and manages visual content across all mediums, such as storytelling, static, social media, digital experiences, activations and content creation. Experience includes, but is not limited to, print design, digital design, web, broadcast, experiential, mobile, video and social media campaigns. The Art Director works closely with the Executive Creative Director, project coordination and design teams to brainstorm ideas, create concepts, and develop messaging to audiences, platforms and achieve relevant cultural disruption. The Art Director should confidently sell ideas to internal teams, senior leaders, and campus partners. This is a position for a seasoned, driven, results-oriented, and highly creative individual with the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously, manage deadlines, and produce highly effective creativity.
The department is also currently recruiting for a Copywriter position. Interested team duos should apply individually to the open position that corresponds to their area of expertise.
While this position qualifies for hybrid/in-office work, it is not a remote position.
The successful candidate must be legally authorized to work in the United States by the proposed start date; the department will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.
Required Job Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree, preferably in Advertising, Graphic Design or related major
Five years of relevant experience
Excellent conceptual skills and creative visuals with demonstrated experience in strategic and conceptual design including (but not limited to) branding, print, broadcast, web, mobile, experiential, video and social media
Experience in MAC software and Adobe Creative Cloud, including InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator
A strong knowledge of typography, image manipulation, printing techniques, vector graphics
Demonstrated ability to concept, pitch and execute integrated marketing communication campaigns
Candidate must be legally authorized to work in the United States by the proposed start date; the department will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.
Preferred Job Qualifications
Ten or more years of experience, preferably in an agency setting
Experience in an environment working with marketing, advertising or PR campaigns, print and social media preferred
Ability to translate contextual, strategic, and business goals of designated campus partner through your conceptual and visual expertise
Be able to understand web and digital language and manage projects in those fields
Experience with motion and/or web design
Expertise in Figma, Adobe After Effects, Adobe Premiere and other creative design, digital, web and video software
Working effectively with outside suppliers and guiding the selection of directors, cast, voice talent, sound design and music as required
Comp creative mockups and presentation decks quickly
Adaptability and able to handle changes in briefs, priorities and edits at every level of detail
Strong presentation and verbal communication skills
Ability to work cross-functionally and with a fast-paced team
Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
Ability to own projects, demonstrate good judgment when working with team members and client contacts, and take initiative
Diversity Statement
Reflecting departmental and institutional values, candidates are expected to have the ability to advance the Department’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Essential Duties
Job Duty CategoryArt Direction
Duty/Responsibility
Produce concepts, ideas and visual designs in a variety of formats, including advertising, print, collateral (marketing materials), TV/video, web and interactive content, presentations and other thought-leadership pieces, considering responses from the target community
Prioritize ideas, craft and executions that are in-line with brand tone, voice, objectives, and KPIs.
Ensure concepts, ideas and designed executions are uniquely creative as well as clear, concise and persuasive to help bring a marketing strategy to life
Understand target audience to translate visual and written ideas into compelling creative
Collaborate with a team from concept development to delivery of final product
Present creative concepts in the forms of creative decks, printed materials and final deliverables to teams
Revise concept, idea and visuals based on feedback/direction
Juggle multiple assignments and work in a high-pressure environment
Manage time and establish priorities while maintaining flexibility to respond to changing demands
Help communicate creative ideas in presentations
Percentage Of Time100
Application Details
Special Instructions to Applicants
To apply, please submit a current resume, cover letter and portfolio samples and contact information of three professional references. References will not be contacted without prior notification to applicant. Portfolio (website link OK) should contain 5-7 samples of your previous work and must contain strategic and conceptual visual design work done by yourself. (If part of a team, identify clearly what your role was). Your portfolio should contain published work in (but not be limited to): strategic branding campaigns, advertising campaigns, TV/video, digital/web, social, publication design (long and short form) and demonstrate excellence in conceptual thinking, design craft and typography.
The department is also currently recruiting for a Copywriter position. Interested team duos should apply individually to the open position that corresponds to their area of expertise.
CSU is committed to full inclusion of qualified individuals. If you are needing assistance or accommodations with the search process, please reach out to the listed search contact. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.
Conditions of EmploymentPre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for new hires)
Search ContactLaura Hamrick, laura.hamrick@colostate.edu
EEO Statement
Colorado State University is committed to providing an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based on race, age, creed, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, or pregnancy in its employment, programs, services and activities, and admissions, and, in certain circumstances, marriage to a co-worker. The University will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. Colorado State University is an equal opportunity and equal access institution and affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all Federal and Colorado State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. TheOffice of Equal Opportunity (https://oeo.colostate.edu/) is located in 101 Student Services.
The Title IX Coordinator is the Director of the Office of Title IX Programs and Gender Equity, 123 Student Services Building, Fort Collins, CO 80523-0160, (970) 491-1715,titleix@colostate.edu.
The Section 504 and ADA Coordinator is the Director of the Office of Equal Opportunity, 101 Student Services Building, Fort Collins, CO 80523-0160, (970) 491-5836,oeo@colostate.edu.
The Coordinator for any other forms of misconduct prohibited by the University’s Policy on Discrimination and Harassment is the Vice President for Equity, Equal Opportunity and Title IX, 101 Student Services Building, Fort Collins, Co. 80523-0160, (970) 491-5836,oeo@colostate.edu.
Any person may report sex discrimination under Title IX to theOffice of Civil Rights, Department of Education (https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/howto.html) .
Background Check Policy Statement
Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.
References Requested
References Requested
Minimum Requested3
Maximum Requested3
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Do you have bachelor's (or higher) degree, preferably in Advertising, Graphic Design or related major?
Yes
No
Do you have a minimum of five years of relevant experience?
Yes
No
Do you have experience in MAC software and Adobe Creative Cloud, including InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator?
Yes
No
The successful candidate must be legally authorized to work in the United States by the time of hire. Will you be legally authorized to work in the US by the proposed start date?
Yes
No
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
Cover Letter
Resume
Portfolio
Optional Documents