State of Washington Classified Job Specification
GRAPHIC DESIGNER SUPERVISOR
Definition
Supervises, graphic design staff and plans and coordinates the operation of a comprehensive graphics design unit or program.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Under administrative direction, positions have responsibility for the design and production of all graphic design projects and for supervising professional graphics design staff. Positions perform administrative functions such as establishing program goals and priorities, developing and implementing graphic design policies and standards, and overseeing the graphic program budget.
Typical Work
Coordinates and approves the editing, design, and production of a variety of graphic design deliverables such as organization-wide or department level publications, displays, exhibits, video multi-media presentations or eLearning modules;
Sets goals, objectives, and standards; develops and implements organization-wide graphic design policy and procedures; ensures adherence to department or organization-wide design standards;
Assists in developing graphic program budget; identifies funding codes;
Oversees the design and production of print publications including pamphlets, brochures, and newsletters; assists customer in determining economical format; educates customer on color, imagery, message, process, and standards; reviews and negotiates final print bill to confirm costs; serves as liaison with accounting offices;
Oversees all aspects of electronics production; develops graphic design and related multi-media or eLearning concepts and prepares electronic format for publications, exhibits, the internet and other graphic projects; serves as lead design consultant on high-profile graphic design projects;
Provides direction to staff on project scope, focus, audience, and media selection;
Consults with management regarding informational projects, programs and events; works with Public Affairs staff and executive management in determining the need for publishing or promoting interest in programs, policies and services;
Works with Public Affairs staff and executive management in determining the need for producing graphic design deliverables to publish or promote interest in programs, policies or services;
Provides conflict resolution for scheduling priorities, media selection, production methods, and publication policy; accepts or declines projects; negotiates deadlines;
Implements or approves the use of department logo such as for publications, buildings, vessels, vehicles, equipment, and signing;
Contracts for, monitors and approves the work of private design firms, photographers, commercial lithographers, printers, and advertising agencies; obtains estimates and bids; prepares bid package;
Illustrates using traditional drawing methods and advanced digital computer software;
Makes final proof, prepares electronic separations, bleeds, traps, stripping, and makes product electronic press ready;
Ensures PDFs are authored effectively; implements archive structures for stock media assets; oversees accurate layout of translated text when copy is translated into other languages;
Orders graphic design software and hardware upgrades; works with IT services staff to resolves graphics unit operational software and hardware problems;
Reinforces organization style-guide for writing; serves as an authority with stakeholders concerning photo use rights and obligations; implements accessibility standards for print and media content;
Approves video programming prior to delivery for compliance with internal agency programming standards;
Performs other work as required.
Knowledge and Abilities
Knowledge of: methods and techniques of graphic design; effective application of materials and media; scheduling, prioritizing and time management techniques.
Ability to: conceptualize, design and produce a variety of visual communication materials; supervise staff; develop a program budget; plan and organize program activities.
Legal Requirement(s)
There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.
Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.
Desirable Qualifications
Bachelor's Degree in graphics design or related field
AND
Three years of experience as a Graphic Designer, including one year of lead experience.
OR
Equivalent education/experience.
Class Specification History
Revised definition, distinguishing characteristics, typical work, knowledge and abilities, and desirable qualifications; adopted June 13, 2019; effective July 1, 2019.
Revised Legal Requirements; effective June 6, 2024, due to adopted legislative action.