Arena Careers

Position: Graphic Design & Communications Specialist

Date of Posting: Thursday, November 6

Application Deadline: Wednesday, November 19

Reports to: Senior Director of Public Affairs

Location: Arizona Education Association Headquarters, 345 E. Palm Lane, Phoenix, AZ 85004

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How to Apply: Please submit your résumé, work samples (Graphic Design Portfolio that contains 6-8 pieces of branding, print, digital, social media graphics, web design, infographics, 1-2 writing samples), and a cover letter to Ms. Nicole Adams ([email protected]).

Position Summary: The Graphic Design & Communications Specialist is a member of the Program Team who works closely with the Communications Director to advance the Arizona Education Association’s (AEA) communications strategy. This role produces high-quality, brand-consistent graphic design, print, and digital materials—including newsletters, press releases, and other internal and external documents—and supports local affiliates with their communication.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned graphic design professional with excellent writing and copywriting skills. They can turn complex ideas into engaging visual stories and feel comfortable working in collaborative, cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Apply knowledge of design and communication principles to develop layouts and production designs for AEA communications, including but not limited to:Quarterly magazine Website content and updates Brochures, flyers, and digital communications Event signage and promotional materials Logos and other creative projects Review and refine visual and written content to ensure accuracy, clarity, and consistency—providing proofreading and copyediting support as needed.
• Manage the full design process—from concept development through final production—for both commercial print and digital platforms.
• Collaborate with AEA staff, field organizers, and local affiliates to support their communications efforts, including graphic and logo design (as needed).
• Ensure consistency across all materials by managing and maintaining AEA’s image and brand standards.
• Maintain and organize AEA’s digital asset library, including photo files, graphics, and design templates for easy staff access and retrieval.
• Gather, organize, and present information effectively to inform design work and communication strategies.
• Provide creative recommendations and exercise sound judgment in visual storytelling and layout decisions.
• Schedule, operate, and complete in-house print jobs as needed to support events and outreach.
• Proofreading and copywriting (as needed) in collaboration with Communications Director.
• Maintain and update the organization’s website, ensuring accessibility, functionality, and brand alignment in collaboration with the Communications Director.
• Operate and maintain a high-speed production printer; perform copy shop duties as needed.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Strong graphic design and layout skills, with attention to detail and quality
• Expert understanding of 4color printing process and production knowledge to skillfully prepare files for commercial printing, screen printing, large format, as well as in-house color digital printing
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator proficiency required, Premiere and After Effects proficiency preferred)
• Strong writing and proofreading skills
• Proficiency in HTML/CSS and basic web editing
• Experience with Drupal, Salesforce Marketing Cloud, Cvent, or similar CMS platforms.
• Understanding of print production processes and best practices
• Ability to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work collaboratively across departments
• Excellent organizational skills, including digital file management
• Ability to take initiative, provide creative input, and work both independently and as part of a team

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, Art/Design, Marketing, or a related field.
• Prior experience in a union, nonprofit, or advocacy-based organization
• Experience working with diverse communities and an understanding of equity-focused communications