Temporary Production Designer

Rice University • Houston, TX

15h • $35 - $38 • Onsite

About The Position

The Office of Public Affairs at Rice University is seeking a detail-oriented and technically proficient temporary Production Designer to support our Creative Services team. This is a part-time, project-based role focused on the high-level execution of brand assets, digital content, and print collateral.

Ideal Candidate Statement:
The ideal candidate thrives on the "how" of design—taking creative concepts and ensuring they are flawlessly executed across a vast array of physical and digital touchpoints while maintaining the integrity of the Rice University brand.

Requirements

• Technical Mastery: Expert-level proficiency in Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop.
• Production Logic: Deep understanding of print production processes, including paper stocks, binding, and file preparation.
• Organization: Proven ability to meet strict deadlines and manage multiple moving parts simultaneously.
• Communication: Strong interpersonal skills to consult with campus partners and explain technical requirements to non-designers.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working within a higher education or large-scale institutional brand.
• Background in managing vendor relationships and reviewing press proofs.
• Experience creating user-friendly templates for non-designers in Canva.

Responsibilities

• Identity Systems: Design and typeset official "lockup" logos for schools, research institutes, and various campus partners, ensuring strict adherence to University brand standards.
• Digital Assets: Execute technical production for social media graphics, email headers, and web banners for the Public Affairs teams.
• Print Collateral: Prepare print-ready files for brochures, posters, event invitations, and environmental signage, ensuring correct color profiles, bleeds, and resolution.
• Quality Control: Perform rigorous pre-flighting on all files to catch errors before they go to press or go live.
• Template Creation: Develop easy-to-use Canva or Adobe Express templates for campus partners to empower them to create brand-aligned content.
• Photo Manipulation: Perform basic photo retouching, cropping, and color correction for use across University news platforms.
• Accessibility Compliance: Ensure all digital designs meet ADA/WCAG accessibility standards (e.g., proper contrast ratios and alt-text preparation).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed