Graphic Design Instructor Jobs
Graphic Design Instructor jobs are open across higher education, vocational schools, community colleges, and corporate training, from adjunct and entry-level to full-time faculty and department lead, with specializations in typography, digital media, and UI/UX fundamentals. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process . Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants .
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants .
POSITION SPECIFICS
Penn State is currently seeking a Graphic Design Specialist in the Office of Development Communications to support both graphic design and multimedia production across a broad range of fundraising communications and marketing objectives at the University. As a member of the Division of Development and Alumni Relations, you can play an integral role in Penn State’s future and contribute to one of the most successful fundraising and alumni relations operations in the country.
For full consideration, applicants are asked to attach a cover letter and resume/CV, . Candidates should provide a link to a digital portfolio showcasing strong storytelling, concept execution, and technical craft, for review as part of their application.
As part of a visual communications team within the Office of Development Communications, the Graphic Design Specialist will:
- Design, edit, and produce graphic art, visual communications, and multimedia products for promotional, advertising, educational, and administrative purposes
- Create and manipulate graphic images, illustrations, and photography into integrated multimedia solutions across print and digital platforms
- Design, develop, and update websites, landing pages, and other digital communications that adhere to the latest accessibility and user experience best practices.
- Collaborate with stakeholders, subject matter experts, content authors, and project teams to ensure visual and multimedia solutions align with institutional objectives, messaging, and mission
- Create proofs, prototypes, mock-ups, wireframes, and other visual aids to communicate design concepts and support project development
- Participate in the creative direction, planning, production, and quality review of video and audio content
- Design and develop presentation materials, templates, branding assets, and communication tools for promotional, developmental, operational, and administrative purposes
- Maintain consistency with established branding, visual identity, style guides, and communication standards
- Review, revise, and update existing multimedia and graphic products to ensure accuracy, relevance, quality, and effectiveness
- Research and apply emerging design trends, technologies, tools, and best practices to enhance communication and user engagement Ensure compliance with accessibility requirements, contractual obligations, copyright requirements, confidentiality and privacy policies, and applicable organizational standards and guidelines
The successful candidate will have:
- Strong knowledge of graphic design principles, visual communication strategies, and user-centered design
- Understanding of current design technologies to support visual and multimedia products for print, digital, video, web, social media
- Proficiency with Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop, as well as experience with Adobe Premiere
- Understanding of Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and excel as well as OneDrive/SharePoint
- Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills
- The ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues
- A proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team A commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored
DDAR is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Graphic Design Specialist – Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Associate degree and 2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
If filled as Graphic Design Specialist – Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor’s Degree and 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $54,060.00 - $86,400.00.Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page .
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster
PA State Labor Law Poster
Penn State Policies
Copyright Information
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APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process . Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants .
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants .
POSITION SPECIFICS
Penn State is currently seeking a Graphic Design Specialist in the Office of Development Communications to support both graphic design and multimedia production across a broad range of fundraising communications and marketing objectives at the University. As a member of the Division of Development and Alumni Relations, you can play an integral role in Penn State’s future and contribute to one of the most successful fundraising and alumni relations operations in the country.
For full consideration, applicants are asked to attach a cover letter and resume/CV, . Candidates should provide a link to a digital portfolio showcasing strong storytelling, concept execution, and technical craft, for review as part of their application.
As part of a visual communications team within the Office of Development Communications, the Graphic Design Specialist will:
- Design, edit, and produce graphic art, visual communications, and multimedia products for promotional, advertising, educational, and administrative purposes
- Create and manipulate graphic images, illustrations, and photography into integrated multimedia solutions across print and digital platforms
- Design, develop, and update websites, landing pages, and other digital communications that adhere to the latest accessibility and user experience best practices.
- Collaborate with stakeholders, subject matter experts, content authors, and project teams to ensure visual and multimedia solutions align with institutional objectives, messaging, and mission
- Create proofs, prototypes, mock-ups, wireframes, and other visual aids to communicate design concepts and support project development
- Participate in the creative direction, planning, production, and quality review of video and audio content
- Design and develop presentation materials, templates, branding assets, and communication tools for promotional, developmental, operational, and administrative purposes
- Maintain consistency with established branding, visual identity, style guides, and communication standards
- Review, revise, and update existing multimedia and graphic products to ensure accuracy, relevance, quality, and effectiveness
- Research and apply emerging design trends, technologies, tools, and best practices to enhance communication and user engagement Ensure compliance with accessibility requirements, contractual obligations, copyright requirements, confidentiality and privacy policies, and applicable organizational standards and guidelines
The successful candidate will have:
- Strong knowledge of graphic design principles, visual communication strategies, and user-centered design
- Understanding of current design technologies to support visual and multimedia products for print, digital, video, web, social media
- Proficiency with Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop, as well as experience with Adobe Premiere
- Understanding of Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and excel as well as OneDrive/SharePoint
- Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills
- The ability to create and maintain an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues
- A proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team A commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored
DDAR is supportive of flexible work arrangements when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Graphic Design Specialist – Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Associate degree and 2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
If filled as Graphic Design Specialist – Advanced Professional, this position requires: Bachelor’s Degree and 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $54,060.00 - $86,400.00.Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page .
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster
PA State Labor Law Poster
Penn State Policies
Copyright Information
Hotlines
Graphic Design Instructor Jobs by Experience Level
See All 231+ Graphic Design Instructor Jobs
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Find JobsGraphic Design Instructor Job Market
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Education10
- Marketing & Advertising2
- Manufacturing1
- Accounting & Auditing1
- Technology & Software1
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in graphic design instructor jobs.
- Bachelor's or master's degree in graphic design, fine arts, or a closely related field
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign
- Prior teaching experience in a classroom, workshop, or online learning environment
- Strong portfolio demonstrating professional design work across print and digital media
- Familiarity with learning management systems such as Canvas or Blackboard
- Experience with Figma or other UI/UX prototyping tools preferred for digital-focused roles
Tips for Your Graphic Design Instructor Job Search
Tailor your portfolio for teaching contexts
Employers want to see not just strong design work but evidence you can teach it. Include annotated case studies, curriculum samples, or student project outcomes alongside your own work so hiring committees can assess your instructional thinking alongside your design skills.
Highlight software fluency by version
Many institutions specify exact tools: Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, Procreate, or Canva for Education. Name the specific software and version you teach in your resume's skills section so your application clears automated screening before a human ever reads it.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists graphic design instructor openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Distinguish adjunct from full-time applications
Adjunct postings at community colleges often have rolling deadlines and fast hiring cycles, while tenure-track or full-time faculty roles close hard on stated dates and require a teaching statement. Read the posting type carefully and adjust your materials before you apply.
Prepare a teaching demonstration before interviews
Most graphic design instructor interviews include a live or recorded lesson, often 15 to 20 minutes on a topic the committee assigns in advance. Practice explaining a design concept like color theory or grid systems to a mixed-experience audience, not just advanced students.
Negotiate course load, not just salary
When you receive an offer, ask about the number of sections, prep hours, and whether curriculum already exists or you build from scratch. Adjunct pay is often per credit hour, so the actual workload attached to a section matters as much as the stated rate.
Graphic Design Instructor Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most graphic design instructors?
The most active employers for graphic design instructors right now are NIKE, Oak View, and The New School, and the most openings are in Texas, New York, and California, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Community colleges and art-focused universities tend to post the highest volume of openings year-round.
How many graphic design instructor jobs are remote?
About 43% of graphic design instructor openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, with the highest share in online-only programs and continuing education platforms. Roles focused on digital design, UI/UX, and motion graphics are more likely to be taught remotely than those requiring hands-on studio critique or print production instruction.
How do you become a graphic design instructor?
Start by building professional design experience and a portfolio that demonstrates range across print, digital, or UI/UX work. A bachelor's degree in graphic design or a related field is the minimum for most positions, while a master's degree opens doors at four-year colleges. Gain teaching experience through workshops, community classes, or adjunct roles before pursuing full-time faculty positions.
Can you get hired as a graphic design instructor with little experience?
Yes, entry points exist even without formal teaching history. Adjunct positions at community colleges and vocational schools frequently hire candidates with strong industry portfolios and professional experience in lieu of classroom credentials. Continuing education programs and corporate training roles are also more flexible. Building a sample lesson plan and a few annotated case studies can substitute for a full teaching record early in your career.
What does the graphic design instructor interview process look like?
Most interviews begin with a screening call focused on your design background and teaching philosophy. A portfolio review with a committee typically follows, where you walk through your work and explain your creative decisions. Many institutions then ask for a teaching demonstration, a short prepared lesson on an assigned topic. Final-round interviews often include a conversation with department faculty or an academic dean about curriculum goals and software tools used in the program.
Where can I find and apply to graphic design instructor jobs?
You can find and apply to graphic design instructor jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States. Search the roles available, find the ones that match your background and preferred setting, and apply directly to each listing that fits.
See All 231+ Graphic Design Instructor Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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