Associate I, Graphic Design

Associate I, Graphic Design The Associate I, Graphic Design is a part of the Communications Team, and supports various projects with guidance from the Communications team across Elevate while gaining valuable administrative and design experience. The ideal candidate is familiar with design tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro), Canva, and/or CapCut, and values creating in-house and organic content. A basic understanding of design principles such as typography, color theory, and visual identity is preferred, along with the ability to maintain consistency across platforms. We’re looking for someone who is detail-oriented and passionate about creating high-quality design work, and eager to learn. Experience designing social media graphics is preferred, while interest or exposure to short-form video editing or animation is a bonus. This role also provides the opportunity to collaborate with teammates to create content that resonates with Elevate’s audiences. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to creative, mission-aligned work while supporting the Communications team at Elevate. The Associate I, Graphic Design will report to the Senior Director of Strategic Communications and is open to remote or hybrid work if located in the Chicagoland area.Responsibilities • Communicate clearly, concisely, and in a timely manner with the Communications and Marketing teams and other colleagues. • Support the Senior Graphic Designer and Communications team with design production and file preparation to meet project timelines. • Provide regular updates to team members on project status and deliverables. • Assist with organizing and archiving design files, photographs, and video assets. • Actively participate in team meetings focused on creative projects and visual assets. • Help create graphics, short videos, or other multimedia materials as needed. • Apply basic design principles, including typography and color theory,to produce consistent, branded content. • Support in the creation of educational materials and design print collateral with an understanding of layout and visual communication principles. • Knowledge and usage of AI tools is a bonus. • Perform other duties as assigned.Qualifications/Skills • A bachelor’s degree in graphic design, visual communication, or a related field or equivalent experience or training is preferred. • At least 1-2 years of hands-on experience in communications, graphic design, marketing, or a closely related technical field. • Must submit a portfolio that includes examples of digital and print work. • Ability to manage tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to shifting priorities with guidance. • Strong communication and collaboration skills, including responsiveness and a team-oriented mindset. • Willingness to work on multiple projects at once in a fast-paced environment. • High attention to detail and a desire to produce polished, high-quality work. • Problem-solving mindset with a willingness to learn and grow. • Strong organizational skills and ability to keep files and workstreams orderly. • Basic proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite software (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro); Canva or Capcut experience is a plus. • Solid written and verbal communication skills. • Photography, video, or motion design skills are a plus, but not required.Organization DescriptionWe design and implement programs that reduce costs, protect people and the environment, and ensure the benefits of clean and efficient energy use reach those who need them most. At Elevate, the greatest asset of our organization is the kind of people we attract. Elevate employees co-create our energetic and collaborative environment, where constant learning and service to others take priority. We empower individuals to challenge conventional thinking in pursuit of innovation and we seek dynamic, hardworking team members who are inspired to work with people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Every day we make a difference by placing our team, clients, and community partners first. From our mission to our focus on staff wellbeing and career development opportunities, there’s no better place to grow your career than Elevate.CompensationThe total compensation for this position includes health and welfare benefits (medical, dental, vision, etc.), defined contribution benefit (401k with contribution), professional development, generous paid time off policies, and a flexible schedule. This is a non-exempt position with a salary range of $55,000 - $65,000 based on experience.Anti-Discrimination Policy Elevate is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or job applicant based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or marital status. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, termination, promotion, transfer, layoff, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.ADA Accommodation Elevate will reasonably accommodate qualified individuals with a disability so that they can perform the essential functions of a job unless doing so causes a direct threat to these individuals or others in the workplace, and the threat cannot be eliminated by reasonable accommodation, or if the accommodation creates an undue hardship to Elevate. Contact the People Team with any questions or requests for accommodations.