The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), located in beautiful Golden, CO, is a leader in the U.S. Department of Energy's effort to secure an energy future for the nation that is environmentally and economically sustainable. Our mission is to develop renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies and practices, advance related science and engineering and transfer knowledge and innovations to address the nation's energy and environmental goals.
Job/Research Summary
NREL's Communications Office has an open position for a Senior Graphic Designer as part of the Graphic Design/Multimedia section. Under minimal guidance, the designer will design and produce communication products in a variety of electronic and print media. The designer will analyze customer requirements and propose innovative solutions based on sound design principles and practices.
Job Duties
- Create engaging Web designs. Project types include designing home pages, landing pages, Web application interfaces, and feature graphics. Create unique Web designs and templates while following established Web technical and graphic standards.
- Update and create new graphics for existing Web sites. Prepare graphics to hand off to HTML developers who will code the site.
- Create engaging multimedia presentations such as Flash movies, tradeshow exhibits, DVDs, and online training elements.
- Create contemporary print products including multi-page reports, fact sheets, brochures, and scientific posters within branding standards.
- Create clear and concise illustrations, graphs, and charts to support projects, as required.
- Create forward-thinking, high-quality conceptual solutions for clients and be able to present ideas to executive-level staff in a professional manner.
- Provide design consulting and brainstorm solutions for electronic and print media.
- Collaborate with and mentor other designers, communicators, and Web developers.
- Art direct and manage projects with contract photographers and designers.
- Provide strong customer relations and project management skills.
- Self-manage schedules and tasks. Balance multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines. Track and bill time to clients.
- Design in a Macintosh computer environment, using expert-level skills and experience with Adobe Creative Suite design tools.
Requirements:
- Required Education and Experience: Relevant Master's and 10 years experience, including 2 years managing graphic and visual art projects and activities in a scientific or technical information environment. Or, equivalent relevant education/experience.
- Additional Basic Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Ability to apply creative and flexible problem solving skills to design projects while adhering to corporate branding standards and client requirements.
- Experience working as part of an in-house graphic design team with both internal and external clients.
- Exceptional understanding of Web site best practices, standards, usability, accessibility, cross-browser compatibility, and user interface design.
- Solid understanding of typography, color, composition, hierarchy, and user interface trends.
- Experience working with Web templates, style guides, and corporate identity standards to ensure consistent messaging. Solid understanding of how Web graphics are prepared and optimized for inclusion in Web sites.
- Working knowledge of LightWave, or other 3D animation software.
- Working knowledge of PowerPoint and other MS Office applications.
- Working knowledge of Flash ActionScript, HTML/XHTML, and CSS.
- Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
- Pre-employment drug testing required.
NREL is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and a drug-free workplace.
Please include a cover letter specific to each position you are applying to indicating how you match the requirements of the posting.
