Contract Graphic Designer

About the Role

We are seeking a detail-oriented and energetic contract freelance Graphic Designer to join our dynamic media company. Collaborating closely with the editorial team, you will oversee adherence to brand guidelines, transforming concepts and narratives into compelling visual stories. This role involves designing high-quality seasonal print magazines and accompanying assets for our premium lifestyle publication, Life & Leisure, on a 12-month maternity leave contract basis. Please note this is a freelance contractor engagement, not a full-time employment position.

Key Responsibilities

• Create captivating magazine page layouts including editorial spreads, feature articles, and cover designs that engage the audience.
• Manage pre-press and print production tasks, ensuring print-ready high-resolution files meet specifications in bleed, trim, color profiles, and typography.
• Uphold and enhance the visual standards and brand consistency of our flagship lifestyle magazine.

Candidate Profile

• Detail-oriented with a sharp eye for precision and a collaborative team approach.
• Experienced and comfortable with print production workflows, including advert specifications and image preparation, particularly in Adobe InDesign.
• Capable of thriving under pressure, managing deadlines with a calm, positive attitude and humor.
• Flexible and adaptable to shifting deadlines, evolving deliverables, and brief changes.
• Available to integrate this quarterly contract work alongside existing commitments, ready to begin design work starting September.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum 3 years of hands-on experience with Adobe Creative Suite, specifically proficiency in InDesign and Photoshop.
• Strong background in print design with familiarity navigating pre-press workflows, print specifications, and meeting production deadlines.
• A passion for magazine design and a clear understanding of its unique visual qualities.
• Exceptional attention to detail in typography, image selection, grid alignment, and color consistency.
• Proven reliability managing freelance projects independently with excellent time management skills to meet stringent publishing deadlines.

Terms and Additional Information

• The contract includes monthly payments; GST registration is not mandatory.
• Applications close on 14 August.

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to collaborate with a driven team committed to publishing quality editorial content.
• Work on prominent print deliveries beloved by our readership.
• Enjoy a flexible freelance contract arrangement.

About CountryWide Media

CountryWide Media is a family-owned, nationwide multimedia company headquartered in Christchurch, specializing in agribusiness and lifestyle content through long-form magazines, digital media, video, and audio productions. We pride ourselves on a collaborative and vibrant workplace culture where your efforts have direct visibility and impact.