Freelance Editorial Graphic Designer

Overview

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra is looking for a meticulous and highly capable Freelance Editorial Graphic Designer to support its Marketing, Communications & Guest Services department. This contract position will work closely with the Creative Services team to create and prepare printed concert program books for the 2026–2027 season.

The role is central to how performance materials are visually presented and editorially organized for audiences. The workload is expected to range from 60 to 100 hours per month, depending on production needs and deadlines.

This is an opportunity to contribute creative work to a respected arts organization and help shape the printed experience for thousands of concert attendees.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and produce concert program books for the 2026–2027 season, covering the Classical Series, Pops Series, and Dallas Symphony Presents Series.
• Transform dense editorial material into polished, readable layouts, including artist biographies, program notes, repertoire details, sponsorship and donor listings, department updates, and feature articles.
• Reuse and modify established design assets so they fit seasonal templates and overall creative direction.
• Maintain high standards for accuracy, consistency, and visual precision across all pages and assets.
• Handle pagination and page-flow planning so documents meet the required length and print specifications.
• Prepare final files for press using industry-standard print production practices.
• Work effectively under fast turnaround times and adjust quickly to revisions or late changes.
• Partner with stakeholders from several departments to incorporate feedback into final designs.
• Implement edits carefully while preserving the quality and integrity of the design.
• Review all materials thoroughly for spacing, alignment, formatting, and template compliance before proof submission.

Requirements

• Prior professional experience in editorial design, ideally within publishing, the performing arts, or nonprofit settings.
• A strong portfolio that demonstrates layout design, typography, and print production work.
• Advanced skills in Adobe Creative Suite, with InDesign required and Illustrator and Photoshop preferred.
• Good understanding of print production workflows, including pagination, file preparation, and prepress requirements.
• Excellent attention to detail along with strong organizational ability.
• Proven ability to juggle multiple assignments and deadlines in a high-speed environment.
• Clear communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across teams.
• Experience handling long-form content and text-heavy layouts is strongly preferred.
• Applicants must submit a portfolio that includes relevant editorial and print design examples.

Schedule & Engagement

This is a contract engagement with an average commitment of 60–100 hours per month. The work is project-based and follows concert production timelines. Flexible hours are expected, but availability during deadline periods and revision cycles is necessary.