Part-Time Editorial Designer

Overview

The part-time editorial designer will enhance the visual layout of NEWSWELL Chicago’s journalism featured in four publications: Austin Weekly News, Forest Park Review, Riverside-Brookfield Landmark, and Wednesday Journal of Oak Park & River Forest. Reporting to the Editorial and Digital Design Lead, the role involves supporting print editorial design by ensuring layouts are visually appealing, properly formatted, and print-ready. Responsibilities include verifying ad placement and integrating them cleanly with editorial content. As a key quality control figure, you will identify formatting inconsistencies, production errors, and design issues before publication, contributing to the high-quality presentation of these publications.

About NEWSWELL

NEWSWELL acquired Growing Community Media's assets in February 2026 to provide stability and resources necessary for these Chicago-area newspapers to thrive. The organization partners with Arizona State University to bring innovative solutions and operations that support nonprofit, community-centered journalism focused on serving local communities.

Work Arrangement and Compensation

This hybrid position is based in Oak Park, IL, with a combination of remote and onsite work. The role offers an hourly rate of $20.00.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in designing editorial layouts for all four NEWSWELL Chicago print publications.
• Ensure correct formatting, visual appeal, and precise placement of editorial stories and advertisements following page plans and templates.
• Act as the first reviewer for page layouts, detecting misaligned elements, typographic errors, spacing issues, absent assets, and formatting mistakes.
• Collaborate with the Editorial and Digital Design Lead on weekly page production, special assignments, and design workflows.
• Prepare layouts for print, verifying bleed areas, color profiles, image resolutions, and final file quality.
• Adhere to design templates, style guides, and brand standards to ensure consistent visual presentation across all materials.
• Update graphics, photographs, pull quotes, and other design components to support editorial content.
• Work closely with editorial teams to reflect story importance, hierarchy, and readability in layouts.
• Proactively communicate regarding missing assets, photo requirements, or scheduling matters that could affect production timelines.
• Support design and layout workflows for special sections, adapting designs per editorial and advertising needs.
• Occasionally assist with digital tasks such as resizing images or creating simple visuals for online products.

Qualifications

• Proficient in Adobe InDesign with basic knowledge of Photoshop or Illustrator.
• Keen eye for detail concerning layout, visual hierarchy, typography, and overall design quality.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently under tight deadlines.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with editors and design leads.
• Understanding of print production fundamentals including resolution, file setup, and PDF export settings.
• Dedication to accuracy, consistency, brand compliance, and maintaining high design quality standards.
• Relevant coursework or experience in graphic design, journalism, visual communication, or related fields.
• Entry-level background in layout design or print production through professional work, internships, or student media participation.

Preferred Experience and Skills

• Prior experience working in newsroom or print publication settings.
• Familiarity with Chicago neighborhoods and community-centered journalism.
• Spanish language proficiency is an added advantage.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching contribution.
• Generous vacation allotment of 22 days and 11 holidays, including birthday leave.
• Parental leave benefits.
• Significant tuition discounts.
• Strong emphasis on professional development with encouragement to explore diverse interests within the organization.
• $30 bi-weekly reimbursement for cell phone expenses.

Equal Opportunity

NEWSWELL is committed to equal employment opportunities for all.