Visual Communications Designer

Role overview

Northwestern University in Qatar’s marketing unit is seeking a Visual Communications Designer to create polished visual materials that strengthen the NU-Q brand, support storytelling, and improve both internal and external communications. In this position, you will collaborate closely with the Assistant Dean of Communications and Public Affairs and the broader CPA team to develop print and digital creative for events, campaigns, publications, social channels, and presentations while keeping the look and feel consistent across every touchpoint.

Design and visual identity

• Develop engaging creative assets for websites, social platforms, print pieces, reports, digital displays, event branding, and promotional collateral.
• Keep all output aligned with Northwestern University brand standards and ensure a unified visual identity across teams and channels.
• Adapt the Northwestern brand for the Qatar campus by building practical systems, usage rules, and long-term design guidelines.
• Create and refine templates, icons, infographics, and layouts that improve storytelling and help present information clearly.
• Turn strategic ideas and messages into visuals that are easy to understand and effective in practice.

Production and project coordination

• Oversee several design assignments at once, guiding them from initial idea through final delivery with attention to deadlines and quality.
• Coordinate with printers, external vendors, and freelance collaborators to ensure finished materials meet a high standard.
• Keep a well-organized collection of templates, brand files, and final design assets for internal reference and reuse.

Collaboration and creative support

• Partner with writers, editors, web and social media colleagues, and other CPA team members on coordinated campaigns.
• Provide creative support for campus-wide projects, leadership communications, and external outreach efforts.
• Assist with live events and activations by preparing on-site materials such as signage, presentation visuals, and branded assets.

Teamwork and additional duties

• Contribute to a positive, cooperative team environment.
• Take part in regular team meetings and workshops.
• Help maintain documentation and shared resources that preserve knowledge across the team.
• Carry out other duties assigned by the Assistant Dean or senior leadership.

Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, or a closely related discipline is required. The role calls for 3 to 5 years of professional graphic design experience, ideally within communications, media, or an academic environment. Candidates should be proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere/After Effects, along with PowerPoint and Canva. Strong command of layout, typography, and visual hierarchy is essential, as is the ability to respond well to feedback and turn it into stronger design outcomes. Excellent time management and the ability to prioritize work in a busy environment are also needed.

Preferred background

It is an advantage to have a strong grasp of design principles, standards, and best practices, along with experience building branding systems, workflows, policies, and protocols. Background in photography, illustration, or visual storytelling will be helpful. Familiarity with web and digital design, including responsive layouts and accessibility, is preferred. Experience with motion graphics, video editing, or animation is a strong plus. Knowledge of Arabic and an understanding of regional design sensibilities would also be beneficial.

Compensation

The annual target salary for this role is between $70,020 and $90,260. Final offers will depend on the selected candidate’s experience, education, and internal pay equity considerations at Northwestern University.

Equal opportunity and accommodations

Northwestern University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. Candidates who need an accommodation during the application or hiring process may contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance for support.