Job Description

As the nation’s 5th largest city, we are offering a unique opportunity to work with a specialized team of creative individuals responsible for delivering innovative design concepts for over 40+ departments within the City of Philadelphia. While working directly with the Mayor’s Office of Communication, the Web & Creative Services Group generates over 300+ print concepts, digital advertisements and video productions annually, ranging from promotional flyers, brochures, annual reports, front-end website design concepts, application UX/UI designs, social media graphics, digital signage, live action videos, vector animations, script writing, video editing and pre- and post-production video work.

The Creative Design Specialist is responsible for creating high-quality graphic design that strengthens brand identity and communicates messages effectively across digital and print platforms. This role requires strong visual design skills, creative problem-solving, and the ability to manage multiple projects from concept through completion while collaborating with colleagues and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and produce creative assets for campaigns, presentations, reports, marketing materials, social media, and web applications.
• Develop strong visual concepts that communicate ideas clearly and align with organizational goals.
• Apply advanced graphic design skills in layout, typography, and color theory to create polished, professional work.
• Adapt designs across formats to ensure visual consistency across print and digital channels.
• Incorporate illustration and original artwork into projects when appropriate to enhance creativity and storytelling.
• Ensure brand consistency through use of established design systems, templates, and style guides.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to interpret project needs and deliver solutions on time.
• Stay current with graphic design trends, tools, and best practices , applying new techniques to elevate creative output.
• Provide feedback and guidance to junior designers or interns when applicable.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously , meeting deadlines without compromising quality.

Competencies

• Graphic Design Expertise: Strong foundation in layout, typography, color theory, and composition.
• Creative Execution: Ability to develop visually compelling and professional designs that align with brand identity and project goals.
• Illustration Skills: Digital or traditional illustration abilities highly desirable, with the capability to integrate hand-drawn or vector artwork into design projects.
• Technical Proficiency: Advanced skills in Adobe Creative Cloud (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign); familiarity with Figma and other collaboration tools helpful but not required.
• Production Knowledge: Understanding of preparing files for both print production and digital publishing.
• Project Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
• Collaboration & Communication: Skilled at presenting ideas, explaining design choices, and incorporating feedback in a constructive manner.
• Professional Mindset: Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to thrive in both independent and team environments.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Illustration, or related field (or equivalent professional experience).
• 2–4 years of professional design experience in an agency, corporate, or in-house creative environment.
• Portfolio that demonstrates advanced graphic design skills, with samples of branding, layout, and illustration work preferred.

Experience

• 10+ years of experience in creative services, digital design, and visual communications.
• 5+ years in a creative leadership role, including direct management of teams.
• Demonstrated experience leading large-scale web and digital design projects, ideally for public service or civic tech.
• Strong portfolio that includes branding, campaign work, and UI/UX projects.
• Familiarity with design systems, wireframing tools (e.g., Figma), and accessibility best practices.
• Knowledge of government, nonprofit, or mission-driven environments is preferred.

Additional Information

Salary Range: $65,000 - $72,000

Starting salary to be determined based on experience and qualifications.

All applications should include the following:
• Cover Letter clarifying your interest and qualifications for the role.
• Resume
We won’t accept or review incomplete applications.

Work Setting: in-person (onsite)

Discover the Perks of Being a City of Philadelphia Employee:
• We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents
• Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan
• Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Generous retirement savings options are available
• Pay off your student loans faster - As a qualifying employer, City of Philadelphia employees are eligible to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Join the ranks of hundreds of employees who have already benefited from this program and achieved student loan forgiveness.
• Enjoy a Free Commute on SEPTA - Starting September 1, 2023, eligible City employees will no longer have to worry about paying for SEPTA public transportation. Whether you're a full-time, part-time, or provisional employee, you can seize the opportunity to sign up for the SEPTA Key Advantage Program and receive free Key cards for free rides on SEPTA buses, trains, trolleys, and regional rails.
• Unlock Tuition Discounts and Scholarships - The City of Philadelphia has forged partnerships with over a dozen esteemed colleges and universities in the area, ensuring that our employees have access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships. Experience savings of 10% to 40% on your educational expenses, extending not only to City employees but in some cases, spouse and dependents too!
Join the City of Philadelphia team today and seize these incredible benefits designed to enhance your financial well-being and personal growth!

*The successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire

Effective May 22, 2023, vaccinations are no longer required for new employees that work in non-medical, non-emergency or patient facing positions with the City of Philadelphia. As a result, only employees in positions providing services that are patient-facing medical care (ex: Nurses, doctors, emergency medical personnel), must be fully vaccinated.

The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to faqpchr@phila.gov.