Introduction
The Maryland Department of Planning (MDP) proactively creates paths
forward in the realm of planning and placemaking for Marylanders using data and
analysis along with best practices in sustainable development. MDP serves as
the statewide, cross-disciplinary resource for local and state agencies working
collaboratively to create places that people love and communities where all
thrive.
GRADE
19
LOCATION OF POSITION
301 W. Preston Street, Baltimore MD 21201
Main Purpose of Job
The Visual Communications Designer will play an integral role in the development of engaging and straightforward content that streamlines and visually conveys the work of the Maryland Department of Planning (MDP). Collaborating with cross-departmental teams, the Visual Communications Designer will build a framework and execute the creation of content to simplify its messages across multiple channels including digital, traditional (e.g. print), social, display, and event-related materials. The Visual Communications Designer will play a crucial role in the Department’s ability to convey its goals and agenda to members of the Maryland General Assembly and other key stakeholders. This position synthesizes aesthetics, story, and brand while ensuring alignment and cohesion across the work and mission of MDP, the Administration, and other state agency partners.
POSITION DUTIES
Creation of Visual Elements
and Design Strategy
Develop a phased content strategy differentiated by user type that
reaches audiences across platforms and builds on the Department’s mission and vision to expand its brand, reach, and raise its profile.
Develop, design, and implement content
message, structure, and vehicle that allows for delivery across multiple platforms.
Creatively translate the work of the department into engaging material
for digital and print audiences.
Create design content
that allows the audience to understand the message of the topic in
a simplified manner.
Provide digital web-compatible graphic elements for use on the department’s various Intranet, Internet sites/pages, social media, and other
digital media.
Working with MDP leadership and staff, create and manage digital
storytelling in a range of formats
related to MDP to create
awareness and enthusiasm for its programs, projects, and events.
Manage and coordinate the creative conceptualization, design and production of print, digital and
video material for promotional, outreach and, educational campaigns and special
projects.
Working with the External Affairs team, visually synthesize the
goals and agenda of MDP into collateral materials to share with members of the
Maryland General Assembly and other key stakeholders.
Determine and advise supervisor of feasibility and cost to produce quality
products and follow
appropriate Maryland State procurement procedures.
Assist in the process of choosing a vendor after evaluating bids and proceed
to expedite purchase order.
Determine and advise
supervisor of the best graphic
media to communicate specific information.
Coordinate the design,
production and printing
of multi-page/multi-color publications including reports, plans, and
guidance documents to provide current planning information to the planning
community, state agencies and the public.
Branding and voice consistency
Establish and set content standards, best practices, and
processes for content development, editing, and internal reviews. Work with the
Communications team to ensure all materials
related to MDP (including promotional materials, online content, and in-person touchpoints)
reflect our brand, voice, and engage the appropriate audiences.
Manage
digital assets.
Organize and manage
image library containing photographs, illustrating planning concepts and issues for use in
publications, web pages, exhibits, and PowerPoint presentations.
Categorize and file images by subject
matter.
Oversee and coordinate the use of images in any form by planning
staff or other state
agency personnel to insure proper use, appropriate message, and credit line.
Color
correct, crop, and enhance digital
images in Adobe Photoshop software.
Create and maintain
catalogue/index system using
tags in files
in the image library to make the imagery easily accessible to
departmental staff.
Provide photographic and video support
for documentation, promotion, and training.
Performs other duties
as assigned.
Supports other special
projects, assignments, and tasks in collaboration with the Governor’s Office and other State
agencies or departments.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, or relevant training
in design/graphics programs.
Experience:
2+ years of experience in graphic design and communications
Notes:
1.
Additional experience relevant to the job description in design work may be
substituted on a year-for-year basis for the required education.
2.
Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a
commissioned officer involving design work related to the job description
DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with Planning, smart or sustainable growth
Experience with videography and editing
Experience formatting data visually and graphically to a broad and general audience.
SELECTION PROCESS
Please make sure
that you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you
meet the qualifications for this recruitment.
All information
concerning your qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We
will not consider information submitted after this date.
Successful
candidates will be placed on the employment (eligible) list for at least one
year.
EXAMINATION PROCESS
The assessment may consist of a rating of your
education, training and experience related to the requirements of the
position. It is important that you
provide complete and accurate information on your application. Please report all experience and education
that is related to this position.
BENEFITS
FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS
For education obtained outside the
U.S., a copy of the equivalent American education as determined by a foreign
credential evaluation service needs to be provided before hire.
All information concerning your
qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not
consider information submitted after this date.
The on-line
application process is STRONGLY preferred. If you are not able to apply
online, you may submit a paper application and supplemental questionnaire
(by the closing date) to:
Department of Budget and Management
Recruitment and Examination Division
301 W. Preston St., Suite 608
Baltimore, MD 21201
Attn: For inquiries
regarding this recruitment, please call 410 767-7950.
Resumes will NOT be accepted in lieu
of completing the on-line or paper application. As an equal opportunity
employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining and promoting
employees who are reflective of the State’s diversity.
Appropriate accommodations for
individuals with disabilities are available upon request by
calling 410-767-3623.
We thank our Veterans for their
service to our country, and encourage them to apply.
Bilingual applicants are also
encouraged to apply.
TTY Users: call via Maryland
Relay