Graphic Designer and Communications Coordinator

Job Summary

Teachers Retirement Association (TRA) has been administering pension coverage to Minnesota educators for decades, with a mission to help members and their beneficiaries plan for an independent and financially secure retirement. We are currently seeking job candidates with a strong background in graphic design, marketing, technical writing, and/or journalism to serve as our organization’s Graphic Designer and Communications Coordinator.

Our Graphic Designer and Communications Coordinator position exists to provide communication expertise and consultation in the areas of communication strategy, planning, and implementation. The incumbent hired into this role will develop, plan, implement, and execute TRA’s brand identity, marketing, and communication campaigns to ensure stakeholders are well informed. Communication methods include newsletters, brochures, forms, letters, factsheets, videos, digital content, social media, print material, and specialized and technical materials. Additionally, the incumbent will work in partnership with internal and external customers which include all TRA staff, third-party vendors, stakeholders, consultants, and other collaborative partners in supporting TRA’s communication and digital strategy.

This position is located in our Saint Paul, Minnesota office and will require the incumbent to work a schedule that includes in-person work. Travel may be required up to 10% of the time for this role.

Minimum Qualifications

Two (2) years of professional graphic design and organizational communications experience with responsibility for developing printed materials/publications, creating multimedia assets, and managing social media or web content.

A bachelor’s degree in graphic design, communications, marketing, journalism, or a closely related field can substitute for one (1) year of experience.

Experience must demonstrate the following:

• Expertise in using publishing applications, such as Adobe Creative Cloud’s Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, and Acrobat Pro programs
• Experience in create icons, infographics, social media graphics, and multipage reports and to incorporate strong typography and layout practices.
• Advanced technical proficiency in using Microsoft Office suite; Cisco Webex; and/or equivalent software.
• Brand management and the ability to be a champion for cohesive design throughout an organization.
• Ability to create and execute (or assist with) strategic communication plans.
• Ability to diagnose problems and recommend solutions for internal control best practices and process improvement purposes. Ability to plan, organize, and successfully manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal skills necessary to collaborate on enterprise projects and initiatives; influence others to resolve conflicting viewpoints; train and present to a variety of stakeholders; and be respectful and inclusive toward colleagues and stakeholders.

Successful candidates must also possess the ability to secure their own transportation for in-state business travel and/or conferences. Travel may be required up to 10% of the time for this role.

Preferred Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree or higher in graphic design, communications, marketing, journalism, or a closely related field. 

Experience working in the financial services industry, nonprofit organization, and/or a public pension organization. 

Experience developing campaigns and creating compelling, cohesive visuals for print, web, email, and other digital media. 

Experience working with photography and/or videography.

Working knowledge of accessibility requirements using design best practices.

Experience applying and completing accessibility requirements in Creative Suite including Acrobat Pro.

Physical Requirements

This position requires occasional transporting of articles such as file folders, ledgers and/or small tools. May be required to move or maintain a stationary position for long periods of time.

Additional Requirements

**Successful candidates must pass past-employer reference checks and a criminal background check.**

It is the policy of TRA that all finalist(s) submit to a background check prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:

• State of Minnesota state government employment records check (applies to current and past State of Minnesota state government employees only)
• Criminal History Check
• Employee Reference Check
• Social Security and Address Verification
• Education Verification
• Driver's License Check

How to Apply

Visit the MN Careers webpage: http://www.mn.gov/careers and search using the Job ID: 85645. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Working together to improve the state we love.

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?

• A sense of purpose in their work
• Connection with their coworkers and communities
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include:

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 12 paid holidays each year
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
  • Fertility care, including IVF
  • Diabetes care
  • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years) Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
• Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

• Training, classes, and professional development
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

• A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
• Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
• Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

Teachers Retirement Association also offers free ramp parking at our Saint Paul Office location.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.