Graphic Designer (Multimedia Specialist I-Ii)

Description/Special Instructions

The City of Elk Grove is now accepting applications for the position of

GRAPHIC DESIGNER (MULTIMEDIA SPECIALIST I-II)

Multimedia Specialist I: $71,154.00 - $95,367.00 Annually

Multimedia Specialist II: $78,620.00 - $105,372.00 Annually

NOTE: The advertised salary is subject to City Council approval, and will be effective July 14, 2024.

At the City of Elk Grove, graphic design is a visual storytelling that engages, informs, and inspires. The City of Elk Grove Public Affairs Department is seeking a talented graphic designer who can take concepts and ideas and transform them to visual representations in print and digital media. The ideal candidate will have expert knowledge of current design and multimedia software and be skilled in every step of the design process, from concept to the final deliverable. They will also have a strong understanding of and ability to incorporate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in their work. The Graphic Designer collaborates with multiple departments across the organization and transforms ideas into a design that meets the requestor's needs and connects with the end user. The successful candidate will have a thorough understanding of branding, strong communication skills, be able to present ideas effectively and respond adeptly to feedback. They will also have the ability to meet multiple deadlines without compromising quality, are passionate about staying abreast with the latest design trends and technologies and embraces a lifelong learner mentality. Although the job currently consists of about 75% print and digital design mix, there are opportunities for other exciting multimedia projects such graphic animations, video filming and production, and audio-visual support.

The City of Elk Grove is a City Welcome to All. We strive to reflect the community we serve in our materials and are always looking for ways to improve in that area. If you have a keen eye for design, love to learn, and want to make a difference through service, apply today!

The Department currently has one vacancy at the Multimedia Specialist I or II level. Placement will be made dependent upon the qualifications of the candidate. The selected candidate will be notified of the level of position available prior to references being checked.

Tentative Recruitment Timeline (subject to change)

Filing Deadline: 11:59 P.M. on July 7, 2024

Oral Board Interviews: July 17, 2024 (Virtual)

Selection Interviews: July 24, 2024 (In Person)

The City offers a competitive salary and generous benefit package including CalPERS retirement benefits, a deferred compensation match and more.

Why work for the City of Elk Grove? Proud Heritage. Bright Future.

Community Profile

Elk Grove is a vibrant, family-friendly community of approximately 178,124 people in the Sacramento, California region, located 14 miles south of the State Capital and 60 miles east of the Bay Area. Elk Grove is a young, ethnically diverse, modern city that was incorporated in 2000. Elk Grove has low crime, excellent schools, over 100 community parks and 28 miles of trails, plentiful dining and shopping options, numerous annual events and festivals, and over 270 sunny days per year.

Representative Duties

DEFINITION

Under general supervision (Multimedia Specialist I) or direction (Multimedia Specialist II), performs a variety of technical, specialized, and creative development work to market and communicate the City's services in support of the City's vision, goals, and community needs; plans, designs, coordinates, creates, produces, and maintains a variety of creative content including print, graphics, photographs, videos, audio, and animations; translates abstract ideas into viable formats for various projects; utilizes various media and forums to provide information to, and engage with, the community; provides technical support to the Graphics and Multimedia Program Manager in areas of expertise; and performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision (Multimedia Specialist I) or direction (Multimedia Specialist II) from assigned management or supervisor personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Multimedia Specialist I: This is the entry level classification in the Multimedia Specialist series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine duties in support of the design and development of creative content. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult. Close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of positions at the II-level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.

Multimedia Specialist II: This is the journey level classification in the Multimedia Specialist series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the I-level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

Positions in the Multimedia Specialist class series are flexibly staffed and positions at the II-level are normally filled by advancement from the next lower level upon management approval, after gaining the knowledge, skill, and experience which meet the qualifications for and after demonstrating the ability to perform the work of the higher-level class, subject to budgetary funds.

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only) Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

Some duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities may be performed/exercised in a learning capacity for entry-level (I-level) positions.

• Performs a variety of technical, specialized, and creative development work to market and communicate the City's services, activities, and initiatives in support of the City's vision, goals, and community needs.

• Conceptualizes and prepares preliminary designs through final products and translates abstract ideas into viable formats for various design products including but not limited to videos, photos, graphics, and animations.

• Oversees and participates in taking photographs, slides, and films for news media or City use; coordinates the production of various publications, slide shows, presentations, and similar materials.

• Performs video and audio recording, editing, and producing; conducts field-based video production and operates video and audio equipment.

• Plans, produces, creates and provides production related support for multimedia projects; prepares script materials, project briefs, storyboards, and production plans; determines shoot locations and production schedules; oversees filming on location; performs still photography, video recording, editing, and sound recording and mixing.

• Designs and creates print, graphics, illustrations, and animations for various digital platforms.

• Receives and prioritizes project requests from City staff; collaborates with internal stakeholders to understand project requirements, objectives, target audience, and timeline.

• Participates in planning strategies to disseminate information to customers and the community in an effective and positive manner; participates in designing content and materials to enhance the City's image and maximize community awareness of programs and services available.

• Coordinates assigned services and operations with those of other departments/divisions and outside agencies.

• Stays abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of multimedia production; researches emerging products and enhancements and their applicability to the City's needs; learns and applies emerging technologies.

• Builds and maintains positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees, and the community.

• Organizes and maintains accurate and detailed files, images, multimedia libraries, and records; coordinates and ensures compliance with established records retention schedules.

• Represents the City in meetings with members of other public and private organizations, community groups, contractors, and the community.

• Observes and complies with City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.

• Performs related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Knowledge of:

• Technical and aesthetic aspects of multimedia production from concept development through post-production.

• Production techniques and procedures for video, audio, and media production and post-production, including editing, copywriting, development of production schedules, voice acting, master control operation, and audio/video processing.

• Principles and techniques of video production, engineering, equipment and digital video and audio systems and their various formats.

• Fundamentals of photography and videography, including in studio and candid settings and postproduction enhancements and corrections.

• Principles and practices of public presentations and materials preparation.

• Methods and techniques for preparing and packaging files for commercial printing/distribution.

• Operational characteristics of a diverse range of desktop publishing and graphic design software programs.

• Audio/visual and computer equipment and specialized computer workstations.

• presenting the City in contacts with governmental agencies, community groups, and various business, professional, educational, regulatory, and legislative organizations.

• Recent and on-going developments, current literature, and sources of information related to the operations of the assigned division.

• Methods and techniques of preparing technical and administrative reports, and general business correspondence.

• City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.

• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.

• Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging concepts and principles, including their significance in organizational dynamics and the functioning of the City and their impact on fostering innovation and collaboration.

• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

• Current equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

Ability to:

• Creatively design effective educational and informational materials relating to City programs and services, initiatives, and other activities.

• Research, create, synthesize, and present visual ideas, concepts, and stories; write scripts.

• Plan, illustrate and present design concepts to multiple stakeholders.

• Organize, prioritize, and provide creative direction to a variety of projects and multiple tasks in an effective and timely manner.

• Prepare and present information in various formats and for diverse audiences.

• Edit completed audiovisual media for presentation.

• Operate and maintain media production equipment.

• Ensure the consistent application of design and branding guidelines.

• Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.

• Establish and maintain a variety of filing, record keeping, and tracking systems.

• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.

• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.

• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.

• Engage with a diverse public and workforce, facilitating inclusive service delivery, and implementing equitable city policies.

• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education and Experience:

• Multimedia Specialist I/II: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade.

• Multimedia Specialist I: One (1) year of experience in graphic design, videography, photography, or related creative content design and development.

• Multimedia Specialist II: Three (3) years of increasingly responsible experience in creative content planning, design, and development.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Possession of, or ability to obtain by the time of appointment, an appropriate, valid California driver's license. This requirement may be waived for individuals who are unable to obtain a driver's license due to a disability.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

When assigned to an office environment:

Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer, and to operate a motor vehicle to visit various City and meeting sites; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. Standing in and walking between work areas is frequently required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification frequently bend, stoop, kneel, and reach to perform assigned duties, as well as push and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 10 pounds. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities who are qualified to perform essential functions of a position or positions within this classification.

When assigned to a field environment:

Must possess mobility to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; to stand for prolonged periods of time; to reach, twist, turn, kneel, bend, stoop, squat, crouch, and grasp; strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light to medium physical work, to load, unload, and setup event equipment and supplies; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person, before groups, and over the telephone or radio. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate above-mentioned equipment. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects weighing up to 35 pounds or heavier weights with the use of proper equipment and assistance from other staff. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities who are qualified to perform essential functions of a position or positions within this classification.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Employees predominately work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees may work in the field and occasionally be exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, vibration, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous chemical substances and fumes. Employees may interact with members of the public or with staff under emotionally stressful conditions while interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Employees may be expected to work extended hours, weekends, evenings, and holidays as required.

The City of Elk Grove is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and professionalism. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, should special accommodations be necessary at any stage of the selection process, please contact the Human Resources Department at (916) 478- 2230. The information above is subject to change without notice.