Photo and Design Specialist

Role OverviewThis position supports Boise State University’s institutional brand by producing, coordinating, and evaluating professional graphic design, photography, and visual artwork for both print and digital use. The role also includes design consultation and related creative work.

The position may be performed in a hybrid setup, combining on-site work at a Boise State location with an alternate work location within Idaho. On-site attendance is required when needed.

About the DivisionThe Division of Extended Studies works to broaden access to higher education beyond traditional classroom limits. Its teams support online learning, community-based programs, high school concurrent enrollment, summer offerings, continuing education, and other lifelong learning opportunities.

The Marketing and Communication team in this division focuses on enrollment growth and brand visibility for online degree completion, professional learning, and continuing education. Its campaigns use data-informed storytelling to reach adult learners, military-connected students, and remote audiences.

What the Job InvolvesLead large, cross-functional projects from research and concept development through delivery.Stay up to date on new tools and technology in the field and identify ways to apply them within the organization.Work with clients to clarify needs and expectations.Adhere to university brand standards and internal policy requirements.Partner with colleagues to create, refine, and improve design work.Build layouts for exhibits, displays, and promotional pieces.Develop creative concepts and original problem-solving ideas for varied topics and campaigns.Understand motion and animation file formats and prepare files correctly for export and multimedia use.Create print, digital, web, and social media assets aligned with university branding and visual design standards.Edit and prepare photography so images meet brand expectations and accurately represent program partners.Manage digital assets by organizing, tagging, archiving, and maintaining large photo and video collections.Maintain the image repository and file catalogue.Coordinate with local vendors for print production, promotional merchandise, and delivery logistics.Convert marketing strategy into creative goals, layouts, and concept designs for campaigns and program promotion, including early estimates for development work.Create visual and multimedia content that supports web content maintenance.Carry out usability testing and quality checks across deliverables and ensure accessibility standards are met.Handle print and promotional merchandise logistics.Work both independently and as part of a small team, depending on project needs.Adapt quickly to changing processes, program details, and priorities.Gather partner feedback when needed and support strong working relationships with partners.Perform additional duties as assigned.Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesStrong grasp of design principles, techniques, and tools, including design software used to produce visual materials for promotions, advertising, instructional content, and other media.Advanced photography knowledge, including composition, lighting in studio and natural settings, and operation of DSLR or mirrorless cameras.Understanding of media production, communication, and content distribution methods across written, oral, and visual channels.Creative thinking skills for building new ideas, solutions, systems, and artistic work.Ability to review information, interpret results, and choose effective solutions.Confidence working independently, making decisions, and solving problems.Knowledge of creative direction, design best practices, print production, mailing regulations, and marketing plan development.Minimum QualificationsA bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience, plus 2 years of professional experience.

Preferred QualificationsBachelor’s degree or equivalent, plus 5 years of professional experience.3 years of experience in photography and photo editing.2 years of experience planning and conducting marketing photo shoots.Salary and BenefitsThe annual salary for this role is $55,057.60.

Boise State University offers a strong benefits package that includes:

12 paid holidays, plus a university closure between Christmas and New Year’s that requires use of 3 vacation days.Between 12 and 24 paid vacation days each year for full-time Professional and Classified staff, depending on role type and years of service.A 10.76% university contribution to ORP retirement funds for Professional and Faculty employees.An 11.96% university contribution to PERSI retirement funds for Classified employees.Medical, dental, and other health-related insurance coverage.Tuition fee waiver benefits for employees, spouses, and dependents.Application MaterialsResumeCover letter3 referencesPortfolioAbout Boise State UniversityBoise State University sits along the Boise River near the state capitol and is known for a welcoming campus culture focused on student and employee success. The university is recognized nationally for innovation and positive impact in Idaho and beyond.

It has also been named by Forbes as the only Idaho employer appearing in the top 100 national midsize and large employers. Applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

ResponsibilitiesLead major cross-department projects, from research and idea development to final execution.Keep current with new industry tools and technologies and identify practical uses for them.Consult with clients to understand project needs.Apply university branding rules and policy requirements.Work with others to create and improve design concepts.Design layouts for exhibits, displays, and promotional materials.Develop original creative approaches and solve visual communication problems.Prepare motion/animation-related files correctly for export and multimedia production.Create brand-consistent assets for print, digital, web, and social channels.Edit photography so it aligns with brand standards and represents partners appropriately.Organize, tag, archive, and maintain large photo and video libraries.Coordinate print vendors, marketing merchandise, and delivery logistics.Translate marketing strategy into creative concepts and campaign layouts.Support web content through visuals and multimedia assets.Test usability, check quality, and ensure accessibility compliance.Manage promotional merchandise and print-related logistics.Work independently or with a small team as project needs change.Adjust quickly to shifting priorities, processes, and program updates.Seek partner feedback and strengthen partner relationships.Complete other assigned duties as needed.
RequirementsBachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.At least 2 years of professional experience.Ability to work on-site when required.Familiarity with design software and professional design practices.Experience with digital photography, including camera operation and lighting.Understanding of media production and communication methods.Creative problem-solving and analytical decision-making ability.Capability to work independently and manage priorities effectively.
Perks & benefitsAnnual salary of $55,057.60.12 paid holidays each year.University closure between Christmas and New Year’s, with 3 vacation days used.12 to 24 paid vacation days annually, depending on role and tenure.Employer retirement contributions of 10.76% to ORP or 11.96% to PERSI, depending on employee type.Medical, dental, and related health insurance coverage.Tuition waiver benefits for employees, spouses, and dependents.