Graphic Artist

GRAPHIC ARTIST
#1704

General Characteristics:
A Graphic Artist is responsible for creating original design work; operates a computer using several technical programs to produce camera-ready artwork for presses and duplicators; does related work as required. Work requires a comprehensive knowledge of all phases of graphic art and printing production and the ability to create original artwork and visually appealing graphic design. Work requires well-developed verbal skills to consult with and advise printing/ graphics customers on details relating to project audience, objectives, design, production and cost issues. Fine detail work requires excellent fine motor skills and good visual acuity. Working conditions include standing or bending over a light table for long periods of time and occasional exposure to hazardous chemicals.

Examples of Work:
Designs and produces camera-ready copy for printing ads, brochures, flyers, signs, maps, program and book covers, greeting cards and artwork for class schedule and catalog using type, original and clip art; strips negatives for color separations; burns and chemically develops metal plates for printing press; consults with and advises customers regarding design, production and cost issues.

Operates computer on Printing/Graphics network using several software programs for layout and design, illustration, copy preparation and copyfitting; typesets and produces degrees, certificates and awards for the College; provides proofs and/or mock-ups of graphic designs; organizes and prioritizes jobs; keeps files of graphic design resources; keeps track of time spent and material used for billing.

Performs darkroom procedures including operating process camera to produce megalith plates, halftones, screened prints, photo mechanical transfers and negatives; checks chemical levels, completes weekly cleaning, changes chemicals monthly, controls quality of output and performs minor maintenance; cleans, organizes and inventories darkroom camera supplies.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Ability to produce original graphic design and artwork manually; knowledge of printing and graphics procedures; ability to produce high quality design and layout on a Macintosh computer; knowledge of camera and darkroom procedures; ability to calculate exposures for film, halftones, screened prints, megalith plates and photo-mechanical transfers; knowledge of printing process including stripping negatives and making plates ready for the press; knowledge of and skill in implementing technical requirements for quality plating; ability to make design decisions and recommendations to customers; ability to organize and prioritize workload; skill in producing clean paste up and/or graphics used for plated or duplication process; ability to communicate effectively in dealing with customers and co-workers; knowledge of and skill in computerized production of high quality documents including design, layout, format, copy preparation and graphics; knowledge of the operation of software applications and the ability to implement them in a timely and cost effective way; ability to operate process camera, Macintosh microcomputers and related printing and graphics hardware and software, laser image setter, laser printer, scanner, rapid access processor, plate burner, copier, laminators, silver recovery system, seal press and computerized programmable paper cutter; ability to work safely.

Supervision:
Reports to and works under the general supervision of the Printing/Graphics manager. Assignments are usually received in the form of desired results with the employee independently exercising a high level of independent, creative thought to develop the end product. Work is reviewed by the supervisor through results obtained and customer satisfaction.

This position has responsibility to assign tasks, provide priorities, train and monitor the work of student assistants.

Minimum Qualifications:
An associate degree in graphics technology, visual communications, graphic communication or a related field is required. Two years of experience using design instruments and computer software to produce a variety of creative design and original artwork is required.

Equivalent combination of training and experience will be considered qualifying.

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