The Chicago Architecture Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing public interest and education in architecture and design. The Chicago Architecture Foundation presents a comprehensive program of tours, exhibitions, lectures, special events, and adult and youth education activities, all designed to enhance the public’s awareness and appreciation of Chicago’s outstanding architectural legacy.

The Chicago Architecture Foundation seeks a talented Web Designer to contribute to CAF’s expanding suite of public-facing digital properties including web, mobile, digital interactives and displays, and e-commerce. This is a hands-on role that requires strong expertise in both design and front-end technology.

CAF is launching a transformational new CMS-based website (architecture.org) in 2015 and this role will help support the growth and stability of our digital presence. We are looking for a detail-oriented, flexible, self-directed designer who is excited to join a growing digital team. He or she will be fluent in modern web, responsive design, and user experience methods, and will have significant experience with web-based content management systems. This person will work independently and also collaborate with CAF’s graphic designer, content managers and developers. Ideal candidates should be passionate about working in a non-profit environment and contributing to a mission-focused organization.

Regular Design/Content Maintenance

● Work closely with content managers to design visual elements for web content (headers, cross-promos, slideshows, graphics, downloads)

● Work closely with web developer to design new templates/pages/modules that fit within the established styleguide and brand system

● Become proficient in CAF’s content management systems 

● Assist digital team with day-to-day website content updates

● Work with content managers to identify appropriate photography for new content, and prep images for the web

● Assist senior graphic designer with management of graphic and photo assets archives

● HTML/CSS coding within existing CMS systems as necessary

Project-based work 

● Participate in discovery meetings with internal and external stakeholders for new digital projects 

● Work with web developer and Manager of Digital Initiatives to define and document UI/UX requirements for new features or digital properties

● Effectively communicate conceptual ideas and design rationale

● Develop rapid revisions/iterations of concepts as necessary

Strategy and User Experience 

● Work with CAF’s senior graphic designer regularly to ensure all digital design is in alignment with print communications materials and overall CAF brand

● Be a champion for the user; develop design solutions that delight as well as meet business objectives

● Stay up-to-date on emerging design trends and best practices

● Participate in user testing as needed

Perform other duties as assigned.           

Skills and Attributes

● Bachelors degree in a design-related field (or equivalent 4 year degree)

● 5+ years working in a digital design position

● Advanced HTML, CSS, Javascript and JQuery knowledge

● Excellent visual design skills (typography and layout), including a natural understanding of brand aesthetic and ability to execute throughout different projects

● Moderate to advanced experience with web-based content management systems

● Knowledge of mobile/responsive design methods

● Advanced experience with Adobe Creative Suite and desire to stay current on industry software and design tools

● Good digital file organizational skills

● Pays close attention to visual and written details

● Ability to work efficiently under deadlines

● Excellent communication skills, open to accepting and providing feedback

Chicago Architecture Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.