The Chicago Architecture Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing public interest and education in architecture and design. As the 6th largest cultural institution in the City of Chicago, CAF 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.

This is a new, hands-on role that will contribute to CAF’s expanding suite of public-facing digital properties including web, mobile, digital interactives and displays, and e-commerce. 

Responsibilities

Regular Design/Content Maintenance (50%)

• 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
• Work closely with web developer to design new templates/pages/modules that fit within the established styleguide and brand system
• HTML/CSS coding within existing CMS systems as necessary
• Work closely with content managers to design visual elements for web content (cross-promotional graphics)

Digital Archives (25%)

• Work under the supervision of the Sr. Manager of Digital Initiatives to set up and maintain digital asset archives by sorting through current archives to identify, digitize, tag and organize CAF’s vast photo library

Project-based Work (15%)

• Participate in discovery meetings with internal and external stakeholders for new digital projects
• Work with web developer and Sr. 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

Other Duties (10%)

• Work with CAF’s Senior Graphic Designer to ensure all digital design is in alignment with print materials and overall CAF brand
• Be a champion for the user; develop design solutions that delight as well as meet business objectives
• Participate in user testing as needed
• Create signage and various short-term marketing materials for the store as needed
• Manage the content of on-site digital media boards used for tour and program scheduling and promotions
• Assist Web Specialist with adding new products to online store, photographing and processing product shots, maintain inventory, clean up product pages and update photos and/or descriptions as needed
• Stay up-to-date on emerging design trends and best practices
• Perform other duties as assigned

Education and Experience

• Bachelors degree in a design-related field (or equivalent 4-year degree)
• 4+ years working in a digital design position

Skills and Attributes

• 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
• Experience with assessing and retouching digital photography
• 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

The Chicago Architecture Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.