Professor, Graphic Design

Savannah College of Art and Design; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading institution is seeking a passionate professor to teach graphic design and mentor students in a collaborative and innovative environment. The role includes curriculum development, industry engagement, and promoting diverse learning experiences for undergraduates and graduates. Candidates should possess a terminal degree, a strong portfolio, and proficiency in industry-standard design tools. This position offers the opportunity to influence the next generation of designers in a dynamic academic setting.

Qualifications

• Terminal degree in Graphic Design or related field required.
• Proven track record in contemporary design practices.
• Teaching experience at college level preferred.

Responsibilities

• Teach graduate and undergraduate graphic design courses.
• Mentor students on portfolio and thesis projects.
• Coordinate and develop advanced curriculum.

Skills

Design Thinking

Research

Communication

Editing

Digital Design

Branding

UI/UX

Motion Graphics

Packaging

Experiential Design

Education

Terminal degree in Graphic Design

Master's degree in Visual Communication

Tools

Adobe Creative Cloud

Cinema 4D

Job description

As part of one of the nation’s top-ranked design programs, the professor will inspire students through exceptional instruction, mentorship, and industry insights while advancing the department’s reputation for excellence. This position emphasizes graduate-level education, coordination, and the development of advanced curriculum components to ensure alignment with current industry trends and SCAD’s rigorous academic standards.

The professor will teach graduate and undergraduate graphic design courses with a focuson advanced design thinking, research, and application of professional practices. In addition, they will lead student projects in collaboration with live clients, providing hands-on experience in real-world design practice. The role involves coordinating and developing the graduate program curriculum, mentoring graduate students in portfolio creation, thesis projects, and career guidance, as well as fostering an inclusive, dynamic learning environment that supports diverse student backgrounds and learning styles. The successful candidate will also be involved in department and university-wide initiatives, maintaining an active presence in the design industry through creative practice or professional projects, and participating in recruitment, academic advising, and student reviews.

As part of SCAD’s prestigious School of Design, this position offers an exciting opportunity to shape the next generation of designers in a vibrant, creative environment. We are looking for a professor who is passionate about advancing the field of graphic design and preparing students for success in a competitive industry.

Requirements:

• Terminal degree or its equivalent in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, or a related field.
• Strong portfolio showcasing professional expertise in contemporary design practices, with a proven track record of professional success.
• Experience in a variety of areas of focus, including digital design, branding, UI/UX, motion graphics, packaging, experiential design, as well as print and digital production.
• Interest in new media, including integration of AI tools into the design process.
• Expertise in research, design thinking, strategy and ideation, writing, editing, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Cloud (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, After Effects, Figma, ChatGPT, Firefly) and emerging design tools.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with 3D modeling programs such as Cinema 4D.
• Active engagement in industry organizations, conferences, or publications. Cross-disciplinary design experience or collaboration with other creative fields.
• Teaching experience at the collegiate level or mentorship experience.
• Experience with international clients.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Terminal degree (or equivalent) in the discipline or in a relevant field.
• Academic and professional credentials to teach in a certain discipline.
• Experience in or knowledge of related professions.

Work Hours:As noted in the Employment Agreement.

ADA Tag: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements and minimum qualifications listed are representative at the knowledge, skill, and or/ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions and/or meet minimum qualifications.