Senior Thumbnail Designer- SPY NINJAS

Spy Ninjas Entertainment; Las Vegas (NV); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Spy Ninjas Entertainment is seeking a Senior Thumbnail Designer in Las Vegas to create eye-catching thumbnails that capture story moments and drive engagement on YouTube. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in graphic design and a solid understanding of YouTube's visual trends.

This hands-on role requires proficiency in Photoshop, creativity under tight deadlines, and collaboration with production and analytics teams to optimize thumbnail performance.

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years of experience in graphic design or thumbnail creation for digital or social platforms (YouTube experience strongly preferred).
• Expert-level skills in Photoshop; proficiency in other tools like After Effects, Illustrator, or Lightroom is a plus.
• Proven track record of designing thumbnails or social visuals that perform at scale.

Responsibilities

• Concept development for thumbnails that elevate each video’s narrative.
• Design and deliver world-class thumbnails that align with the Spy Ninjas brand.
• Partner with the analytics team to interpret CTR data and refine creative direction.

Skills

Graphic design

Thumbnail creation

Photoshop

A/B Testing

Visual storytelling

Tools

After Effects

Illustrator

Lightroom

Job description

Description

About the Role

We’re looking for a Senior Thumbnail Designer to craft bold, high-performing visuals that drive millions of clicks and define the visual identity of the Spy Ninjas universe. You’ll transform key story moments into eye-catching, emotion-packed thumbnails that stop the scroll and inspire viewers to watch.

This is a hands-on creative role for a designer who understands both storytelling and YouTube performance. You’ll concept, design, and iterate thumbnails that balance artistry with strategy using data, testing, and audience insight to guide your creative instincts.

Key Responsibilities

Concept Development:

Work with producers, editors, and talent to brainstorm thumbnail ideas that elevate each video’s narrative and emotional hook.

Thumbnail Creation:

Design and deliver world-class thumbnails that grab attention, tell a clear story, and align with the Spy Ninjas brand.

Visual Consistency:

Uphold and evolve the brand’s thumbnail style guide—ensuring every design feels cohesive, distinct, and instantly recognizable.

A/B Testing & Optimization:

Partner with the analytics team to interpret CTR data, test new formats, and refine creative direction based on results.

Collaboration with Production:

Identify key visual moments during shoots and guide photo captures or pose setups to improve thumbnail quality.

Trend Research:

Stay current on YouTube design trends, competitor visual strategies, and evolving platform best practices.

Mentorship:

Provide feedback or creative input to junior designers or freelancers when needed.

Requirements

• 3–5+ years of experience in graphic design or thumbnail creation for digital or social platforms (YouTube experience strongly preferred).
• Expert-level skills in Photoshop; proficiency in other tools like After Effects, Illustrator, or Lightroom is a plus
• Proven track record of designing thumbnails or social visuals that perform at scale.
• Deep understanding of YouTube CTR, visual storytelling, and audience psychology.
• Strong photo editing, compositing, and retouching abilities.
• Ability to work quickly under tight deadlines while maintaining high creative standards.
• Interest in gaming, kids’ entertainment, or story-driven YouTube content a big plus.