About the Role
Our client, a leading television network with a significant presence in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA, is seeking a Senior Broadcast Graphics Designer to spearhead the creation of visually stunning on-air graphics, lower thirds, intros, outros, and promotional material. This is a critical, on-site role where you will be immersed in the fast-paced world of live television broadcasting, ensuring that all visual elements are compelling, on-brand, and technically flawless. You will collaborate closely with producers, directors, and the wider creative team to develop innovative graphic solutions that enhance viewer engagement and brand identity. This position demands a highly skilled designer with a deep understanding of broadcast workflows, real-time graphics systems, and a passion for visual storytelling in a live environment. Your contributions will be instrumental in shaping the aesthetic of our client's programming in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and produce high-quality motion graphics for television broadcasts, including show opens, transitions, lower thirds, and full-screen graphics.
- Collaborate with creative directors, producers, and editors to interpret project requirements and translate them into visually engaging graphics.
- Develop and maintain graphic templates and style guides for consistent branding across all broadcasts.
- Operate and utilize real-time graphics systems (e.g., Vizrt, Chyron) for live productions.
- Ensure all graphics are technically accurate and optimized for broadcast delivery.
- Stay abreast of the latest trends in broadcast design, motion graphics, and visual effects.
- Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, meeting tight deadlines in a live broadcast environment.
- Troubleshoot technical issues related to graphics software and hardware.
- Provide creative input and technical expertise during production planning meetings.
- Maintain excellent communication with all team members and stakeholders.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Motion Graphics, Digital Media, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in broadcast graphics design, with a strong portfolio showcasing live television or news graphics.
- Expert proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator).
- Significant experience with real-time graphics engines such as Vizrt, Chyron, or similar broadcast graphics platforms.
- Strong understanding of animation principles, typography, and color theory.
- Knowledge of video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Avid Media Composer) is beneficial.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet strict deadlines in a live environment.
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
- A keen eye for detail and a passion for visual storytelling in broadcast media.
- Must be based in or willing to relocate to Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA.
Benefits
- Competitive annual salary commensurate with experience and broadcast expertise.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and retirement benefits.
- Opportunity to work on high-profile television productions and live events.
- Access to state-of-the-art broadcast graphics technology.
- Be part of a dynamic and creative team at a leading media organization in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA.