Graphic Arts Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Office of the Director in the Division on International Trade and Commodities of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and is dedicated to promoting the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization focuses on trade, investment, and sustainable development, with a mission to support developing nations in their efforts to achieve economic growth and development. UNCTAD operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce committed to fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

Job Overview:
The Graphic Arts Assistant will play a crucial role in the design and production of visual communication materials for various UN-sponsored activities. This position requires the incumbent to engage with clients to understand their design needs, including the substantive content and communication objectives of projects. The Graphic Arts Assistant will independently manage design assignments, ensuring that all projects are completed on time and meet the required standards. The role involves creating high-quality graphic materials for both print and digital platforms, transforming text-based content into visually appealing designs, and developing bilingual or multilingual infographics and presentations. The incumbent will also be responsible for preparing designs for final review and printing, as well as creating web versions of products. This position demands a high level of creativity, professionalism, and teamwork, as the Graphic Arts Assistant will collaborate with various stakeholders throughout the project production process.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Graphic Arts Assistant include:

• Participating in initial meetings with clients to discuss design projects, including objectives, media options, technical specifications, costs, and deadlines.
• Independently undertaking design assignments for various UN-sponsored activities, conceptualizing and developing design proposals for client review.
• Preparing approved designs in electronic format for final review and printing, and reviewing color and print proofs as necessary.
• Providing guidance and support throughout the project production process, coordinating with clients and relevant parties to ensure projects are on schedule.
• Developing bilingual/multilingual infographics, PowerPoint presentations, online products, and interactive media video animations.
• Transforming text-based communication materials into visual graphic design materials.
• Creating web versions of products, ensuring correct formats and file sizes for online use.
• Offering artistic perspectives to enhance knowledge sharing processes.
• Performing other related work as required.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a high school diploma or equivalent. A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in publications production, including desktop publishing, graphic design, and layout, is required. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher may qualify with a minimum of five years of relevant experience. Experience working in an international organization is essential, along with demonstrated experience in developing high-quality communication materials for both print and digital platforms. Familiarity with WordPress and Drupal software, as well as the Adobe Creative Suite, is desirable. Experience in translating complex trade and macroeconomic data into clear, visually engaging communication products is also preferred, along with experience in applying AI tools to support design and content production.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position is a high school diploma or equivalent. While no specific job-specific qualifications are mentioned, candidates with higher education degrees may have an advantage in meeting the experience requirements.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in publications production, graphic design, and related areas. This requirement is reduced to five years for those with a first-level university degree or higher. Experience in an international organization is mandatory, and candidates should have a proven track record in developing and producing high-quality communication materials for both print and digital platforms.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in both English and French is required at UN Level III for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Spanish is considered a desirable language, also requiring proficiency at UN Level III.

Additional Notes:
This is a project-funded position with a duration subject to the availability of funds and continuation of the project. The initial duration is until July 31, 2026, with a start date as soon as possible. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance in its staff, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. Candidates should be aware that there is no expectation of a fixed-term appointment following the end of this temporary assignment. The position is subject to various conditions regarding temporary appointments, including eligibility requirements and restrictions on re-employment after separation from service.