Design Officer

Job Posting Organization:
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international, independent, medical humanitarian organization that provides emergency aid to individuals affected by armed conflict, epidemics, healthcare exclusion, and natural disasters. Established to deliver assistance based solely on need, MSF operates without regard to race, religion, gender, or political affiliation. MSF International serves as the legal entity that unites MSF's 24 sections, 28 associations, and 19 branch offices, providing coordination, information, and support to the MSF Movement. Registered in Switzerland, MSF International also implements international projects and initiatives as required, ensuring a cohesive approach to humanitarian aid across various regions.

Job Overview:
The Design Officer role is integral to the International Guidelines Publication (IGP) team at MSF International, focusing on the high-quality design, layout, and publication of MSF’s international guidelines in both print and digital formats. This position is crucial for ensuring that the guidelines are not only visually appealing but also clear and user-friendly. The Design Officer will engage in desktop publishing (DTP) activities, which involve integrating large volumes of text, tables, figures, algorithms, and references into comprehensive documents typically ranging from 200 to 500 pages. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including the printing agency, to ensure that all technical aspects of printing and publication are addressed effectively. Additionally, the Design Officer will provide design support to team members, offer training on the content management system, and contribute to the continuous improvement of design workflows, thereby enhancing the overall quality and accessibility of MSF's guidelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Desktop Publishing (DTP) for print and digital formats: Carry out DTP work for MSF’s medical operational guidelines, integrating large volumes of content; design and maintain layout templates and style frameworks; ensure consistency and readability through defined typographic standards; apply advanced long-document layout techniques; conduct thorough self-reviews and quality checks; optimize layout systems for efficient updates; support the production of multilingual versions of guidelines; manage files related to layout updates and revisions.
• Preparation for publication: Prepare and convert final documents for printing; communicate printing specifications to the printer; review and validate press proofs.
• Publication: Publish digital versions of guidelines through the CMS; update the ‘Updates’ page; ensure guidelines are uploaded to the external sales platform accurately; liaise with the printing agency for consistent print quality.
• Design and product optimization: Provide design support to authors and editors; redesign existing graphical elements; conduct user testing; propose new design outputs; liaise with external providers for improvements.
• Layout guidance and CMS support: Prepare layout templates and instructions; create and update documentation on CMS usage; provide training and support to team members.
• Proactive participation in the Guidelines team: Participate in meetings; contribute to the annual plan of action; engage in budget forecasting and reporting.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess a strong background in graphic design, with proficiency in desktop publishing software and design tools. Familiarity with layout design principles, typography, and visual communication is essential. The candidate should also have experience in managing design projects from conception to completion, demonstrating an ability to work collaboratively within a team and communicate effectively with various stakeholders. Attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work are critical, as is the ability to adapt to changing project requirements and timelines.

Educational Background:
A degree in graphic design, visual communication, or a related field is required. Additional certifications or training in desktop publishing or digital design would be advantageous. Candidates should have a solid understanding of design principles and practices, as well as experience with content management systems and digital publishing.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years of experience in graphic design or a related field, with a focus on desktop publishing and layout design. Experience working in a humanitarian or non-profit context is a plus, as is familiarity with medical or operational guidelines. The ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in additional languages such as French, Spanish, or Arabic is highly desirable. The ability to communicate effectively in multiple languages will enhance collaboration with diverse teams and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position offers a permanent contract at 100%, with the possibility of part-time work (minimum 28 hours per week). The starting date for the role is September 7th, 202

• The compensation and benefits package will align with the current MSF entity establishing the contract. By default, the successful candidate will be offered a contract in the MSF office of their country of residence at the time of application.