Visual Arts Specialist (Photographer)

Bachelor's degree in fine arts, photojournalism or a related concentration, or commensurate experience of 10 or more combined years of professional photography experience.
A photographic portfolio that demonstrates solid conceptual skills and knowledge of photography and composition is essential to be considered for this position.
Strong organizational skills to support ability to independently manage and coordinate all facets of job duties.
Proficiency in the use of general office equipment, Mac OS computers, administrative computing system(s), MS Office and other relevant software applications.
Strong proficiency with image and editing software including Photoshop and other industry standard software.
Demonstrated experience with and enthusiasm for emerging technologies, new media, and social media applications.
Creative thinking, versatility, ability to adapt in dynamic environment and take initiative, and strong customer interaction skills.
Action-oriented, excellent organizational abilities, extremely detail-oriented with the ability to multi-task, meet deadlines and work under pressure.
Must be a team player with strong interpersonal skills, a positive, collegial attitude, a high level of professionalism, and the ability to work collaboratively in a close team structure.

This position has a range of visual/graphic arts functions used in promotional, instructional and educational materials. This work includes both internal and external communication efforts. Work includes consulting, creating, planning, and providing content that visually communicates information through such avenues as catalogs, brochures, books, magazines, banners, web pages, identity packages, campaigns, invitations, posters, advertising, teaching aids and exhibits. This position executes artistic representations by using software and hardware, traditional and digital photography, various printing practices, and graphic art techniques. Position may also be responsible for consulting with clients to determine project parameters such as purpose, audience, conceptual focus, and scope and concept cost options. Work may include directing staff and clients.

N.C. A&T is a public, land-grant, doctoral research institution and has been the largest historically Black university in the country for the past decade. With an enrollment of 14,311 students in Fall 2024, the university offers 59 undergraduate degree programs, 36 master's programs, and 12 doctoral programs. It is America's top producer of Black graduates in Engineering and Agricultural Science bachelor's programs, as well as a top five producer in numerous additional disciplines, including Liberal Arts and Communications/Journalism. It also ranks no. 3 in master's degrees awarded to Black graduates in Engineering Technologies and Related Fields, no. 4 in master's degrees in Engineering, and no. 11 best business school for women in the nation.

Nationally recognized for its leadership and excellence in STEM education and research, N.C. A&T is classified as "R2-High Research Activity" in the Carnegie Classifications and is poised to achieve "R1-Very High Research Activity" status. It also holds Carnegie's earned credential in Community Engagement and the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities ( APLU) Innovation and Economic Prosperity designation. With an annual economic impact of $2.4 billion, N.C. A&T plays a vital role as a higher-education economic driver in North Carolina's Piedmont Triad region and across a state that is ranked No. 1 in the nation for the second straight year as "best for business" by the CNBC financial network.

Ag Communications is the central communications function for the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences ( CAES). Our role supports the research agenda, Cooperative Extension outreach and teaching of the college in its role to carry out the strategic priorities of the University. We work to develop relationships with constituents both internal and external to the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences ( CAES) and N.C. A&T State University through timely and accurate communications.

Primarily, we support the mission and strategic direction and priorities of the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences ( CAES) and the University, collaborate with the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences and University leaders to determine the broad messages to be conveyed to internal and external audiences in person, through digital, online, mobile and social media, in the mass media, and through our publications; convey the messages that agriculture is a dynamic, rapidly changing industry and that it embodies all the occupations connected with the research, production, processing, marketing and distribution of farm related products, builds CAES pride through proactive branding, communications and public relations initiatives; provide communications services to our Cooperative Extension network and our research colleagues; and communications, video and photographic, graphic design and creative services, and print production and distribution support and services to connect current and prospective students, the community, families, industry and individuals to the CAES and the University; support the advocacy for College needs and priorities-to local, state, and federal funding agencies.

Possesses in-depth knowledge and technical skill in the area of photography. Keeps up with current developments and trends in areas of expertise. Uses a variety of standard and specialized photographic and lighting equipment. Manipulates, enhances, and/or color corrects digital photos as required in Adobe Photoshop or Photomechanic Pro. Produces digital files that meet the color and resolution specifications for print, video and web-based communications. Organizes and maintains photo archival database. Manages, equips and maintains in-house photo studio. Operates and maintains photo printer. Provides support as necessary to the web team uploading images to the content management system. Maintains photography and computer equipment and supplies. Captures and reproduces photographic images representing the full range of activities occurring on campus using photojournalistic, creative and artistic skill. Photographs students, faculty, and staff for use in printed materials. Performs other duties and responsibilities requiring technical expertise as assigned by the director.

Develops and maintains strong relationships with clients or customers by listening to the client/customer and understanding and responding to identified needs. Serves as a photography liaison, as directed, with the general public. Demonstrates a methodical and logical approach to addressing customer needs.

Provides advice and counsel to faculty and researchers on using photography to enhance understanding of the College's projects. Applies an understanding of client programs, organization and culture to photographic assignments. Recommends the selection and procurement of photographic and computer equipment and supplies. Assists internal and external clients with photographic needs for use in books, magazines, brochures, newsletters and other publications to include identifying and defining needs recommending photographic techniques and approaches to help communicate intended message and create desired effect. Plans, coordinates and art directs photo sessions and advises on other professional topics related to uses and applications of photography.

Provides oversight for project(s) and related activities in that setting to include quality assurance and safety. Coordinates and manages facilities, equipment, supplies and related resources as necessary for assigned projects. Monitors environmental risks, if any, and quality control. Establishes a set of tasks and activities associated with an intended outcome and timeline for publications/print media. Ensures actions are performed and/or implemented to achieve the results of the project.
Coordinates photo shoots in collaboration with communications team members. Maintains a library of quality photographic images. Provides photography for the college and institutional websites. Assists with maintaining a consistent institutional social media presence using branded photography.

Uses innovative solutions where appropriate. Selects lights, cameras, equipment and techniques to implement work assigned.
Selects photos from archives for specific design and other uses. Uses a variety of transmission methods to share/provide photography.
Researches, evaluates, assesses, recommends, advises and implements various technology and equipment purchases.
Independently resolves complex hardware and/or software problems.
Instructs others on using hardware and/or software.
Hardware
* Keeps all digital camera equipment up to date and in working order, recommending and purchasing advanced photographic technology applicable to the current position, workflow and the College, Cooperative Extension, Ag Research and academic studies respective photographic requirements.
* Updating camera software and firmware respective to industry changes.
* Sends off photographic equipment for repairs and updates as needed.
Software
* Expert knowledge and use of industry based software, to include but not limited to:
* Adobe CS6 including Photoshop
* Photomechanic Pro
* Online applications, including Dropbox, Flickr
* Social media posting, ie Twitter, Instagram, Facebook.
Independently resolves complex hardware and/or software problems:
* Troubleshooting camera equipment (hardware and software) failure. Repair, upgrade, or send in for repairs as needed.
Instructs others on using hardware and/or software:
* Coaches faculty and staff on the use of digital camera equipment, lighting techniques, editing techniques and the use of software applications for basic editing of images within their own department. Instructs others on preparing files of proper size, color space, extension, etc. for use depending upon application.

You must complete and submit an electronic application for employment to be considered. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing an electronic application. Applicants seeking Veteran's Preference must attach a DD 214 form. Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty with your application during the process of applying to the job posting. Final candidates are subject to criminal and sex offender background checks. North Carolina A&T State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. North Carolina A&T State University is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. No one who applies or seeks employment will be denied admission to or employment at North Carolina A&T State University on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, disabling condition, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information or sexual orientation and sexual identity.

Employee Benefits available to NC A & T permanent employees include the following and more;