Job Title: Associate Creative Director
Type: Freelance, 40 hrs/week (Contract-to-Hire)
Start: September–October 2025
Length: 12 months (with potential to convert full-time)
Location: Remote (EST Time Zone preferred)
Compensation: Up to $55/hr (contract) / $110K+ (FTE salary range)
Our client in the higher education sector is seeking an ACD to lead design excellence, mentor a growing creative team and evolve the company’s brand systems across all marketing channels.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead and execute standout creative work on high-priority projects, rolling up sleeves when needed.
- Mentor and provide feedback to designers and copywriters, fostering growth and craft excellence.
- Drive the evolution of the brand’s visual identity and design systems, ensuring consistency across all touchpoints.
- Partner cross-functionally with Product, Growth, and Marketing teams to deliver impactful creative aligned with business goals.
- Oversee agency and contractor work, ensuring quality and creative excellence.
- Develop integrated brand campaigns that balance strategic business objectives with creative innovation.
Must-Haves (Don’t Apply Without These)
- 8+ years of design experience w/ a portfolio showcasing integrated brand campaigns and design execution.
- 5+ years leading creative teams.
- Advanced proficiency in Figma and Adobe Creative Suite.
- Strong storytelling and presentation skills, with ability to influence senior stakeholders.
- Deep understanding of marketing channels, measurement, and design systems.
You’ll Stand Out If You…
- Have experience with photography, motion, or video.
- Are familiar with emerging tools (AI, automation) to scale creative output.
- Stay ahead of design trends and push innovation.
- Bring experience in regulated industries with compliant yet impactful creative work.
This role starts as a 12-month contract at 40 hours per week with compensation up to $55/hr. There is a strong opportunity to convert to full-time at $110K+ annually, with benefits, based on performance and business needs.