📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Senior Creative Media Specialist
🔹 Company: City of Philadelphia
🔹 Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
🔹 Job Type: Full-time
🔹 Category: Government Administration
🔹 Date Posted: 2025-07-15
🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Leading and mentoring a team of designers
- Overseeing multiple design projects from concept to completion
- Developing visually compelling print and digital assets
- Collaborating with various teams to meet strategic objectives
- Staying up-to-date with design trends and best practices
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of visual storytelling, branding, layout design, and multimedia production. The ideal candidate will have a passion for creating compelling, engaging, and strategically aligned visual content.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Lead and mentor a team of designers, providing guidance, feedback, and support to enhance creative output.
✅ Oversee and manage multiple design projects, ensuring deadlines, brand consistency, and quality standards are met.
✅ Schedule and assign work to team members, balancing workloads effectively to meet priorities.
✅ Develop visually compelling print and digital assets that support branding, marketing, and communication goals.
✅ Maintain a consistent and professional brand identity across all design projects.
✅ Collaborate with marketing, communications, and creative teams to develop engaging visual content that meets strategic objectives.
✅ Work closely with printers and vendors to ensure high-quality print production.
✅ Stay up-to-date with design trends, print production techniques, and digital design best practices.
ASSUMPTION: The responsibilities listed above are essential for this role, but the successful candidate may also be expected to perform other duties as assigned.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, Communications, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
Experience: 7+ years of experience in print and digital design, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role.
Required Skills:
- Expertise in Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign; After Effects and Premiere Pro a plus)
- Strong background in brand management, layout design, and visual storytelling
- Proven ability to lead and mentor a team of designers, manage workflows, and oversee multiple projects simultaneously
- Knowledge of print production processes and digital asset optimization
- Familiarity with project management tools and workflow systems for scheduling and tracking work
- Understanding of accessibility standards (ADA compliance) for digital and print design
Preferred Skills:
- Experience collaborating with marketing, communications, and production teams to execute design projects effectively
ASSUMPTION: The required qualifications listed above are essential for this role. However, the City of Philadelphia encourages applicants to highlight any additional skills or experiences that may be relevant to the position.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $85,000 - $95,000
Benefits:
- Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents
- Wellness program offering eligibility into the discounted medical plan
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
- Generous retirement savings options
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness program eligibility
- Free commute on SEPTA
- Tuition discounts and scholarships
Working Hours: 40 hours per week
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles. The actual salary may vary depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Government Administration
Company Size: 10,001+ employees
Founded: The City of Philadelphia was founded in 1682 and has a rich history and diverse culture.
Company Description:
- The City of Philadelphia is one of the largest employers in Southeastern Pennsylvania, with opportunities in over 1,000 different job categories.
- The City operates through the guiding principles of service, integrity, respect, accountability, collaboration, diversity, and inclusion.
- The City strives to effectively deliver services, resolve challenges facing the city, and make Philadelphia a place where all residents have the opportunity to reach their potential.
Company Specialties:
- Government Administration
- Public Services
- Community Development
Company Website: http://www.phila.gov
ASSUMPTION: The City of Philadelphia is a large and diverse organization with a wide range of job opportunities. Applicants should research the specific department and role they are applying for to gain a better understanding of the organization's mission and values.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Mid-level to Senior-level position
Reporting Structure: The Senior Creative Media Specialist will report directly to the Manager of Web & Creative Services within the Mayor's Office of Communication.
Work Arrangement: This role is on-site and requires regular attendance at the City Hall or other designated office locations.
Growth Opportunities:
- Progression to a managerial or director-level position within the creative services department
- Expansion of responsibilities to include additional departments or city agencies
- Opportunities to mentor and train junior designers, leading to enhanced leadership skills
ASSUMPTION: The City of Philadelphia offers a range of growth opportunities for employees who demonstrate strong performance and a commitment to the organization's mission and values.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: The City of Philadelphia operates multiple office locations, with the primary office being City Hall in downtown Philadelphia.
Office Location(s): City Hall, Philadelphia, PA 19102, US; 1515 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19102, US; 1401 John F Kennedy Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19102, US
Geographic Context:
- Philadelphia is the largest city in Pennsylvania and the sixth-most populous city in the United States
- The city is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and diverse neighborhoods
- Philadelphia is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies and major educational institutions
Work Schedule: The standard workweek for City of Philadelphia employees is Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a one-hour lunch break.
ASSUMPTION: The City of Philadelphia offers a flexible work environment, with opportunities for remote work or alternative scheduling for certain positions.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screening
- In-person or virtual interview with the hiring manager
- Background check and reference check
- Final decision and offer
Key Assessment Areas:
- Design skills and portfolio
- Leadership and management abilities
- Communication and collaboration skills
- Understanding of the City of Philadelphia's mission and values
- Alignment with the organization's guiding principles
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant design experience and leadership skills
- Include a portfolio or samples of your work that demonstrate your ability to meet the required qualifications
- Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your leadership style, problem-solving skills, and ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams
- Research the City of Philadelphia's mission, values, and guiding principles to demonstrate your understanding of the organization and your fit for the role
ATS Keywords: Adobe Creative Cloud, print design, digital design, brand management, leadership, team management, project management, visual storytelling, multimedia production
ASSUMPTION: The City of Philadelphia uses an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to manage job applications. Applicants should include relevant keywords from the job description in their resume to increase the likelihood of being selected for an interview.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects, Premiere Pro)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, JIRA)
- Print production software (e.g., Adobe Acrobat, QuarkXPress)
- Digital asset management systems (e.g., Adobe Experience Manager, Canto DAM)
ASSUMPTION: The City of Philadelphia provides the necessary tools and technologies for employees to perform their job functions effectively. However, candidates may be expected to have a working knowledge of relevant software and platforms.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Service: The City of Philadelphia is committed to providing high-quality, efficient, and effective services to its residents and visitors.
- Integrity: The City of Philadelphia values honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior in all aspects of its operations.
- Respect: The City of Philadelphia is committed to treating all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, or other protected characteristics.
- Accountability: The City of Philadelphia holds its employees responsible for their actions and decisions, and expects them to take ownership of their responsibilities and contribute to the organization's success.
- Collaboration: The City of Philadelphia values teamwork, partnership, and collaboration both within and outside the organization to achieve its goals.
- Diversity and Inclusion: The City of Philadelphia is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute to the organization's mission.
Work Style:
- Collaborative: The City of Philadelphia values a team-based approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
- Adaptable: The City of Philadelphia operates in a dynamic and changing environment, requiring employees to be flexible and adaptable to meet the organization's evolving needs.
- Customer-focused: The City of Philadelphia prioritizes the needs and expectations of its residents and visitors, and strives to deliver services that meet their needs and exceed their expectations.
Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you demonstrate a commitment to the City of Philadelphia's values in your daily work?
- Can you provide an example of a time when you had to adapt to a significant change in your work environment? How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?
- How do you approach collaboration and teamwork, particularly when working with diverse teams or stakeholders?
ASSUMPTION: The City of Philadelphia values candidates who demonstrate a strong alignment with the organization's mission, values, and guiding principles. Applicants should be prepared to discuss their fit with the organization's culture and expectations during the interview process.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Working in a large, complex organization with multiple departments and stakeholders
- Managing a team of designers with varying levels of experience and expertise
- Balancing multiple projects and deadlines while maintaining brand consistency and quality standards
- Adapting to changes in the organization's priorities, goals, or strategic direction
- Navigating the political landscape of a government agency
ASSUMPTION: The City of Philadelphia offers a unique and challenging work environment, with opportunities for growth and development. However, candidates should be prepared to face potential challenges and navigate the complexities of working in a large government organization.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- Senior Creative Media Specialist vs. Creative Director: While both roles involve leading a team of designers and overseeing multiple projects, the Creative Director role may have a broader scope and require more strategic decision-making and business acumen.
- Industry-specific context: The Senior Creative Media Specialist role in the City of Philadelphia may have unique requirements and considerations compared to similar roles in the private sector, such as working with government-specific branding guidelines, navigating political dynamics, and managing public-facing communications.
- Career path comparison: The Senior Creative Media Specialist role can serve as a stepping stone to a managerial or director-level position within the creative services department or provide an opportunity to transition into a related field, such as marketing, communications, or public affairs.
ASSUMPTION: Applicants should research similar roles in both the public and private sectors to gain a better understanding of the unique requirements and opportunities associated with the Senior Creative Media Specialist position in the City of Philadelphia.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing a comprehensive branding guide for a city department or agency
- Designing a series of promotional materials for a major city event or initiative
- Creating a user-friendly and visually appealing website for a city service or program
- Producing a video series showcasing the impact of city programs and services on the lives of residents
- Designing and implementing a digital signage system for a city-owned facility or public space
ASSUMPTION: The Senior Creative Media Specialist role in the City of Philadelphia offers a wide range of project opportunities, from print and digital design to multimedia production and web development. Applicants should be prepared to discuss their relevant experience and skills in relation to the specific projects and initiatives they may be expected to work on.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- Can you describe the team structure and dynamics within the Web & Creative Services Group?
- How does the Mayor's Office of Communication collaborate with other city departments and agencies to develop and implement creative projects?
- What are the most challenging aspects of working in a government agency, and how can this role help me develop skills to overcome them?
- What opportunities are there for professional growth and development within the creative services department or the City of Philadelphia as a whole?
- How does the City of Philadelphia support work-life balance for its employees?
ASSUMPTION: Applicants should prepare thoughtful and insightful questions to ask during the interview process to demonstrate their interest in the role and their commitment to the organization's mission and values.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant design experience and leadership skills
- Include a portfolio or samples of your work that demonstrate your ability to meet the required qualifications
- Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your leadership style, problem-solving skills, and ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams
- Research the City of Philadelphia's mission, values, and guiding principles to demonstrate your understanding of the organization and your fit for the role
- Follow up with the hiring manager or HR representative within one week of submitting your application to confirm receipt and inquire about the status of your application
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
