Technical Artist II

The USC Mark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging and Informatics Institute and Laboratory of Neuro Imaging (INI, www.ini.usc.edu) are world leaders in the development of advanced computational and scientific approaches for the comprehensive mapping of brain structure and function. LONI’s unique multidisciplinary environment and cutting edge resources allow for integration of clinical, psychological and genotypic information with neuroimaging phenotypes for research questions in neurology, psychiatry and developmental neurobiology.

Our Scientific Visualization Group (SVG) is seeking a graphic artist/layout designer that will design and develop the laboratory’s promotional materials, web interfaces, logos, newsletters, and more. Major duties include designing and planning graphics and page layout designs, utilizing graphic design, print design, illustration, and possibly some UI development. The successful candidate is experienced in turning text and graphics into appealing scientific figures, infographics, interactive webpage designs, newsletters, multimedia presentations, and additional print and digital assets. This position will analyze and prioritize one-time and ongoing projects and is required to attend regular meetings with directors for project updates and problem-solving strategies.

Key responsibilities include:

• Working with the SVG team to define project requirements and design strategies
• Creating appealing scientific/medical images and graphics using hand drawings and/or computer illustration software
• Working with faculty to create and edit scientific figures and other digital assets
• Keeping digital content up to date and altering digital content as the need arises
• Maintaining and adhering to specific brands and graphic identities

Preferred Qualifications & Skills:

• Demonstrated graphic design and digital illustration experience.
• Knowledge and experience in animation is helpful.
• Experience planning projects based on research content and organization.
• Excellent working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, specifically InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator and Acrobat.
• Strong knowledge of multimedia design and implementation.
• Skills in working independently to establish priorities that reflect deadlines and accomplished goals.
• Interpersonal and communication skills to effectively interact, communicate, and work as a team member with the academic, research and administrative staff, multimedia designers, and database and information systems personnel
• Ability to work well with others in a team environment, including liaising with counterparts in other departments
• Ability to think creatively and reason logically in developing new approaches, methods, and procedures for design development
• Project management skills sufficient to effectively manage large-scale, multi-resource projects within a set timeline

Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree, Specialized/technical training, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education

Minimum Experience: 2-year Minimum

Field of Expertise: Experience and proficiency using off-the-shelf art 2D and 3D development tools. Strong design knowledge and experience creating art assets that meet requirements. Knowledge and a strong understanding of multi-media scripting. Understanding of programming and advanced rendering techniques. Knowledge of character/vehicle rigging and skinning. Demonstrated 3D modeling and texturing skills. Demonstrated content and asset management source control. Knowledge and understanding of the principles of animation. Must be able to meet deadlines and work with direction.

The hourly rate range for this position is $33.48 - $43.26. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree, Specialized/technical training, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education Minimum Experience: 2 years Minimum Field of Expertise: Experience and proficiency using off-the-shelf art 2D and 3D development tools. Strong design knowledge and experience creating art assets that meet requirements. Knowledge and a strong understanding of multi-media scripting. Understanding of programming and advanced rendering techniques. Knowledge of character/vehicle rigging and skinning. Demonstrated 3D modeling and texturing skills. Demonstrated content and asset management source control. Knowledge and understanding of the principles of animation. Must be able to meet deadlines and work with direction.