Graphic Design Intern Job Description

This position is available for the following semesters:

• Spring and Summer 2026, with possible continuation into Fall 2026 and beyond

DPSS Overview

The University of Michigan Division of Public Safety and Security (DPSS) is dedicated to providing a safe and secure environment for all U-M students, faculty, and staff, with an emphasis on community outreach and education. Our operations include the Ann Arbor campus, Michigan Medicine, and Dearborn and Flint campuses.

The intern will support and report to the DPSS Strategic Communications team. Responsibilities are outlined below.

Intern Responsibilities

The intern will support DPSS communications through graphic design and multimedia production. Duties may include, but are not limited to:

• Design and prepare posters, flyers, handouts, digital signage, multimedia presentations, social media content, charts, and other communications materials

• Translate written content into compelling, accessible visual designs that support public safety, emergency preparedness, prevention, and a range of DPSS initiatives

• Ensure designs use appropriate colors, layouts, typography, and imagery within the University of Michigan and DPSS brand standards

• Assist with preparing proper file formats, image resolution, accessibility considerations, and print specifications 

• Take, edit, and organize photos or short videos for DPSS communications, events, social media, and web content as assigned

• Create graphics, templates, and videos in programs such as Canva and Adobe Creative Suite, including InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, iMovie, and/or Premiere Pro

• Maintain organized project files, update shared folders or tracking spreadsheets, and help archive final design assets for future use

• Support staff with outstanding communications, design, event, and administrative needs as assigned

The essential functions of this position include:

• using a computer and design and editing software for extended periods of time

• remaining in a stationary position for extended periods of time

• frequent communication and exchange of information with the U-M community

• traveling to and from various areas of campus and Ann Arbor for meetings, photography, events, or project support as needed

• routinely moving items weighing up to 25 pounds within the building and across campus for communications, tabling, or event needs

Duration of Internship

• Summer and fall semesters, with the possibility of extension into winter and/or the following academic year

• On average, the intern will devote approximately 15-20 hours per week to this commitment; if you are taking classes, the weekly time commitment is recommended to not exceed 29 hours, according to the University’s student employment policy

Location

• This position is hybrid, partial remote, and partial on-site. Some work will take place in the DPSS Administrative Office at Arbor Lakes, with occasional work at other campus locations for photography, events, meetings, or project support

Required Qualifications

• An enrolled University of Michigan graduate or undergraduate student

• Demonstrated design skills; work samples, a portfolio, or class project examples may be requested as part of the interview process

• Experience creating designs in Canva and/or Adobe Creative Suite, such as InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere Pro

• Experience with Google Suite and Microsoft Office products

• Ability to translate written information into clear, compelling, and audience-appropriate visual materials

• Superb attention to detail and excellent organizational skills

• Highly organized, self-directed, and able to achieve results

• Able to prioritize and handle multiple projects at once

• Able to work independently and resourcefully, while also collaborating on interdisciplinary teams

• Interest in communications, design, public safety, community engagement, prevention, or emergency preparedness

Desired Qualifications

• Students receiving work study are encouraged to apply

• Classwork or hands-on experience in graphic design, art, communications, marketing, UX, photography, video, or related fields

• Experience designing for websites, social media, digital signage, newsletters, presentations, or print production

• Experience with website content management systems, e.g., Drupal or WordPress

• Knowledge of Trello, Asana, Monday.com, or a similar project management tool

• Knowledge of accessibility best practices for digital and print design

• Interest in supporting community outreach and inclusive communications

Compensation

• A graduate student will earn $20.00 per hour for approved time worked on a bi-weekly basis, and an undergraduate student will earn $18.00 per hour

To Apply:

• Submit your resume AND answer these questions within the same document as your resume:

Why are you interested in this position?

What has prepared you for this position according to the position’s responsibilities?

What design, communications, or project skills have you gained that would make you successful? Please provide examples of related work, and as appropriate, attach or link any specific examples, portfolio pieces, class projects, or work samples.

• Posting closes on 05/10/2026 at 11:59PM, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the posting may close sooner