Independent Contractor Graphic Designer

About the Organization:

Informed by lessons learned as the world’s largest and oldest peacebuilding organization, Common Ground-USA (CG-USA) is a bold initiative of Search for Common Ground (Search) building the conditions for a more inclusive, equitable, and peaceful society. We envision an America where we engage in collaboration across differences to address our greatest challenges, and where we can all belong and thrive. We see disagreement as an opportunity to transform conflict into cooperation on our daily and most pernicious problems

Program Background:

Common Ground USA is seeking an experienced Graphic Designer to provide ongoing design support on a freelance/independent contractor basis. The Designer will work across teams to produce high-quality visual content that supports CG-USA’s communications, advocacy, and programmatic work. The selected designer will work collaboratively with Common Ground USA staff to develop high-quality, accessible, and visually engaging materials while adhering to established brand guidelines and project timelines.

This engagement is intended to establish a pool of preferred design support for future assignments. Individual design requests will be issued on an as needed basis throughout the term of the agreement.

Objectives of the Assignment:

• Design a wide range of visual materials including infographics, reports, one-pagers, presentations, social media graphics, event banners, and other communications assets as needed.
• Collaborate with staff to understand design needs and translate written content and messaging into compelling, audience-appropriate visual formats.
• Ensure all outputs adhere to CG-USA brand guidelines and maintain visual consistency across materials.
• Manage multiple concurrent design requests, prioritizing effectively and communicating proactively on timelines.
• Deliver all final files in appropriate formats along with organized, editable source files.
• Incorporate feedback from stakeholders promptly and professionally.
• Stay current with design trends and recommend best practices to internal teams.

Expected Results:

• High-quality, on-brand visual assets delivered on time and to specification across all assignments.
• Consistent visual identity maintained across all CG-USA communications and program materials.
• Well-organized source files and asset documentation provided for all deliverables.

Deliverables:

• Designed graphic assets across agreed-upon formats (e.g., infographics, social media templates, one-pagers, presentation decks, event materials).
• All source files delivered digitally in editable formats (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Canva, etc.)
• Communicate clearly, professionally, and in a timely manner throughout each assignment.
• Submit all agreed-upon design deliverables by the established deadlines.
• Incorporate feedback and revisions in alignment with the agreed scope and timeline.
• Provide final design files in the requested formats, including editable source files when applicable.

Expert Profile:

• High School Diploma/GED, Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Fine Arts, or equivalent qualification.
• Experience & Competencies
• Proven track record as a Graphic Designer with a strong portfolio demonstrating range across digital and print formats.
• Experience working with nonprofit, advocacy, or mission-driven organizations strongly preferred.
• Ability to interpret briefs quickly and produce polished designs with minimal back-and-forth.
• Strong understanding of visual hierarchy, typography, and layout principles.
• Proficiency in industry-standard design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, Canva, or equivalent).
• Excellent communication skills and ability to incorporate feedback constructively.
• Ability to manage multiple requests simultaneously and meet deadlines reliably.

Criteria:

• Alignment with Common Ground USA's communications needs, mission, and organizational values.
• Relevant academic and professional qualifications.
• Quality, creativity, and relevance of the submitted portfolio.
• Demonstrated experience producing high-quality visual assets for nonprofit organizations or similar clients.
• Cost-effectiveness of the proposed rates, including a clear breakdown of fees.
• Overall quality, clarity, organization, and completeness of the proposal.
• Ability to meet the scope of work and provide timely, high-quality deliverables.

Please include your standard rates for design services as part of your proposal.

Estimated Duration of the Assignment:

This is an ongoing independent contractor engagement lasting two years. Work will be assigned on a rolling basis according to organizational needs. The Designer will be compensated at an agreed hourly rate.

Deadline for Applications:

August 1, 2026

Questions:

Questions regarding this opportunity may be directed to Tristiaña Hinton, Public Engagement Manager. Common Ground USA