EcoNews Digital Layout Designer

Various (Craigslist)

This position is 20 hours a month at $25.00 per hour
humboldt,
part-time
Posted 5 days ago
writing
Apply Now

Job Description

Job Title: Digital Layout Designer

About Us:
The Northcoast Environmental Center is an environmental nonprofit created in 1971. We are dedicated to protecting local ecosystems, advancing sustainability, and educating communities through science-based advocacy and storytelling. Our monthly publication helps turn complex environmental issues into clear, compelling content that inspires action.

Position Summary:
This position will work In collaboration with the Northcoast Environmental Center EcoNews Editor & EcoNews Committee plan, design and layout the digital edition of EcoNews, proofread for errors, upload to the website, and distribute digitally new EcoNews issues each month. We are located in Arcata, Ca. This position is ideally in person but could be remote for the right candidate.

Position is for 20 hours a month at $25 an hour.

Key Responsibilities:
Design layouts for digital and print materials, including but not limited to:
Prep Work
Attend EcoNews Committee meetings.
Suggest possible article ideas to the Editor and Econews Journalist.
Provide layout and find copyright-free graphics or get permission to use graphics for articles.
also - Crosswords, Creature Feature compilations, Bouquets, NEC Help Ad, Event Thank Yous, etc.

Design Work:
Find eye-catching photos or artwork for the cover for each monthly issue.
Brainstorm theme/caption for front with Editor and Econews Journalist.
Find creative commons images for article submission that did not provide images and add them to the current issue’s Google Drive Folder.
Make sure all graphic content provided used in layout does not violate someone's copyright.
Design graphics for EcoNews and other uses needed by the NEC staff.
Meet and collaborate with the Editor and EcoNews Committee to plan issue layout.
Complete EcoNews graphic design layout using Adobe Indesign.
Input all articles and photos into the layout.
Follow good graphic design principles in the layout design.
Ex: consistent fonts, hi-res images, readable flow, etc.
Proper caption for and attribution of all photos, artwork and graphics.
Update date and volume number for current issue.

Edits:
Upload PDF of first draft to Google Drive & share with Editor and EcoNews Committee to share with EcoNews Journalist, proofreaders, and NEC member groups with submitted pages.
Make revisions based on feedback and deadlines
Apply all edits to the final draft of EcoNews.

Website:
Upload EcoNews PDF and Cover image to website.
Create a new EcoNews Page for current issues.

EcoNews Distribution:
Send out a digital link for each new issue to the NEC distribution list.
Conduct social media outreach for new issues: Mailchimp, FB, IG.

File Management:
“Package” design folder on Adobe Indesign.
Upload design folder to Google Drive.

Required Qualifications:
Experience with layout and publication design

Proficiency in design software such as Adobe InDesign and google suites. Must have familiarity with Illustrator and Photoshop as well

Strong understanding of typography and page layout

Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects

Ability to communicate clearly and work collaboratively

Preferred Qualifications:
Experience working with nonprofits, advocacy groups, or environmental organizations

Familiarity with accessibility standards for digital publications

Basic understanding of data visualization or infographic layout

Interest in environmental or sustainability issues

Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility Statement:
The Northcoast Environmental Center is committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where all people feel valued and supported. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including people of color, Indigenous people, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and those from historically underrepresented or marginalized communities.
We recognize that not all candidates meet every listed qualification. If you are excited about this role and believe your skills and lived experience would contribute to our mission, we encourage you to apply.
We strive to create publications that are accessible to broad audiences and value designers who are thoughtful about accessibility, clarity, and inclusive communication.

How to Apply:
Please submit a cover letter, resume, references and 1-2 work samples demonstrating layout and publication design to Laurel McKay by January 15, 2026.