The Office of Representative Lauren Underwood (IL-14) is seeking a Creative Director to lead digital and visual communications for the office. This senior, in-person staff role combines creative production, brand and content direction, and paid communications support for official channels, the website, and other public-facing initiatives.
Role Focus
You will manage the creative and digital strategy that guides content production across official channels, with responsibility for branding, graphic design, and performance monitoring. The position also includes day-to-day photography and videography and the coordination of a communications team and production workflows.
Responsibilities
- Lead digital content strategy and production for Rep. Underwood’s official channels and website.
- Manage external relationships with content creators, community partners, other Member offices, and digital outlets.
- Track and monitor digital performance to adjust strategy as needed.
- Produce graphics, videos, and other creative content in the Member’s voice, from ideation to creation.
- Oversee visual communication, branding, and graphic design for the office.
- Develop and implement the Member’s style and branding guides.
- Create consistent, high-quality graphics for digital and print materials, including social media assets, handouts, posters, and digital ads.
- Serve as the Member’s primary photographer and videographer day-to-day.
- Manage a communications team that includes interns, freelance photographers/videographers, and at least one other full-time staffer.
- Develop and maintain approval and production processes.
- Assist in hiring and onboarding new communications staff.
- Lead paid communications strategy in coordination with the Chief of Staff, District Director, and Member.
- Manage a budget for paid communications.
- Identify strong content and messages to uplift.
- Directly place ads for paid communications campaigns on various digital platforms and billboards.
- Ensure compliance with all House rules and regulations related to mass communication.
- Support the Member’s digital communications work in Democratic leadership and other special projects.
Requirements
- At least 3-5 years of experience in creative and digital strategy, with a focus on graphic design and digital content creation.
- Prior experience working in political campaigns, organizing, nonprofits, or government offices is preferred.
- Excellent videography and photography skills, including the ability to correctly capture multiple skin tones across a wide range of environments.
- Strong technical skills relevant to digital content creation.
- Experience managing direct reports, developing and maintaining systems and processes, and driving projects with a team.
- Ability to manage multiple competing projects, meet tight deadlines, and maintain strong attention to detail in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
- Curiosity, commitment to public service, and a strong interest in culture, storytelling, and design.
Compensation
Annual salary: USD 100,000 - 120,000 per year, dependent on experience and qualifications.
Benefits
- Health coverage
- Comp time
- Retirement benefits with an employer match
- Paid sick, bereavement, and vacation leave
- Paid parental leave
- Paid FMLA leave
- Access to life insurance coverage
- Access to the Student Loan Repayment Program
Location / Work Arrangement
- Onsite senior staff position in Washington, DC 20515.
- Occasional travel and telework opportunities.
- Depending on location, work may be based out of Capitol Hill, D.C.; DeKalb, IL; or Joliet, IL.
- Illinois-based candidates should have a valid driver’s license and reliable access to a car (mileage reimbursement offered).
How to Apply
To apply, email Underwood.CommsJobs@mail.house.gov with “Creative Director” in the subject line. Attach the application materials as one combined PDF.
Application Materials
- Résumé
- Cover letter
- 2-3 professional references including name, current title and organization, phone number, email, and a one-sentence description of your relationship to the reference
- Examples or a link to a portfolio of design, video/photo, and content work
