Independent Contractor Graphic Design Jobs in Alberta

Graphic Designer

Location: 11738 Kingsway Ave, Edmonton, AB

Closing Date: Until suitable candidate found

Position Status: Two (2) Full-time (40 hours/week), Permanent

The Otipemisiwak Metis Government is looking for two (2) full-time Graphic Designers. Reporting to the Creative Services Supervisor, the Graphic Designers are responsible for producing high-quality visual assets that support communications campaigns, events, and Government-wide initiatives. This position plays a key role in building and maintaining the visual identity of the Otipemisiwak Metis Government, and will coordinate, manage, and deliver communication projects for the Otipemisiwak Metis Government and stakeholders. The Graphic Designers will collaborate with a variety of individuals to develop new design concepts, graphics, and layouts in both print and digital media, bringing ideas to life in a clear, consistent, and visually engaging way.

The successful candidates will have a strong understanding of graphic design, thrive in a collaborative, fast-moving environment, and contribute meaningfully to projects that support Metis citizens and communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Create print and digital materials such as reports, posters, presentation, social graphics, signage, and campaign collateral.
• Develop concepts, layouts, and designs that reflect the Otipemisiwak Metis Government's branding and storytelling.
• Maintain visual standards and templates for consistent use across departments.
• Prepare files for print production and digital distribution.
• Support major initiatives and events with creative planning and asset development.
• Manage multiple design projects simultaneously while ensuring deadlines are met.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders while promoting realistic timelines and expectations.
• Participate in brainstorming sessions and contribute strong visual ideas.
• Collaborate with writers, photographers, videographers, and digital team members to ensure aligned messaging.
• Liaise with vendors (printers, promotional supplies, newspapers, etc.) to establish budgets and production schedules.
• Present a positive and professional image of the Otipemisiwak Metis Government when interacting with staff, clients, visitors, and other external stakeholders.
• Other duties as required or assigned.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong technical skills with Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat).
• Experience with Canva, Figma, or similar tools is an asset.
• Experience in both print and digital platforms.
• Strong visual and graphic design skills including typography, colour, layout, and composition.
• Attention to detail and ability to adapt design approaches to fit diverse audiences.
• Exceptional listening, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Ability to produce professional documents, reports, and presentations.
• Strong analytical thinking, planning, and execution skills.
• Flexible and adaptable to work in diverse, fast-paced environments.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize, meet tight deadlines, and deliver quality work under pressure.
• Ability to assess options and implications, engage different perspectives, and create strategic solutions for communications challenges.
• Political and cultural sensitivity.
• Strong sense of ethics and demonstrated ability to handle sensitive or confidential information with tact and discretion.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a collaborative environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams) and Google Suite.
• Knowledge of Metis history, culture, and issues affecting Metis people. An in-depth understanding of the Otipemisiwak Metis Government and Metis culture is an asset.
  

Qualifications

• Post-secondary education in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or in a related field.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in a graphic design or visual communications role.
• Experience designing for both digital and print platforms.
• Experience working in an Indigenous and/or non-profit setting is an asset.
  

Other Requirements

• Submission of a portfolio of design work.
• Position will be based in office in Edmonton, Alberta.
• Ability to work a regular schedule of Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, as well as flexible schedule of days, evenings, and weekends.
• Travel within Alberta and occasional out-of-province travel, with notice.
• Reliable transportation and valid Alberta Class 5 Driver's License are required.
• Acceptable attainment of a Police Information Check.

What We Offer

• An opportunity to work for the Otipemisiwak Metis Government under its newly ratified Constitution and be an instrumental part of the largest Indigenous Government in Canada as it rapidly grows and develops.
• An opportunity to learn about Metis culture, languages, and art.
• Meaningful work in a fun and supportive work environment.
• Training and professional development opportunities.
• A comprehensive benefit package and employer contributions to Pension Plan.
• Generous time off policies.

Metis applicants are encouraged to apply!

The Otipemisiwak Metis Government thanks all applicants for their interest. We are committed to a fully human-led recruitment process and do not use artificial intelligence to review candidate applications. We take a deliberate and thoughtful approach to selecting candidates, ensuring integrity and equity at every stage.

As a Metis government, the Otipemisiwak Metis Government is committed to the recruitment, retention, mentorship, and advancement of Metis Citizens and other Indigenous Peoples while maintaining a fair and equitable hiring practices to foster a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace, and we value the lived experiences and cultural knowledge of all candidates.

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Please note that candidates who have been selected to move forward to the next stage of the recruitment process will receive an email to complete a short online video submission. Our team receives a large volume of applications and will reach out only as applicable.

If you experience barriers to applying or require accommodations at any stage of the recruitment and selection process, please contact employment@metis.org. We are committed to providing an accessible and inclusive experience.