Graphic Designer, web and print

The Mountaineer Publishing Company is seeking a talented and detail-oriented graphic designer to join our team in the vibrant mountain town of Waynesville, N.C. This position could grow into manager of the graphics department for the right applicant.

We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality content and visually engaging print publications and online applications — including two newspapers, print and digital special products, a high-traffic website and social media.

While our graphics team does some of everything in a multi-faceted company, the ideal candidate would have experience in at least a few of these areas: print & digital advertisements, creative newspaper page layout, magazine design and marketing campaigns. We also need someone who is tech savvy and knows their way around the back-end of a website or has the foundation to learn.

This role requires the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, manage workflow for the graphic design department and collaborate across the company on projects and initiatives.

As a local, independently owned company, The Mountaineer is a collaborative and close-knit work environment, where staff are valued for their ideas, encouraged to pursue special projects and initiatives, and given a seat at the table. A valued source of community news since 1884, The Mountaineer prides itself on innovation in the changing 21st century media landscape.

We also own and publish a sister newspaper, The Beacon Tribune. This entrepreneurial enterprise was launched in 2010 and is a prime growth area of our company. (The Beacon website is undergoing a redesign so forgive the current look!)

We are always looking toward new ideas and ventures, with plans to launch a magazine in 2027 — which this position would get to play a key role in designing and creating from the ground up.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and produce advertisements, ensuring they meet client specifications and deadlines.
• Create visually appealing and reader-friendly page layouts for print.
• Collaborate with the editorial and sales teams to ensure design alignment with content and advertising goals.
• Prepare print & digital-ready files and ensure all designs meet quality and technical standards.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously while adhering to tight deadlines. Stay up to date with industry trends and design best practices.
• Serve as technical liaison to our web hosting company. Our site is powered by BLOX, a powerful web platform specifically for newspapers. This position would interface with the BLOX support team to manage the back-end of our website.

Qualifications:

• Proficiency in Adobe InDesign and Adobe Photoshop is required.
• Knowledge of Town News BLOX and/or Vision Data is helpful, but training will be provided for these internal applications and programs.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality work.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Where we’re located

Haywood County is known for its exceptional quality of life, from a vibrant arts and culture scene to outdoor recreation. Soak up greenways, parks, golf, theater, festivals, galleries, farmers markets and abundant hiking and biking in the surrounding national parks and forests. Our backyard playground includes the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest.

The newspaper office is located on Main Street in the heart of our dynamic downtown, with fabulous dining, nightlife, and breweries. Our exceptional school system is ranked in the top 10% in the state of North Carolina.

Why Join Us?

Be part of a dynamic and creative team that values innovation and collaboration. Work in a rewarding environment where your contributions make a difference. Opportunities for professional growth and development.

If you are a creative and motivated designer with a passion for print & digital media, we would love to hear from you! Please send applications and inquiries to Executive Editor Becky Johnson at [email protected].

Pay: $18.00 - $21.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Work Location: In person