Graphic Designer (Part-Time, Independent Contractor)

About Just Right Reader

Just Right Reader is a literacy publisher dedicated to helping children become confident, successful readers through engaging, research-based resources grounded in the Science of Reading. Our growing product line includes decodable and knowledge-building books, classroom resources, teacher guides, lesson plans, literacy games, family resources, and marketing materials designed for students from Birth through Grade 12.

We're seeking a Graphic Designer to support our Product team with the design and development of engaging, polished, and brand-aligned visual materials. This contractor will contribute to a variety of projects, including book design, product materials, flyers, presentations, and other creative assets that support our growing literacy product portfolio.

About This Engagement

This is an ongoing, project-based engagement for a versatile mid-level Graphic Designer who can independently execute a variety of design projects with an understanding of visual storytelling, brand standards, and production quality.

The ideal contractor is creative, detail-oriented, organized, and comfortable managing multiple assignments with varying timelines. Projects will be provided as business needs arise, with clear objectives, deliverables, and mutually agreed-upon deadlines.

Time Commitment & Availability

The anticipated workload is 0-20 hours per week, depending on project volume and business needs. Work is assigned on an as-needed basis, with no guaranteed minimum number of hours or assignments.

Contractors independently determine their work schedules and availability while meeting mutually agreed-upon project deadlines.

Availability Expectations: Contractors should generally respond to project inquiries and assignment requests within 24 hours, when reasonably possible, to support timely project coordination.

Scope of Work

• Design and develop book layouts, covers, and supporting materials for Just Right Reader's literacy products.
• Create visually engaging flyers, slide decks, presentations, and other product-related collateral.
• Develop and adapt creative assets that align with established brand guidelines, visual standards, and product requirements.
• Support smaller, ad hoc design projects and product-based creative needs as they arise.
• Prepare and deliver polished, production-ready design files in appropriate formats for print and digital use.
• Incorporate feedback and requested revisions within the scope of agreed-upon projects.
• Independently manage assigned projects, including estimating effort, communicating progress, and delivering completed work within mutually agreed-upon timelines.

This engagement does not include internal people management, HR responsibilities, or administrative duties.

Required Experience & Qualifications

• 3+ years of professional graphic design experience, with a portfolio demonstrating strong visual design and production capabilities.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Canva, InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop.
• Experience designing multi-page layouts, books, presentations, marketing collateral, and other print and digital materials - including accessibility guidelines.
• Strong understanding of typography, layout, color theory, visual hierarchy, and brand consistency.
• Ability to interpret creative direction and independently translate concepts into polished design deliverables.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Clear communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional stakeholders.

Preferred Experience

• Educational publishing, children's books, literacy, or related industries.
• Familiarity with print production processes, prepress requirements, and preparing files for professional printing.
• Designing educational materials for teachers, students, or families.

Engagement Details

• This role is structured as an independent contractor (1099) engagement.
• Duration: This will be an ongoing agreement that will be evaluated for continuation on a monthly basis per business need.
• The contractor will determine their own work schedule, methods, tools, and approach, subject to agreed-upon milestones and deadlines.
• The contractor may provide services to other clients during the term of this engagement.
• Compensation will be provided on a monthly retainer or project-based basis, as outlined in a separate agreement.
• Services will be performed remotely; occasional in-person collaboration may occur by mutual agreement.

How to Express Interest

Please submit:

1. Your resume highlighting relevant design experience.
2. A portfolio showcasing examples of relevant graphic design work, particularly book layouts, print materials, and presentations.
3. A brief cover letter explaining your interest in the engagement and how your experience aligns with our needs.
4. Your preferred rate structure (hourly or project-based) and proposed rates.