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:

• Your resume highlighting relevant design experience.

• A portfolio showcasing examples of relevant graphic design work, particularly book layouts, print materials, and presentations.

• A brief cover letter explaining your interest in the engagement and how your experience aligns with our needs.

• Your preferred rate structure (hourly or project-based) and proposed rates.

Why Join Us:

At Just Right Reader, we're transforming how children learn to read. You'll be part of a passionate, growing team committed to educational equity, literacy innovation, and joyful learning.

• Mission-driven company focused on improving literacy and education outcomes.

• Collaborative and innovative work environment with opportunities for growth and development.

• Competitive salary and benefits package.