Data Visualization Designer, Academic Affairs, Research, and Student Success - UT System Administration

The data visualization designer serves in the division of Academic Affairs, Research, and Student Success, which includes the Vice President and executive leadership in Research, Learner Success & Workforce Pathways, Access & Engagement, Wellness, Academic Affairs, and Academic Systems and Operations. As part of a team that includes planning, assessment, and data analytics, the data visualization designer is responsible for creating print and digital visual content including reports, presentations, and infographics for the UT Board of Trustees (BOT), system and division leadership, and a wide range of other stakeholders. Using Adobe Creative Suite, Power BI, Tableau, and/or the equivalent, the data visualization designer creates assets for a variety of contexts including regular BOT meetings, supplemental and off-cycle BOT questions/meetings, executive leadership speaking engagements, ad hoc and project-based reporting, etc.

The data visualization designer plays a critical role at the intersection of data analytics and decision support, transforming institutional data into clear, engaging, and accessible visuals that tell compelling stories, bring insight and clarity to complexity, and support data-informed decision-making. The position will also support the development of institutional dashboards and closely collaborate with colleagues from the Office of Communications and Marketing, Human Resources, and other areas to design deliverables that enhance and elevate strategic initiatives and communications.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Collaborate with AARSS leadership, data analytics, and campus partners to develop comprehensive, consistent materials for the Board of Trustees, including:

Development of complementary assets (e.g., coordinated reports and PowerPoint presentations)

Data validation

Creation of accurate and effective charts, graphs, maps, and other visuals

Overall visual design appeal and consistency

Collaborate with AARSS leadership to develop presentations, reports, and other visual assets, including:

Client consultation to understand purpose, audience, scope, etc.

Creation of accurate and effective charts, graphs, maps, and other visuals

Drafting and revision to achieve client goals

Ensure compliance with ADA standards for accessibility in all digital assets.

Maintain all related files (drafts, visuals, process documentation) in a structured, shared digital storage space.

Collaborate with dashboard developers on interactive data assets including consultation on:

Overall visual design

Layout, spacing, and information architecture

Selecting appropriate visualizations for different data/metrics

Ensuring consistency with UT System Marketing and Communications branding conventions

Collaborate with UT System Marketing & Communications, Human Resources, and other units to

support consistency and accessibility across the UT System's visual and branding assets.

Successful candidate will hold a Bachelor's degree in graphic design, visual communication, data analytics, data science, marketing analytics, art, digital media, data journalism, or related field and 3+ years of data analytics and visualization, data storytelling, and/or data-driven graphic design experience in a professional setting (all 3 years do not need to be post-baccalaureate; experience in a relevant internship or capstone is acceptable for part)

Additional skills, experiences and qualifications include:

Hands-on experience in creating interactive graphics, data visualization, and/or data analysis

The ability to synthesize raw data into accurate and meaningful charts, graphs, maps, and other visualizations

The ability to design new visualizations for complex data and concepts

Advanced skills in Adobe Creative Suite, Power BI, Tableau, and/or equivalent

In-depth knowledge of and ability to effectively employ fundamentals of graphic and user experience design, such as color theory, accessibility, audience awareness, user interface design, information architecture, etc. Excellent verbal, written, and visual communication skills and a commitment to exceptional customer service

Strong consultation and collaboration skills with ability to interpret client needs

The ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with rapid turnaround and revision of projects with tight deadlines

The ability to work independently and to complete projects within established timelines

The ability to plan, prioritize, and balance workload on concurrent projects

The ability to identify opportunities for continuous improvement in the representation of institutional data

Preferred knowledge, skills, and abilities:

Knowledge of key concepts in higher education (e.g., admission, yield, retention, persistence, etc.)

Experience analyzing and representing education data

Application Process

For full consideration, applications should be accompanied by a letter of interest, a resume, and three professional references. Review of applications will begin immediately.

Benefits and Compensation

Compensation for the position is budgeted for $65,000 to $75,000

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits and much more. Additionally, Tennessee residents do not pay a state income tax. For more information on the University of Tennessee's benefits, visit https://hr.tennessee.edu/benefits/