Freelance and remote Art directors jobs in Austin, US

West Austin News is relaunching as a premium, full-bleed, magazine-style monthly publication in Austin, Texas. The designer will create the publication’s visual identity and produce the layout for each 20-page issue. Develop a design system including the grid, typography, color palette, department headers and refreshed masthead/logo. Lay out monthly editorial content, advertisements and photography. Collaborate with the publisher on content flow, page planning and production deadlines. Prepare press-ready PDF/X files according to the printer’s specifications, including correct bleeds, CMYK color and embedded fonts. Requirements Strong portfolio demonstrating magazine or high-end print editorial design; portfolio links should be provided. Expert proficiency in Adobe InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator. Strong understanding of print production, color management and prepress for heat-set web-press printing. Excellent typography, layout and photo-handling skills. Reliable, deadline-driven and easy to work with. Professional experience designing and laying out print magazines or high-end editorial publications. Experience preparing press-ready PDF/X files with CMYK color and bleeds. Austin-area candidates are preferred for occasional in-person meetings. Publication Format 11 × 17 inches with full bleed. 20 pages per issue. Printed monthly on satin/silk-coated stock using a heat-set web press at Shweiki Media in San Antonio. Premium editorial style featuring strong photography, refined typography, a consistent grid and generous white space. Compensation and Schedule Independent contractor position paying $60–$80 per hour. Approximately 20 hours per month for each monthly issue. Additional hours may be available for the initial redesign, subject to agreement. The listing also states expected hours of 20–30 hours per week. Application Information Applicants should provide a portfolio link and answer questions about their magazine design experience, web-press production experience, availability, Austin-area location, deadline management and previous publication roles. Work Location Remote, with occasional in-person meetings preferred for Austin-area candidates. Read more