aAh! Magazine Graphic Design Assistant in Manchester

The current opportunity is available for current Manchester Met students, to apply you must be based in the UK for the duration of the role. A Graphic Design Project Assistant is sought to support the delivery of aAh! Magazine's visual identity across its online and print platforms. The role will combine hands-on design work with leadership of a small team of volunteer student designers, helping to ensure the timely and high-quality production of the print magazine and associated marketing materials.

The post holder will be responsible for designing and laying out print spreads for the magazine, producing digital and print marketing assets, and supporting the overall creative direction of the project. Working alongside the Student Media Coordinator, they will chair design team meetings, lead and critique sessions, provide constructive feedback, and support volunteer designers to contribute confidently and effectively. The Graphic Design Project Assistant will also help facilitate workshops and skills sessions, ensuring that design work progresses smoothly and that contributors are supported to meet deadlines and project goals.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Design and produce original creative work for aAh! Magazine, including print spreads, posters, promotional materials and digital assets.
• Take a lead role in the design and layout of the print magazine, ensuring consistency with the publication's visual identity.
• Chair regular design team meetings and lead discussions to coordinate workloads and timelines.
• Encourage and support volunteer designers to contribute to magazine spreads and other design outputs.
• Lead group critique sessions, offering clear, constructive feedback to support skill development.
• Develop and communicate clear design briefs for student and freelance contributors.
• Facilitate workshops and practical sessions to support the progression of design work.
• Use industry-standard software such as Adobe InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator to produce high-quality design outputs.
• Work collaboratively with the editorial team and Student Media Coordinator to meet production deadlines.
• Motivate and support creative peers, ensuring a positive and productive working environment.

Eligibility

This role is only open to current Manchester Met Students who meet the following requirements:

Requirements

• Strong organisational and communication skills, with the ability to lead and motivate fellow student designers.
• The ability to produce high-quality, engaging designs for a range of print and digital outputs.
• Experience of designing layouts and working with print formats.
• Confidence in giving constructive feedback and supporting peer learning.
• The ability to work proactively as part of a creative team, including setting and responding to design briefs.
• Excellent IT skills, particularly using Adobe InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator.
• Creativity, innovation and a strong visual eye.
• High levels of accuracy and attention to detail.
• A positive, collaborative approach and willingness to support others' development.

Additional Information

Dates: February 2026 – May 2026
Hours of Work: 10 hours per week, Wednesdays 3–6 pm with other hours flexible around studies.
Details of briefing/training: Full briefing will be provided.

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