Position Function:
The photographer works to expand the state, regional and national visibility of Mississippi State University through conceiving, executing and delivering high-quality, professional images that align with the university mission and the current branding campaign. The photographer covers all areas of the university, including a variety of indoor and outdoor events, some of which require availability outside regular work hours and minimal travel. Photographic collaboration with the support of all campus partners is expected.
Salary Grade: 14
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Executes a large variety of photography assignments, including location, studio, scientific research, portrait, environmental and event for use in news, marketing/branding, publication and video production, social media and archives.
- Plans photo composition; analyzes subject matter; exercises artistic judgment; has professional knowledge of appropriate equipment, lighting, angles, props and backgrounds to select, adjust and use for production of high-quality images.
- Handles a mix of photo assignments, production activities, coordination and consultation, and office activities in cooperation with the administration and colleagues; serves as a source on equipment and techniques for colleagues and clients.
- Collaborates proactively with administration and colleagues to ensure consistent output of high-quality photos.
- When not on assignment, captures stock photos to improve the unit's stock image collection; prepares for photo shoots; processes, adjusts and enhances digital files for optimum results; archives files in a timely manner.
- Prepares photos for news distribution, client use, exhibits, university website and presentations; assists administration and colleagues with finding appropriate images for various projects; and works to select and assist in purchasing equipment, software and supplies as appropriate.
- Follows department procedures for filing, documenting and maintaining images; and maintains upkeep of equipment to keep it working properly.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree and at least two years of relevant photographic experience
- Proficiency in digital photography equipment and software
Preferred Qualifications:
- Ability to handle RAW files via Bridge and/or Lightroom
- Competency in Photoshop & plug-ins, as needed, to edit individual files to publication quality
- Ability to work and travel alongside university leadership when needed to capture images as an outlying observer
- Dress appropriate according to the assignments for each day
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Desirable skills include a working knowledge of Photo Mechanic, Digital Asset Management (DAM), including Photoshelter, Excel and Word.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
- Regularly involves lifting, bending or other physical exertion
- Often exposed to heat, cold, noise, dust, dirt, chemicals, etc.
- Frequent shifts in work priority: interruptions requiring immediate attention; unusual pressure due to accountability for success and project completion
- Frequently requires standing, walking, sitting, reaching, stooping/kneeling/crouching/crawling, talking, hearing, handling objects with hands
- Ability to see information in print and/or electronically, and ability to distinguish colors
- Required work outside the standard 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. schedule
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
Apply online, attaching a resume, cover letter, and link to portfolio.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
MSU is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, gender identity, status as a U.S. veteran, and/or any other status protected by applicable law. We always welcome nominations and applications from women, members of any minority group, and others who share our passion for building a diverse community that reflects the diversity in our student population.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
