Thumbnail Designer

Summary

About Us
Mandarin Blueprint is an immersive Chinese language learning platform and community. Our mission is to help learners make significant progress in Mandarin fluency using our innovative and proven methods. As our platform continues to grow, we’re seeking a creative and reliable Thumbnail Designer to join our team full-time and play a crucial role in visually enhancing our brand and content.

Role Overview
As a Thumbnail Designer, you will be responsible for producing eye-catching, high-converting thumbnails that align with our brand voice and attract viewers to our YouTube and marketing content. You’ll collaborate closely with our content and video teams, contributing creatively to each concept and ensuring consistency in visual presentation.
The ideal candidate has a strong design portfolio, can think conceptually, works well under deadlines, and is highly organized with a sharp eye for what grabs attention on YouTube. You should be adaptable, creative, and proactive with a deep understanding of YouTube trends and thumbnail psychology.

Responsibilities
Thumbnail Creation & Design Execution
- Deliver high-quality, visually appealing thumbnails that meet brand standards and optimize click-through rates.
- Execute all design-related tasks as needed for Mandarin Blueprint, including graphics for courses, ads, and social media.

Creative Collaboration & Concept Development
- Brainstorm and develop compelling thumbnail concepts in coordination with content manager and video editors.
- Research trends and competitor channels to keep visuals fresh and effective.

Process Optimization & Documentation
- Create and maintain clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for thumbnail creation and approval workflows.
- Organize design files and assets using an efficient structure on Google Drive or other collaborative tools.

Qualifications
- Design Skills: Strong understanding of visual hierarchy, typography, contrast, and color theory.
- Tools: Proficient in Photoshop, Illustrator, or equivalent graphic design software.
- Portfolio: A solid portfolio that showcases your creativity and ability to drive engagement through design.
- Communication: Able to clearly understand and translate concepts into visuals; collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
- Time Management: Capable of handling multiple deadlines, managing time independently, and accommodating urgent or last-minute requests.
- Attention to Detail: Sharp eye for pixel-perfect design and ability to self-review work before submission.
- Experience with YouTube Thumbnails: Prior experience designing thumbnails for YouTube is a big plus.

Why Join Us?
- Work with a fast-growing, creative, and mission-driven team.
- Flexible, fully remote work environment.
- Opportunity to grow within a dynamic educational brand with global reach.
- Direct input in visual brand direction and creative strategy.

How to Apply
To apply for this role, please complete the screening questions below and ensure your portfolio is included for review.

You will be asked to answer the following questions when submitting a proposal:

• What are your current computer specifications and internet speed?
• Do you have prior experience working with YouTubers or content creators? If yes, please describe the type of content they produced and your role in supporting their visual branding or thumbnails.
• In your opinion, what distinguishes an effective YouTube thumbnail from an ineffective one?
• Please provide a link to your portfolio showcasing your thumbnail or graphic design work
• Describe your creative process when developing a thumbnail from concept to final design.

Job Type: Contract

Pay: $30.33 - $36.53 per hour

Work Location: Remote