Assistant Director: Heraldic Artistry

REQUIREMENTS

• Senior Certificate/Matric Certificate /Grade 12 Certificate or equivalent qualification; Minimum three-year National Diploma NQF level 6 / Degree NQF level 7 as recognised by SAQA in Graphic Design/ Fine Arts/ Visual Arts/ Multimedia Design or any relevant qualification; 2-3 years relevant experience at least 2 years as a graphic designer in conceptualising, designing and producing corporate identity and heraldic artwork or any relevant graphic environment;
• Knowledge of Public Service Regulations; Knowledge of relevant legislation, policies and procedures applicable to the Bureau of Heraldry; Knowledge graphic design and art; Knowledge of illustration and graphic design techniques; Knowledge of calligraphy and typography; Knowledge of colour theory, composition and visual communication; Knowledge of printing and publishing processes; Ability to work under pressure;
• Knowledge of digital illustration software and graphic design applications; Knowledge of copyright, intellectual property and design ethics; Knowledge of records management practices; Research and analytical skills; Planning and Organising skills; Strategic thinking and Problem-solving skills; Presentation skills; Good Communication and Interpersonal relations; Computer Literacy; Analytical skills.

DUTIES

• The purpose of this post is to design, paint and register personal and institutional heraldic artworks for clients of the Bureau; Design and develop heraldic artwork-Design and illustrate all heraldic symbols; Develop creative concepts and layouts for publications and materials;
• Prepare original heraldic artwork using traditional and digital illustration techniques; Draft designs manually and electronically in accordance with heraldic principles; Consult with clients to determine design requirements and symbolism; Produce final approved designs for registration; Ensure all designs accurately reflect heraldic symbolism and artistic quality;
• Maintain consistency in the application of heraldic colours, charges, shields and other design elements; Produce heraldic certificates and register artwork-Paint heraldic certificates to the required artistic and quality standards; Produce register drawings for inclusion in the South African Heraldic Register; Duplicate approved artwork for official registers and archival purposes;
• Prepare artwork for printing, reproduction and publication; Ensure all artwork is complete, accurate and free from defects before registration; Maintain the quality and consistency of all painted certificates and register drawings; Archive completed artwork and registered drawings in accordance with prescribed procedures;
• Support the production of replacement and duplicate certificates were required; Prepare heraldic calligraphy and registration documentation-Produce handwritten and digital calligraphy for heraldic certificates and registers; Write blazons accurately in accordance with heraldic terminology and conventions;
• Apply appropriate lettering styles to complement heraldic artwork; Ensure all lettering is correctly aligned, centered and professionally presented; Complete certificates with approved calligraphic inscriptions; Verify the accuracy of names, descriptions and heraldic terminology before finalization; Prepare documentation required to support the registration of heraldic representations;
• Maintain high standards of presentation in all calligraphic work; Ensure heraldic compliance and quality assurance-Compare proposed designs against existing heraldic registers and publications to prevent duplication; Verify that all designs comply with heraldic legislation, policies and standards; Conduct quality assurance reviews of artwork before approval and registration; Recommend amendments where designs do not comply with heraldic requirements;
• Provide technical advice on heraldic design principles to clients and stakeholders; Maintain consistency and integrity of the South African Heraldic Register; Provide administrative support services within the sub directorate-Participate in exhibitions and heraldic designs awareness campaigns; Liaise with printers, designers, photographers and other service providers to coordinate production;
• Monitor the quality of printed and published material to ensure compliance with approved standards; Conduct research and provide technical advice to support graphic design and publication projects; Conduct research on heraldic symbols, traditions, history and international practices; Prepare reports and maintain records relating to design projects; Assist with budgeting and procurement processes where required.