Children’s Coloring Book Designer
General Information




Description
We are seeking a highly creative, organized, and dedicated volunteer to lead the design, assembly, and production management of a children’s coloring book. This unique project will introduce young readers to the rich stories, symbols, and principles of Buddhism, specifically within the Jonang tradition, through engaging illustrations suitable for coloring. The ideal candidate will have a passion for Buddhist teachings and experience in graphic design, illustration, and/or project management, particularly in publishing or creative fields.
Responsibilities
- Content Development & Curation (in collaboration with Dzokden leadership):
- Work closely with Dzokden leaders, Rinpoche and other volunteers to identify suitable Buddhist stories, parables, historical figures, symbols (e.g., stupas, prayer flags, mandalas), and key Jonang concepts (simplified for children) to be featured in the coloring book.
- Ensure all content accurately reflects the Jonang tradition and is age-appropriate (targeting children aged 5-10, or a similar range to be determined).
- Assist in drafting concise, engaging captions or brief explanations for each coloring page.
- Illustration & Design:
- Design or oversee the design of captivating and detailed line art illustrations suitable for coloring. This may involve:
- Directly creating illustrations (if possessing the necessary artistic skills).
- Providing clear artistic direction and feedback to illustrators to ensure stylistic consistency and adherence to thematic guidelines.
- Lay out the coloring book pages, including title pages, introductions, and any other textual elements.
- Select appropriate fonts, design elements, and overall aesthetic that appeals to children.
- Production Management:
- Develop and manage a project timeline, ensuring key milestones are met.
- Coordinate with any external vendors (e.g., printers, proofreaders, graphic designers) as needed.
- Manage the budget for printing and any other associated production costs (in coordination with Dzokden finance team).
- Oversee the proofreading and editing process to ensure accuracy and quality.
- Prepare print-ready files according to printer specifications.
- Manage the printing and delivery process of the finished coloring books.
- Potentially assist with digital distribution (e.g., e-book format) if applicable.
Skills & Qualifications
Artist
Graphic Design
- Strong interest in and basic understanding of Buddhist principles and stories (previous exposure to the Jonang tradition is a significant plus, but not required – willingness to learn is essential).
- Proven experience in graphic design, illustration, or a related creative field.
- Proficiency with design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop or similar).
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.
- Experience in children's book publishing or educational material development is desirable.
- Good organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines; diligence; able to work through obstacles and challenges.
- Excellent written/verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaborate with the review team, staff members and/or volunteers to fully support the project.
- Flexibility and patience to adapt to changing requirements.
- Technical: Ability to use Google Workspace, Drive, Docs (text editing/formatting functions) and Slack.
Why This Role Is Important
This role directly supports Rinpoche’s vision to create the Golden Age of peace and harmony on earth through the Kalachakra Tantra. Your work helps Dzokden to inspire transformative experiences that cultivate deep inner realization through a strong compassionate and devoted heart. The virtue generated through your Dharma service is dedicated to the accumulation of merit which is essential for the path to enlightenment. You have the opportunity to practice the path through a mundane, samsaric role and see how it is possible to transform ordinary work into extraordinary opportunities. This will help you learn to walk the real tantric path.