Associate Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Associate Graphic Designer

Company: Intentional Futures, LLC

Location: Seattle, Washington, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Graphic Design / Creative Services

Date Posted: 2026-08-01T02:25:48

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on graphic design for client deliverables, including infographics, presentations, and storytelling documents, distinguishing it from UX/UI visual design.

• Collaboration is key, working within strategist-led project teams to translate complex ideas into visually compelling assets.

• Proficiency in industry-standard design tools such as Figma and Adobe Creative Suite is essential for creating high-quality visual content.

• Familiarity with current AI tools like Midjourney and Claude is expected for image creation and content generation, reflecting modern design workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role explicitly states it is not a UX/UI visual design position, emphasizing a focus on traditional graphic design outputs for consulting deliverables. The AI inclusion is a significant modern requirement for this role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce a range of client-based deliverables, including graphic illustrations, complex infographics, frameworks, data visualizations, and strategic diagrams.

• Develop pitch and presentation documents, slides, and reports that effectively communicate strategic insights.

• Create workshop and group presentation materials, including digital whiteboard assets, posters, and environmental graphics.

• Contribute to marketing graphics for company case studies, blog posts, internal workshops, and ad-hoc projects, with some print production experience being a plus.

• Collaborate closely with the Marketing Coordinator and design team to manage and maintain existing visual design assets and assist in revamping internal templates.

• Review pre-press materials and coordinate with print shops for any physical deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of client-facing design work and internal marketing/asset management, requiring versatility in design application. The mention of "journey maps" and "technical and/or process diagrams" indicates a need for understanding and visualizing complex systems.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a related field is typically expected for an Associate Graphic Designer role.

Experience: 1-2 years of experience as a graphic designer within a client-based design agency, studio, or consultancy.

Required Skills:

• Strong command of typography and layout principles.

• Proficiency in Figma for design and collaboration.

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Photoshop and Illustrator.

• Proficiency with presentation software including Google Slides, PowerPoint, and Word.

• Experience designing within digital whiteboard applications like Miro.

• Demonstrated experience using current AI tools (e.g., Midjourney for imagery, Claude for content tasks) within design workflows.

• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Ability to take direction, navigate ambiguity, and manage time effectively. Preferred Skills:

• Animation/motion graphics experience.

• Illustration skills.

• Rudimentary print and production experience.

• Familiarity with front-end envisioning for UX (user flows, screens, digital experiences).

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Figma and AI tools, alongside traditional Adobe Suite skills, indicates a forward-thinking design environment. The explicit exclusion of UX/UI as the primary focus is a critical qualification detail for applicants to note.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive design portfolio showcasing a minimum of 1-2 years of professional graphic design work.

• Specific examples of client-based deliverables such as infographics, presentation decks, frameworks, and storytelling documents.

• Demonstrations of strong typography, layout, and visual hierarchy across various project types.

• Evidence of using AI tools (e.g., Midjourney, Claude) in the design process and their impact on outcomes.

• Examples of work created within digital whiteboard applications (e.g., Miro). Process Documentation:

• Case studies or project descriptions that detail the design process from brief to final deliverable.

• Explanation of how design solutions addressed client needs and strategic objectives.

• Examples of collaboration within project teams and how feedback was incorporated.

• Documentation of workflow for managing assets and templates.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement to link a design portfolio directly in the resume is critical. The portfolio must clearly demonstrate graphic design capabilities, not just UX/UI, and showcase experience with the specified tools and AI.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $74,000 - $85,000 annually. This range is based on the company's stated hiring range and reflects the market for an Associate Graphic Designer with 1-2 years of experience in the Seattle area, considering the company's consultancy model and the specialized skills required (Figma, AI tools).

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Healthcare coverage, including domestic partner benefits.

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Dependent Care Account options.

• Life insurance and Short-term disability coverage.

• Generous Paid parental and adoption leave.

• 4% 401K match.

• Paid time off (PTO).

• Access to Learning and Development Resources.

• Subsidized ORCA Card for public transportation.

Working Hours: The role is full-time, typically implying around 40 hours per week, with a flexible workplace plan allowing for a mix of remote and in-office work. Specific in-office days are required for staff meetings or project/client engagements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided directly by the company. The benefits package is robust, offering comprehensive health, financial planning, and work-life balance support, which is competitive for the industry. The hybrid work model is clearly defined with specific in-office requirements.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Consulting (Idea-to-Impact)

Company Size: Not explicitly stated, but the mention of "firm of researchers, strategists, and designers" suggests a medium-sized, specialized consultancy.

Founded: Intentional Futures (iF) was founded with a mission to help leaders turn good intentions into positive outcomes, implying a focus on impact and thoughtful execution.

Team Structure:

• Designers work within "strategist-led project teams," indicating a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment where design supports broader strategic initiatives.

• There is an in-house design team that also collaborates with a Marketing Coordinator.

• The company emphasizes a commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), encouraging applications from underrepresented groups and offering investment in employee growth. Methodology:

• iF acts as "trusted guides and thought partners" for clients, suggesting a consultative and problem-solving approach.

• The firm works on complex issues with corporations, nonprofits, and family foundations, requiring adaptability and a nuanced understanding of different client needs.

• Design deliverables are focused on supporting strategic goals, including storytelling, frameworks, and visualization of complex information.

Company Website: recruiting.paylocity.com (Note: This is the recruiting portal link, the actual company website would be found via a search for "Intentional Futures, LLC")

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be collaborative, impact-driven, and committed to DEI. The emphasis on "idea-to-impact" and "turning good intentions into positive outcomes" suggests a mission-oriented organization that values thoughtful problem-solving.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Associate Graphic Designer. This entry-level to early-career position is designed for individuals with foundational graphic design skills and a desire to grow within a consulting environment. It focuses on executing design tasks under guidance and learning from experienced strategists and designers.

Reporting Structure: The Associate Graphic Designer will work within "strategist-led project teams" and collaborate with the Marketing Coordinator and other members of the design team. This suggests a matrixed reporting structure, with direct project leads and functional team management.

Operations Impact: While not a direct "operations" role in the sense of revenue or sales operations, this graphic design position has a significant impact on the delivery and perception of iF's consulting services. High-quality, visually compelling deliverables enhance client understanding, trust, and the overall impact of the firm's strategic work. The design team also supports the company's brand and marketing efforts.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to refine core graphic design skills, learn advanced Figma and Adobe Suite techniques, and gain experience with AI design tools. Exposure to UX envisioning is also a possibility.

• Industry Exposure: Work on diverse projects for various client types (corporations, nonprofits, foundations), gaining broad industry knowledge.

• Career Progression: Potential to advance to Graphic Designer, Senior Graphic Designer, or even specialize in areas like information design or brand strategy within the consulting context. The company mentions investing in employee goals and providing leadership and training.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities are tied to developing specialized design skills within a consulting framework, rather than traditional operations KPIs. The company's stated commitment to investment in employee goals is a strong indicator of potential growth paths.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company operates a hybrid work model, with an office located in the Central District in Seattle, WA. While employees can choose to work from home, there are required in-office days for staff meetings and project/client engagements.

Office Location(s): Seattle, WA (Central District). The ability to travel to the Seattle-based office is preferred, and candidates living in the greater Seattle area or willing to relocate are prioritized.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model encourages collaboration through scheduled in-office days for key meetings and team interactions, alongside remote work flexibility.

• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Figma, Adobe Suite) and AI tools will be integral to the workspace. The company uses digital whiteboard apps like Miro, facilitating remote and in-person collaboration.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for designers to work closely with strategists, project leads, and other designers, fostering a dynamic and learning-oriented environment.

Work Schedule: Full-time, with a flexible hybrid arrangement. While specific in-office days are mandatory for certain activities, the general structure allows for a balance between remote and in-office work, accommodating diverse working styles and needs for focused design time.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the work environment is a key aspect, requiring self-discipline for remote work and active participation during required in-office days. Proximity to the Seattle office is a strong preference.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit resume with a direct link to the design portfolio. Applications without a portfolio link will not be considered.

• Initial Screening: Review of applications and portfolios by the hiring team. Expect a response within 2-4 weeks of the posting date.

• Phone Screen: Selected candidates will undergo a phone screen to discuss experience, qualifications, and initial fit.

• Design Assessment/Case Study: Candidates may be presented with a design challenge or asked to walk through specific portfolio pieces in detail, focusing on their process, problem-solving, and outcomes.

• Final Interviews: Interviews with team members and potentially leadership to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and strategic thinking.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase your best work, prioritizing projects that align with the role's responsibilities (infographics, presentations, storytelling decks, frameworks).

• Highlight Process: For each project, briefly explain the client's challenge, your design approach, the tools used (especially Figma, Adobe Suite, AI), and the results achieved.

• Demonstrate Versatility: Include a variety of project types to show breadth of skill, but ensure graphic design is the primary focus, not UX/UI.

• Clear Navigation: Make your portfolio easy to navigate and ensure the link is prominent on your resume.

• AI Integration: If possible, showcase how you've leveraged AI tools to enhance your design process or outcomes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand iF's Work: Research Intentional Futures' clients, projects, and mission to understand their consulting approach and design needs.

• Practice Design Critiques: Be prepared to discuss your design choices, justify them based on strategy and user needs, and receive constructive feedback.

• Articulate Your Process: Clearly explain your thought process for tackling design problems, from initial concept to final execution.

• Prepare for Hybrid Work Questions: Be ready to discuss your experience and approach to working effectively in a hybrid environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount. Candidates must ensure it clearly demonstrates graphic design expertise and includes specific examples relevant to the consultancy's deliverables. Explicitly stating "this is not a UX/UI visual design position" in the application instructions means the portfolio review will be strict on this point.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: The most frequently used design tool for creating client deliverables, presentations, and collaborative work. Proficiency is a must.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Primarily Photoshop and Illustrator for image creation, vector graphics, and advanced editing.

• Google Slides & PowerPoint: Essential for creating and delivering pitch decks, reports, and presentations.

• Microsoft Word: For accompanying documentation and reports.

• Miro: Digital whiteboard application for collaborative ideation, workshop assets, and visual planning.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary function of this role, understanding how design impacts engagement or clarity might involve reviewing basic analytics for digital assets if applicable to marketing efforts. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design responsibilities, but familiarity with how design assets are used within marketing or sales processes could be beneficial. Emerging Technologies:

• AI Tools: Midjourney for image creation and Claude for general content tasks and skill creation are explicitly mentioned and expected. Familiarity with current AI models and techniques is a key requirement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on design and collaboration tools. Mastery of Figma and Adobe Suite, coupled with a proactive understanding of AI tools for design, is critical for success in this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Imagination: A proactive approach to exploring new perspectives, ideas, and creative solutions for client challenges.

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, thoughtful, and impactful design solutions that effectively address real issues.

• Teamwork: A collaborative spirit, actively working with strategists, clients, and other team members to leverage combined strengths and achieve shared goals.

• Client-Centricity: A focus on understanding and serving the needs of diverse clients (corporations, nonprofits, foundations) by acting as trusted guides.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Designers are integrated into "strategist-led project teams," emphasizing close collaboration with non-design professionals to ensure design effectively supports strategic objectives.

• Feedback-Driven: A culture that likely encourages constructive feedback to refine design solutions and improve project outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Working within a firm of researchers, strategists, and designers fosters an environment where diverse expertise can be shared and learned from.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values (Imagination, Excellence, Teamwork) are directly applicable to how a designer should approach their work and collaborations within the firm. The emphasis on teamwork and client-centricity is key to understanding the collaborative dynamics.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Strategy to Visuals: The primary challenge will be converting complex strategic concepts, research findings, and data into clear, compelling, and visually engaging graphics.

• Navigating Ambiguity: As a consultant, projects may involve evolving requirements or unclear initial briefs, requiring adaptability and proactive problem-solving.

• Balancing Design Autonomy with Team Direction: Working within strategist-led teams means balancing creative vision with project goals and feedback from non-designers.

• Keeping Pace with AI Advancements: Continuously learning and integrating new AI tools and techniques into the design workflow to maintain efficiency and innovation.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Formal Training: Access to Learning and Development Resources provided by iF.

• On-the-Job Learning: Gaining practical experience across a wide range of client projects and design challenges within a consulting context.

• Mentorship: Potential for guidance from senior designers and strategists within the firm.

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to develop expertise in specific areas like information design, data visualization, or AI-assisted design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a design role in a consultancy, requiring strong communication and problem-solving skills alongside design proficiency. The growth opportunities are robust, with a clear emphasis on continuous learning and skill development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate a complex strategic concept into a visual deliverable. What was your process?" (Focus on your problem-solving, tool usage, and outcome.)

• "How do you approach collaborating with non-designers (like strategists) on a project?" (Highlight teamwork, communication, and receptiveness to feedback.)

• "Walk me through a project in your portfolio that best demonstrates your graphic design skills for consulting deliverables." (Be ready to discuss your process, rationale, and impact.)

• "How have you used AI tools like Midjourney or Claude in your design workflow, and what was the result?" (Showcase practical application and understanding of AI's role.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Intentional Futures' mission and 'idea-to-impact' approach?" (Research their website and values.)

• "How do you align with iF's values of Imagination, Excellence, and Teamwork?" (Provide specific examples.)

• "Describe your experience working in a hybrid or flexible work environment." (Discuss your self-management and collaboration strategies.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each portfolio piece as a mini-case study, explaining the problem, your solution, and the impact.

• Process Focus: Detail your design process, including initial ideation, tool selection (especially Figma, Adobe Suite, AI), and how you incorporated feedback.

• Metric-Driven: If possible, quantify the impact of your designs (e.g., increased engagement, clarity of information).

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key projects efficiently, focusing on the most relevant aspects for the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily emphasize the distinction between graphic design and UX/UI, the use of Figma and AI tools, and the ability to work within a collaborative, strategy-focused consulting team.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Associate Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on recruiting.paylocity.com.

• Crucially, ensure a direct link to your design portfolio is clearly included within your resume. Applications without this are explicitly stated as not being considered.

• Tailor your resume to highlight your 1-2 years of graphic design experience in agency/consultancy settings, emphasizing proficiency in Figma, Adobe Suite, presentation software, and AI design tools.

• Prepare to discuss specific projects from your portfolio that demonstrate your ability to create infographics, presentations, and storytelling documents for clients.

• Research Intentional Futures, LLC thoroughly to understand their mission, values, client base, and the "idea-to-impact" methodology, preparing to articulate your alignment with their culture and work.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.