DPAE CVN Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: DPAE CVN Graphic Designer

Company: CACI

Location: Washington, District of Columbia, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Media / Government & Public Sector Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-26

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on providing comprehensive graphic design and multimedia support for the DPAE CVN program, requiring a blend of creative talent and technical proficiency.

• Responsibilities include conceiving, designing, and executing visual assets across various mediums, from digital illustrations to physical event materials.

• The position demands strong collaboration skills to understand internal client needs and translate them into effective, cost-efficient design solutions.

• A key aspect involves managing visual assets, including photography and graphic deliverables, ensuring configuration management and adherence to standards.

• The role also requires on-site support for events, including digital photography and subsequent image editing and production.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Graphic Designer," the description heavily emphasizes support for a specific government program (DPAE CVN) and requires a Secret clearance, indicating a role within the government contracting sector. The responsibilities extend beyond traditional graphic design to include multimedia production, photography, and asset management, suggesting a more integrated visual communications specialist role within a defense or government context. This is not a typical revenue or sales operations role, but rather a specialized creative position supporting a government contract.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceive, design, lay out, and coordinate editorial illustrations and creative artwork to convey complex ideas and information effectively.

• Develop interpretive themes for graphic presentations that communicate mood, emphasis, insight, and viewpoint visually.

• Provide expert guidance on graphic technology and best practices to internal stakeholders.

• Collaborate closely with internal clients to understand project requirements and deliver cost-efficient graphic designs using available mediums and vendors.

• Create and manage web artwork and computer graphic services for online platforms.

• Offer insights and support for reproduction and printing processes, liaising with in-house resources or external vendors.

• Provide DPAE CVN-wide support for graphics and presentation production, ensuring brand consistency and quality.

• Design, revise, and produce graphics for DPAE CVN briefs and presentations as required, meeting tight deadlines.

• Manage configuration of all DPAE CVN photography and graphic deliverables, maintaining organized digital archives.

• Provide on-site, real-time digital photography support for various events or meetings, including associated image editing and production.

• Design and produce award certificates, posters, poster boards, banners, pamphlets, signage, and displays for various events.

• Deliver multimedia and motion graphics/animation design and production support for briefings, presentations, video projects, and standalone applications.

• Regularly update Visual Management Boards with current and relevant information.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong need for project management and client-facing skills, common in operations roles that manage vendor relationships or internal service delivery. The emphasis on "cost efficient" design and "available mediums" points to an operational understanding of resource management within a project scope.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in multimedia/graphic design or an equivalent field of study.

• Master's degree in multimedia/graphic design or equivalent field of study is a plus. Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of related graphic design experience.

• Minimum of 3 years of related photography experience.

• Experience with production printing processes. Required Skills:

• Proficient in Microsoft Suites (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, SharePoint, etc.).

• Proficient in Adobe Suites (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects).

• Ability to conceive, design, and lay out editorial illustrations and creative artwork.

• Skill in developing interpretive themes and visual impressions for graphic presentations.

• Understanding of graphic technology and ability to provide guidance.

• Experience working with internal contacts to understand requirements and create designs.

• Experience providing computer graphic services for web artwork.

• Knowledge of reproduction and printing processes.

• Ability to provide DPAE CVN-wide support in graphics and presentation production.

• Experience in design, revision, and production support for briefs and presentations.

• Ability to manage configuration of photography and graphic deliverables.

• Experience in on-site digital photography support, including image editing and production.

• Skill in designing and producing event materials such as certificates, posters, banners, signage, and displays.

• Experience in multimedia and motion graphics/animation design and production.

• Ability to regularly update Visual Management Boards.

• Possess an active Secret clearance or be Secret eligible. Preferred Skills:

• Active-duty experience, with a preference for Navy experience.

• Strong editorial skills.

• Experience with Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA).

• Video editing experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Proficient in Microsoft Suites" and "Proficient in Adobe Suites" are critical technical proficiencies. The requirement for an active Secret clearance and experience in government environments (NAVSEA, Navy preferred) are significant differentiators for roles in this sector. The "Operations" aspect is embedded in the need for configuration management, production printing experience, and understanding of cost efficiency.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a range of graphic design projects, including editorial illustrations, graphic presentations, and web artwork.

• Demonstrations of ability to translate conceptual ideas into visual themes and moods.

• Examples of designs for various event materials such as posters, banners, signage, and displays.

• Samples of multimedia and motion graphics/animation projects, if applicable to the candidate's experience.

• Evidence of work within government or defense sectors, if available, is highly advantageous. Process Documentation:

• Ability to document and manage the configuration of all graphic and photographic deliverables.

• Understanding of workflow processes for design requests, revisions, and production support for briefs and presentations.

• Familiarity with processes for managing external vendors or in-house resources for printing and reproduction.

• Experience in maintaining and updating Visual Management Boards, indicating a process-oriented approach to information display.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a "portfolio requirement," the breadth of responsibilities implies that candidates will need to demonstrate proficiency in these areas. For a graphic design role supporting a government contract, a portfolio is crucial for showcasing design capabilities and understanding of client-specific needs. The emphasis on configuration management and updating visual boards suggests a need for process adherence.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $70,800 - $148,600 per year

Benefits:

• Healthcare

• Wellness programs

• Financial planning resources

• Retirement savings plans

• Family support services

• Continuing education and professional development opportunities

• Flexible time off (PTO) benefits Working Hours:

• Full-time position, typically 40 hours per week.

• The role requires on-site presence, with potential for up to 10% local travel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided and appears competitive for a specialized graphic design role in Washington D.C. with a Secret clearance requirement. The benefits package is comprehensive, emphasizing employee well-being and professional growth, which are key considerations for operations professionals seeking long-term career stability. The inclusion of "flexible time off" is a notable benefit that aligns with a modern work environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government Contracting / Information Technology / Defense

Company Size: Large (CACI is a significant employer in the IT and government contracting space, typically employing tens of thousands of people globally).

Founded: 1962 (CACI has a long history, indicating stability and established processes within the industry).

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of a broader Communications or Program Support team within CACI, specifically supporting the DPAE CVN program.

• The team structure will involve collaboration with program managers, technical specialists, and other support staff who rely on visual communication for their projects.

• Reporting will likely be to a Program Manager or a Creative Services Lead, with direct interaction with various internal clients across the DPAE CVN program. Methodology:

• CACI operates with a strong emphasis on mission success for its government clients, implying a results-driven and process-oriented approach.

• The company values integrity, trust, and continuous growth, suggesting a culture that supports professional development and ethical conduct.

• Design methodologies will likely adhere to government standards, brand guidelines, and specific client requirements, emphasizing clarity, accuracy, and impact.

Company Website: https://www.caci.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: CACI's long history and large size suggest a well-established corporate structure with defined operational processes. The company's focus on government contracting means that adherence to security protocols, compliance, and client-specific requirements are paramount, impacting how creative work is managed and delivered. The "culture of integrity" and "environment of trust" are typical corporate values, but in a government contracting context, they also underscore the importance of reliability and security.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an experienced individual contributor within a specialized creative function, likely mid-level (5+ years of experience). The "Operations" aspect comes from managing design workflows, client requests, and asset configuration for a specific program.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a manager overseeing program support or creative services for the DPAE CVN contract. They will collaborate extensively with various stakeholders who require design and multimedia support.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's impact is crucial for effectively communicating complex information, supporting program objectives, and enhancing the overall presentation and visibility of the DPAE CVN program. High-quality visual assets can influence stakeholder understanding, support proposal efforts, and contribute to the program's success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like motion graphics, animation, or advanced digital photography within the defense sector.

• Leadership: Transition into a Lead Graphic Designer or Creative Services Manager role, overseeing junior designers and managing project pipelines.

• Cross-functional Roles: Leverage design and communication skills for roles in technical writing, proposal management, or program management support where visual communication is key.

• Skill Development: Utilize CACI's continuous learning resources and potential for certifications in Adobe Suite, project management, or government contracting best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a graphic designer in a government contracting firm often involves moving into roles with greater project management responsibility or leadership over creative teams, aligning with operational efficiency and client service delivery. The emphasis on "continuous growth" and "advancing nation's most critical missions" suggests a career trajectory tied to project success and client satisfaction.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an on-site role within a government contractor's office or potentially a client site, requiring a Secret clearance.

Office Location(s): Washington, D.C.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a professional office environment, potentially with dedicated design stations equipped with industry-standard hardware and software.

• Collaboration will be a key aspect, involving regular interaction with colleagues on the DPAE CVN program team and potentially client representatives.

• Access to necessary design tools, software licenses, and potentially photography equipment will be provided.

• The environment will be fast-paced, driven by program deadlines and client needs, requiring adaptability and efficiency. Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week).

• The role may require flexibility to meet critical deadlines, especially for events or urgent presentation needs, which is common in government contracting environments.

• Up to 10% local travel may be required for on-site photography or meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and the need for a Secret clearance are critical environmental factors. This indicates a secure work environment where sensitive information is handled, and physical presence is necessary for operational security and immediate support. The 10% travel suggests occasional field work or client site visits.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and clearance eligibility.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on graphic design principles, software proficiency (Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office), photography skills, and experience with multimedia/animation. Candidates may be asked to explain their design process.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates present and discuss their portfolio, highlighting specific projects, their role, challenges faced, and solutions implemented. Emphasis will be on clarity, impact, and relevance to government/defense contexts.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions assessing problem-solving skills, teamwork, client interaction, ability to manage deadlines, and adaptability to feedback. Questions related to handling confidential information and working within a secure environment are probable.

• Security Clearance Verification: Confirmation of active Secret clearance or eligibility.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate strategically: Select 5-7 of your strongest, most relevant projects. Prioritize work that demonstrates versatility, problem-solving, and impact.

• Showcase government/defense relevance: If possible, include projects that align with government contracts, military communications, or similar high-stakes visual communication.

• Detail your process: For each project, clearly articulate the client's brief, your design approach, the tools used, challenges encountered, and the final outcome/impact.

• Highlight technical skills: Be prepared to discuss your proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office, and any multimedia/animation software.

• Practice your presentation: Be concise, engaging, and confident when discussing your work. Anticipate questions about your design choices and problem-solving methods.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Exercise: You may be given a hypothetical design challenge (e.g., create a concept for a briefing slide, design a banner for an event, or propose a visual theme for a presentation). Focus on understanding the brief, sketching out ideas quickly, and articulating your rationale.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you would handle conflicting feedback from multiple stakeholders, manage a tight deadline, or troubleshoot a design production issue.

• Security Awareness: Understand the importance of security protocols in handling government information and visual assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a government contracting role heavily emphasizes clearance status and the ability to operate within a secure, regulated environment. Portfolio review is critical for demonstrating creative output and process. Behavioral questions will likely probe for reliability and adherence to procedures.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign (essential for graphic design, layout, and print production).

• Adobe After Effects: For motion graphics and animation design.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, SharePoint (critical for presentations, documentation, and collaboration).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a direct analytics role, understanding how visual elements perform in presentations or web contexts is beneficial. Basic knowledge of web analytics if creating web artwork.

• SharePoint is crucial for document management and collaboration. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role, as it's not a sales or marketing operations function. However, understanding project management tools used within CACI for task tracking and workflow management might be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office Suite is non-negotiable and forms the core technical requirement for this role. Experience with motion graphics software like After Effects is a significant plus. The "operations" aspect here relates to the efficient use of these tools to meet client deliverables and manage project workflows within CACI's systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all design work, especially when handling sensitive information for government clients.

• Mission Focus: Prioritizing the success of the DPAE CVN program through effective visual communication and support.

• Excellence: Striving for high-quality design output that meets or exceeds client expectations and industry standards.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with internal teams, understanding their needs, and contributing to a cohesive team environment.

• Adaptability: Being flexible and responsive to changing project requirements and deadlines common in government contracting.

Collaboration Style:

• Client-centric: Actively listening to and understanding the needs of internal clients (DPAE CVN program stakeholders).

• Team-oriented: Contributing positively to team projects, sharing knowledge, and supporting colleagues.

• Feedback-driven: Open to constructive criticism and incorporating feedback to improve designs.

• Process-aware: Understanding and following established workflows for design requests, approvals, and asset management.

📝 Enhancement Note: CACI's stated values of integrity, trust, and continuous growth are likely embedded in its operational culture. For a graphic designer, this translates to being a reliable, ethical, and proactive member of the team, contributing to the overall mission success of the contract. The emphasis on "advancing nation's most critical missions" highlights a strong sense of purpose.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Freedom with Strict Requirements: Navigating client-specific branding guidelines, security protocols, and technical constraints while still producing compelling visuals.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholder Demands: Juggling design requests from various individuals or departments within the DPAE CVN program, each with potentially different priorities and feedback.

• Meeting Tight Deadlines: The fast-paced nature of government contracting can lead to frequent urgent requests requiring quick turnaround times without sacrificing quality.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with new design software features, multimedia trends, and digital presentation techniques.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to enhance skills in Adobe Creative Suite, motion graphics, and potentially video editing software.

• Government Contracting Best Practices: Learning about specific regulations, security protocols, and communication standards relevant to defense contracts.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Developing skills in managing design projects, timelines, and client expectations.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Gaining insights into other aspects of program support, which can broaden career horizons within CACI.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for creative professionals in high-stakes environments. The growth opportunities are framed around skill enhancement and career progression within the government contracting sector, emphasizing continuous learning and adaptation.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to create a visual concept to explain a complex idea. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Assesses conceptualization and communication skills)

• "How do you manage conflicting feedback from multiple stakeholders on a design project?" (Assesses collaboration and problem-solving)

• "Walk me through your process for creating a presentation slide that is both informative and visually engaging for a government audience." (Assesses practical application of skills and audience awareness)

• "What steps do you take to ensure your designs are compliant with branding guidelines and any relevant security protocols?" (Assesses adherence to standards and operational awareness) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for CACI and specifically supporting the DPAE CVN program?" (Assesses motivation and research)

• "How do you align with CACI's values of integrity and trust in your professional work?" (Assesses cultural fit)

• "Describe your experience working in a secure environment or with classified information." (Assesses clearance relevance and operational awareness) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each project, present: 1. The Client/Context, 2. The Challenge, 3. Your Role & Solution, 4. The Outcome/Impact.

• Visuals: Use high-quality images of your work. If possible, show mock-ups of how the design was used (e.g., on a presentation slide, a banner at an event).

• Storytelling: Frame your projects as stories that highlight your problem-solving skills and creative process.

• Technical Details: Be ready to discuss the software and techniques you used.

• Relevance: Emphasize projects that demonstrate skills directly applicable to the job description (e.g., presentations, editorial illustrations, event graphics).

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just creative talent but also an understanding of the operational context—client needs, deadlines, security, and collaboration within a government contracting framework.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the CACI careers portal, ensuring all required fields are completed accurately.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in graphic design, multimedia, photography, and proficiency with Adobe and Microsoft Suites. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Designed 50+ presentation decks annually"). Ensure your clearance status is clearly stated.

• Portfolio Preparation: Compile a digital portfolio showcasing your best work, with a focus on projects relevant to government, defense, or corporate communications. Be ready to discuss your process and impact for each piece.

• Interview Preparation: Practice answering common interview questions related to design skills, problem-solving, client interaction, and working in a regulated environment. Prepare to present your portfolio confidently.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with CACI's mission, values, and its role in government contracting. Understand the significance of the DPAE CVN program if possible.

⚠️ 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.