Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Adams Outdoor

Location: Norfolk, Virginia, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Design / Marketing Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-05

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and execute creative concepts for outdoor advertising campaigns, leveraging advanced graphic systems to produce compelling client visuals.

• Integrate digitized and computer-generated imagery to enhance advertising materials, ensuring visual consistency and brand alignment.

• Contribute to advertising copy development and assist in client review sessions, providing creative input and design rationale.

• Manage and maintain computer systems and data backups, ensuring operational continuity and data integrity for the creative department.

• Plan and prepare artwork for various marketing collateral, including proposals, direct mail campaigns, and product brochures, supporting sales and marketing initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Graphic Designer," the responsibilities involving computer systems maintenance, data backup, and supporting proposals/direct mail suggest a role that touches upon operational efficiency and support within the creative department, aligning with aspects of Marketing Operations. The emphasis on "state of the art graphic systems" and "integrating digitized and computer-generated images" points to a need for technical proficiency in design software and digital asset management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce creative assets for outdoor advertising clients, translating campaign objectives into visually impactful designs.

• Operate and maintain proficiency in industry-standard graphic design software and digital illustration tools for creative concept development.

• Collaborate with the Creative Services Art Director to ensure design quality, brand consistency, and adherence to client briefs.

• Assist in the creation of advertising copy, refining messaging to complement visual elements and enhance campaign effectiveness.

• Participate in client review meetings, presenting design concepts and incorporating feedback to finalize creative deliverables.

• Perform regular maintenance and backups of all computer systems and digital data within the creative department to ensure data security and system reliability.

• Develop layouts and prepare artwork for proposals, direct mail campaigns, and product brochures, supporting sales efforts and marketing collateral needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibility for "maintenance and back up of all computer systems and data" is a significant operational task for a design role. This suggests the candidate will need to be organized, detail-oriented, and understand the importance of system uptime and data integrity, which are core to operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, or a related creative field.

Experience: 1-2 years of experience in graphic design, with a preference for experience within the advertising, media, or outdoor advertising industries.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in industry-standard graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Strong understanding of design principles, typography, color theory, and layout composition.

• Ability to integrate digitized and computer-generated images effectively.

• Experience in assisting with advertising copy and creative writing.

• Skill in preparing artwork for print and digital production.

• Competence in computer systems maintenance and data backup procedures.

• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with outdoor advertising specific design considerations (e.g., large-format printing, public display visibility).

• Familiarity with content management systems (CMS) or digital asset management (DAM) systems.

• Experience in client presentations and review sessions.

• Basic understanding of project management principles for creative workflows.

• Knowledge of G Suite or Microsoft Office Suite for proposal and brochure preparation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "maintenance and back up of all computer systems and data" implies a need for a candidate who is not only creative but also possesses a foundational understanding of IT operations and data management. This is an unusual but valuable addition for a design role, indicating a desire for self-sufficiency and operational awareness within the creative function.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of design projects, demonstrating versatility in creative concepts and execution across different media.

• Include examples of digital imaging and the integration of computer-generated elements.

• Present layouts and artwork prepared for marketing collateral, such as proposals, direct mail, and brochures.

• Highlight any projects where system maintenance or data management was a component, even if secondary.

• Demonstrate ability to work within brand guidelines and client specifications. Process Documentation:

• While formal process documentation may not be expected for this entry-level role, candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal workflow for managing design projects from brief to completion.

• Be ready to explain how you approach planning, layout preparation, and artwork finalization for various campaign types.

• Articulate your approach to system maintenance and data backup, demonstrating an understanding of its importance to workflow continuity.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Graphic Designer role, a portfolio is standard. However, given the unusual mention of "maintenance and back up of all computer systems and data," candidates should consider including any personal projects or examples that demonstrate meticulous organization, system management skills, or an understanding of data integrity, even if it's not a primary focus of their design work. This could be personal website management, digital asset organization, or even troubleshooting for friends/family.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $45,000 - $60,000 annually.

Explanation: Based on industry benchmarks for entry-level Graphic Designers (0-2 years experience) in the Norfolk, Virginia area, combined with the additional responsibilities of computer systems and data maintenance. This range accounts for the median salary for similar roles in the region and the specific requirements outlined.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education in design software and advertising trends.

• Employee assistance program (EAP) for personal and professional support.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or profit sharing.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday. Occasional overtime may be required to meet project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical entry-level graphic designer roles in the Norfolk, VA area, adjusted slightly upward due to the added responsibility of computer systems and data maintenance, which is uncommon for this position. Salary data was cross-referenced from industry salary aggregators and regional job market analysis for creative roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Outdoor Advertising. Adams Outdoor Advertising is a significant player in the OOH (Out-of-Home) media sector, operating in 12 markets across the U.S. and known for its large, privately-held status.

Company Size: Adams Outdoor Advertising is a large company, likely employing over 500 individuals based on its operational scale and market presence.

Founded: Founded in 1983 by Steve Adams, the company has a long-standing history and established reputation in the advertising industry.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of the Creative Services department, reporting to the Creative Services Art Director.

• This department likely collaborates closely with Sales, Marketing, and Production teams to deliver client campaigns.

• The team structure emphasizes a collaborative environment where creative professionals support each other and contribute to overarching client strategies. Methodology:

• Emphasis on developing creative concepts that align with client objectives and outdoor advertising best practices.

• Utilization of advanced graphic systems for efficient and high-quality creative production.

• A data-informed approach, where design choices are influenced by campaign goals and client performance metrics.

• Focus on operational efficiency in creative production, including system maintenance and data management.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's significant size and private ownership suggest a stable environment with established processes, but also potential for agility. The mention of private equity backing (Searchlight Capital Partners, British Columbia Investment Management Corporation) indicates a focus on growth and potentially modernizing operations and technology.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an entry-level to junior Graphic Designer. It offers foundational experience in creative production within a large advertising firm. The added responsibility for system maintenance hints at a candidate who is eager to learn and take on diverse tasks, potentially paving the way for roles that blend creative and operational skills.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer reports directly to the Creative Services Art Director. This provides a clear line of mentorship and supervision, crucial for skill development in design and creative execution.

Operations Impact: While primarily a creative role, the Graphic Designer's contributions directly impact the effectiveness of client advertising campaigns. High-quality visuals and well-executed marketing collateral are essential for client acquisition and retention. The operational aspect of system maintenance ensures the creative team can function without interruption, indirectly supporting all client-facing activities.

Growth Opportunities:

• Design Specialization: Advance to a Senior Graphic Designer or Art Director role by deepening expertise in creative concept development, client management, and design leadership.

• Operations Blend: Leverage the system and data management experience to transition into roles like Creative Operations Specialist, where efficiency, workflow optimization, and technology management within creative departments are key.

• Project Management: Develop skills in managing creative projects, timelines, and resources, potentially leading to a Creative Project Manager position.

• Industry Expertise: Gain specialized knowledge in outdoor advertising design and production, becoming a go-to expert for OOH creative solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The unique combination of design and operational duties presents a distinct growth path. Candidates who excel in both areas could position themselves for specialized roles in creative operations or production management, bridging the gap between creative output and operational efficiency.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role based in Norfolk, Virginia. The work environment is likely a professional office setting within the Adams Outdoor Advertising branch.

Office Location(s): Norfolk, VA (23502). This location serves as a hub for operations and client services within its designated market.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely include a dedicated workstation equipped with industry-standard design software and hardware.

• Opportunities for collaboration with fellow designers, the Art Director, and potentially members of sales and marketing teams will be available.

• The environment is expected to be fast-paced, especially during campaign launches or client review periods, requiring focus and adaptability.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time business hours, Monday through Friday, 40 hours per week. Flexibility may be required based on campaign deadlines, but the core schedule is office-based.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the need for in-person collaboration and direct use of company hardware and software, which is typical for roles involving system maintenance and immediate creative production.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a hiring manager will review applications and resumes. Candidates with relevant design experience and demonstrated organizational skills will be shortlisted.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will be asked to submit a portfolio showcasing their design work. This is a critical step to assess creative skills, technical proficiency, and project range.

• Skills Assessment/Test: A practical design test or a case study may be administered to evaluate problem-solving abilities, design execution under time constraints, and proficiency with design software.

• Interviews: Candidates will likely undergo interviews with the Creative Services Art Director and potentially other members of the creative or management team. These interviews will assess creative thinking, communication skills, understanding of the outdoor advertising industry, and suitability for the company culture.

• System/Data Capability Discussion: Be prepared to discuss your experience and approach to computer systems maintenance and data backup, even if it’s from personal projects or academic work.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 5-7 of your strongest, most relevant projects.

• Showcase Variety: Include examples of print design, digital graphics, and any work involving layout for marketing collateral.

• Highlight Process: For each project, briefly explain the brief, your creative process, the tools used, and the final outcome.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If a design project led to measurable results (e.g., increased engagement, successful campaign launch), mention it.

• Address Operational Skills: If possible, subtly highlight your organizational skills or any experience managing digital assets or systems in your project descriptions or in your resume.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Challenge: Practice creating a design concept for an outdoor advertisement within a short timeframe. Focus on clear messaging, strong visuals, and adherence to OOH best practices.

• System/Data Question: Prepare to answer questions about your approach to data backup (e.g., cloud vs. local, frequency) and basic computer system maintenance (e.g., software updates, troubleshooting common issues). Even if your experience is limited, demonstrate an understanding of the importance of these tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on system and data maintenance means interviewers might probe deeper into this aspect than a typical design role. Candidates should be ready to articulate their understanding and any relevant experience, framing it as a commitment to operational excellence within their creative work.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign are essential. Proficiency in these tools is paramount for creative concept development and production.

• Digital Imaging Software: Experience with tools for image manipulation, editing, and integration.

Operations & System Tools:

• Computer Systems: Familiarity with Windows or macOS operating systems.

• Data Backup Solutions: Understanding of cloud-based backup services (e.g., Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive) or local backup methods.

• Productivity Software: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint) or Google Workspace (Docs, Slides) for proposal and brochure preparation.

Potential Future Tools (depending on department evolution):

• Digital Asset Management (DAM) Systems: For organizing and retrieving creative assets.

• Project Management Software: Tools like Asana, Trello, or Monday.com for workflow tracking.

📝 Enhancement Note: While Adobe Creative Suite is standard, the explicit mention of "computer systems and data backup" implies a need for familiarity with operating systems and basic data management tools. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their comfort level with these aspects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A drive to produce original and effective advertising concepts.

• Client Focus: Commitment to delivering high-quality creative solutions that meet client needs and objectives.

• Efficiency & Reliability: Ensuring creative deliverables are produced on time and with accuracy, supported by reliable systems and data integrity.

• Collaboration: Working effectively within the creative team and with other departments to achieve common goals.

• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to design execution and system management.

Collaboration Style:

• The team likely fosters a collaborative environment where ideas are shared openly, and feedback is constructive.

• Cross-functional collaboration with sales and marketing teams is crucial for understanding client needs and campaign objectives.

• A proactive approach to system maintenance and data integrity will be valued to ensure smooth operations for the entire team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The blend of creative and operational tasks suggests a company culture that values both artistic talent and practical, reliable execution. Candidates who can demonstrate both will likely fit well.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Client Needs: Effectively translating client objectives into compelling creative designs while adhering to brand guidelines and OOH constraints.

• Managing Multiple Projects Under Pressure: Juggling various design tasks with competing deadlines in a fast-paced advertising environment.

• Technical Proficiency with Systems: Ensuring competence in both advanced graphic design software and basic computer systems maintenance/data backup.

• Adapting to Evolving Design Trends: Staying current with the latest design trends and technologies in the advertising and outdoor media industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Adobe Creative Suite or learn new design tools.

• Outdoor Advertising Best Practices: Gaining specialized knowledge in the unique requirements and opportunities of OOH media.

• Creative Operations Fundamentals: Developing skills in workflow optimization, project management, and technology management within a creative department.

• System Administration Basics: Building foundational knowledge in IT support and data management, which can be a unique differentiator.

📝 Enhancement Note: The dual nature of this role presents a unique challenge and opportunity. Excelling in both design and operational support can lead to a highly versatile career path.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance a creative concept with strict brand guidelines. How did you approach it?" (Focus on problem-solving and adherence to constraints.)

• "Walk me through your process for creating a new advertisement, from initial brief to final delivery." (Highlight your workflow, tools, and client interaction.)

• "How do you ensure the accuracy and integrity of your digital files and computer systems?" (Be ready to discuss your data backup methods and system maintenance habits.)

• "Describe a challenging project where you had to work under a tight deadline. How did you manage your time and deliver?" (Showcase your organizational and time-management skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Adams Outdoor Advertising and the outdoor advertising industry?" (Research the company's market presence, campaigns, and values.)

• "How do you stay updated on graphic design trends and new technologies?" (Demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning.)

• "How would you contribute to a collaborative creative team environment?" (Emphasize teamwork and communication.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the challenge, your solution, and the outcome.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Point out specific design techniques or software features you used.

• Address Operational Aspect: If any project involved significant digital asset organization or system management, mention it.

• Be Concise and Clear: Present your work efficiently, focusing on impact and relevance to the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to discuss both your design process and your approach to system maintenance. Frame the operational responsibilities as a commitment to efficiency and reliability that supports your creative output.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Adams Outdoor job portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to showcase projects relevant to advertising, marketing collateral (direct mail, brochures), and digital imaging. If possible, subtly integrate examples of organized digital assets or personal system management.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your graphic design skills, software proficiency, relevant experience, and any mention of organizational abilities or system management tasks. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process and your approach to computer system maintenance and data backup. Prepare specific examples for behavioral questions.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Adams Outdoor Advertising's current campaigns, market presence, and company values to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.

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