Graphic Designer

ASRC Federal
Full-timeβ€’Huntsville, United States

πŸ“ Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: ASRC Federal

Location: Redstone Arsenal, AL, US

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Government & Public Sector Operations

Date Posted: August 21, 2026

Experience Level: 3+ Years Professional Experience

Remote Status: On-site

πŸš€ Role Summary

  • Design and produce a wide range of visual assets, including print and digital media, for government clients supporting critical missions in defense.

  • Collaborate closely with a multimedia team, writers, and web developers to translate complex concepts into engaging and clear visual communications.

  • Ensure all design deliverables adhere to established brand guidelines, government standards, and Section 508 accessibility compliance.

  • Manage project timelines effectively in a fast-paced production environment, maintaining high standards for quality assurance and file organization.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: While the primary title is "Graphic Designer," the context of supporting the U.S. Army Contracting Command (ACC) CIO G6 at Redstone Arsenal, AL, and the emphasis on creating visual assets for government customers indicates a role with significant operational impact within a defense contracting environment. This role requires not just creative skill but also an understanding of government communication standards and security protocols.

πŸ“ˆ Primary Responsibilities

  • Develop visually compelling graphics, layouts, and compositions for diverse media, including posters, presentations, infographics, web graphics, and social media assets.

  • Translate abstract or complex technical concepts into easily understandable visual narratives and educational materials.

  • Interpret project briefs, client feedback, and design recommendations to deliver effective visual solutions that meet project objectives.

  • Maintain rigorous file organization, version control, and asset management practices to support collaborative workflows and ensure project continuity.

  • Conduct quality assurance checks on all design outputs to guarantee accuracy, consistency, and adherence to all specified requirements, including brand and accessibility standards.

  • Collaborate with content creators and technical teams to ensure visual assets enhance the overall message and user experience.

  • Adapt design approaches to meet specific government and organizational brand identity requirements.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative execution and operational diligence, crucial for government contracting. The focus on translating complex concepts and adhering to Section 508 compliance highlights the need for a designer who understands not just aesthetics but also functional and regulatory requirements of government-facing materials.

πŸŽ“ Skills & Qualifications

Education:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Multimedia, or a related field.

  • Equivalent professional experience will be considered in lieu of a degree. Experience:

  • Minimum of 3 years of professional design experience, with a preference for experience in government, corporate, or multimedia production settings.

  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Required Skills:

  • Expert proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud suite, specifically Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.

  • Strong portfolio showcasing a diverse range of print and digital design projects, demonstrating visual storytelling, layout, and composition skills.

  • Proven ability to design for both print (e.g., posters, brochures) and digital mediums (e.g., web graphics, social media assets, infographics).

  • Thorough understanding of and ability to work within established brand guidelines and government/organizational design standards.

  • Familiarity with Section 508 compliance and accessibility best practices in design.

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills for presenting design concepts and collaborating with stakeholders.

  • Strong organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail. Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro) and motion graphics design.

  • Photography skills, including image capture and post-processing.

  • Prior experience working within a government or military contracting environment.

  • Familiarity with UI/UX design principles for web and application interfaces.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The requirement for an active DoD SECRET security clearance is a critical qualification that significantly narrows the candidate pool and necessitates careful vetting. The emphasis on Adobe Creative Cloud, particularly Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, is standard for graphic design roles, but the inclusion of video editing and motion graphics as preferred skills indicates an evolving multimedia production environment.

πŸ“Š Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • A comprehensive portfolio demonstrating a minimum of 3 years of professional design work, with a focus on print and digital mediums relevant to government communication.

  • Showcase projects that highlight visual storytelling, complex concept translation, and adherence to brand guidelines.

  • Include examples of infographics, presentations, web graphics, and social media assets.

  • Evidence of designing for accessibility, specifically demonstrating understanding of Section 508 compliance.

  • Work samples that reflect experience with government or corporate branding, if applicable. Process Documentation:

  • Ability to articulate design processes, from initial brief interpretation to final deliverable quality assurance.

  • Examples of how design challenges were overcome within project constraints and deadlines.

  • Documentation or discussion of workflow management, including file organization and version control strategies for collaborative projects.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: For a role supporting government contracts, the portfolio should not only showcase creative talent but also the ability to follow strict guidelines, manage complex projects, and produce accessible materials. Demonstrating a structured design process and understanding of government-specific standards (like Section 508) is crucial.

πŸ’΅ Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The salary for this position is not explicitly stated, but industry benchmarks for experienced Graphic Designers with an active Secret clearance in the Redstone Arsenal, AL area typically range from $65,000 to $95,000 annually. This range accounts for the required experience level, specialized skills, and the critical security clearance, which often commands a premium in government contracting roles.

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive health care coverage

  • Dental insurance

  • Vision insurance

  • Life insurance

  • 401(k) retirement savings plan

  • Education assistance programs

  • Paid Time Off (PTO)

  • Paid holidays Working Hours:

  • Standard full-time hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week.

  • The role is 100% on-site, requiring consistent presence during business hours.

  • Adherence to tight deadlines may necessitate occasional overtime, typical in government project environments.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles in the specified location and the requirement of a Secret security clearance. ASRC Federal's benefits package is competitive and aligns with standard offerings for full-time employees in the government contracting sector, providing robust support for employees and their families.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏒 Company Culture

Industry: Government Contracting (Space, Public Health, Defense)

Company Size: Large (ASRC Federal is a significant employer within the government contracting space)

Founded: Information not explicitly provided, but ASRC Federal has a well-established presence.

Team Structure:

  • The Graphic Designer will be part of the ASRC Federal Technology Solutions LLC team, supporting the U.S. Army Contracting Command (ACC) CIO G6.

  • This role involves working within a team of media developers and collaborating with other multimedia team members, writers, and web developers.

  • The structure likely involves a project-based reporting line to a project manager or lead, with functional reporting within the design discipline. Methodology:

  • Emphasis on producing high-quality visual assets that support government missions through clear and effective communication.

  • Focus on adherence to established protocols, brand standards, and accessibility requirements (Section 508).

  • Collaborative approach to problem-solving and creative development, integrating feedback from various stakeholders.

  • Commitment to meeting deadlines and maintaining operational efficiency within a defense contracting context.

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

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: ASRC Federal's identity as an Alaska Native owned corporation and a top veteran employer suggests a culture that values service, community, and dedicated employees. Their mission-driven work in defense, space, and public health implies a professional, results-oriented environment where precision and compliance are paramount.

πŸ“ˆ Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an experienced individual contributor level within the Creative & Media domain, focused on specialized design execution rather than management. It sits within the broader operational support structure for government contracts.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a Project Manager or Team Lead within ASRC Federal Technology Solutions LLC, overseeing the ACC CIO G6 contract. Collaboration will extend to multimedia developers, writers, and other technical staff on the project.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the effectiveness of government communications, training materials, and public-facing information for the U.S. Army Contracting Command. High-quality, accessible visuals are critical for mission success, stakeholder understanding, and compliance.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Skill Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in areas like motion graphics, UI/UX, or advanced multimedia production through project work and potential training.

  • Leadership Potential: With demonstrated success and experience, potential to move into Lead Designer roles, project management within creative teams, or specialized technical roles within government contracting.

  • Cross-functional Exposure: Gaining experience working on diverse government projects, understanding different agency needs, and potentially expanding into related fields like instructional design or technical documentation support.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: For a Graphic Designer in a government contracting role, career growth often involves specializing in niche areas (e.g., defense visualization, SCORM-compliant e-learning graphics) or moving into project leadership. The active security clearance is a significant asset that opens doors to more sensitive and potentially higher-impact projects.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a 100% on-site role at Redstone Arsenal, AL, implying a professional office environment within a government facility or a contractor-operated facility adjacent to it.

Office Location(s): Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, United States. This location is a major U.S. Army installation known for missile defense and aviation research, development, and engineering.

Workspace Context:

  • The workspace will likely be a standard office setup with access to necessary design hardware and software.

  • Collaboration will be a key aspect, with opportunities to work closely with a dedicated team of media developers and other technical professionals.

  • The environment will be professional and security-conscious, given the government contract and the requirement for a Secret clearance. Work Schedule:

  • A standard 40-hour work week is expected, typically during regular business hours.

  • Flexibility may be limited due to the on-site requirement and the nature of government project deadlines, which can sometimes necessitate working under pressure.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Working on-site at Redstone Arsenal means being part of a secure, government-focused ecosystem. This environment fosters discipline and adherence to protocols, which can be beneficial for career development in the defense sector.

πŸ“„ Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: Resume and portfolio review to assess qualifications, experience, and creative capabilities.

  • Technical Interview: Discussion focused on design skills, proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud, understanding of design principles, and ability to translate complex concepts. May include a portfolio walkthrough.

  • Case Study/Design Challenge: Candidates may be asked to complete a design exercise or present a specific project from their portfolio, demonstrating their problem-solving approach, design process, and ability to meet project requirements.

  • Security & Background Check: Due to the requirement for an active Secret clearance, a thorough background check and security clearance verification will be a significant part of the process.

  • Final Interview: Discussion with hiring manager/team lead to assess cultural fit, communication skills, and alignment with team dynamics.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in print, digital, and potentially motion graphics/video.

  • Highlight Relevance: Emphasize projects that demonstrate experience with government guidelines, complex information visualization, or corporate branding.

  • Showcase Process: Be prepared to discuss your design process for each project – from initial brief to final execution. Explain your creative decisions and problem-solving approach.

  • Quantify Impact: If possible, discuss the impact or success of your designs (e.g., improved clarity, user engagement, adherence to standards).

  • Accessibility Focus: Clearly articulate your understanding and application of Section 508 compliance in your designs.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Review Government Branding: Familiarize yourself with common government agency branding styles and communication standards.

  • Practice Translating Concepts: Be ready to take a complex technical or military concept and quickly sketch out or describe how you would visualize it.

  • Time Management: If given a design challenge, practice working efficiently under a time constraint. Focus on delivering a clear, well-thought-out solution rather than perfection.

  • Communicate Clearly: Be prepared to articulate your design choices and rationale effectively and concisely.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The security clearance requirement is paramount. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their clearance status and any potential hurdles during the interview process. The portfolio should demonstrate not just creativity but also the ability to work within strict operational and regulatory frameworks.

πŸ›  Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Adobe Creative Cloud: Expert proficiency required in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.

  • Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in PowerPoint for presentations, Word for document integration, and Excel for data visualization support.

  • File Management/Collaboration: Experience with version control systems and cloud-based collaboration tools (e.g., SharePoint, Teams) is likely necessary for team-based workflows.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • While not a primary analytics role, understanding how design impacts engagement metrics for web graphics or social media assets is beneficial. Familiarity with basic web analytics or social media platform insights could be a plus. CRM & Automation:

  • Not directly applicable to this role's core functions, but understanding how visual assets are deployed through various channels (web, email, internal systems) is part of the broader operational context.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign is critical. Preferred skills in video editing (Premiere Pro) and motion graphics indicate a potential need for broader multimedia toolsets. Familiarity with government-specific collaboration platforms like SharePoint or Microsoft Teams is highly probable.

πŸ‘₯ Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Mission Focus: A strong commitment to supporting the critical missions of government clients, particularly in defense.

  • Excellence & Quality: Dedication to producing high-caliber design work that is accurate, effective, and visually appealing.

  • Integrity & Compliance: Adherence to security protocols, brand guidelines, and regulatory requirements (e.g., Section 508).

  • Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with diverse teams to achieve shared project goals.

  • Adaptability: Ability to respond to evolving project needs and feedback in a dynamic environment.

Collaboration Style:

  • Open communication and active listening to understand client needs and team member input.

  • Proactive engagement in team discussions, offering creative solutions and constructive feedback.

  • Respectful interaction, valuing diverse perspectives and technical expertise within the team.

  • A structured approach to feedback, ensuring design iterations are efficient and productive.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The company's stated values as a "Certified Great Place to Work" and a top veteran employer suggest a culture that prioritizes employee well-being, respect, and a sense of purpose. For this role, these values translate into a professional, team-oriented environment where contributions to national security missions are highly valued.

⚑ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Translating Complex Information: Effectively visualizing highly technical or abstract military/government concepts for diverse audiences.

  • Adhering to Strict Guidelines: Balancing creative expression with rigid government branding, security, and accessibility requirements (Section 508).

  • Fast-Paced Production: Meeting demanding deadlines in a government contracting environment that requires consistent output and high quality.

  • Security Environment: Operating within a secure facility and handling sensitive information, requiring strict adherence to protocols.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Advanced Design Software: Potential to gain proficiency in motion graphics, video editing, or specialized visualization tools.

  • Government Sector Expertise: Deepen understanding of government communication standards, procurement processes, and defense industry specific needs.

  • Cross-Functional Projects: Exposure to instructional design, web development, or technical writing through integrated project teams.

  • Security Clearance Advancement: For those starting with eligibility, the opportunity to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance is a significant professional development.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The primary challenge will be the intersection of creative design with the stringent operational requirements of government contracting. Growth opportunities are tied to mastering these specific demands and potentially expanding into adjacent technical or project management roles within the defense sector.

πŸ’‘ Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe a time you had to translate a complex technical concept into a clear visual. What was your process, and what was the outcome?"

    • Preparation: Have a specific project example ready. Focus on your problem-solving steps, the tools you used, and the impact of your design.
  • "How do you ensure your designs meet accessibility standards like Section 508?"

    • Preparation: Be ready to discuss specific techniques, tools, and your understanding of the principles behind accessibility in digital and print media.
  • "Imagine you are given a project brief with conflicting requirements from different stakeholders. How would you approach resolving this to create a cohesive design?"

    • Preparation: Focus on your communication and negotiation skills, your process for clarifying requirements, and your ability to find a balanced solution. Company & Culture Questions:
  • "What interests you about working for ASRC Federal and supporting the U.S. Army Contracting Command?"

    • Preparation: Research ASRC Federal's mission, values, and recent projects. Connect your career goals and interests to their work in defense and government contracting.
  • "How do you typically collaborate with writers, developers, or other team members on a project?"

    • Preparation: Provide examples of successful cross-functional collaboration, emphasizing your communication style and how you integrate different expertise.
  • "How do you stay updated on design trends and new software while also adhering to established brand and government standards?"

    • Preparation: Discuss your methods for continuous learning and how you balance innovation with the need for consistency and compliance. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
  • Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the challenges, your creative solution, and the results.

  • Highlight Key Skills: Point out specific examples within your portfolio that demonstrate your proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, visual storytelling, and accessibility.

  • Be Concise and Engaging: Present your work with enthusiasm, but avoid overly long explanations. Focus on the most impactful aspects of each project.

  • Prepare for Technical Questions: Be ready to discuss the technical aspects of your design files, color profiles, resolution, and file formats.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh the candidate's ability to demonstrate not only creative talent but also a professional, disciplined approach suitable for government contracting. The active Secret clearance is a non-negotiable requirement, so candidates should be prepared to discuss its status.

πŸ“Œ Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

  • Submit your application through the ASRC Federal careers portal via the provided link.

  • Portfolio Customization: Ensure your submitted portfolio is tailored to showcase relevant print and digital design work, with a strong emphasis on complex concept visualization and adherence to brand guidelines. Include specific examples demonstrating Section 508 compliance.

  • Resume Optimization: Highlight your 3+ years of professional design experience, expert knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), and any experience with government or defense-related projects. Clearly state your security clearance status.

  • Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, how you handle feedback, and your approach to meeting tight deadlines. Prepare specific examples of projects that demonstrate your visual storytelling and problem-solving skills.

  • Company Research: Familiarize yourself with ASRC Federal's mission, values, and their work supporting government agencies like the U.S. Army Contracting Command. Understand the importance of their role as a government contractor.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

Candidates must have at least 3 years of professional design experience and expert knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud. An active DoD Secret security clearance is required for this position.