Graphic Designer

CACI International
Full-timeβ€’$41k-83k/year (USD)β€’Tampa, United States

πŸ“ Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: CACI International

Location: BMF TAMPA FL, United States of America

Job Type: Full time

Category: Communications / Creative Services

Date Posted: 2026-09-01

Experience Level: 5+ years

Remote Status: On-site

πŸš€ Role Summary

  • Design and produce high-impact visual products, presentations, and infographics to support operational and strategic communication objectives.

  • Translate complex data and operational concepts into compelling visual narratives for diverse audiences.

  • Create engaging content for digital platforms, social media, and multimedia campaigns, adhering to strict branding guidelines.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including planners, analysts, and communicators, to ensure visual products effectively convey mission-critical information.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the Communications category, focusing on visual design to support operational and strategic communication goals. The emphasis on "irregular warfare," "national security," and "combatant commands" suggests a need for discreet, clear, and impactful visual communication tailored for defense and intelligence contexts. The requirement for a TS/SCI clearance indicates a high level of trust and access to sensitive information.

πŸ“ˆ Primary Responsibilities

  • Design and produce high-quality graphics, visual products, presentations, infographics, and promotional materials that support operational, strategic communication, and engagement objectives.

  • Develop visually compelling content for digital platforms, social media, websites, print products, and multimedia campaigns, ensuring consistency with organizational branding and messaging guidelines.

  • Collaborate with planners, analysts, communicators, and stakeholders to translate complex concepts, data, and operational information into effective visual communications.

  • Create graphics that support Information Operations (IO), Operations in the Information Environment (OIE), engagement activities, strategic communications, and public outreach initiatives.

  • Develop visual concepts, layouts, storyboards, and creative products that enhance audience understanding, engagement, and message effectiveness.

  • Produce and edit imagery, photography, illustrations, and digital assets for use across multiple communication channels and operational environments.

  • Ensure all visual products meet quality standards, branding requirements, accessibility guidelines, and mission objectives while adhering to established review and approval processes.

  • Maintain awareness of emerging design trends, visualization techniques, and multimedia technologies to improve product quality and communication effectiveness.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design and strategic application, specifically within defense and national security contexts. The mention of "Information Operations (IO)" and "Operations in the Information Environment (OIE)" points to a need for graphics that can support complex psychological operations, influence campaigns, and strategic messaging in contested environments. The requirement to adhere to strict review and approval processes is critical for government contracting roles.

πŸŽ“ Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, Digital Media, Fine Arts, Marketing, or a related field.

Experience: 5+ years of experience designing digital and print products, presentations, infographics, social media content, and visual communication materials.

Required Skills:

  • Proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud applications, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Lightroom.

  • Demonstrated expertise in graphic design principles, branding, layout development, and visual storytelling.

  • Proven ability to translate complex information, data, and operational concepts into visually compelling products for diverse audiences.

  • Strong portfolio demonstrating extensive experience in multimedia content creation and design.

  • Understanding of digital and print production workflows and best practices. Preferred Skills:

  • Experience supporting Department of Defense, Combatant Command, government, public affairs, strategic communications, or Information Operations initiatives.

  • Experience developing visual products that support influence activities, audience engagement, behavioral objectives, or operational campaigns.

  • Knowledge of photography, videography, motion graphics, data visualization, web design, or emerging AI-enabled creative tools.

  • Familiarity with government security protocols and clearance requirements (TS/SCI).

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize strong technical proficiency in industry-standard design software and a robust portfolio showcasing a range of design capabilities. The preferred qualifications are crucial for candidates looking to excel in this specific defense-oriented role, indicating a preference for experience within government or military communication structures. The mention of TS/SCI clearance is a significant qualification for accessing sensitive project information.

πŸ“Š Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a minimum of 5 years of diverse design projects, with a strong emphasis on digital and print collateral.

  • Demonstrate expertise in creating presentations, infographics, and social media content that effectively communicate complex information.

  • Include examples of branding application and adherence to established style guides across various media.

  • Showcase projects that illustrate the ability to translate abstract operational concepts or data into clear, impactful visual narratives, highlighting the ROI or mission impact where possible. Process Documentation:

  • Provide examples of workflow processes used for design projects, from initial concept and stakeholder consultation through final delivery and approval.

  • Illustrate how design processes are adapted to meet specific mission objectives, such as supporting Information Operations (IO) or engagement activities.

  • Detail experience with version control, feedback incorporation, and quality assurance measures within a design production cycle, particularly in a government contracting environment.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: For this role, the portfolio is paramount, serving as direct evidence of the candidate's ability to execute on the core responsibilities. It must not only display creative talent but also the strategic application of design to solve problems, communicate complex ideas, and achieve specific communication or operational goals. The emphasis on process documentation underscores the need for organized, repeatable design workflows, especially within a structured government environment.

πŸ’΅ Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $41,300 - $82,600 per year

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive healthcare coverage.

  • Wellness programs designed to support employee health and well-being.

  • Financial planning resources and tools.

  • Retirement benefits to support long-term financial security.

  • Family support services and benefits.

  • Opportunities for continuing education and professional development.

  • Flexible time off policy, allowing for work-life balance.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week. Travel up to 25% locally may be required.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is a guideline and may vary based on factors such as location, specific contract labor categories, prior experience, and relevant certifications. The benefits package is comprehensive, reflecting CACI's commitment to employee well-being and professional growth, with particular emphasis on flexible time off, which is a notable benefit for government contracting roles. The 25% travel requirement indicates a need for flexibility and local engagement.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏒 Company Culture

Industry: Government Contracting / National Security / Information Technology Services

Company Size: Large (10,000+ employees)

Founded: 1962. CACI International is a prominent provider of information solutions and services to the defense, intelligence, and federal civilian government communities. Its long history in the sector signifies stability and deep expertise in supporting national security missions.

Team Structure:

  • This role is part of a Communications team that supports specialized programs focused on irregular warfare and advancing national security through advisory, training, and operational support.

  • The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Communications Lead or Program Manager, working within a matrixed structure that includes planners, analysts, and subject matter experts.

  • Close collaboration with various functional teams across different Combatant Commands and agencies is expected, requiring strong interpersonal and communication skills. Methodology:

  • Data analysis and insights are crucial, as designers will need to interpret complex operational data and intelligence to create visualizations.

  • Workflow planning and optimization strategies are applied to ensure efficient design production, meeting tight deadlines and strict approval processes common in government contracting.

  • Automation and efficiency practices may be explored to streamline design tasks, although the core focus remains on bespoke, high-quality visual content creation.

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

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: CACI's culture is deeply rooted in supporting national security missions, emphasizing integrity, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. As a large government contractor, the company operates within a structured and often sensitive environment. The team structure suggests a collaborative yet hierarchical approach, where designers must integrate seamlessly with operational and intelligence professionals to achieve mission objectives.

πŸ“ˆ Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-to-Senior Level Graphic Designer. This role requires significant experience (5+ years) and the ability to work independently on complex projects, often with sensitive information. The expectation is for a professional who can not only execute design tasks but also contribute strategically to communication efforts.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Communications Manager or Program Manager within a specific project or division. They will collaborate closely with subject matter experts (SMEs), operational planners, and strategic communicators who provide content and direction.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work will have a direct impact on the clarity and effectiveness of strategic communications, operational planning documents, and engagement activities. High-quality visuals can enhance understanding of complex threats, build trust with partners, and support critical mission objectives in national security operations.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas such as data visualization for intelligence products, motion graphics for training videos, or user interface (UI) design for operational tools.

  • Leadership: Potential to move into a Lead Graphic Designer role, managing junior designers, overseeing larger projects, and contributing to design strategy.

  • Cross-functional Mobility: Transition into roles focused on technical illustration, instructional design, or even broader communications or program management roles within defense contracting.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within the specialized field of defense-related graphic design. The emphasis is on developing expertise that is highly valued in government contracting, with opportunities to take on more responsibility and leadership. The impact of the role is significant, contributing directly to mission success in a critical sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site. This position is based at a CACI facility, likely in a secure or controlled environment given the TS/SCI clearance requirement. The work may involve classified or sensitive information, necessitating on-site presence for security and collaboration.

Office Location(s): BMF TAMPA FL, United States of America. This location is specific and indicates a need for candidates who can work from this facility.

Workspace Context:

  • The workspace will likely be collaborative, requiring close interaction with military personnel, government contractors, and other CACI employees.

  • Access to standard design software and hardware is expected, with potential for specialized secure systems depending on project requirements.

  • Opportunities for team interaction will be high, fostering a dynamic environment where visual concepts are discussed and refined with operational experts.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week. Flexibility may be required for project deadlines, and occasional local travel (up to 25%) is anticipated.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and the mention of "BMF TAMPA FL" suggest a specific operational context, possibly related to military installations or government facilities. The work environment will be professional and security-conscious, demanding adherence to protocols while fostering collaboration among diverse teams.

πŸ“„ Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and creative output. Candidates must submit a portfolio that clearly demonstrates relevant experience.

  • Technical Interview: Discussion focused on design software proficiency (Adobe Creative Cloud), design principles, and experience translating complex information into visuals. Expect questions about specific projects and challenges faced.

  • Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates walk through their portfolio, explaining their design process, rationale, and the impact of their work on project objectives. Be prepared to discuss how your designs supported communication goals or operational requirements.

  • Behavioral/Situational Interview: Assessment of teamwork, problem-solving skills, ability to work under pressure, and cultural fit with CACI's mission-driven environment. Questions may relate to handling feedback, meeting deadlines, and collaborating with non-designers.

  • Security Clearance Verification: For roles requiring TS/SCI clearance, a thorough background investigation will be part of the process.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate your portfolio to highlight projects most relevant to defense, government, or strategic communications. Include examples of presentations, infographics, and digital assets.

  • Structure your case studies to clearly articulate the problem, your design solution, your process, and the measurable outcome or impact. Quantify results where possible (e.g., increased engagement, improved clarity).

  • Be ready to discuss your creative process, your decision-making rationale behind specific design choices, and how you adapted your approach based on stakeholder feedback or technical constraints.

  • Ensure your portfolio demonstrates proficiency with key tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, and showcase your ability to work with complex data or abstract concepts. Challenge Preparation:

  • Be prepared for a potential design challenge, which might involve creating a visual asset (e.g., an infographic, a presentation slide) based on a provided brief or dataset, simulating real-world project tasks.

  • Focus on understanding the brief thoroughly, managing your time effectively, and presenting your solution clearly, explaining your design choices and how they meet the objectives.

  • Practice articulating your thought process and design strategy concisely, as you may need to present your work to a panel.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The interview process is rigorous, with a strong emphasis on portfolio review as a primary evaluation tool. Candidates should prepare to defend their design choices and demonstrate a deep understanding of how their work contributes to broader communication and operational goals, particularly within a government context. The potential for a design challenge indicates a need for practical skills demonstration.

πŸ›  Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Adobe Creative Cloud Suite: Essential proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for graphic creation, photo editing, and layout design.

  • Adobe Lightroom: For photo management and editing.

  • Microsoft PowerPoint: For creating high-quality presentations and integrating graphics.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • While not a primary analytics role, understanding how to interpret data for visualization purposes is key. Familiarity with data sources used in defense/intelligence may be beneficial.

  • Experience with dashboard creation tools could be a plus for visualizing campaign metrics or operational data if required. CRM & Automation:

  • Not directly applicable to the core design function, but familiarity with content management systems (CMS) or digital asset management (DAM) systems could be advantageous for deployment of visual assets.

  • Knowledge of automation tools for design tasks (e.g., scripting, batch processing) is a plus. Emerging Technologies (Preferred):

  • Motion graphics software (e.g., Adobe After Effects).

  • Data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, or specialized libraries).

  • Web design tools or understanding of web standards (HTML/CSS).

  • Familiarity with AI-enabled creative tools for design assistance.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The core technology stack is standard for graphic design professionals. However, the preferred skills highlight an increasing need for multimedia capabilities and data visualization, reflecting the evolving demands of strategic communication and operational analysis in the defense sector. Proficiency with these tools can significantly differentiate candidates.

πŸ‘₯ Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all design and communication efforts, especially when dealing with sensitive national security information.

  • Mission Excellence: A relentless focus on delivering high-quality, impactful visual products that directly support the success of CACI's national security missions.

  • Innovation: Embracing new design techniques, visualization methods, and technologies to enhance communication effectiveness and stay ahead of evolving threats.

  • Collaboration: Working effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team, valuing diverse perspectives and contributing to a cohesive effort towards common goals.

  • Adaptability: Remaining flexible and responsive to changing project requirements, deadlines, and operational environments.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-functional Integration: Designers are expected to work closely with subject matter experts, operational planners, and communications specialists, requiring clear communication and an ability to translate technical jargon into visual language.

  • Process Review & Feedback: An open culture for design critique and feedback is likely, encouraging continuous improvement and ensuring alignment with mission objectives.

  • Knowledge Sharing: Sharing design best practices, new techniques, and insights with team members to elevate the overall quality of visual communication outputs.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: CACI's values, particularly integrity and mission excellence, are paramount in the defense contracting space. The collaborative style emphasizes the need for designers to be team players who can effectively bridge the gap between creative execution and operational requirements.

⚑ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Translating Complex Information: The primary challenge will be taking highly technical, abstract, or sensitive operational data and translating it into clear, understandable, and impactful visual assets.

  • Strict Security & Approval Processes: Navigating government security protocols and adhering to rigorous review and approval cycles can be demanding, requiring patience and meticulous attention to detail.

  • Evolving Threat Landscape: Staying current with rapidly changing global threats and communication strategies requires continuous learning and adaptation of design approaches.

  • Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Balancing the visual communication needs of various stakeholders, from operational planners to strategic communicators, each with unique requirements and perspectives.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Skill Advancement: Opportunities to develop expertise in specialized areas like motion graphics, advanced data visualization, or UI/UX design through internal training or external courses.

  • Industry Conferences & Certifications: Potential to attend defense-focused communication or design conferences, and pursue relevant certifications.

  • Mentorship & Leadership: Access to mentorship from senior designers or program leaders, with pathways to leadership roles within design or communications teams.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to working in a high-stakes national security environment. The growth opportunities are structured to develop specialized skills that are in high demand within government contracting, offering a clear career progression path.

πŸ’‘ Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe a time you had to translate highly technical or complex information into a visual format. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on problem-solving, process, and impact.)

  • "How do you ensure your designs effectively support strategic communication goals, especially in a national security context?" (Demonstrate understanding of purpose beyond aesthetics.)

  • "Walk us through your process for creating an infographic or presentation from initial brief to final delivery, including how you handle feedback and approvals." (Showcase workflow and collaboration skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

  • "Why are you interested in working for CACI and supporting national security missions?" (Connect your passion to CACI's mission.)

  • "How do you handle working under pressure or with tight deadlines common in government contracting?" (Highlight resilience and time management.)

  • "Describe your experience collaborating with military personnel or government stakeholders. What was your approach to communication and understanding their needs?" (Showcase adaptability and interpersonal skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the "why" – the objective, the challenge, and the desired outcome.

  • Showcase Process: Explain your design thinking, your tools, and how you iterated on concepts based on feedback or requirements.

  • Quantify Impact: If possible, provide metrics or qualitative feedback on how your design contributed to the project's success (e.g., improved clarity, increased engagement, successful campaign execution).

  • Tailor Examples: Prioritize projects that align with defense, government, or strategic communication themes, demonstrating your understanding of the sector's visual language and needs.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just creative talent but also strategic thinking, process discipline, and an understanding of the unique demands of government contracting and national security communications. Your portfolio is your primary tool; use it to tell a compelling story of your capabilities and impact.

πŸ“Œ Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

  • Submit your application through the CACI careers portal.

  • Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your 5+ years of experience in graphic design, specifically mentioning proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud and any relevant experience with government, defense, or strategic communications.

  • Portfolio Preparation: Ensure your online portfolio is up-to-date and easily accessible, featuring a strong selection of your best work, especially projects involving presentations, infographics, and digital content creation. Be ready to discuss specific examples in detail.

  • Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your design process, explain your creative choices, and answer behavioral questions related to teamwork, problem-solving, and working in a secure, mission-driven environment. Practice presenting your portfolio.

  • Company Research: Familiarize yourself with CACI's mission, values, and recent projects, particularly those related to national security and defense. Understand the importance of integrity and mission excellence in their culture.

⚠️ 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

Requires a bachelor's degree in Graphic Design or a related field and at least 5 years of professional experience. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud and a strong portfolio demonstrating expertise in visual storytelling and branding are essential.