Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: FedWriters, Inc.

Location: Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Media / Government & Public Sector

Date Posted: 2026-08-28

Experience Level: 2-5 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Serve as the primary visual storyteller for the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, producing high-quality photography, printed materials, and information graphics.

• Manage daily operations of the command headquarters' internal information display system, including content loading and monitoring.

• Collaborate closely with the CGSC Public Affairs Office to ensure all visual products are professional, accurate, and meet strict deadlines.

• Leverage a strong understanding of visual design principles and storytelling techniques to effectively communicate the college's mission and people.

• Contribute to a dynamic and growing organization recognized as a Top Workplace, with opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within a government/military educational institution, implying a need for adherence to specific branding guidelines, security protocols, and potentially a more formal communication style. The emphasis on "visual storyteller" suggests a requirement for creative flair within established parameters, focusing on conveying information and narrative effectively.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Graphic Design & Production:

  • Research, design, and produce a variety of printed materials, including brochures, flyers, programs, and handouts, from concept to final product.
  • Develop creative concepts and project timelines for approval, ensuring alignment with college objectives.
  • Utilize Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator) and Microsoft Office software (Word, Publisher) for design and production.
  • Ensure all printed materials are error-free, grammatically correct (AP Stylebook conventions), and consistent with established branding guidelines.
  • Design and produce compelling information graphics by transforming raw data or government-provided drafts into easily understandable visual representations.

• Digital Display Management:

  • Perform daily start-up, preparation, and loading of content onto the command headquarters' internal information display system, ensuring timely readiness each business day.
  • Prepare and schedule welcome messages for distinguished visitors and key personnel as directed.
  • Continuously monitor the display system for operational issues, promptly reporting any errors or malfunctions.

• Event Photography & Asset Management:

  • Provide comprehensive photographic coverage for CGSC and subordinate-unit events, such as graduations, VIP visits, award ceremonies, and staff/student sessions.
  • Review, select, and process images using Adobe Photoshop or similar professional software, ensuring readiness for use or public release within a strict 6-hour timeframe post-event.
  • Upload finalized images to the DVIDs platform within 24 hours of the event.
  • Maintain an organized digital archive of all photo, print, and graphic assets, ensuring easy retrieval and accessibility.

• Reporting & Support:

  • Support occasional events that may require work outside of normal business hours (estimated at six times per year).

  • Contribute essential input for monthly status reports, detailing task progress and key deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design and operational execution, with a strong emphasis on accuracy, timeliness, and adherence to specific platform requirements (e.g., DVIDs, AP Stylebook). The expectation for daily display system operation and quick turnaround on photography suggests a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree is desired, indicating a preference for formal training in design, communications, or a related field. Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of professional experience specifically in photography and/or graphic design is required. This experience should demonstrate a solid foundation in visual communication and media production. Required Skills:

• Graphic Design Software Proficiency: Expert-level command of Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator for creating and manipulating visual assets.

• Print & Digital Production: Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and/or Microsoft Publisher for creating and formatting documents and print collateral.

• Visual Acuity & Storytelling: A strong eye for composition, color theory, editing techniques, and the ability to craft compelling visual narratives.

• Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage multiple concurrent deadlines and prioritize tasks effectively across diverse product types (print, digital, photo).

• Accuracy & Compliance: Meticulous attention to detail to ensure all products are error-free and adhere to AP Stylebook conventions and government branding standards.

• Security Clearance: Ability to pass background checks and obtain/maintain a favorable Tier 1 (T1) suitability determination.

• Portfolio: A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of past design and photography work is essential for demonstrating skill and experience.

Preferred Skills:

• Public Affairs/Government Support: Prior experience supporting military, government, or public affairs/communications organizations, providing an understanding of the operational context.

• Style & Legal Standards: Familiarity with the AP Stylebook and Briefing on Media Law standards to ensure compliance and accuracy.

• Digital Signage Systems: Familiarity with digital signage or AV display systems, which would be beneficial for managing the internal information display.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Required" skills emphasize hands-on technical proficiency and practical experience, while "Desired" skills point to a preference for candidates who can quickly adapt to the specific environment of a government/military institution. The portfolio requirement is critical for assessing practical application of skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Visual Design & Production Showcase: Include a diverse range of projects demonstrating graphic design skills across print (brochures, flyers, programs) and digital (information graphics, social media assets if applicable). Highlight your ability to translate raw data into clear, engaging visuals.

• Photography Portfolio: Present a selection of event photography, including candid shots, formal portraits, and action shots, showcasing your ability to capture key moments and subjects effectively. Demonstrate your post-processing skills in Adobe Photoshop.

• Process & Workflow Examples: Where possible, include brief descriptions of your design process for specific projects, outlining your approach from concept development through to final delivery. This shows your understanding of project management and workflow optimization.

• Brand Consistency Examples: Showcase projects where you maintained brand consistency or adapted to specific style guides, demonstrating your ability to work within established visual frameworks.

• Technical Proficiency Demonstration: Your portfolio should implicitly or explicitly demonstrate proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator) and Microsoft Office Suite.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Be prepared to discuss your typical workflow for managing design projects from brief to completion, including how you prioritize tasks, manage feedback, and ensure timely delivery.

• Image Management & Archiving: Discuss your methods for organizing, tagging, and archiving digital assets (photos, graphics) to ensure easy retrieval and long-term accessibility.

• Data Visualization Techniques: Be ready to explain your approach to designing information graphics, including how you interpret data, choose appropriate chart types, and ensure clarity and accuracy.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the portfolio is paramount. It should not only showcase aesthetic quality but also demonstrate practical application, adherence to standards, and efficient workflow management. Candidates should be ready to articulate their creative and technical processes behind each piece.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $55,000 - $65,000 per year.

This range is based on the provided pay information and reflects typical compensation for Graphic Designers with 2-5 years of experience in the Kansas region, considering the specific requirements of supporting a government institution.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, and Vision Insurance.

• Income Protection: Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance to provide financial security.

• Life Insurance: To ensure peace of mind for employees and their families.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) Plan to support long-term financial goals.

• Paid Time Off: Holiday Pay and Paid Time Off (PTO) for rest and rejuvenation.

Working Hours:

• Full-time, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, totaling 40 hours per week.

• Occasional support for events outside normal work hours is required (approximately six times per year).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is explicitly stated and appears competitive for the region and experience level. The benefits package is robust, offering standard and valuable protections and savings opportunities, which are attractive for a full-time, on-site role. The structured work hours with occasional flexibility are typical for government-contracted roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Federal Government Contracting / Professional Services / Education Support. FedWriters, Inc. provides professional writing, editing, graphic design, and administrative support services primarily to government agencies, with a focus on educational institutions like the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College (CGSC).

Company Size: FedWriters, Inc. is recognized as a growing company, indicated by its rapid expansion and Washington Post Top Workplace awards. While specific employee numbers aren't provided, this suggests a dynamic environment that values its workforce.

Founded: FedWriters, Inc. was founded with a mission to provide high-quality support services. Its recognition as a Top Workplace in recent years points to a positive and employee-centric culture that prioritizes professional growth and satisfaction.

Team Structure:

• Operations within CGSC: The Graphic Designer will likely be part of or closely aligned with the CGSC Public Affairs Office, working alongside communications specialists, writers, and administrative staff.

• Reporting: The role reports to a manager within the Public Affairs Office or a designated FedWriters supervisor overseeing contract personnel at the CGSC.

• Collaboration: Expect frequent cross-functional collaboration with CGSC staff, military personnel, and potentially other FedWriters employees to execute projects and support events.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Visuals: Emphasis on translating complex data and information into clear, digestible graphics that support the college's educational and informational objectives.

• Project Management: Structured approach to project execution, involving concept development, timeline creation, production, review, and delivery, often under tight deadlines.

• Quality Assurance: Rigorous attention to detail, accuracy, and adherence to style guides (AP Stylebook) and branding standards.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is likely shaped by its role as a government contractor, emphasizing professionalism, reliability, and adherence to client requirements. Being a Top Workplace suggests a strong internal focus on employee well-being and development, balancing client service with employee satisfaction.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an intermediate-level position within the creative and media services sector, specifically tailored for government contracting. It requires a blend of foundational technical skills and practical experience in graphic design and photography. The responsibilities indicate a level of autonomy in daily tasks and project execution, but within defined parameters.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a supervisor within the Public Affairs Office at CGSC, who will likely manage day-to-day tasking and project assignments. This supervisor may, in turn, report to a FedWriters program manager or contracting officer representative. Collaboration with other CGSC departments and potentially other FedWriters personnel will be common.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the effectiveness of the CGSC's communication efforts. High-quality visuals enhance the college's reputation, clarify complex information for students and faculty, document important events, and contribute to the overall professional image presented to stakeholders, including military leadership and the public. The information display system plays a crucial role in daily internal communication and visitor engagement.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas like advanced information graphics, motion graphics, or specialized event photography within a military context.

• Project Leadership: Potential to take on lead roles for specific design projects or campaigns, managing smaller components of larger communication efforts.

• Cross-Functional Training: Exposure to other communication disciplines within the Public Affairs Office, such as writing, editing, or social media management, could lead to broader skill development.

• Career Advancement within FedWriters: As a growing company and Top Workplace, FedWriters likely offers internal promotion paths, potentially into senior designer roles, team lead positions, or project management opportunities within their government contracting portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in this role is likely to be incremental, focusing on mastering the specific needs of the CGSC and government contracting environment. Advancement might involve taking on more complex projects, leading smaller initiatives, or transitioning into roles with broader oversight within FedWriters' service offerings.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This position is based on-site at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, within the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. The work environment will be professional and likely integrated within a military or government administrative setting.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Fort Leavenworth, KS. This is a U.S. Army installation, requiring adherence to base access procedures and security protocols.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role involves close collaboration with the CGSC Public Affairs Office and other college staff, suggesting a team-oriented atmosphere.

• Tools and Technology: Access to professional design software (Adobe Creative Suite), office productivity tools (Microsoft Office), photography equipment, and a digital signage system will be provided.

• Team Interaction: Daily interaction with colleagues in the Public Affairs office and other CGSC departments will be integral to project execution and information gathering.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with flexibility for occasional evening or weekend event support. This structured schedule is typical for government-contracted positions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Working on a military installation means adhering to specific protocols, dress codes (if applicable), and security requirements. The environment will be professional and mission-focused, with a strong emphasis on supporting the educational and operational needs of the college.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Your resume and cover letter will be screened for minimum qualifications, including experience and software proficiency.

• Portfolio Submission & Review: Candidates will be required to submit a portfolio demonstrating graphic design and photography work. This is a critical step. The hiring team will assess the quality, relevance, and breadth of your work.

• Skills Assessment/Technical Interview: Expect a discussion or practical exercise focused on your proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, your understanding of design principles, and your ability to handle specific design challenges relevant to the role (e.g., designing an infographic from provided data, discussing photo editing techniques).

• Behavioral & Situational Interview: Questions will assess your ability to manage deadlines, work collaboratively, handle feedback, and adapt to the specific environment of a government institution. Prepare to discuss your experience with AP Stylebook, event coverage, and problem-solving.

• Background Check & Suitability Determination: Successful candidates will undergo a background check to obtain the required Tier 1 (T1) suitability determination.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select your strongest, most relevant work. For this role, include examples of print collateral, information graphics, and event photography. If you have experience with digital signage content, include that.

• Demonstrate Process: For 1-2 key projects, briefly explain your design process: the brief, your creative approach, challenges faced, and how you achieved the final outcome. This shows your problem-solving skills.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates your proficiency with Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator.

• Showcase Versatility: Include a range of projects that illustrate your ability to adapt to different styles and requirements, while also maintaining brand consistency where applicable.

• Quantify Impact (If Possible): While difficult for design, if a project had a specific measurable outcome (e.g., increased attendance at an event due to flyer design), mention it.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Exercise: Be prepared for a short design challenge, possibly involving creating a simple infographic from provided data or mock-up a brochure layout. Focus on clarity, visual hierarchy, and adherence to any given guidelines.

• Photography Scenario: You might be asked how you would approach photographing a specific type of event or how you would edit a particular set of images for publication.

• Style Guide Application: Practice applying AP Stylebook rules to text and consider how you'd ensure visual consistency with military branding guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process heavily relies on portfolio assessment. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their design choices and processes in detail. The background check and suitability determination are non-negotiable requirements for working on base.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design & Production Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:

  • Adobe Photoshop: Essential for photo editing, manipulation, and asset creation. Expect to use it for retouching event photos, creating digital assets, and preparing images for print and web.
  • Adobe InDesign: Crucial for layout and design of printed materials such as brochures, flyers, programs, and reports. Proficiency in creating multi-page documents and managing typography is key.
  • Adobe Illustrator: Used for creating vector graphics, logos, icons, and detailed illustrations, particularly important for information graphics and clean design elements.

• Microsoft Office Suite:

  • Microsoft Word: Likely used for content creation, editing, and basic document formatting, especially for incorporating text into designs or preparing text for print. Adherence to AP Stylebook will be critical.
  • Microsoft Publisher: May be used for simpler print layouts or as an alternative to InDesign for certain types of collateral.

Photography & Asset Management:

• Digital Camera Equipment: Professional-grade DSLR or mirrorless camera, lenses, lighting equipment (as needed for events).

• DVIDS (Defense Visual Information Distribution Service): This is the official platform for distributing official military photos and videos. Experience with or quick learning ability for DVIDS is expected for uploading and managing photographic assets.

• Digital Asset Management (DAM) System: While not explicitly mentioned, maintaining an organized digital archive implies a systematic approach to file storage, naming conventions, and retrieval, which may involve using internal server structures or basic DAM principles.

Information Display Systems:

• Digital Signage Software: Familiarity with software used to manage and schedule content on digital displays. This could include platforms like BrightSign, Scala, or proprietary systems.

• AV Display Systems: Basic understanding of how AV systems function to ensure smooth operation of the information display.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. Experience with DVIDs is a significant advantage. The ability to quickly learn and adapt to specific digital signage software used by the college will be important.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality, professional work that meets or exceeds client expectations, particularly within the context of government service.

• Accuracy and Integrity: Upholding the highest standards of accuracy in all visual and written content, ensuring information is reliable and ethically presented. This aligns with military precision and public affairs responsibilities.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working effectively with colleagues in the Public Affairs Office and across the college to achieve common goals and support the mission.

• Adaptability and Responsiveness: The ability to adapt to changing project needs, tight deadlines, and evolving requirements inherent in supporting a dynamic educational and military environment.

• Professionalism: Maintaining a professional demeanor, appearance, and work ethic at all times, reflecting positively on both FedWriters and the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect to work closely with writers, editors, and public affairs specialists to ensure visual content complements written narratives and strategic communication goals.

• Feedback Loops: A culture where constructive feedback is shared and received openly to refine designs and photographic outputs, ensuring they meet client objectives.

• Proactive Communication: Regularly communicating project status, potential challenges, and needs with supervisors and stakeholders to ensure smooth project flow and timely delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is likely driven by a blend of corporate professionalism (FedWriters) and the mission-oriented, structured environment of a military institution. Values will center on reliability, quality, and effective communication, with a strong emphasis on serving the needs of the college.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Strict Deadlines & High Volume: The role requires producing a consistent volume of high-quality work under tight deadlines, especially for event photography and time-sensitive print materials.

• Navigating Government Protocols: Adapting to specific government or military branding guidelines, security requirements, and approval processes can be complex.

• Balancing Creativity with Constraints: Fulfilling creative vision while adhering to strict style guides, official protocols, and the specific mission of a military educational institution.

• Technical Hurdles: Troubleshooting issues with design software, photography equipment, or digital display systems to ensure uninterrupted workflow.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Software Proficiency: Deepening expertise in Adobe Creative Suite and potentially learning new design or asset management tools relevant to government operations.

• Military & Government Communications: Gaining invaluable experience and insight into the unique communication strategies, protocols, and visual language of the U.S. military and government.

• Event Photography Expertise: Enhancing skills in capturing formal ceremonies, candid moments, and high-profile visits within a structured, often fast-paced, event environment.

• Information Graphics Development: Growing proficiency in data visualization and the creation of complex infographics that simplify and communicate critical information.

• Career Path Expansion: Potential to explore roles in project management, lead design positions, or other communication disciplines within FedWriters' broader contract portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary growth path involves mastering the specific demands of the CGSC environment and FedWriters' government contracting model. Challenges are opportunities to hone skills in efficiency, accuracy, and adaptability under pressure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for designing a print brochure from initial concept to final delivery, including how you manage feedback and deadlines." (Focus on workflow, communication, and project management.)

• "How do you approach capturing impactful photographs at a formal event like a graduation ceremony, and what is your process for post-production and delivery?" (Highlight technical skills, attention to detail, and understanding of event needs.)

• "You're given raw data for an infographic. Walk me through your steps for transforming that data into a clear, visually appealing graphic." (Demonstrate data interpretation, design thinking, and tool proficiency.)

• "How do you ensure brand consistency and accuracy when working on materials for a client with established style guides and protocols, such as a military institution?" (Emphasize attention to detail, research, and adherence to guidelines.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for FedWriters and specifically supporting the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College?" (Show research into the company and the client's mission.)

• "Describe a time you had to work under a tight deadline. How did you manage your workload and ensure quality?" (Assess time management and resilience.)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your designs?" (Evaluate openness to feedback and collaboration.)

• "What are your thoughts on working in a government or military environment, and what do you see as its unique aspects?" (Gauge understanding and adaptability.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each piece or project in your portfolio, briefly explain the objective, your role, your creative process, the tools used, and the outcome.

• Highlight Relevance: Emphasize projects that best align with the responsibilities of this role – print design, information graphics, and event photography.

• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Be ready to speak about your mastery of Adobe Creative Suite and how you leverage its features.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Discuss any challenges you encountered with a project and how you overcame them.

• Be Prepared for "Live" Tasks: If a design exercise is given, approach it systematically, articulate your thought process, and manage your time effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will heavily scrutinize your portfolio and your ability to articulate your design process and problem-solving skills. Be prepared to discuss your experience with government or military clients, if any, and demonstrate a strong understanding of visual storytelling and technical execution.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided careers link on the FedWriters website.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight your strongest examples of print design, information graphics, and event photography. Prioritize work that demonstrates proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite and adherence to style guides.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your years of experience in graphic design and photography, explicitly listing your proficiency with Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, and Microsoft Office (Word/Publisher). Highlight any experience supporting government or public affairs organizations.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, explaining your creative choices, and discussing your experience with deadlines and client feedback. Be ready to discuss your understanding of AP Stylebook and visual storytelling.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with FedWriters, Inc., its mission, and its recognition as a Top Workplace. Research the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College's mission and values to understand the context of your potential work.

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