Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Gormat

Location: Annapolis Junction, MD 20701

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Design / Government Contracting

Date Posted: 2026-08-31

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design, develop, and create innovative visual concepts and graphics to elevate brand presence across all client communications.

• Translate complex technical data, policy documents, and strategic initiatives into clear, engaging, and highly accessible visual products.

• Ensure all digital deliverables strictly adhere to Section 508 and ADA accessibility mandates.

• Lead the design and layout of high-profile agency publications and executive-level presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Graphic Designer," the detailed responsibilities and required skills, particularly concerning Section 508 compliance, data visualization for government data, and federal design standards, indicate a specialized role within government contracting. This is not a general graphic design position but one focused on technical and accessible communication for government clients. The emphasis on "translating complex technical data" and "making dense government data easily understandable" suggests a strong need for data visualization expertise.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Section 508 Compliance: Guarantee 100% adherence of all digital deliverables (PDFs, presentations, web graphics) to Section 508 and ADA accessibility guidelines through advanced remediation techniques.

• Information & Data Architecture: Conceptualize and design complex infographics, technical diagrams, charts, and maps that effectively communicate dense government data to diverse audiences.

• Publication & Report Layout: Oversee the end-to-end design, typesetting, and formatting process for critical agency deliverables, including detailed reports and strategic briefings, ensuring professional and impactful presentation.

• Brand Stewardship: Uphold and rigorously enforce customer branding guidelines, ensuring the correct and consistent application of official seals, logos, typography, and color palettes.

• Multimedia Content Creation: Develop high-impact visual assets for executive-level presentations, primarily utilizing Microsoft PowerPoint, to convey key messages effectively.

• Stakeholder Collaboration: Engage directly with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), writers, and Public Affairs Officers to collaboratively refine design concepts and finalize external-facing materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a strong focus on government-specific design standards and accessibility, which are critical for this role. The mention of "complex infographics," "technical diagrams," and "dense government data" points towards a need for advanced data visualization skills beyond standard graphic design. The requirement for "strict customer branding guidelines" and "official seals" highlights the importance of brand integrity in a government contracting context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, Visual Communications, or a closely related field.

Experience: A minimum of 7 years of professional design experience, with government contracting experience being a strong preference. The AI-derived experience level of 5-10 years is consistent with the listed requirements.

Required Skills:

• Advanced Adobe Creative Cloud Proficiency: Expert-level command of InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, and Acrobat Pro.

• Microsoft Office Suite Expertise: Advanced proficiency in PowerPoint and Word for presentation and document design.

• Section 508 & ADA Compliance: Proven experience and deep understanding of accessibility standards for digital content, including practical application using Adobe Acrobat Pro for remediation (tagging, reading order, alt text verification).

• Data Visualization & Infographics: Demonstrated ability to design clear, compelling infographics, technical diagrams, charts, and maps that simplify complex data.

• Publication & Layout Design: Strong skills in typesetting, layout, and print production for reports and briefing materials.

• Brand Management: Ability to maintain and enforce strict brand guidelines, including logo usage and color palettes.

• Asset Management: Solid understanding of copyright laws, public domain sourcing, and secure digital asset management practices.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with HTML/CSS or UI/UX design, particularly for government web portals.

• Prior experience working within the Department of Defense (DoD) or Department of the Navy (DoW) design ecosystem.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills highlight a specialized blend of creative design, technical proficiency, and regulatory compliance. The emphasis on Section 508 and ADA accessibility, along with tools like Adobe Acrobat Pro for remediation, is crucial. The preference for DoD/DoW experience suggests the client may be a government agency or a prime contractor serving these sectors.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Data Visualization Case Studies: Showcase at least 2-3 projects demonstrating the ability to translate complex data into clear, accessible infographics, charts, or diagrams. Highlight the process from data interpretation to final visual output.

• Section 508 Compliant Deliverables: Include examples of accessible PDFs or presentations, detailing the specific steps taken to ensure compliance (e.g., tagging, alt text, reading order).

• Publication Design Samples: Present examples of report layouts, brochures, or briefing materials that demonstrate strong typography, layout skills, and adherence to brand guidelines.

• Brand Application Examples: Illustrate how you've applied and maintained brand standards, including logo usage, color palettes, and typography, across various collateral.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Optimization: Be prepared to discuss your design process, from initial concept and client brief to final delivery, emphasizing how you ensure efficiency and quality.

• Accessibility Remediation Process: Articulate your methodology for ensuring Section 508 compliance, including specific tool usage and quality assurance checks.

• Stakeholder Feedback Integration: Describe how you incorporate feedback from Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), writers, and clients to refine designs and ensure accuracy and clarity.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this nature, a portfolio is paramount. It needs to go beyond aesthetic appeal and demonstrate technical capability in data visualization, accessibility, and brand adherence. Candidates should be ready to discuss their design process and how they manage complex projects with strict requirements.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the location (Annapolis Junction, MD), experience level (7+ years), and the specialized nature of government contracting with TS/SCI clearance, a competitive salary range is estimated to be between $80,000 to $110,000 annually. This estimate considers the higher demand for cleared professionals and the specialized skill set required, including Section 508 compliance and data visualization.

Benefits: While specific benefits are not detailed in the provided information, typical offerings for full-time positions in government contracting often include:

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• Retirement Savings Plan (e.g., 401(k) with company match)

• Paid Time Off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays

• Life Insurance and Disability Coverage

• Professional Development and Training Opportunities

• Potential for Bonuses and Performance Incentives

• Tuition Reimbursement

Working Hours: The role specifies 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time position. Given the on-site requirement and the nature of government contracting, flexibility may be limited, but adherence to standard business hours (e.g., 9 AM - 5 PM EST) is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on market data for Graphic Designers with significant experience in government contracting, particularly in the Maryland area which has a high concentration of federal agencies and defense contractors. The TS/SCI clearance requirement significantly increases the compensation potential. Benefits are inferred based on industry standards for full-time roles in this sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government Contracting / Professional Services. Gormat likely provides specialized support services to government agencies, requiring adherence to strict compliance, security, and branding standards.

Company Size: The applicant tracking system (ATS) source suggests Gormat is a professional organization. Without specific data, we infer a company size that can support specialized roles like this, potentially ranging from small to medium-sized (50-500 employees) or a larger organization with dedicated government contracting divisions.

Founded: Information not provided.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of a communications, marketing, or program support team.

• They will report to a Creative Lead, Communications Manager, or Program Manager.

• Close collaboration is expected with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), writers, Public Affairs Officers, and potentially project managers. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using data to inform visual design decisions and create clear, impactful graphics.

• Compliance-First Approach: Rigorous adherence to government standards, particularly Section 508 and ADA accessibility.

• Brand Consistency: Maintaining strict brand integrity across all client deliverables.

• Agile Collaboration: Working closely with cross-functional teams to iterate on designs and meet project deadlines.

Company Website: https://gormat.net (inferred from gormat.applicantpro.com and gormat.net domain)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on government contracting is a critical aspect of its culture. This implies a highly structured, process-oriented environment where compliance, security, and client satisfaction are paramount. The graphic design role is not just about aesthetics but about effective, compliant communication for government clients.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-to-senior level Graphic Designer. The requirement for 7+ years of experience, advanced software proficiency, and the ability to handle complex, compliant projects indicates a significant level of expertise and autonomy.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a manager or lead within a communications, creative, or program support department. They will collaborate closely with various internal teams and external stakeholders (SMEs, clients).

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's impact is critical for enhancing the clarity and effectiveness of government communications. By translating complex information into accessible visuals, they directly contribute to better understanding, decision-making, and adherence to regulatory requirements for government agencies. Their work ensures that vital information is communicated accurately and compliantly.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in data visualization, Section 508 compliance, or specific government agency branding standards.

• Leadership: Potentially move into a Senior Graphic Designer role, Lead Designer, or Creative Director position within Gormat or a related government contracting firm.

• Project Management: Develop skills in managing design projects, client relationships, and team coordination.

• Cross-functional Skills: Gain experience in UI/UX design or web development if pursuing preferred skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Graphic Designer in government contracting often involves specialization in areas like technical illustration, data visualization, or accessibility compliance, leading to senior or lead roles. The TS/SCI clearance is a significant asset for career advancement within the defense and intelligence sectors.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, meaning the Graphic Designer will be working from Gormat's office in Annapolis Junction, MD. This environment typically fosters direct collaboration and access to necessary resources.

Office Location(s): Annapolis Junction, MD 20701. This location is within the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area, a hub for government agencies and defense contractors, offering good accessibility.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The on-site nature facilitates direct interaction with colleagues, including writers, SMEs, and project managers, crucial for iterative design processes.

• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary hardware, software (Adobe Creative Cloud, Microsoft Office), and potentially secure network infrastructure for handling sensitive government information.

• Information Security: Given the TS/SCI clearance requirement, the workspace will likely adhere to strict security protocols for handling classified or sensitive information.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, likely aligning with typical government contractor business hours (e.g., 8 AM - 5 PM EST or 9 AM - 5 PM EST) to ensure collaboration with government clients and internal teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is significant. It suggests that the nature of the work, potentially involving classified information or close collaboration with government personnel, necessitates a physical presence. Candidates should be prepared for a structured work environment with established protocols.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and security clearance status.

• Technical/Portfolio Review: A meeting with the hiring manager or design lead to review the candidate's portfolio. Be prepared to discuss specific projects, your design process, and how you meet the requirements for data visualization and Section 508 compliance.

• Skills Assessment/Challenge: Potentially a practical design exercise or a case study presentation focusing on translating technical data or creating an accessible deliverable.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members or other stakeholders to assess collaboration style and cultural alignment.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior management.

• Security Clearance Verification: Background checks and adjudication for the TS/SCI clearance.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best highlight data visualization, Section 508 compliance, and publication design.

• Tell the Story: For each project, explain the problem, your role, the process, the tools used, the challenges overcome, and the final outcome/impact.

• Quantify Achievements: If possible, use metrics to demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs (e.g., improved clarity, successful accessibility audits).

• Highlight Accessibility: Clearly demonstrate your understanding and application of Section 508 and ADA guidelines within your work.

• Be Ready for Technical Questions: Expect questions about your proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud, Acrobat Pro, and your approach to complex design challenges.

Challenge Preparation:

• Data Interpretation: Practice analyzing and visualizing different types of data.

• Accessibility Application: Familiarize yourself with common Section 508 issues and remediation techniques.

• Brand Adherence: Be prepared to apply specific branding guidelines to a given brief.

• Concise Communication: Practice explaining your design decisions and processes clearly and efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The security clearance requirement means the interview process will likely be thorough and involve multiple stages. The portfolio review is critical, and candidates must be prepared to demonstrate practical skills in data visualization and accessibility, not just theoretical knowledge.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud: Essential proficiency in InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop for all graphic design tasks.

• Adobe Acrobat Pro: Critical for PDF creation, editing, and essential for Section 508 remediation (tagging, accessibility checks).

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced skills in PowerPoint for executive presentations and Word for document design and layout.

Analytics & Reporting: While not explicitly mentioned, experience with tools that help visualize data (e.g., basic charting functions within Adobe Illustrator or Excel) would be beneficial.

CRM & Automation: Not directly relevant to this role.

Other Potential Tools:

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Asana, Trello, or Jira may be helpful for managing design workflows.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams or Slack for internal communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements are heavily focused on the Adobe Creative Cloud suite and Microsoft PowerPoint. The explicit mention of Adobe Acrobat Pro for Section 508 remediation highlights its importance beyond standard PDF handling.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality, error-free work that meets stringent government standards.

• Integrity and Compliance: Upholding ethical standards and adhering strictly to all regulations, including security protocols and accessibility mandates.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Working effectively with diverse teams to achieve common goals.

• Innovation within Constraints: Finding creative solutions while operating within defined brand and regulatory frameworks.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and ensuring satisfaction through clear, impactful communication.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires close partnership with writers, SMEs, and public affairs specialists to ensure technical accuracy and effective communication.

• Feedback-Driven Process: An iterative design approach where feedback from stakeholders is actively sought and incorporated.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing best practices, especially regarding design techniques, accessibility standards, and efficient workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture will likely be professional, structured, and mission-oriented, reflecting the nature of government contracting. The emphasis will be on reliability, accuracy, and adherence to protocols, balanced with creative problem-solving.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Compliance: Designing visually appealing graphics while strictly adhering to Section 508 accessibility standards and federal branding guidelines.

• Translating Technical Complexity: Effectively simplifying highly technical or policy-related information into easily understandable visuals for diverse audiences.

• Working within Strict Brand Guidelines: Maintaining brand integrity for government clients, which often involves precise rules for logo usage, typography, and color.

• Security Clearance Requirements: Navigating the rigorous process and maintaining the TS/SCI clearance, which may involve ongoing monitoring and compliance.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Accessibility Training: Deepen expertise in Section 508 and ADA compliance, potentially leading to certifications.

• Data Visualization Specialization: Pursue training or certifications in advanced data visualization techniques and tools.

• Government Design Standards: Gain in-depth knowledge of specific agency design manuals and protocols.

• UI/UX Fundamentals: Explore training in UI/UX design to enhance web-related graphic design capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges revolve around the unique constraints of government design work: strict compliance, complex subject matter, and defined branding. Growth opportunities lie in specializing within these areas or expanding into related digital design fields.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for ensuring Section 508 compliance in your design work. What tools do you use?" (Focus on practical application, specific software features, and your methodology.)

• "How do you approach translating complex technical data into an infographic or visual representation? Walk us through a relevant project from your portfolio." (Prepare a detailed case study demonstrating data interpretation, design choices, and outcome.)

• "Imagine you need to design a presentation slide for a government executive. What are the key considerations for clarity, impact, and brand adherence?" (Discuss principles of executive communication, visual hierarchy, and brand consistency.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Gormat and specifically within the government contracting sector?" (Research Gormat's mission and connect it to your career goals.)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your designs, especially from Subject Matter Experts who may have different perspectives?" (Emphasize your collaborative and adaptable approach.)

• "How do you stay updated on design trends, accessibility standards, and government design requirements?" (Showcase your commitment to continuous learning.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type (e.g., Data Visualization, Accessible Documents, Publications) or by client/agency if relevant.

• Narrative: For each selected project, clearly articulate the client's need, your role, the challenges, your design process, the specific tools and techniques used, and the final impact or outcome.

• Highlight Compliance: Explicitly point out how your work meets Section 508 and ADA standards. Show examples of inaccessible vs. accessible versions if possible.

• Demonstrate Data Skills: Explain your thought process behind choosing specific chart types, color palettes, and data organization for clarity.

• Be Ready for Live Edits: In some cases, you might be asked to make minor edits or demonstrate proficiency with a specific tool during the interview.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on practical application of skills, especially data visualization and accessibility. Candidates must be ready to articulate their process and demonstrate their understanding of government-specific requirements.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on gormat.applicantpro.com.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to prominently feature your experience in data visualization, Section 508 compliance, and publication design, using keywords from the job description.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your years of experience, proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft Office, and any relevant government contracting or DoD/DoW experience.

• Prepare Your Narrative: Practice walking through 2-3 key portfolio projects, focusing on the problem, your solution, and the impact, particularly regarding accessibility and data clarity.

• Research Gormat: Understand the company's mission and its role in government contracting to articulate your 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.