Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Kimley-Horn

Location: Greenwood Village, Colorado, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Marketing & Design Operations

Date Posted: May 07, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design visually compelling graphics, layouts, and templates for proposals, reports, and marketing collateral to enhance client communication and brand perception.

• Develop engaging multimedia presentations and digital assets, including e-blasts and social media content, to support marketing initiatives and internal communications.

• Produce detailed visual aids such as before-and-after photo simulations and aerial map exhibits, requiring precision and adherence to technical specifications.

• Manage large-format printing production and ensure all digital and print materials align with corporate and client branding guidelines.

• Collaborate effectively within a specialized marketing and design team, interacting with engineers and project managers to translate technical information into clear visual narratives.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Graphic Designer," the responsibilities, particularly "Design covers, templates, layouts, and supporting graphics for proposals and reports" and "Interact with engineers, project managers, and technical staff," strongly indicate a role within a GTM (Go-To-Market) or Marketing Operations function, specifically supporting proposal development and client-facing documentation. The emphasis on "working within corporate and client branding guidelines" further solidifies this connection to operational marketing execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design high-impact covers, templates, and layouts for proposals and technical reports, ensuring visual appeal and adherence to brand standards.

• Create dynamic presentations and multimedia graphics that effectively communicate complex information to internal and external stakeholders.

• Develop precise before-and-after photo simulations and illustrative aerial map exhibits for project documentation and client proposals.

• Produce a variety of marketing collateral, including unique brochures (print and digital), trade show graphics, e-blast campaigns, and social media graphics.

• Manage the process for large-format printing and production, ensuring quality and timely delivery of physical materials.

• Thrive within a large, specialized creative marketing team, contributing to a collaborative and innovative design environment.

• Engage with engineers, project managers, and technical staff to understand project requirements and translate them into effective visual designs.

• Strictly adhere to and implement corporate and client branding guidelines across all design outputs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed, such as "Design covers, templates, layouts, and supporting graphics for proposals and reports" and "Create presentations and multimedia graphics," are core to supporting Sales Operations and GTM functions. The ability to "Interact with engineers, project managers, and technical staff" highlights the need for strong cross-functional communication, a hallmark of effective operations roles that bridge technical and creative teams.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

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

Experience: 0-2 years of professional graphic design experience, with a demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.

Required Skills:

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

• Strong command of Adobe Acrobat for document management and optimization.

• Expertise in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint), as the company operates on a PC-based system.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration with diverse teams.

• Professional demeanor with a positive, solution-seeking attitude and a high degree of personal responsibility.

• Proven ability to manage simultaneous, varied assignments under tight deadlines while maintaining consistent quality and accuracy.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with video filming/editing and/or motion graphics creation.

• Familiarity with Adobe Premiere, Adobe After Effects, 3DS Max, or Sketchup.

• Web design experience, with a preference for WordPress proficiency and knowledge of HTML/CSS.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on InDesign for "layout of complex documents" and the need to "Interact with engineers, project managers, and technical staff" suggest this role is crucial for operationalizing the creation of detailed proposals and reports, a key GTM and Sales Operations support function. The preferred skills in video and web design indicate a growing need for dynamic content creation within marketing operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated online portfolio showcasing a range of design projects, demonstrating proficiency in layout design, branding, and visual communication.

• Specific examples of complex document layouts (e.g., proposals, reports) created using Adobe InDesign.

• Demonstrations of multimedia graphics, social media content, or e-blast designs that highlight engagement and brand alignment.

• Visualizations such as photo simulations or map exhibits, if applicable, to showcase technical illustration capabilities.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to follow established design workflows and production processes efficiently.

• Documentation of how design projects are initiated, developed, and finalized to meet client and internal deadlines.

• Understanding of the print production process and how to prepare files for large-format printing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for an "online portfolio" is critical for operations roles that involve tangible output. For this Graphic Designer role supporting GTM, the portfolio should emphasize the ability to translate complex technical information into clear, branded visual assets, particularly for proposals and reports, highlighting process efficiency and visual storytelling.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $67,000 - $72,000 annually, commensurate with applicable experience.

Benefits:

• Exceptional Retirement Plan: A generous 2-to-1 company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus), plus an additional profit-sharing contribution.

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options for employees and their families.

• Work-Life Balance: Generous personal leave, flexible scheduling options, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays to promote well-being.

• Financial Wellness: Student loan matching within the 401(k) plan and performance-based bonuses to support financial goals.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs to foster continuous learning and skill enhancement.

• Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and access to childcare resources to support employees through major life events.

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility to periodically work outside normal working hours as required for business needs, particularly to meet project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is consistent with entry-level to junior graphic design positions in a high-cost-of-living area like Denver, Colorado. The extensive benefits package, including a strong retirement match and work-life balance initiatives like half-day Fridays, reflects a company culture that values employee well-being and long-term commitment, which is attractive for operations professionals seeking stability and support.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Consulting, and Design Services (specifically within the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction - AEC sector).

Company Size: Kimley-Horn is a large, established firm, indicated by its consistent placement on Fortune's "100 Best Companies to Work" list for 19 years. This suggests a stable, well-resourced organization with a structured approach to operations and employee development.

Founded: Kimley-Horn was founded in 1945, indicating a long history of expertise and a robust business model.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of the Regional Marketing & Graphic Design team, which implies a specialized, centralized function supporting multiple business units or project teams.

• This team likely operates within a larger Marketing department, with potential reporting lines to a Marketing Manager or Director.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: While not explicit, the interaction with technical staff and the creation of "before-and-after photo simulations and aerial map exhibits" suggest a need for designs grounded in factual data and technical accuracy.

• Workflow Optimization: The emphasis on "handling simultaneous, varied assignments while providing consistent quality and accuracy" points to a need for efficient design processes and project management.

• Brand Consistency: A core methodology involves strict adherence to "corporate and client branding guidelines," ensuring a unified and professional brand image across all communications.

Company Website: www.kimley-horn.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Kimley-Horn's strong presence in the AEC industry, coupled with its long history and recognition as a top employer, suggests a professional, process-oriented environment. For a Graphic Designer, this means working within established frameworks and contributing to the operational efficiency of marketing and proposal development, rather than a purely experimental creative role.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an Entry-Level to Junior Graphic Designer (0-2 years of experience). It serves as a foundational role within the marketing and design operations of the firm, focusing on executing established design principles and processes.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a manager within the Regional Marketing & Graphic Design team. This team likely collaborates closely with project managers and technical leads across various engineering disciplines.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the firm's ability to win new business by creating compelling and professional proposals and marketing materials. High-quality visuals enhance client perception of Kimley-Horn's expertise and attention to detail, contributing to overall brand reputation and sales effectiveness.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Potential to deepen expertise in specific areas like proposal design, multimedia development, or motion graphics through project experience and internal training.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Opportunity to learn about different engineering disciplines and project types by working closely with technical teams, potentially leading to roles with broader strategic design involvement.

• Advancement within Marketing: Progression to Senior Graphic Designer, Lead Designer, or even roles within Marketing Operations or Project Management where design expertise is a valuable asset.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an operations-focused role, growth often involves mastering specific processes and systems, and this role offers that path. The ability to become proficient in proposal-specific design and technical visualization can lead to specialized career tracks within GTM operations, where visual communication is critical for bid success.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an office-based opportunity located in Greenwood Village, CO. The description implies a professional office setting conducive to collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): 6200 South Syracuse Way, Suite 300, Greenwood Village, CO. This is a specific, established office location.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires interaction with engineers, project managers, and technical staff, indicating a collaborative workspace where designers work alongside other professionals.

• Technology Focused: As a PC-based company leveraging Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft Office, the workspace will be equipped with the necessary technology and software for design and communication.

• Team Interaction: Being part of a "large, creative, and specialized marketing team" suggests opportunities for regular interaction, feedback, and knowledge sharing with fellow designers.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is likely 40 hours per week, but the role requires "flexibility to periodically work outside normal working hours and travel, as required for business needs." This adaptability is common in operations roles supporting client-facing deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and emphasis on collaboration are key for operations roles that benefit from direct team interaction and access to resources. The mention of PC-based systems and specific software reinforces the operational context of the role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process: While not explicitly detailed, a typical process for a Graphic Designer role at a firm like Kimley-Horn would likely include:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and design aesthetic.

• Skills Assessment: A potential design exercise or portfolio review session focusing on technical skills and problem-solving abilities.

• Behavioral/Situational Interviews: Interviews with hiring managers and team members to evaluate communication skills, ability to work under pressure, and cultural fit.

• Final Interview: Discussions with senior leadership to confirm alignment with company values and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Proposal/Report Design: Prioritize examples of complex layouts, proposals, or technical reports that demonstrate your ability to organize information clearly and professionally.

• Highlight Brand Adherence: Include projects where you successfully applied existing branding guidelines, showcasing your understanding of brand consistency.

• Demonstrate Technical Skills: Feature work that utilizes InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator effectively, and if applicable, showcase any video editing or motion graphics experience.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): While difficult for design, mention any projects that were part of a successful bid or marketing campaign.

• Ensure Accessibility: Provide a clear, working link to your online portfolio and ensure it is well-organized and easy to navigate.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Exercise: Be prepared for a potential design challenge that might involve creating a graphic for a hypothetical proposal, report section, or social media post, testing your ability to work within constraints and time limits.

• Software Proficiency: Refresh your skills in InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator, focusing on features relevant to layout and image manipulation.

• Company Research: Understand Kimley-Horn's services and typical project types to better tailor your portfolio and responses to their industry context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and the potential for a design challenge are standard for creative operations roles. Candidates should focus on demonstrating their ability to execute within established frameworks and contribute to the operational efficiency of the marketing and proposal generation process.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud:

  • InDesign: Essential for layout of complex documents like proposals, reports, and brochures. Proficiency in features like master pages, styles, and pre-flighting is key.
  • Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, and creation of digital assets.
  • Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, icons, and complex illustrations.

• Microsoft Office Suite:

  • Word: For document integration and text formatting.
  • PowerPoint: For presentation design and multimedia integration.

• Adobe Acrobat: For PDF creation, editing, and optimization, crucial for proposal and report distribution.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• WordPress (Preferred): For web design elements, indicating a need for understanding digital content integration.

• HTML/CSS (Preferred): For web design contributions and understanding digital asset creation.

Other Potential Tools (Preferred):

• Adobe Premiere: For video editing.

• Adobe After Effects: For motion graphics and animation.

• 3DS Max / Sketchup: For 3D modeling and rendering (potentially for photo simulations).

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Adobe CC and Microsoft Office Suite, alongside specific software like InDesign for complex layouts, strongly defines the technical requirements for this role within a GTM operations context. Proficiency in these tools is non-negotiable for efficient production of client-facing materials.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Accuracy: A strong emphasis on providing "consistent quality and accuracy" in all assignments, reflecting a commitment to operational excellence.

• Responsibility & Proactivity: A "high sense of personal responsibility" and a "solution-seeking attitude" are valued, indicating a culture where team members take ownership and are proactive in problem-solving.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: The role requires thriving "as part of a large, creative, and specialized marketing team" and interacting with technical staff, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts.

• Adaptability & Flexibility: The need for "flexibility to periodically work outside normal working hours" and handling "simultaneous, varied assignments" points to a dynamic environment that values adaptability.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The Graphic Designer will work closely with engineers, project managers, and technical staff, requiring an ability to translate technical concepts into visual designs and communicate effectively across different expertise levels.

• Process-Oriented: The emphasis on corporate branding guidelines and efficient handling of assignments suggests a structured approach to collaboration, where established processes are followed.

• Feedback Exchange: Implicit in a creative team environment is an openness to feedback and iterative design processes to achieve the best outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Kimley-Horn's stated values of quality, responsibility, and collaboration are crucial for operations roles. A graphic designer in this context must not only be creative but also highly organized, process-driven, and adept at working within a team structure to support the firm's business objectives.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Constraints: The primary challenge will be to maintain creative output while strictly adhering to corporate branding guidelines and tight deadlines for proposals and technical documents.

• Translating Technical Concepts: Effectively visualizing complex engineering concepts and data for a diverse audience requires strong communication and design interpretation skills.

• Managing Multiple Assignments: Juggling simultaneous, varied projects with different stakeholders and deadlines demands exceptional organizational and time management skills.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Staying current with design software updates and emerging visual communication trends (e.g., motion graphics, interactive design) while fulfilling core duties.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Design Skills: Deepen expertise in proposal design, data visualization, and multimedia production through hands-on experience and company training.

• Industry Knowledge: Gain exposure to the AEC industry, understanding project lifecycles and client needs, which can inform design strategy.

• Software Proficiency: Opportunities to master advanced features of Adobe Creative Cloud and potentially learn new software like After Effects or 3DS Max.

• Career Progression: Potential to move into senior design roles, lead design projects, or transition into related operational roles within marketing or project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the operational nature of this role – it's not just about artistic expression but about efficient, accurate, and compliant design execution in support of business goals. Growth opportunities are tied to mastering these operational aspects and expanding technical capabilities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to create a design under tight constraints (e.g., strict branding guidelines, short deadline). How did you manage it?"

  • Preparation: Prepare a specific example showcasing your ability to balance creativity with limitations, emphasizing your process for organization and quality assurance.

• "How do you approach translating complex technical information into visually understandable graphics?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your process for understanding technical details, identifying key messages, and choosing appropriate visual elements (charts, diagrams, simulations). Have portfolio examples ready that demonstrate this skill.

• "Walk me through a project in your portfolio that you are particularly proud of, focusing on the process and the outcome."

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Kimley-Horn, specifically within our marketing and design team?"

  • Preparation: Research Kimley-Horn's projects, values, and recent news. Connect your skills and career aspirations to their work in the AEC industry and their reputation as a top employer.

• "How do you handle feedback or revisions on your designs, especially from non-designers like engineers or project managers?"

  • Preparation: Emphasize your collaborative approach, active listening skills, and ability to incorporate feedback constructively while maintaining design integrity.

• "What are your salary expectations for this role?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Relevant Projects: Focus on 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your skills in proposal design, complex document layout, and visual communication for technical audiences.

• Explain Your Process: For each project, articulate the brief, your problem-solving approach, the tools you used, and the reasoning behind your design choices.

• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your command of InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator, and how you leverage their features for efficiency and quality.

• Demonstrate Brand Understanding: Explain how you applied or adapted branding guidelines in your work.

• Be Ready for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your workflow, how you handle challenges, and your understanding of the AEC industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just creative talent but also operational discipline, process adherence, and the ability to collaborate effectively within a structured corporate environment. The portfolio is key to substantiating these claims.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Kimley-Horn careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your online portfolio is up-to-date and prominently features projects that highlight your experience with complex document layouts (proposals, reports), branding adherence, and visual communication for technical audiences. Tailor your selection to align with Kimley-Horn's work in the AEC industry.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud (especially InDesign), Microsoft Office Suite, and any relevant preferred skills (video editing, web design). Use keywords from the job description and quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Designed X number of proposals per quarter," "Contributed to Y marketing campaigns").

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, how you handle feedback, and your experience working with technical teams. Prepare specific examples for behavioral questions, and be ready to walk through your portfolio with clarity and confidence.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Kimley-Horn's services, projects, and company culture. Understand their position in the engineering and consulting industry to better align your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ 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.