Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: LMD

Location: Columbia, MD

Job Type: SALARIED_FT

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing / Government & Public Sector

Date Posted: 2026-06-15

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a full-time, salaried position within a marketing and branding firm, focusing on graphic design support for federal contract work.

• The Graphic Designer will be instrumental in translating complex client goals, missions, and programs into visually engaging and understandable communications materials.

• A significant aspect of the role involves creating dynamic data visualizations, infographics, and motion graphics, requiring a strong understanding of visual storytelling and information hierarchy.

• The position emphasizes the production of 508-compliant digital and print assets, ensuring accessibility and adherence to government standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description explicitly states that this role is contingent upon LMD being awarded a federal contract, indicating a strong focus on government clients and associated compliance requirements. This is a crucial detail for candidates to understand the nature of the work and the client base. The "2-5 Years" experience level suggests a mid-level designer role, requiring a solid foundation of skills and some independent project execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute graphic design concepts for a variety of communication materials, including publications, presentations, fact sheets, and reports, ensuring alignment with client objectives and branding guidelines.

• Design compelling data visualization graphics and infographics to simplify and elucidate complex program information for diverse audiences.

• Create engaging motion graphics and video animations to enhance digital content and storytelling capabilities.

• Produce optimized graphics, icons, and illustrations for both web and print applications, ensuring high visual quality and brand consistency.

• Design, update, and refresh templates for recurring collateral such as brochures, flyers, and reports to streamline content creation and maintain brand integrity.

• Manage and maintain a centralized digital asset repository, ensuring easy accessibility and organization for all creative assets used by the team.

• Provide design support for trade show booths, displays, banners, and exhibits, including the creation of new graphics and updating existing ones as needed.

• Ensure all graphic design outputs meet Section 508 accessibility standards, making them usable by individuals with disabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a need for a designer skilled in both static and dynamic visual content creation, with a strong emphasis on information design and accessibility. The mention of a "central repository" suggests the need for organizational skills and potentially familiarity with Digital Asset Management (DAM) principles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts, Media and Design, or a closely related field. Experience:

• A minimum of three (3) years of demonstrated professional experience across various creative design functions. Required Skills:

• Full Adobe Creative Suite Proficiency: Expert-level skills in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for print and web graphic design.

• Custom Illustration: Proven ability to create original illustrations using Adobe Illustrator.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Competency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for document integration and presentation design.

• 508 Compliance: Thorough understanding and practical application of Section 508 accessibility standards in design.

• Mac and PC Versatility: Ability to work seamlessly across both Macintosh and Windows operating systems.

Preferred Skills:

• Motion Graphics & Video Editing: Proficiency in Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe After Effects, and Adobe Media Encoder for video animation and post-production.

• Audio Editing: Experience with Adobe Audition or Audacity for audio mixing and editing.

• 3D Modeling: Intermediate skills in 3D modeling software such as Autodesk 3ds Max, Blender 3D, Cinema 4D, Google Sketchup, or similar.

• Interactive Forms: Experience with tools like Adobe LiveCycle Designer or Adobe Acrobat Pro for creating dynamic interactive forms.

• Photography Post-Production: Skilled in Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom for image editing and enhancement.

• Exhibit Design & Installation: Experience designing and preparing graphics for physical displays and exhibits.

• Product Development & Branding: Understanding of brand strategy and application in product design.

• Print Production: Knowledge of pre-press processes and print production best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The list of required and preferred skills is extensive, particularly the array of software. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate proficiency in the required tools and highlight any experience with the preferred software, especially video and 3D. The "508 Compliance" is a critical requirement, especially given the federal contract context. The "BS/BA" requirement combined with "3 years" experience aligns with a junior to mid-level designer profile.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of design projects demonstrating proficiency in print, digital, and motion graphics.

• Include specific examples of data visualization and infographic design that effectively communicate complex information.

• Present case studies of projects where 508 compliance was a key consideration and successfully implemented.

• Highlight experience with template creation and brand guideline adherence across multiple collateral types.

• Demonstrate ability to create custom illustrations and optimize graphics for various media. Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your design process from concept to final delivery, including client brief interpretation, ideation, execution, and feedback integration.

• Articulate your approach to ensuring 508 compliance throughout the design workflow.

• Explain how you manage digital assets and maintain organization within a project or team environment.

• Detail your experience with print production workflows and pre-press requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a graphic design role, a strong portfolio is paramount. The emphasis on data visualization, infographics, motion graphics, and 508 compliance means candidates should curate their portfolios to prominently feature these specific types of work. The ability to articulate their design process, especially concerning accessibility and asset management, will be key during interviews.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• $58,000 - $88,000 annually. Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance with an HRA (Health Reimbursement Arrangement) plan.

• Dental Insurance: Coverage for dental care.

• Vision Insurance: Coverage for vision care.

• Disability Insurance: Short-Term Disability insurance.

• Life Insurance: Term Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance.

• Voluntary Insurances: Critical Illness, Accident, Hospital, and Pet Insurance options.

• Paid Time Off: 12 paid holidays, vacation leave, sick leave, personal days, volunteer time off, bereavement leave, and parental leave.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with profit-sharing.

• Flexible Spending Accounts: FSA and DCA (Dependent Care Account) plans.

• Remote Work Stipend: Financial support for remote work setup.

• Professional Development: In-person and virtual team building and training opportunities.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours of 40 hours per week.

• Work schedule is Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM EST.

• This is a hybrid role with remote work options available.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range of $58,000 - $88,000 is competitive for a graphic designer with 3-5 years of experience in the Columbia, MD area, especially considering the specialized skills (motion graphics, 3D, 508 compliance) and the potential for federal contract work. The benefits package is robust, covering health, retirement, and significant paid time off, which are attractive incentives. The hybrid nature with EST workday flexibility is also a key consideration.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Marketing and Branding, Government & Public Sector Services.

Company Size: LMD is described as a woman-owned small business. While an exact employee count isn't provided, "small business" typically implies fewer than 500 employees, often much fewer. This suggests a potentially close-knit team environment where individual contributions are highly visible.

Founded: LMD has been established for over 50 years, indicating a stable company with a long history of client service and adaptation. This longevity suggests a company that values experience, reliability, and long-term relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will join LMD's creative team, working alongside other designers, content creators, strategists, and potentially video production specialists.

• Reporting likely falls within a design lead or creative director structure, with cross-functional collaboration expected across marketing, web development, and project management teams.

• As a full-service firm, collaboration is key to integrating design into broader client strategies, from branding initiatives to complex communication campaigns. Methodology:

• LMD emphasizes a "fully in-house" approach, suggesting a strong internal process for developing and executing creative projects.

• The company's mission revolves around helping clients "transition, rebrand, or meet new goals," indicating a proactive, solutions-oriented methodology focused on positive change.

• The "data visualization" and "motion graphics" requirements point to a modern approach to communication, leveraging contemporary design techniques.

Company Website: LMD Agency (www.lmdagency.com)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history (50+ years) and status as a woman-owned small business are significant cultural indicators. This suggests a potentially stable, experienced workforce with a focus on client relationships and community impact. The "fully in-house" capability implies a structured project workflow. The federal contract contingency means candidates should be comfortable with government clients and their specific needs, such as strict compliance and detailed reporting.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Graphic Designer. This role is positioned for individuals who have moved beyond entry-level tasks and can independently manage design projects from concept to completion, demonstrating a solid understanding of design principles and software proficiency. The "2-5 years" experience requirement reinforces this.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Creative Director or a Senior Graphic Designer. Collaboration will be essential with project managers, account executives, content strategists, and web developers within the agency.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's output directly impacts the clarity, effectiveness, and professionalism of client communications. Strong design can enhance client perception, improve engagement with information, and contribute to the overall success of marketing and branding campaigns, particularly within the government sector where clear communication is paramount. The creation of accessible materials (508 compliance) is a critical operational contribution to government clients.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in areas like motion graphics, 3D modeling, or advanced data visualization, becoming a subject matter expert within the creative team.

• Project Leadership: As experience grows, potential to lead design aspects of smaller projects or take on more complex client assignments.

• Mentorship: Possibility of mentoring junior designers or interns as the team expands.

• Cross-Functional Learning: Exposure to other agency disciplines (strategy, content, web) can broaden understanding of integrated marketing campaigns.

• Career Progression: Potential to advance to Senior Graphic Designer or Art Director roles within LMD, depending on performance and organizational growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specialized skills like motion graphics and 3D modeling suggests that developing expertise in these areas could lead to significant career growth within LMD or the broader industry. The "contingent upon award" clause means that career path stability is tied to securing the federal contract.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment. This indicates a blend of in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility. The specific balance will likely depend on project needs and team dynamics.

Office Location(s): Columbia, Maryland. This is the headquarters location. The hybrid nature allows for remote days, but local presence in the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) region is implied for days spent in the office.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The "fully in-house" model and the need for cross-functional work suggest a collaborative office setting for brainstorming, client meetings, and team synergy.

• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite, etc.) and potentially specialized hardware for 3D or video work.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to engage with a diverse team of creative professionals and learn from experienced colleagues.

Work Schedule:

• Standard business hours: Monday - Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM EST.

• The hybrid arrangement provides flexibility, allowing for remote work on certain days, which can aid in managing personal tasks and optimizing focus time.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model offers a balance, but candidates should confirm the expected in-office days and the company's approach to hybrid work to ensure it aligns with their preferences. The EST workday is a key factor for remote employees.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of resume and portfolio by HR or a hiring manager to assess basic qualifications and creative style.

• Portfolio Review & Skills Assessment: Candidates will be asked to present their portfolio, discussing their design process, problem-solving skills, and experience with specific tools and techniques (e.g., motion graphics, 508 compliance). This may involve a practical design challenge.

• Team/Hiring Manager Interview: Deeper discussion about experience, cultural fit, understanding of client needs (especially federal), and ability to collaborate within a team.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss role expectations, career growth, and final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 5-7 of your strongest projects that best showcase the required skills (data viz, infographics, motion graphics, 508 compliance).

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the client's challenge, your role, your design process, the tools used, and the measurable impact or outcome.

• Highlight 508 Compliance: Clearly indicate which projects meet accessibility standards and briefly explain your approach to achieving this.

• Show Versatility: Include examples of both print and digital work, as well as static and dynamic content.

• Prepare for Technical Questions: Be ready to discuss software proficiency, especially your experience with the full Adobe Suite and any preferred software like After Effects or 3D tools.

Challenge Preparation:

• Expect a design challenge that might involve creating an infographic, a social media graphic, or a short animation based on a provided brief, possibly with a government-related theme.

• Practice time management to complete the challenge within the allotted timeframe.

• Be prepared to articulate your design choices and justify them based on the brief and design principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on 508 compliance and specialized software means candidates must be ready to demonstrate this expertise. A well-organized portfolio with clear explanations of process and outcomes is crucial. The potential for a design challenge means practicing under timed conditions is advisable.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency required across Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.

• Motion Graphics/Video: Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe After Effects, Adobe Media Encoder are preferred and highly valuable.

• 3D Modeling: Intermediate skills in tools like Autodesk 3ds Max, Blender 3D, Cinema 4D, Google Sketchup are preferred.

• Audio Editing: Adobe Audition, Audacity are preferred.

• Interactive Forms: Adobe LiveCycle Designer, Adobe Acrobat Pro are preferred.

Analytics & Reporting: While not a primary focus for this role, understanding how design assets are used and tracked (e.g., web analytics for digital assets) might be beneficial.

CRM & Automation: Not directly applicable to the Graphic Designer role, but familiarity with project management tools used within an agency (e.g., Asana, Trello, Monday.com) would be advantageous for workflow management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive list of required and preferred software highlights the need for a technically proficient designer. Candidates should be prepared to speak to their experience with each relevant tool and prioritize showcasing their mastery of the Adobe Creative Suite, with strong emphasis on After Effects for motion graphics.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to producing high-quality, professional design work that meets client objectives and agency standards.

• Collaboration: Working effectively within a team environment, sharing ideas, and contributing to collective project success.

• Innovation: Embracing new design techniques and technologies to create impactful and engaging visuals.

• Client Focus: Understanding and addressing client needs, particularly the specific requirements and compliance standards of government agencies.

• Adaptability: Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to evolving project demands and client feedback.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Designers will need to collaborate closely with strategists, writers, and project managers to ensure design aligns with overall campaign goals.

• Feedback Driven: An open approach to receiving and incorporating feedback from team members and clients to refine designs.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share design insights, techniques, and best practices with colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and government client base suggest a culture that values reliability, professionalism, and adherence to standards, while the "creative team" aspect implies room for innovation and artistic expression. The "woman-owned small business" status might also foster a supportive and inclusive environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Federal Contract Contingency: The primary challenge is the uncertainty surrounding the award of the federal contract, which impacts job security and project continuity.

• Diverse Client Needs: Adapting design approaches to meet the varied communication goals and compliance requirements of government clients.

• Technical Proficiency: Keeping pace with the extensive software requirements, especially advanced areas like 3D modeling and complex motion graphics.

• Balancing Creative Vision with Constraints: Effectively translating client briefs and accessibility requirements (508 compliance) into visually appealing designs.

• Hybrid Work Management: Successfully integrating remote and in-office work to maintain productivity and team cohesion.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to deepen skills in animation, 3D, or video editing software through internal or external training.

• 508 Compliance Expertise: Becoming a go-to resource for accessible design within the agency.

• Project Management Exposure: Gaining experience in managing design timelines and client communications for federal projects.

• Industry Trends: Staying abreast of evolving design trends and technologies relevant to marketing, branding, and government communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The biggest challenge is the conditional nature of the employment. Candidates should be aware of this and comfortable with the possibility of the role not materializing if the contract isn't awarded. The growth opportunities are tied to skill development in high-demand areas.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for creating a complex infographic or data visualization from scratch. How do you ensure the information is clear and accurate?"

• "Walk us through a project where you had to ensure 508 compliance. What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?"

• "How do you approach creating motion graphics or short animations? What software do you prefer, and what's your workflow?"

• "Tell us about a time you received critical feedback on your design. How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?"

• "How do you manage your time and prioritize tasks when working on multiple design projects simultaneously, especially in a hybrid environment?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about LMD's work with government clients?"

• "How do you see your design skills contributing to LMD's mission of helping clients transition and grow?"

• "Describe your ideal work environment and how you collaborate with team members."

• "How do you stay updated on the latest design trends and software?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start Strong: Begin with your most relevant and impressive projects that directly address the job requirements (data viz, motion graphics, 508).

• Explain Your "Why": For each project, articulate the design problem, your strategic approach, and the rationale behind your creative decisions.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, include metrics or outcomes that demonstrate the effectiveness of your design work (e.g., increased engagement, improved clarity).

• Showcase Technical Skill: Be prepared to discuss the specific software and techniques used in each project.

• Be Concise: Keep your explanations focused and engaging. Aim for 2-3 minutes per project.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing specific examples for each question, especially those related to 508 compliance and motion graphics, will be critical. The ability to articulate the why behind design choices, not just the what, will set candidates apart.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on rippling.com.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your experience with Adobe Creative Suite, motion graphics, data visualization, and 508 compliance. Ensure your portfolio prominently features projects demonstrating these skills.

• Resume Optimization: Use keywords from the job description such as "graphic design," "illustration," "motion graphics," "data visualization," "508 compliance," and specific software names (e.g., "Adobe After Effects"). Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, discussing your portfolio projects in detail, and preparing answers to common interview questions, especially those related to technical skills and client collaboration.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with LMD's work, their client base (especially any public sector examples), and their company values. Understand the implications of the federal contract contingency for the role.

⚠️ 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.