Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Peraton

Location: Bethesda, Maryland, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design

Date Posted: 2026-05-07

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and produce a comprehensive array of graphics, digital media, and cartographic products to support diverse communication needs.

• Implement front-end web design principles, including UI/UX and HTML/CSS, to create engaging and user-friendly online content.

• Ensure all created multimedia assets adhere to stringent production standards, copyright laws, and accessibility compliance requirements.

• Collaborate closely with UI/UX designers and knowledge management teams to enhance user experience and streamline communication workflows.

• Provide specialized cartography support for thematic and reference map design, integrating visual storytelling with data accuracy.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Graphic Designer," the responsibilities listed, particularly those involving UI/UX collaboration, front-end web design (HTML/CSS), cartography, and multimedia production for national security initiatives, indicate a role that bridges traditional graphic design with digital content creation and information visualization for a specialized, high-security environment. This role likely requires a strong understanding of operational requirements and clear communication of complex information.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and develop graphics, digital media, and cartography for a wide range of written and digital products, including web pages, mobile applications, newsletters, advertisements, infographics, banners, and illustrations.

• Conceptualize and implement design solutions for new web pages and digital content, ensuring alignment with responsive design principles and user accessibility standards.

• Collaborate with UI/UX designers to ensure that graphics products contribute to an engaging, intuitive, and user-friendly experience across all digital platforms.

• Manage the full lifecycle of graphic design projects from concept development to final implementation, including HTML/CSS coding for responsive web content.

• Conduct thorough technical quality checks on all multimedia products to ensure they meet production standards, copyright laws, accessibility compliance, and public release clearance requirements.

• Provide expert cartography support, designing thematic and reference maps that effectively communicate spatial data and complex information.

• Utilize request management tools to provide efficient and high-quality customer support for communication and design requests.

• Mentor and train junior staff on graphic design best practices, tool proficiency, and adherence to client-specific standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for not just artistic talent but also technical proficiency in web technologies (HTML/CSS, responsive design) and an understanding of information architecture and user experience. The emphasis on "products conform to all production standards, copyright laws, accessibility compliance requirements, public release clearances" and "technical quality checks" points to a structured, process-driven environment common in government contracting or large enterprises.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree (BA/BS) in Graphic Design, Digital Media, Communications, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience: Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in graphic design, with a strong emphasis on digital media, web design, and multimedia product development. Candidates without a formal degree will be considered with 9 years of relevant experience.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated expertise in graphic design principles and software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite).

• Proven experience in developing digital media, cartography, and multimedia products.

• Proficiency in front-end web design, including UI/UX principles, HTML, and CSS.

• Experience with responsive design techniques for web and mobile applications.

• Skill in photography and video editing.

• Ability to create compelling infographics, banners, illustrations, and logos.

• Understanding of copyright laws and accessibility compliance requirements (e.g., WCAG).

• Experience conducting technical quality checks on digital assets.

• Strong customer support skills, including the use of request management tools.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in cartography and thematic map design.

• Familiarity with knowledge management systems and principles.

• Experience working within a government contracting or national security environment.

• Knowledge of animation or motion graphics.

• Experience with content management systems (CMS).

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance is a critical differentiator and significantly narrows the candidate pool to individuals with specific security clearances. This clearance level is standard for roles supporting sensitive government intelligence or defense projects. The blend of traditional design skills with front-end web development and specialized cartography suggests this role is more than just a typical graphic designer; it's a multimedia specialist for high-security applications.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of graphic design projects, including digital media, web design mockups, infographics, and branding elements (logos).

• Include examples of responsive design implementation, demonstrating how layouts adapt across different devices and screen sizes.

• Present case studies or examples of cartographic products, highlighting the process of data visualization and map design.

• Demonstrate experience with front-end development, such as snippets of HTML/CSS code or interactive prototypes that illustrate web page construction.

• Highlight projects that required adherence to specific production standards, accessibility guidelines, or regulatory compliance.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of process mapping for design workflows, from initial request to final delivery and quality assurance.

• Examples of how design concepts are translated into functional web elements using HTML/CSS.

• Documentation illustrating the steps taken to ensure copyright compliance, accessibility standards, and public release clearances.

• Descriptions of how technical quality checks are integrated into the design and production process.

• Case studies detailing the collaborative process with UI/UX designers and knowledge management teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the security clearance and the nature of the work (supporting national security missions), a portfolio that demonstrates not only creative output but also a rigorous, process-oriented approach is paramount. Candidates should be prepared to articulate the "how" behind their designs, emphasizing adherence to standards and meticulous quality control, rather than just showcasing aesthetic appeal.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $112,000 - $179,000 annually.

This range is based on industry benchmarks for experienced Graphic Designers with specialized skills in digital media, web development, and cartography, particularly within the government contracting sector in the Bethesda, MD area, and accounts for the high-level security clearance required.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)) with company match.

• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Potential for overtime pay, shift differential, and discretionary bonuses, depending on project and performance.

• Professional development opportunities, including training and certifications.

• Life insurance and disability coverage.

Working Hours: Full-time, typically 40 hours per week. While standard business hours are expected, flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and operational needs, especially given the nature of national security work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is broad, reflecting the significant variability in compensation based on specific experience, the exact nature of the TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance held, and the specific contract Peraton is supporting. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their salary expectations and justification during the interview process, referencing their specific qualifications and clearance level.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Peraton operates in the National Security and Government Contracting sector, focusing on mission-critical solutions for defense and intelligence agencies. This industry demands a high degree of precision, security, and reliability in all deliverables.

Company Size: Peraton is a large enterprise, employing a significant number of professionals across various technical and support disciplines. This size implies robust organizational structures, established processes, and opportunities for diverse career paths.

Founded: Peraton has a history rooted in defense and technology services, evolving into a leading mission capability integrator. This background suggests a culture that values expertise, innovation, and a strong commitment to national service.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Design role is likely part of a larger communications, creative services, or IT support team.

• This team will collaborate closely with program managers, technical experts, and potentially client representatives from various government agencies.

• Reporting structure will likely involve a Creative Director, Lead Designer, or Program Manager overseeing multimedia and communication support functions.

Methodology:

• Data-driven design: Utilizing user feedback, analytics, and performance metrics to inform design decisions and optimize user experience.

• Agile and iterative development: Employing flexible methodologies for design and development to adapt to evolving project requirements and incorporate feedback efficiently.

• Process standardization: Adhering to established workflows, quality control measures, and security protocols to ensure consistency and compliance.

• Collaborative problem-solving: Working in interdisciplinary teams to tackle complex communication challenges and develop innovative solutions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Peraton's focus on "missions of consequence" and operating at the "critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats" suggests a work environment that is mission-oriented, demanding, and highly secure. Employees are expected to contribute to critical national security objectives, which often translates into a culture of accountability, discretion, and continuous improvement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an experienced individual contributor, likely at a mid-to-senior level within the creative and technical services domain. It requires a blend of artistic talent, technical proficiency, and an understanding of complex operational environments.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a manager or lead responsible for multimedia production, creative services, or a specific program's communication needs. This role will likely collaborate with various project teams and stakeholders across different departments and potentially government agencies.

Operations Impact: The work directly impacts the clarity, effectiveness, and accessibility of critical information disseminated by Peraton and its government clients. High-quality graphics, intuitive web interfaces, and accurate maps are crucial for decision-making, operational efficiency, and successful mission outcomes in the national security space.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas such as advanced cartography, interactive data visualization, UI/UX design for complex systems, or front-end development for secure applications.

• Leadership: Transition into roles such as Lead Graphic Designer, Creative Director, or Multimedia Project Manager, overseeing teams and strategic creative initiatives.

• Technical Skill Development: Pursue training and certifications in emerging design technologies, programming languages, or specialized software relevant to defense and intelligence sectors.

• Cross-functional Mobility: Leverage design and communication skills to move into roles in technical writing, user experience research, or program support within Peraton's diverse service offerings.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in this role is likely tied to demonstrating mastery of core design skills, adapting to new technologies and security requirements, and contributing to increasingly complex and critical projects. The clearance level also opens doors to roles with greater responsibility and impact within the defense and intelligence community.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position in Bethesda, MD. The work environment will be a professional office setting, likely within a secure facility given Peraton's industry. Collaboration spaces and individual workstations will be standard.

Office Location(s): Bethesda, Maryland, a hub for government contractors and federal agencies, offering accessibility via public transportation and major roadways.

Workspace Context:

• A professional office environment with standard amenities.

• Access to high-performance workstations, specialized design software, and potentially advanced multimedia equipment.

• Opportunities for collaboration with a diverse team of designers, developers, and technical professionals.

• A secure workspace is a given, requiring adherence to strict protocols for data handling and physical access.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (typically 40 hours/week) are expected. While Peraton aims for work-life balance, the nature of national security work may occasionally require flexibility to meet critical project deadlines or respond to urgent operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Bethesda, MD, is significant. Candidates should consider commute times and the implications of working within a secure government contracting environment, which often involves stricter access controls and protocols than a typical corporate office.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications and resumes, focusing on experience, qualifications, and the mandatory security clearance.

• Technical Interview: This stage will likely involve a deeper dive into your graphic design skills, technical proficiency (HTML/CSS, responsive design), and experience with specific tools and multimedia production. You may be asked to explain your design process and justify your creative choices.

• Portfolio Review: A significant part of the interview will be dedicated to presenting and discussing your portfolio. Be prepared to walk through specific projects, highlighting your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the outcomes.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions will assess your problem-solving abilities, teamwork, communication style, and how you handle pressure or challenging situations, particularly within a secure and mission-critical context.

• Security Clearance Verification: The process will involve rigorous verification of your TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Tailor to Peraton: Highlight projects that demonstrate experience with government clients, national security themes, complex data visualization, or front-end web development.

• Showcase Process: Don't just show the final product; explain your design process, the tools used, the challenges overcome, and how you ensured adherence to standards and compliance.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, use metrics to demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs (e.g., improved user engagement, enhanced clarity of information).

• Highlight Technical Skills: Include examples of HTML/CSS implementation or responsive design that are relevant to the role's stated requirements.

• Prepare for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design philosophy, how you collaborate with developers and UX designers, and how you ensure quality and compliance.

Challenge Preparation:

• You may be given a design challenge or a case study related to creating graphics for a specific national security scenario.

• Focus on understanding the target audience, the communication objectives, and any constraints (e.g., security, accessibility).

• Practice articulating your design strategy clearly and concisely, justifying your choices based on the provided brief.

• Be prepared to present your solution and defend your design decisions under scrutiny.

📝 Enhancement Note: The security clearance is non-negotiable. Candidates must explicitly state they possess the required TS/SCI with Polygraph. The interview process will heavily scrutinize technical skills and the ability to translate complex requirements into effective visual communications for a high-stakes environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign (essential for graphic design, illustration, layout, and image manipulation).

• Web Development Tools: HTML, CSS, JavaScript (for front-end development and responsive design implementation).

• Content Management Systems (CMS): Familiarity with platforms used for managing web content.

• Cartography Software: GIS software such as ArcGIS or QGIS may be beneficial for map design.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Web Analytics Tools: Google Analytics or similar platforms to understand user behavior on web pages.

• Design Feedback Tools: Platforms for collecting and managing feedback on design assets.

CRM & Automation:

• Request Management Systems: Tools used for tracking and managing design requests and project workflows.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or Jira for team communication and project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is fundamental. The additional requirement for HTML/CSS and responsive design indicates a need for a hybrid skill set, combining traditional graphic design with web development capabilities. Experience with GIS or cartography tools would be a significant advantage for the specialized map design responsibilities.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission Focus: A deep commitment to supporting national security objectives and understanding the critical nature of Peraton’s work.

• Integrity & Trust: Upholding the highest ethical standards and maintaining the confidentiality and security of sensitive information.

• Excellence & Precision: Striving for superior quality and accuracy in all deliverables, with meticulous attention to detail.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with diverse teams to achieve shared goals and contribute to a cohesive work environment.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new technologies and methodologies to solve complex problems and adapt to evolving mission requirements.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively partnering with developers, UX designers, content strategists, and subject matter experts to ensure cohesive and effective communication products.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open lines of communication with project managers and stakeholders, providing regular updates and seeking clarification when needed.

• Constructive Feedback: Participating in design reviews and providing/receiving feedback constructively to improve project outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to a culture of learning by sharing insights, best practices, and technical knowledge with team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is heavily influenced by its national security mission. This means a strong emphasis on security protocols, reliability, and a professional demeanor. Team members are expected to be self-starters, accountable, and able to work effectively in a structured, often high-pressure, environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Security Compliance: Navigating and adhering to strict security protocols and clearance requirements is paramount.

• Complex Information: Translating highly technical or classified information into clear, accessible, and visually engaging graphics and maps.

• Diverse Stakeholders: Managing design requests and expectations from various government agencies and internal teams with potentially differing needs.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with advancements in design software, web technologies, and visualization techniques relevant to the defense sector.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Security Clearances: Opportunities to obtain or maintain higher levels of security clearance.

• Specialized Training: Access to training in advanced graphics software, GIS, front-end development, cybersecurity awareness, and project management.

• Industry Conferences: Participation in relevant industry events and conferences focused on design, technology, and national security.

• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to learn from experienced professionals within Peraton and potentially within government client organizations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge revolves around operating within a highly secure and regulated environment. Growth opportunities are closely tied to maintaining or upgrading security clearances and developing specialized technical skills that are in high demand within the defense and intelligence community.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex project where you had to translate highly technical or classified information into an easily understandable graphic or map. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your methodology, problem-solving, and ability to simplify complexity.)

• "How do you ensure your designs comply with accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG) and copyright laws? Can you provide an example?" (Demonstrate your understanding of regulatory requirements and your diligence.)

• "Walk us through your experience with HTML/CSS and responsive design. How have you used these skills in previous roles to enhance user experience or deliver web content?" (Prepare to discuss specific web projects and your technical contributions.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Peraton, and what do you know about our mission?" (Research Peraton's role in national security and tailor your answer.)

• "How do you handle working under strict deadlines or in high-pressure situations, especially given the critical nature of our work?" (Emphasize your ability to prioritize, manage time, and maintain quality.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by chronological order. Start with your strongest, most relevant pieces.

• Narrative: For each project, tell a story: the objective, your role, the challenges, your creative process, the tools used, the solution, and the impact or outcome.

• Technical Emphasis: Clearly articulate your technical contributions, especially regarding HTML/CSS and responsive design. Be ready to discuss specific code implementations if asked.

• Security Awareness: Be mindful of any classified information in your past work. If a project is sensitive, discuss it in general terms or use anonymized examples, focusing on the process and skills applied rather than sensitive details.

• Engagement: Be prepared to answer questions about your designs. Engage with the interviewers and be open to discussing alternative approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Thorough preparation is key, especially ensuring you can articulate your understanding of Peraton's mission and the importance of security. Your portfolio should be a practical demonstration of the skills mentioned in the job description, particularly the blend of graphic design, web development, and an understanding of complex information environments.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position at Peraton:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Peraton careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your resume and portfolio are tailored to highlight your experience in graphic design, digital media, cartography, HTML/CSS, and responsive design. Prioritize projects that demonstrate your ability to work within structured environments and adhere to strict standards.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly state your possession of a TS/SCI with Polygraph security clearance. Use keywords from the job description (e.g., "digital media," "cartography," "responsive design," "HTML/CSS," "accessibility compliance") to align your qualifications with the role's requirements.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, technical skills, and experience with complex projects. Prepare specific examples that showcase your problem-solving abilities and your understanding of Peraton's national security mission.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Peraton, its mission, values, and recent projects. Understand the significance of its role in national security and how your graphic design skills can contribute to its success.

⚠️ 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.