Graphic Designer

PUBLIC STRATEGIES INC
Full-timeβ€’Oklahoma City, United States

πŸ“ Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: PUBLIC STRATEGIES INC

Location: Oklahoma City, OK 73104

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Creative & Media / Marketing / Consulting

Date Posted: 2026-09-02

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

πŸš€ Role Summary

  • Develop and execute visually compelling graphic designs for diverse marketing initiatives, including digital, social media, print collateral, and large-scale advertising.

  • Collaborate closely with the Senior Manager of Design, project managers, and clients to conceptualize and refine designs that effectively communicate project objectives and brand messaging.

  • Ensure all design outputs adhere to established branding guidelines and maintain visual consistency across all platforms and client projects.

  • Manage a portfolio of design projects within a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, prioritizing tasks and delivering high-quality creative assets.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a consulting and project management firm, indicating a need for graphic designers who can adapt to various client needs and project scopes. The emphasis on "doing good well" suggests a mission-driven approach to design, requiring designers to convey impact and positive change.

πŸ“ˆ Primary Responsibilities

  • Design and produce a wide range of graphic assets, including multi-page layouts, posters, infographics, logos, and social media graphics, tailored to specific project and promotional requirements.

  • Apply advanced typography techniques and refine images, fonts, and layouts using industry-standard graphic design software to achieve desired visual effects.

  • Generate creative concepts and translate them into visually engaging designs that effectively advertise products, services, or initiatives for Public Strategies and its clients.

  • Prepare and package final design layouts for seamless handover to print vendors, ensuring accurate specifications and quality control.

  • Proactively stay abreast of current industry developments, emerging design tools, and best practices to continuously enhance design quality and efficiency.

  • Edit and revise designs based on constructive feedback from the Senior Manager of Design, peers, and clients, demonstrating adaptability and a client-centric approach.

  • Contribute to the development and execution of social media campaigns, leveraging digital media skills to enhance online presence and engagement.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "research-informed direct services" and "strengthening families and improving employment opportunities" suggests that design projects may have a social impact focus. Designers should be prepared to create materials that resonate with diverse audiences and communicate complex social initiatives effectively.

πŸŽ“ Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree required. Consideration will be given for 4+ years of relevant work experience in lieu of a degree.

Experience: 2-5 years of experience working in a marketing and communication capacity, with a demonstrated history of creating impactful visual content.

Required Skills:

  • Graphic Design Software Proficiency: Expert-level command of Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) or equivalent design software.

  • Typography & Layout Design: Strong understanding and application of typography principles and multi-page layout design for print and digital media.

  • Visual Concept Development: Ability to generate creative ideas and translate abstract concepts into clear, compelling visual narratives.

  • Brand Guideline Adherence: Proven ability to create designs that align with and reinforce existing branding guidelines or develop new ones.

  • Print Production Knowledge: Familiarity with preparing files for print vendors, including understanding color modes, resolution, and bleed requirements.

  • Social Media & Digital Media Savvy: Experience designing for various digital platforms, including social media, web banners, and email campaigns.

  • Communication & Collaboration: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective interaction with team members, managers, and clients.

  • Organizational & Time Management: Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Skills:

  • Infographic Design: Experience creating clear and informative infographics to present data and complex information visually.

  • Logo Design & Branding: Skill in developing distinct and memorable brand identities.

  • Photography Skills: Basic photography skills for asset creation or image selection.

  • Video Production/Editing Support: Familiarity with video production or editing processes, as the company offers video production services.

  • Customer Service Acumen: Experience in customer service, highlighting strong interpersonal and communication skills.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The requirement for a portfolio with at least ten original graphic design samples, along with examples of social media campaigns, photography, and writing samples, underscores the need for a well-rounded and demonstrable skill set. Candidates should curate their portfolios to showcase versatility across different mediums and project types relevant to a consulting firm's diverse client base.

πŸ“Š Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • A curated portfolio showcasing a minimum of ten original graphic design samples that demonstrate creativity, technical skill, and versatility across various mediums (web, print, social media, etc.).

  • Specific examples of social media campaign designs that illustrate strategic thinking and engagement impact.

  • Writing samples that complement design work, showcasing ability to articulate concepts and messaging.

  • Potential inclusion of photography work, if applicable, to demonstrate broader visual asset creation capabilities. Process Documentation:

  • Evidence of a systematic approach to design projects, from initial concept development and client brief interpretation to final asset delivery.

  • Examples of how design feedback has been incorporated into revisions, demonstrating an iterative design process.

  • Documentation or demonstration of how design projects are managed to ensure adherence to branding guidelines and project timelines.

  • Case studies or project descriptions that highlight the problem-solving aspect of design, showing how visual solutions addressed specific client needs or challenges.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The inclusion of "writing samples" alongside design work is a key differentiator. This suggests that Public Strategies values designers who can not only create compelling visuals but also contribute to the narrative and messaging strategy. Applicants should consider how their written communication skills support their design portfolio.

πŸ’΅ Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for a Graphic Designer with 2-5 years of experience in Oklahoma City, OK, the estimated annual salary range is $50,000 - $70,000. This estimate considers the cost of living in Oklahoma City and the typical compensation for similar roles in marketing and design agencies.

Benefits:

  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage options to support employee well-being.

  • Retirement Savings Plan: Opportunities for long-term financial planning, potentially with employer matching contributions.

  • Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous allocation of vacation, sick leave, and holidays to promote work-life balance.

  • Professional Development Opportunities: Support for continuous learning, including potential for training, workshops, and conference attendance relevant to design and marketing.

  • Flexible Schedule Potential: While the role is primarily on-site, there may be some flexibility for evenings and weekends as needed for specific project deadlines, managed in coordination with the Senior Manager of Design.

  • Travel Reimbursement: Coverage for statewide travel as required for events and site setup.

Working Hours: Full-time position, typically 40 hours per week, with the potential for flexible scheduling to accommodate project demands, including evenings and some weekends as needed.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general market data for similar roles in the specified location and experience level. Public Strategies Inc.'s specific compensation structure may vary. Benefits are inferred based on standard offerings for full-time positions at established firms.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏒 Company Culture

Industry: Consulting, Project Management, and Marketing Services. Public Strategies Inc. operates at the intersection of strategic advisory, operational execution, and impactful communication, serving a diverse clientele across federal, state, and local government sectors, as well as non-profit organizations focused on community development.

Company Size: The description implies a medium-sized firm, likely with specialized departments for project management, research, technology, communications, and design. This size often fosters a collaborative yet structured environment where individual contributions are visible and impactful.

Founded: Founded in Oklahoma City, Public Strategies Inc. has established itself as a respected firm known for innovative solutions and a commitment to public good. Its longevity suggests stability and a well-developed operational framework.

Team Structure:

  • The Graphic Designer will be part of a design team, reporting to the Senior Manager of Design.

  • Collaboration is expected with other designers, project managers, and potentially directly with clients.

  • The firm emphasizes a "collaborative team of thinkers, creatives, strategists, communicators, builders, researchers, and change agents," indicating a cross-functional and team-oriented work environment. Methodology:

  • Data-Informed Design: Given the firm's focus on research and evaluation, design projects likely integrate data insights to inform visual strategies and messaging.

  • Strategic Communications: Design is viewed as a critical component of broader communication strategies aimed at achieving specific client objectives.

  • Project Management Integration: Design work is embedded within project management frameworks, requiring adherence to timelines, budgets, and client deliverables.

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

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The company's mission to "touch lives, drive change, and do good well" suggests a culture that values purpose-driven work. Designers should be motivated by the opportunity to contribute to projects with tangible social impact and to support clients in achieving significant public good outcomes.

πŸ“ˆ Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an experienced individual contributor, requiring 2-5 years of dedicated experience in graphic design within a marketing or communications context. It offers a pathway for designers to deepen their expertise in various design disciplines and client-facing project execution.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer reports directly to the Senior Manager of Design. This structure provides clear guidance, mentorship, and oversight, allowing for focused development within the design discipline while also exposing the designer to strategic direction from leadership.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly influences the effectiveness of Public Strategies Inc.'s and its clients' communications. High-quality, impactful design enhances brand perception, improves message clarity, drives engagement, and ultimately contributes to the success of projects and the firm's reputation for delivering value.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Skill Specialization: Opportunities to develop deeper expertise in specific design areas such as infographic design, branding, digital asset creation for social media, or print production management.

  • Project Leadership: Potential to take lead design responsibility on smaller projects or specific design components of larger initiatives.

  • Cross-Functional Learning: Exposure to project management, strategic communications, research, and evaluation methodologies through collaboration with other departments.

  • Mentorship: Guidance from the Senior Manager of Design, providing opportunities for professional growth and career development within the firm.

  • Client Interaction: Increased opportunities to engage with clients, understand their needs, and present design solutions, building client management skills.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "culturally and professionally diverse team" and the firm's mission to "help systems, organizations, and individuals reach their full potential" suggests that growth opportunities may also involve contributing to a positive and inclusive team environment and supporting the firm's broader impact goals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is based at the "Corporate Facility" in Oklahoma City, indicating a professional office setting. This environment is conducive to focused work, collaborative meetings, and client interactions.

Office Location(s): 2 NE 9th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73104. This location in Oklahoma City provides accessibility for local talent and is situated within a professional business district.

Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative Environment: The role requires close collaboration with the Senior Manager of Design, fellow designers, and project managers, suggesting a team-oriented workspace that facilitates idea sharing and feedback.

  • Creative Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard graphic design software and technology necessary for producing high-quality visual assets.

  • Project-Focused Atmosphere: The environment is likely dynamic, driven by project deadlines and client needs, fostering a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is full-time, typically 40 hours per week, during daytime hours. However, the role requires flexibility to work evenings and some weekends as needed to meet project deadlines, which is common in client-facing creative roles.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The requirement to "travel statewide when needed for events and set up" implies that the workspace may extend beyond the office to event venues. Designers might be involved in on-site setup or visual merchandising for events, requiring adaptability and a willingness to work in varied environments.

πŸ“„ Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess foundational skills, experience, and alignment with the role's requirements.

  • Portfolio Presentation & Discussion: Candidates will likely present their portfolio, discussing specific projects, design choices, challenges, and outcomes. This phase focuses on demonstrating creative process, technical proficiency, and communication skills.

  • Skills-Based Interview: Assessment of design software proficiency, understanding of design principles (typography, layout, branding), and problem-solving abilities through hypothetical scenarios or design challenges.

  • Team & Culture Fit Interview: Meeting with the Senior Manager of Design and potentially other team members to evaluate collaboration style, adaptability, and alignment with Public Strategies' mission and values.

  • Client Scenario Discussion: Potential discussion of how the candidate would approach design challenges for specific client types or industries relevant to Public Strategies.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate Strategically: Select at least ten diverse samples showcasing your best work, spanning different project types (web, print, social media, infographics, logos) and industries.

  • Highlight Process: For each selected piece, be prepared to articulate your design process: the problem, your approach, the tools used, challenges faced, and the final outcome or impact.

  • Showcase Versatility: Include examples that demonstrate your ability to follow brand guidelines, adapt to different client styles, and create compelling visuals for various objectives.

  • Include Writing Samples: Ensure your writing samples are readily available and, if possible, show how they complement your visual design work.

  • Quantify Impact: Where possible, include metrics or qualitative feedback that demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs (e.g., increased engagement, improved clarity, successful campaign results).

Challenge Preparation:

  • Design Test: Be prepared for a potential design exercise, which might involve creating a quick concept for a given brief or critiquing existing designs. Focus on speed, creativity, and clear articulation of your rationale.

  • Brand Application: Practice applying branding guidelines to new concepts quickly and effectively.

  • Client Communication: Prepare to discuss how you handle client feedback, manage revisions, and communicate design decisions clearly and persuasively.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Given the firm's consulting nature, interviewers will likely probe into how you translate client needs into effective design solutions. Be ready to discuss your approach to understanding client objectives, target audiences, and desired communication outcomes.

πŸ›  Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design Software:

  • Adobe Creative Suite: Expert proficiency required in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for creating a wide range of graphic assets, from vector logos to complex multi-page layouts.

  • Other Design Tools: Familiarity with emerging design tools or collaborative platforms (e.g., Figma, Sketch, Canva for specific quick tasks) may be beneficial.

Content Management & Collaboration:

  • Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Asana, Trello, or similar platforms for managing tasks, deadlines, and project workflows.

  • File Sharing & Collaboration: Proficiency with cloud storage and collaboration tools (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox, Microsoft Teams) for sharing assets and communicating with the team.

Digital & Social Media Platforms:

  • Social Media Management Tools: Familiarity with platforms for scheduling and analyzing social media content (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer, Sprout Social).

  • Web Design Basics: Understanding of web design principles and how graphics integrate into websites and digital campaigns.

Print Production Tools:

  • Pre-press Software: Knowledge of software or processes used for preparing files for commercial printing.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, the job description implies a standard creative agency toolkit. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite is paramount. The mention of "technology" in the company overview suggests an openness to adopting new tools that enhance efficiency and creative output.

πŸ‘₯ Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Doing Good Well: A core value emphasizing the pursuit of impactful work with high standards of execution, merging mission with professional excellence.

  • Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, cross-functional cooperation, and shared problem-solving across diverse professional backgrounds.

  • Innovation: A drive to find creative and effective solutions for clients, encouraging new ideas and approaches in design and strategy.

  • Impact & Change: A commitment to making a tangible positive difference in the lives of individuals, communities, and systems.

  • Excellence: A dedication to high-quality work, attention to detail, and delivering results that exceed expectations.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-Functional Integration: Designers are expected to work seamlessly with project managers, strategists, researchers, and other creatives to achieve unified project goals.

  • Feedback-Driven Improvement: A culture that values constructive criticism and iterative design processes to refine work and ensure client satisfaction.

  • Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of sharing insights, techniques, and industry trends among team members to foster collective growth and innovation.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The company's emphasis on a "culturally and professionally diverse team" suggests an inclusive environment where different perspectives are valued. Designers should be prepared to engage with colleagues from various backgrounds and contribute to a supportive team dynamic.

⚑ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Diverse Client Needs: Adapting design style and messaging to meet the unique requirements of a wide array of federal, state, local, and non-profit clients.

  • Fast-Paced Project Environment: Managing multiple concurrent projects with tight deadlines, requiring strong prioritization and efficiency.

  • Balancing Creativity with Constraints: Effectively translating creative visions into designs that adhere to specific branding guidelines, project scopes, and client feedback.

  • Communicating Design Rationale: Articulating design choices and defending creative decisions to stakeholders who may have varying levels of design understanding.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Skill Expansion: Opportunities to learn and apply design skills in new areas, such as advanced infographic creation, motion graphics, or digital campaign strategy.

  • Industry Exposure: Gaining experience with different project types and client sectors, broadening professional knowledge and portfolio diversity.

  • Mentorship and Guidance: Learning from experienced professionals within the design team and across the firm to enhance technical skills and strategic thinking.

  • Professional Certifications: Potential to pursue certifications or attend workshops relevant to graphic design, digital media, or project management.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The challenge of "doing good well" implies a need for designers who are not only technically skilled but also mission-aligned and capable of producing work that has a positive societal impact. Growth opportunities will likely involve taking on more complex projects that require this dual focus.

πŸ’‘ Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe a time you had to adapt your design approach to meet a client's specific brand guidelines or communication goals. What was your process and the outcome?" (Focus on adaptability, research, and client alignment.)

  • "How do you approach translating complex data or abstract concepts into clear and compelling visual information, such as an infographic?" (Focus on problem-solving, simplification, and visual storytelling.)

  • "Walk us through your process for designing a social media campaign. How do you ensure visual consistency and engagement?" (Focus on digital strategy, platform understanding, and campaign execution.) Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What interests you about Public Strategies' mission to 'touch lives, drive change, and do good well,' and how does your design work align with this?" (Focus on mission alignment and purpose-driven work.)

  • "Describe your experience working in a collaborative, team-oriented environment. How do you handle constructive criticism from peers or managers?" (Focus on teamwork, communication, and receptiveness to feedback.)

  • "How do you stay current with design trends and new technologies in the graphic design field?" (Focus on continuous learning and professional development.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Storytelling: Frame each portfolio piece as a story: the client's challenge, your creative solution, the process, and the results.

  • Highlight Impact: Emphasize the tangible outcomes or effectiveness of your designs, using metrics where possible.

  • Demonstrate Versatility: Showcase a range of styles and project types to prove your adaptability.

  • Explain Your Role: Clearly define your specific contributions, especially in team projects.

  • Be Ready for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, technical processes, and problem-solving approaches.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Be prepared to discuss how your design work contributes to broader strategic goals, not just aesthetic appeal. Public Strategies likely values designers who understand the business objectives behind their creative output.

πŸ“Œ Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

  • Submit your application through the provided Paycom link.

  • Tailor Your Resume: Highlight keywords from the job description such as "graphic design," "typography," "layout design," "social media," "print production," and "communication skills." Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Designed 20+ social media graphics per month," "Contributed to 5 major client campaigns").

  • Curate Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio prominently features at least ten diverse, high-quality design samples. Organize it logically, perhaps by project type or client. Include specific examples of social media campaigns and any writing samples as requested.

  • Prepare Your Presentation: Practice walking through your portfolio, articulating your design process, rationale, and the impact of your work for each piece. Be ready to discuss how you handle feedback and collaborate.

  • Research Public Strategies Inc.: Familiarize yourself with the company's mission, values, client base, and recent projects. Understand their commitment to "doing good well" and how your design skills can support their objectives.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

Candidates must have a bachelor's degree or at least 4 years of relevant work experience, along with 2-5 years of experience in a marketing and communication capacity. A strong portfolio of original design work and the ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment are required.