Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Solar Turbines (A Caterpillar Company)

Location: San Diego, California, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Marketing & Communications Operations

Date Posted: September 16, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years (Mid-Level)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and produce a wide range of visual assets, including presentation materials, digital fliers, and printed collateral, supporting both customer-facing initiatives and internal corporate communications.

• Collaborate closely with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) and the Corporate Communications team to translate complex information into compelling and brand-aligned visual narratives.

• Manage a project pipeline, ensuring timely delivery of design assets while adhering to strict review processes involving SMEs, Legal, Marketing, and key stakeholders.

• Maintain high quality standards for all digital and printed materials, customizing graphic design elements to suit the specific requirements of each project and medium.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role bridges creative design with operational efficiency, requiring a candidate who can manage multiple projects, adhere to brand guidelines, and navigate internal approval workflows. The emphasis on both customer-facing and internal communications suggests a need for versatility in design approach and messaging.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and create engaging presentation materials, primarily using PowerPoint, for internal quarterly meetings and external customer-facing presentations.

• Design and produce digital fliers and promotional graphics for deployment across internal and external websites and digital platforms.

• Create a variety of printed materials, from small-scale fliers for break rooms to large-format signage for building exteriors.

• Design distinct logos for special company events or milestones, ensuring versatility for use on online promotional materials, apparel, and other merchandise.

• Act as a key liaison with Corporate Communications, prioritizing content, managing project timelines, and providing regular status updates on the design project pipeline.

• Partner with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) on graphic design requests, working in conjunction with Corporate Communications to ensure all design outputs are accurate and relevant.

• Meticulously manage the review and approval process for all new design materials, coordinating with SMEs, Legal, Marketing, and other key stakeholders to secure final sign-off.

• Ensure exceptional quality and consistency across all digital and printed design outputs, adapting graphic design elements to effectively suit the specific needs and context of each project vehicle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibility for managing a "project pipeline" and working with a "review process" involving multiple departments (SMEs, Legal, Marketing) highlights the operational aspect of this role. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate organizational skills, communication proficiency, and an understanding of workflow management within a corporate setting.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Preferred BA/BS/BFA or AA/AS Degree in Graphic Design, Marketing, Communications, Advertising, or Journalism. Experience:

• Preferred 3 years of experience in a marketing or communications-related environment.

• Mid-level experience (2-5 years) demonstrating a strong understanding of graphic design principles and application within a corporate setting. Required Skills:

• Strong competency in various graphic software programs, including Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator.

• Excellent copywriting and communication skills, essential for creating clear and effective visual narratives.

• Proficiency in creating presentation materials, particularly in PowerPoint.

• Ability to manage and prioritize a project pipeline, ensuring timely delivery of design assets.

• Strong understanding of graphic design principles such as color theory, typography, and layout design. Preferred Skills:

• Well-crafted online portfolio showcasing a diverse range of design projects.

• Advanced knowledge of current design tools and software.

• Experience in a marketing or communications-related environment.

• Familiarity with brand identity guidelines and their application across various media.

• Experience with digital marketing assets and website graphics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "well-crafted online portfolio" is critical. For this role, the portfolio should not only showcase creative talent but also demonstrate an understanding of corporate branding, effective communication, and the ability to produce a variety of asset types (digital, print, presentations). The preferred degree and experience level suggest a need for foundational design education combined with practical application in a professional setting.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of design projects, including presentation decks, digital fliers, print collateral, and logo designs for events or milestones.

• Demonstrate proficiency in applying brand guidelines consistently across different media and project types.

• Include examples of designs created for both internal communications and external customer-facing materials.

• Highlight projects that required collaboration with subject matter experts or communication teams, demonstrating an understanding of stakeholder input. Process Documentation:

• Projects should ideally reflect an understanding of a review and approval process, indicating how feedback was incorporated.

• Showcase examples where design solutions were customized for specific mediums (e.g., digital vs. print, internal vs. external).

• Include case studies or project descriptions that touch upon project management aspects, such as meeting deadlines or managing multiple requests.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a formal requirement, a portfolio that implicitly demonstrates an understanding of corporate design processes, stakeholder collaboration, and the ability to adapt designs for different purposes will be highly advantageous. The "well-crafted online portfolio" is the primary vehicle for showcasing these process-oriented skills.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $89,210 - $133,810 annually (USD)

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits (also apply to part-time employees).

• Paid time off plan, including vacation, holidays, and volunteer time.

• 401(k) savings plans.

• Health Savings Account (HSA).

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).

• Health Lifestyle Programs.

• Employee Assistance Program.

• Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts.

• Career Development opportunities.

• Incentive bonus potential.

• Disability benefits.

• Life Insurance.

• Parental leave.

• Adoption benefits.

• Tuition Reimbursement.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is a standard benchmark for mid-level graphic design roles in a major metropolitan area like San Diego, especially within a large corporation like Caterpillar. The extensive benefits package reflects the comprehensive offerings typical of a large, established organization.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Manufacturing (Heavy Equipment, Power Systems) - Solar Turbines operates within the industrial manufacturing sector, specializing in gas turbine systems. This context implies a need for designs that can convey technical information clearly and professionally, often with a focus on reliability, performance, and global reach.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (part of Caterpillar Inc.) - Working within a large corporation like Caterpillar means adherence to established brand guidelines, corporate communication protocols, and potentially a structured approval process for all creative outputs. This can offer stability and access to resources but may require more formality in design execution.

Founded: Solar Turbines was founded in 1927, and Caterpillar Inc. was founded in 1925. This long history suggests a company with deep-rooted values, established processes, and a strong commitment to quality and innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of the Marketing or Corporate Communications department, working alongside other marketing professionals, content creators, and communication specialists.

• Collaboration is expected with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) across various departments, indicating a cross-functional team dynamic.

• Reporting structure will likely involve a Marketing Manager or Communications Director, who oversees the project pipeline and team's creative output. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: While this role is creative, the emphasis on "customizes graphic design based on each vehicle" and collaboration with SMEs suggests a need for designs that are informed by technical accuracy and communication objectives.

• Process-Oriented Workflow: The mention of a "review process for final approval that includes: SMEs, legal, marketing and key stakeholders" highlights a structured, process-driven approach to design execution.

• Quality Assurance: A strong focus on ensuring "quality for both digital and printed material" indicates a commitment to high standards and meticulous execution.

Company Website: https://www.solarturbines.com/ (Note: Solar Turbines is a subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc., whose main site is https://www.caterpillar.com/)

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding Solar Turbines' position within the heavy industrial manufacturing sector is key. Designs will need to be professional, clear, and potentially convey technical complexity. The "Caterpillar Inc." affiliation means candidates should be aware of broader corporate branding and communication standards.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a mid-level Graphic Designer role (2-5 years of experience). It requires independent execution of design tasks, management of project pipelines, and collaboration with various internal teams. It's a foundational role within the marketing/communications operations for the company.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a manager within the Corporate Communications or Marketing department. They will work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) and potentially sales or engineering departments for specific projects.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the company's external perception through customer-facing materials and internal alignment through corporate communications. High-quality, effective visual assets contribute to brand consistency, clear communication of technical information, and overall professional image, which indirectly supports sales and stakeholder engagement.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to specialize in specific areas of design, such as technical illustration, motion graphics, or digital marketing design, based on project needs and individual interest.

• Leadership: As experience grows, opportunities may arise to mentor junior designers, lead small design projects, or take on more complex strategic design initiatives.

• Skill Expansion: Continuous learning in new design software, digital trends, and corporate communication strategies can lead to advancement within the marketing and communications functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Operations Impact" section emphasizes how design supports broader business functions. For growth, candidates should consider how to leverage this role to build expertise in areas like technical communication design or brand management within a large industrial context.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site in San Diego, California. This indicates a traditional office setting within a corporate campus environment.

Office Location(s): San Diego, California. This location offers a vibrant business environment with access to a diverse talent pool and potentially a good quality of life. Specific details about the office campus, amenities, and accessibility would need to be confirmed.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires close collaboration with Corporate Communications, SMEs, Legal, and Marketing teams. This suggests an open or semi-open office layout that facilitates easy communication and teamwork.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite) and potentially company-specific internal communication platforms and project management tools.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with colleagues from various departments for design requests, feedback, and project reviews.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week. While flexibility might be present, the on-site nature and project-based responsibilities imply a need for consistent availability during core business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement means candidates should be comfortable working in a physical office setting and engaging in face-to-face collaboration. The description of the role suggests an environment where design is integrated into broader corporate communication strategies.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, discussing key projects, design choices, and their role in the creative process. Be prepared to articulate your design rationale, problem-solving approach, and understanding of client/stakeholder needs.

• Skills Assessment: Potential for a design exercise or test to evaluate proficiency in specific software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) and application of design principles under timed conditions.

• Behavioral & Situational Interviews: Questions will focus on collaboration, problem-solving, time management, handling feedback, and working within a corporate structure (e.g., managing the approval process).

• Final Round: May involve meeting with key stakeholders from Corporate Communications, Marketing, or other departments to assess cultural fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 4-6 of your strongest, most relevant projects. Prioritize work that demonstrates experience with presentations, digital fliers, print collateral, and logo design.

• Showcase Process: For each project, briefly explain the brief/objective, your role, the design process (including any collaboration or feedback incorporation), and the final outcome. Highlight how you addressed specific requirements or challenges.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If any designs led to measurable results (e.g., increased engagement, successful event promotion), mention them.

• Highlight Versatility: Ensure your portfolio includes examples of designs for different audiences (internal vs. external) and mediums (digital vs. print).

• Professional Presentation: Ensure your online portfolio is clean, easy to navigate, and visually appealing.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Exercise: Practice creating presentation slides or a digital promotion within a set timeframe, focusing on clarity, brand consistency, and effective visual communication.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would approach a design request with limited information or conflicting stakeholder feedback.

• Process Adherence: Be ready to discuss how you would manage the multi-stage approval process described in the job posting, emphasizing communication and organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh the candidate's portfolio and their ability to articulate their design process and rationale. The emphasis on a structured approval process means candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with project management and stakeholder communication in a corporate context.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency in Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator is explicitly required.

• Microsoft PowerPoint: Critical for creating internal and external presentation materials.

• Other Design Software: Familiarity with other graphic design tools may be beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly stated, understanding how digital assets perform (e.g., click-through rates on fliers) could be a plus. Knowledge of basic web analytics or digital marketing platforms might be indirectly useful. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role, but understanding how marketing materials integrate with CRM or marketing automation platforms could be a bonus if previous experience exists.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement is mastery of the Adobe Creative Suite for visual asset creation. Proficiency in PowerPoint is also a non-negotiable for presentation design. Candidates should be ready to demonstrate their skills in these specific applications.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Professionalism: A strong emphasis on delivering high-quality, polished work that upholds the company's professional image.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: The role requires working closely with various departments, highlighting the importance of effective communication and cooperative spirit.

• Process Adherence & Diligence: Following established review and approval processes is crucial, indicating a value for structured workflows and attention to detail.

• Efficiency & Timeliness: Managing a project pipeline and meeting deadlines are key operational aspects, reflecting a value for efficient execution.

• Brand Integrity: Maintaining brand consistency across all visual communications is paramount.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect to work closely with individuals from different functional areas (SMEs, Legal, Marketing) to gather requirements and obtain approvals.

• Feedback-Driven: The design process involves multiple review stages, suggesting a culture where constructive feedback is given and received to refine creative outputs.

• Partnership Approach: Working "in partnership with Corporate Communications" and "with Subject Matter Experts" implies a collaborative, supportive approach to achieving shared communication goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture appears to be one that balances creative expression with corporate structure and process. The ideal candidate will be adaptable, communicative, and comfortable navigating a multi-stakeholder environment to ensure successful design outcomes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Corporate Constraints: Effectively translating creative vision within strict brand guidelines and multi-stakeholder approval processes.

• Managing Project Volume and Prioritization: Handling multiple design requests simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery without sacrificing quality.

• Translating Technical Information: Converting complex technical or business information from SMEs into visually digestible and engaging graphics.

• Navigating Approval Workflows: Successfully managing the review process with various departments, ensuring all feedback is addressed and approvals are obtained efficiently.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Techniques: Deepening expertise in Adobe Creative Suite and exploring new design tools or features.

• Technical Communication Design: Developing skills in visualizing complex industrial or technical concepts for broader audiences.

• Brand Management: Gaining deeper insight into corporate branding strategies and their application across diverse communication channels.

• Project Management Skills: Enhancing skills in managing project timelines, stakeholder communication, and workflow efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges revolve around managing the operational aspects of design within a large corporate structure. Growth opportunities lie in leveraging this experience to become a more strategic, efficient, and specialized designer within the industrial sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for creating a presentation deck for a non-design audience, focusing on clarity and impact." (Focus on structuring content, visual hierarchy, and storytelling.)

• "How would you approach designing a logo for a company milestone event? What factors would you consider?" (Discuss conceptualization, brand alignment, and versatility.)

• "Walk me through your process for managing feedback from multiple stakeholders with potentially conflicting opinions on a design project." (Emphasize communication, negotiation, and finding design solutions that satisfy requirements.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Solar Turbines and Caterpillar, and how do you see your design skills contributing to our mission?" (Research the company's products, values, and recent news. Connect your skills to their industrial context.)

• "How do you stay updated on current design trends, and how do you balance these with established brand guidelines?" (Demonstrate awareness of trends while prioritizing brand integrity.)

• "Describe a time you had to adapt your design style to meet specific corporate requirements." (Highlight your flexibility and understanding of brand constraints.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, present the problem/objective, your solution/design process, and the outcome.

• Emphasize Collaboration: Highlight instances where you worked with SMEs, marketing teams, or legal departments.

• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Clearly articulate the tools and techniques you used.

• Explain Design Rationale: Be prepared to defend your design choices with logical reasoning tied to project goals and audience.

• Highlight Operational Aspects: Point out how you managed timelines, incorporated feedback, and ensured final approvals.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating both creative talent and operational competence. Candidates need to showcase their ability to work within a structured corporate environment, manage projects, and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Workday job portal.

• Tailor your resume: Highlight experience with Adobe Creative Suite, PowerPoint, presentation design, digital fliers, print collateral, and logo creation. Emphasize any experience in corporate communications or marketing roles within manufacturing or industrial sectors.

• Curate your portfolio: Ensure your online portfolio prominently features relevant projects, clearly labels your role, and briefly explains the design process and outcomes. Prioritize work that aligns with the responsibilities outlined in this job description.

• Prepare for portfolio review: Practice presenting your work, articulating your design choices, and discussing your experience managing project pipelines and stakeholder feedback.

• Research the company: Familiarize yourself with Solar Turbines and Caterpillar Inc., their products, industry, and recent communications. Understand how your design skills can support their business 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.