Graphic Designer – Cleared (Top Secret/SCI with Polygraph)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer – Cleared (Top Secret/SCI with Polygraph)

Company: BLN24

Location: McLean, Virginia, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

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

Date Posted: 2026-08-27

Experience Level: 2-5 years

Remote Status: Hybrid (Remote OK with potential for on-site requirements)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for developing compelling visual communications that support significant federal government initiatives, requiring a strong understanding of public health campaigns and digital outreach strategies.

• The position demands advanced proficiency in graphic design software, particularly the Adobe Creative Suite, to produce high-impact visual assets for diverse platforms.

• A key aspect of this role involves ensuring strict adherence to federal branding guidelines and Section 508 accessibility standards, crucial for government contracts.

• The Graphic Designer will collaborate closely with communications specialists and project teams, translating complex information into clear, engaging, and accessible visual content.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job description indicates "Remote OK," the requirement for a Top Secret/SCI clearance with Polygraph, often associated with on-site work at government facilities, suggests this role will likely be hybrid, with potential for specific on-site requirements depending on project needs and client location. The "2-5 years" experience level suggests this is an intermediate-level role, balancing foundational skills with the ability to work independently on projects.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce a comprehensive range of graphics for digital, print, and multimedia formats, leveraging expertise in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign to meet project specifications.

• Develop compelling visual assets specifically for public health campaigns, including engaging social media graphics, informative infographics, and effective outreach materials.

• Create essential event-related collateral, such as impactful signage, dynamic presentations, and eye-catching promotional content to enhance event visibility and engagement.

• Ensure all design deliverables rigorously comply with Section 508 accessibility standards and established federal branding guidelines, maintaining consistency and compliance.

• Collaborate actively with communications specialists and project management teams to effectively translate core messaging and campaign objectives into impactful visual designs.

• Prepare and finalize production-ready files for seamless dissemination across various platforms, ensuring optimal quality and compatibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a need for both creative design skills and a meticulous approach to compliance (Section 508, federal branding). This indicates a role that requires more than just aesthetic talent; it demands an understanding of the regulatory and client-specific constraints inherent in government contracting. The emphasis on "production-ready files" points to a need for attention to detail in final output.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a closely related field, providing a foundational understanding of design principles and theory. Experience:

• 3–5 years of progressive experience in graphic design or visual communications, demonstrating a solid track record of creating impactful visual content.

• Proven experience supporting federal communications efforts or public health campaigns is highly preferred, indicating familiarity with government sector nuances and communication objectives. Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, for creating and manipulating a wide array of visual assets.

• Strong understanding and application of graphic design principles, including layout, typography, color theory, and visual hierarchy.

• Demonstrated ability to design for digital platforms, including social media graphics and web-based content, optimizing for engagement and platform requirements.

• Experience creating print materials, such as brochures, signage, and event collateral, ensuring high-quality output for physical dissemination.

• Active Top Secret/SCI clearance with Polygraph, a non-negotiable requirement for access to sensitive government projects. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with multimedia design tools or video editing software to enhance visual storytelling capabilities.

• Familiarity with project management tools and methodologies to effectively manage design tasks and deadlines.

• Understanding of user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design principles as they apply to digital assets.

• Knowledge of accessibility best practices beyond Section 508, enhancing inclusivity in design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for an active TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph is a significant gatekeeper for this role. The preference for federal or public health campaign experience suggests that candidates who can demonstrate an understanding of government communication styles, regulations, and audience sensitivities will have a distinct advantage. The experience level points to a need for an independent contributor rather than an entry-level designer.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a minimum of 3-5 distinct projects that highlight proficiency in digital and print graphic design, with a strong emphasis on clarity and impact.

• Demonstrate experience in creating visual assets for campaigns, social media, and events, clearly articulating the design process and objectives for each piece.

• Include examples that illustrate adherence to branding guidelines and accessibility standards (e.g., Section 508 compliance), with specific explanations of how these were integrated.

• Showcase work that translates complex information into easily digestible visual formats, such as infographics or data visualizations.

• Provide examples of production-ready files or describe the final output process for various platforms. Process Documentation:

• Candidates may be asked to describe their design process from brief to final delivery, including concept development, iteration, and client feedback integration.

• Be prepared to discuss how you ensure compliance with accessibility standards and branding guidelines throughout the design workflow.

• Demonstrate an understanding of preparing files for different printing and digital dissemination methods.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role requiring adherence to strict federal standards, the portfolio is paramount. It should not only showcase creative talent but also the ability to follow specific constraints and deliver compliant, production-ready assets. Candidates should be ready to speak to their process and how they ensure quality and compliance in their work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on the location (McLean, VA), the required Top Secret/SCI clearance with Polygraph, and the 3-5 years of experience, the estimated salary range for a Graphic Designer in this specialized field is approximately $75,000 - $105,000 annually. This estimate accounts for the premium associated with cleared personnel and the competitive market for skilled designers in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. Benefits:

• Generous Medical, Dental, and Vision plans, providing comprehensive health coverage for employees and their families.

• Remote working opportunities, offering flexibility to balance work and personal life, depending on project requirements.

• Opportunity to work within a fast-growing management consulting firm in the Washington D.C. Metro Area, offering exposure to diverse federal sectors.

• Potential for variety in projects while maintaining stability within the organization. Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, aligning with standard full-time employment. While remote work is an option, specific project demands or client requirements may necessitate on-site presence or flexible hours to meet critical deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is heavily influenced by the TS/SCI clearance requirement, which typically commands a higher compensation due to the extensive vetting process and the limited pool of qualified candidates. The benefits package is standard for a professional services firm, with "Remote work opportunities" being a key flexibility point.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Management Consulting, supporting the U.S. Federal Government, with a focus on improving strategic and technical operations.

Company Size: BLN24 is described as one of the fastest-growing companies headquartered in the Washington DC Metro Area, indicating a dynamic and expanding environment.

Founded: While the founding date is not specified, the company's growth suggests a history of successful project delivery and client relationships within the federal sector.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of a broader Communications or Program Support team, working closely with Communications Specialists and Project Managers.

• The reporting structure will likely involve a direct report to a Communications Lead or Project Manager, with cross-functional collaboration across various client-facing teams.

• Collaboration is expected with internal BLN24 teams and directly with federal client personnel, requiring strong interpersonal and communication skills. Methodology:

• BLN24 emphasizes understanding client end-states and seamlessly integrating within agency organizations to enhance operations. This suggests a client-centric and adaptive approach to service delivery.

• The company culture values teamwork ("a better you is a better us"), indicating a collaborative and supportive work environment.

• Emphasis on data-driven insights and process optimization is implied by the nature of management consulting.

Company Website: https://www.bln24.co

📝 Enhancement Note: BLN24 operates within the highly specialized niche of federal government consulting. This implies a culture that values security, compliance, professionalism, and a results-oriented mindset. The "fast-growing" nature suggests opportunities for individuals to contribute to shaping processes and client success.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an intermediate level (3-5 years experience), suitable for a Graphic Designer ready to take on more complex projects and client-facing responsibilities within the federal sector.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a Communications Lead or Project Manager, working within a project team that may include analysts, strategists, and other subject matter experts. This structure fosters learning through collaboration with diverse professionals.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the effectiveness of federal public health campaigns, events, and digital outreach. High-quality, compliant visuals are crucial for clear communication, public engagement, and achieving mission objectives, thereby contributing significantly to the client's success and BLN24's reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deeper expertise in government communications, public health messaging, or specific design software/techniques.

• Leadership: Potential to grow into a Lead Graphic Designer role, mentoring junior designers, or managing design aspects of larger projects.

• Cross-functional: Transition into related roles such as Communications Specialist, UX/UI Designer, or Project Management, leveraging design experience within a broader GTM or operational context.

• Certifications: Pursue certifications in accessibility standards, project management, or advanced design software to enhance professional credentials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Graphic Designer in a federal consulting environment often involves specializing in areas critical to government communication needs. Growth opportunities are tied to demonstrating both design excellence and an understanding of the unique requirements of the public sector, including compliance and strategic messaging.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company offers remote work flexibility, but the nature of cleared work for federal clients often implies a hybrid model. This means employees may work from home but could be required to attend meetings or work on-site at government facilities or BLN24 offices in the McLean, VA area on occasion.

Office Location(s): Primarily based in McLean, Virginia, a hub for government contracting and technology firms. This location offers proximity to numerous federal agencies and related organizations.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is expected to be professional and collaborative, with opportunities to interact with diverse teams of consultants, subject matter experts, and government clients.

• Access to standard design software and potentially specialized government-approved IT systems will be provided.

• Opportunities for internal knowledge sharing and collaboration on best practices in design and federal communications are likely. Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week is typical. However, government projects can sometimes require flexibility to meet urgent deadlines or support time-sensitive events. Remote work flexibility can help accommodate varying schedules, but clear communication regarding availability is essential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Remote OK" status combined with the clearance requirement suggests a hybrid arrangement. Candidates should be prepared for a structured work environment that prioritizes security and client deliverables, with the potential for both remote and on-site work depending on project needs.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and clearance status.

• Technical Interview: A discussion focusing on design skills, software proficiency (Adobe Creative Suite), and experience with federal branding and Section 508 compliance. You may be asked to walk through specific portfolio pieces.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions assessing your ability to collaborate, problem-solve, manage time, and handle feedback within a government contracting environment.

• Client/Security Interview: Depending on the project, there may be an interview with the client or an additional security-focused discussion.

• Final Offer: Contingent on successful completion of all interview stages and final security/background checks.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best demonstrate the required skills (digital, print, campaigns, infographics, compliance).

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the objective, your role, the challenges faced, your design process, and the final outcome or impact.

• Highlight Compliance: Specifically point out how you addressed Section 508 accessibility and federal branding requirements in your designs.

• Prepare for Questions: Be ready to discuss your design choices, software techniques, and how you handle feedback and revisions.

• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate, whether it's a digital link or a presentation.

Challenge Preparation:

• Candidates might be given a short design challenge, such as creating a social media graphic or a concept for an infographic based on provided information.

• Focus on quickly understanding the brief, applying brand guidelines, and producing a compliant, visually effective output within a limited timeframe.

• Be prepared to briefly explain your design rationale if presenting the challenge output.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is the most critical component of the application. Candidates must be prepared to not only show their work but also to articulate the strategic thinking and compliance considerations behind each design. The clearance requirement means the process may also involve additional security vetting steps.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for all graphic design tasks.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Particularly PowerPoint for presentation design and Word for document integration.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or similar for internal and client communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary function, understanding how visual assets perform on digital platforms (e.g., social media engagement metrics) can be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design function, but familiarity with project management or task tracking tools used within BLN24 might be useful.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) is key. Candidates should be ready to discuss their level of proficiency and specific use cases within these applications. While CRM and automation are less relevant, familiarity with project management or collaboration tools is beneficial in a consulting environment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Teamwork: "A better you is a better us" underscores a collaborative ethos where individual contributions are valued as part of a collective effort.

• Client Focus: Understanding and achieving client mission and goals is paramount, driving a results-oriented approach.

• Integrity & Compliance: Given the federal contracting nature and clearance requirements, adherence to regulations, security protocols, and ethical standards is non-negotiable.

• Excellence & Growth: As a fast-growing company, there's an implied value placed on continuous improvement, learning, and striving for high-quality deliverables.

• Adaptability: The ability to integrate within diverse agency organizations and adapt to varying project needs is crucial.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional collaboration with communications specialists, project managers, and subject matter experts is a cornerstone of the role.

• Direct interaction with federal government clients is expected, requiring professional communication and the ability to incorporate client feedback effectively.

• A culture of knowledge sharing and best practice exchange is likely, especially within a growing consulting firm.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's slogan "We find strength in teamwork-a better you is a better us" is a strong indicator of a collaborative and supportive culture. For a federal contractor, professionalism, reliability, and a commitment to mission success are also implicitly valued.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Government Standards: Consistently meeting stringent federal branding guidelines and Section 508 accessibility requirements while maintaining creative appeal.

• Balancing Creativity with Compliance: Finding innovative design solutions that adhere strictly to client specifications and regulatory mandates.

• Managing Multiple Projects: Juggling various design requests from different campaigns and projects with competing deadlines.

• Clearance Requirements: Maintaining an active TS/SCI clearance and navigating any associated protocols or limitations.

• Hybrid Work Management: Effectively collaborating and ensuring seamless workflow in a hybrid remote/on-site environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Opportunities to attend workshops or gain certifications in accessibility standards, advanced design software, or government communication best practices.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced communications professionals and project managers within BLN24 and client organizations.

• Project Diversity: Gaining exposure to a wide range of federal initiatives, from public health campaigns to strategic operational improvements.

• Career Advancement: Potential to move into lead design roles, project management, or specialized communication strategy positions within the firm.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges revolve around the dual demands of creative execution and strict adherence to government standards. Growth opportunities are tied to developing expertise in these specific areas and leveraging design skills within the federal consulting landscape.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance creative design with strict brand guidelines or accessibility requirements. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" - Prepare a specific example from your portfolio, highlighting your process and problem-solving.

• "How do you ensure your designs are Section 508 compliant? What tools or methods do you use?" - Be ready to discuss your knowledge of accessibility standards and practical application.

• "Walk us through your process for designing a social media campaign graphic or an infographic. What are the key steps?" - Use a portfolio piece to illustrate your workflow from brief to final delivery.

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or revisions on your designs from clients or team members?" - Focus on your adaptability, communication skills, and commitment to achieving client objectives. Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for BLN24 and supporting federal government clients?" - Research BLN24's mission and values, and articulate how your skills align with supporting government initiatives.

• "How do you see yourself fitting into a collaborative team environment, especially in a hybrid work setting?" - Emphasize your teamwork skills and proactive communication strategies.

• "Given the nature of cleared work, what is your understanding of professionalism and discretion in this environment?" - Demonstrate awareness of the importance of security and professional conduct. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Impactful Examples: Choose 3-5 pieces that showcase your range, creativity, and adherence to requirements.

• Context is Key: For each piece, explain the client/project goal, your specific contribution, the design challenges, and the impact of your work.

• Highlight Compliance: Explicitly point out where and how you integrated Section 508 and federal branding.

• Be Concise and Clear: Present your work efficiently, allowing time for Q&A. Practice your explanations beforehand.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only design talent but also a thorough understanding of government requirements, compliance, and professional conduct. The portfolio is central to these discussions, so candidates must be prepared to speak confidently and in detail about their work.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on BLN24's careers page.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your resume and portfolio are tailored to highlight graphic design experience relevant to federal communications, public health campaigns, and digital outreach. Emphasize any experience with Section 508 compliance and federal branding.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly list your proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and any experience with federal projects. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Designed X graphics for Y campaign, resulting in Z engagement").

• Prepare for Clearance Verification: Be ready to discuss your active Top Secret/SCI clearance with Polygraph during the application or initial screening process.

• Research BLN24: Familiarize yourself with BLN24's mission, values, and the types of clients they serve in the federal sector. Understand their emphasis on teamwork and client mission 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.