Graphic Designer II

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer II

Company: DLA Piper

Location: New York, NY; Reston, VA; San Diego, CA; San Francisco, CA; Washington, DC

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Marketing & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-06-01T00:00:00

Experience Level: Mid-Level (3-5 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is central to maintaining and extending DLA Piper's visual identity across all firm communications, requiring a strong understanding of brand consistency and creative execution within a legal services context.

• The Graphic Designer II will translate complex business objectives and design briefs into compelling visual concepts for a wide array of branded materials, from print collateral to digital assets and video.

• Collaboration with the Art Director and Creative Project Manager is key to ensuring brand integrity, meeting project deadlines, and delivering high-quality design solutions that support the firm's strategic goals.

• Proficiency in industry-standard design software and an understanding of print production processes are essential, with a strong emphasis on producing press-ready files and supporting digital and video initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Graphic Designer II," the responsibilities and required skills, particularly the emphasis on brand consistency, cross-channel execution (print, digital, video, environmental), and collaboration with internal clients (attorneys, business professionals), position this role within the broader scope of Marketing Operations or Brand Operations within a large professional services firm. The role requires not just creative output but also strategic thinking about how design supports business goals.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Translate business goals and design briefs into compelling, cohesive visual concepts for various communication needs.

• Design and implement visual identity extensions across all branded elements, ensuring integrity, consistency, and clarity firm-wide.

• Determine optimal media and vehicles for communication to achieve desired visual effects and messaging impact.

• Develop original artwork, graphic elements, and layouts using professional design software to meet project objectives.

• Collaborate closely with the Creative Project Manager to manage project timelines, budgets, and revisions, ensuring client goals are met.

• Utilize existing photo, illustration libraries, and typography guides to create effective design solutions for internal clients.

• Prepare press-ready files and conduct quality checks for external vendors, attending press checks as needed to ensure accuracy and standards.

• Support the Digital Design team in creating designs for web-based and interactive applications.

• Design and produce engaging motion graphics for video projects in collaboration with the video team.

• Create designs for environmental graphics and office signage systems to enhance the physical brand experience.

• Act as a design champion, educating colleagues and staff on the strategic value of design for competitive advantage.

• Present design solutions, user insights, and strategic approaches to key stakeholders.

• Maintain high standards of design quality, ensuring only the best work is released.

• Drive up design creativity standards through cross-organizational collaboration.

• Stay current with new design trends and emerging technologies to enhance work quality and efficiency, including the leverage of AI tools.

• Assist with the day-to-day operations of the brand function.

• Be available to work outside regular hours for high-profile projects as necessary.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative execution and operational coordination. The expectation to "support Digital Design team," "support video team with designs and engaging motion graphics," and "designs environmental graphics and office signage systems" indicates a versatile role capable of contributing to various output channels. The emphasis on "translates the firm’s business goals and design briefs into compelling, cohesive visual concepts" and "presents design solutions, user insights, and strategic approaches to key stakeholders" underscores the need for strategic thinking beyond pure aesthetics.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of professional print and digital design experience.

• Proven work experience as a Graphic Designer or in a similar role.

Required Skills:

• Strong and dynamic design portfolio demonstrating a wide range of creative capabilities across print and digital media.

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.

• Solid understanding of design principles, fundamentals, typography, and layout design.

• Thorough knowledge of print production processes and pre-press requirements.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with a customer service orientation.

• Solid working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, including PowerPoint and Word for presentation and document creation.

• Demonstrated follow-through and self-starter mentality; ability to work independently and manage projects.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe After Effects for motion graphics and video editing.

• Experience with Figma for digital design and prototyping.

• Experience with Cinema 4D or other 3D software.

• Experience in motion graphics and video editing.

• Familiarity with environmental graphics and signage systems.

• Ability to leverage AI tools to enhance the design workflow and explore new creative avenues.

• Experience working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

• Excellent organizational skills for managing multiple ongoing projects simultaneously.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "strong and dynamic design portfolio" is critical for this role, as it serves as the primary evidence of a candidate's capabilities. The requirement for "dual proficiency in Mac and PC platforms" is standard, but the explicit mention of "After Effects," "Figma," "Cinema 4D," and "AI tools" indicates a desire for a designer who can handle diverse digital media and is forward-thinking in their toolset. The "customer service orientation" is crucial given the internal client focus.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of projects demonstrating visual identity development, brand extension, and application across various media (print, digital, environmental).

• Include case studies detailing the design process, from brief interpretation and concept development to final execution and impact.

• Highlight projects that demonstrate problem-solving skills and the ability to translate business objectives into effective visual solutions.

• Present examples of digital design work, including web graphics, social media assets, or interactive elements, if applicable.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate understanding of workflow from brief to final asset delivery, including client interaction, revision cycles, and vendor management.

• Show examples of how design processes were optimized for efficiency, quality, or collaboration.

• Illustrate familiarity with pre-press processes and digital file preparation standards.

• Include examples of how design solutions were tailored to specific client goals or brand guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Graphic Designer role, especially at the II level, the portfolio is paramount. It needs to go beyond just pretty pictures; it should tell a story about the designer's process, strategic thinking, and ability to deliver results that align with client objectives and brand standards. For a firm like DLA Piper, demonstrating an understanding of corporate branding and professional services marketing is a strong plus.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The firm's expected hiring range for this position is $36.79/hr - $58.50/hr.

• This hourly range is dependent on the candidate’s geographic market location, with adjustments made for local cost of living and market rates for comparable roles.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive package including:
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are assumed to be 40 hours per week.

• Availability to work outside regular business hours for high-profile projects may be necessary.

• The position offers a hybrid work environment, balancing remote and in-office work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is hourly, which is detailed. For a "Graphic Designer II" role in New York City, this range ($36.79-$58.50/hr, equating to approximately $76,500 - $121,700 annually) is competitive for a mid-level role in a major metropolitan area, especially within a large law firm. The benefits package is standard for full-time corporate positions. The hybrid work arrangement is a significant perk.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Legal Services / Professional Services

Company Size: DLA Piper is a global law firm with a significant employee base, indicating a large, structured, and well-resourced marketing and creative department. This size suggests opportunities for specialization and working on high-profile, large-scale projects.

Founded: DLA Piper has a long history, formed through mergers of established law firms, bringing together a wealth of experience and a strong legacy. This implies a culture that values tradition and expertise while also embracing innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer II will likely be part of a larger Marketing or Creative Services team within DLA Piper's U.S. operations.

• This team is expected to collaborate closely with attorneys, business development professionals, and other internal clients across various practice groups and departments.

Methodology:

• Design solutions are driven by the firm's business goals and brand strategy, ensuring a strategic approach to creative output.

• Emphasis on maintaining brand integrity and consistency across all touchpoints is a core methodology.

• A collaborative workflow involving client input, design execution, and stakeholder presentation is standard.

• Continuous improvement is encouraged through staying updated on trends and embracing new technologies, including AI tools.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: DLA Piper's position as a global law firm means the Graphic Designer will operate in a professional, client-focused environment. The culture likely values excellence, collaboration, and a strong work ethic. The brand is paramount, so adherence to guidelines and strategic application of design are key.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Graphic Designer II, typically indicating a mid-level career stage. It requires independent contribution and a solid understanding of design principles and application, moving beyond junior-level tasks to take ownership of projects and contribute strategically.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer II reports to an Art Director and works closely with Creative Project Managers. This structure allows for mentorship and creative guidance while ensuring project management oversight. Collaboration with attorneys and business professionals means exposure to high-level strategic discussions.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the firm's external perception and internal communication effectiveness. By ensuring consistent, high-quality branding and visual materials, the role supports business development efforts, client engagement, and overall brand reputation, contributing to the firm's competitive advantage.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas like motion graphics, video editing, environmental design, or advanced digital design tools.

• Leadership Potential: Progression to Senior Graphic Designer or Art Director roles, involving greater creative direction, team leadership, and strategic input.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Opportunities to learn about marketing strategy, brand management, and the specific needs of legal practice areas, potentially leading to roles in broader marketing or communications functions.

• Industry Trends: Continuous learning and development in new design technologies, including AI tools, positioning the designer for future industry demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "II" in the title suggests a path for growth from a junior designer. For a large firm like DLA Piper, there are typically defined career paths within marketing and creative departments, allowing for advancement with demonstrated skill and experience. The exposure to the legal industry is a unique growth avenue.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position offers a hybrid work environment, allowing for a balance between remote work and in-office collaboration. This model is designed to provide flexibility while maintaining team cohesion and access to office resources.

Office Location(s): This role can be based in any of DLA Piper's U.S. offices, including New York, NY; Reston, VA; San Diego, CA; San Francisco, CA; and Washington, DC. This distributed model allows candidates to work from a location convenient to them.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to foster collaboration, with opportunities to interact with colleagues in person and virtually.

• Access to necessary design tools, software, and firm resources will be provided to support efficient and high-quality work.

• The environment is fast-paced and professional, typical of a global law firm, requiring adaptability and efficiency.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, with standard business hours expected. However, flexibility is required for high-profile projects, and the hybrid model offers some autonomy in structuring the work week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work arrangement is a key feature, offering flexibility. The distributed office locations are also a significant factor for candidates. The emphasis on a "fast-paced environment" and "ability to work under pressure" is standard for corporate roles, especially in demanding industries like legal services.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and creative output.

• First Interview: Likely with the hiring manager (Art Director or similar) to discuss experience, design philosophy, and technical skills. Portfolio review will be a central component.

• Skills Assessment/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to complete a design exercise or present a case study from their portfolio that demonstrates problem-solving, creative execution, and adherence to brand guidelines. This is where understanding of legal marketing or professional services branding might be assessed.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior marketing leadership or key stakeholders to assess cultural fit, communication skills, and strategic thinking.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate your portfolio to showcase your strongest work relevant to corporate branding, print collateral, and digital assets. Include examples that align with professional services or legal industry aesthetics if possible.

• For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your role, the challenges, your design process, and the outcome/impact. Quantify results where possible (e.g., "increased engagement by X%," "streamlined approval process").

• Be prepared to discuss your technical proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite and any other relevant software.

• Highlight projects demonstrating versatility, such as motion graphics, environmental design, or the use of AI tools.

Challenge Preparation:

• If a design exercise is given, focus on thoroughly understanding the brief, identifying key objectives, and adhering to any provided brand guidelines.

• Prioritize clarity, consistency, and strategic thinking over overly complex or experimental designs, unless the brief specifically calls for it.

• Practice presenting your work concisely, explaining your rationale and design decisions effectively.

• Be ready to discuss how your design choices support business goals and brand objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is the most critical element. Candidates should select projects that demonstrate not just aesthetic skill but also strategic thinking, problem-solving, and an understanding of brand consistency, especially within a corporate or professional services context. The mention of "client goals, budgets, and revisions" suggests that candidates should be prepared to discuss their client management and project execution skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

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

• Adobe After Effects: Highly desired for motion graphics and video editing tasks.

• Figma: A plus for digital design and collaborative projects.

• Cinema 4D (or other 3D software): A plus for advanced visual development.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Crucial for Word, PowerPoint (especially for presentation decks), and general office productivity.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but understanding how design assets integrate with marketing automation platforms or CRM systems could be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core requirement is a strong command of the Adobe Creative Suite. The emphasis on After Effects, Figma, and 3D software points towards a need for a designer who is versatile and capable of producing modern, dynamic visual content for a variety of platforms. The explicit mention of "AI tools" signals an expectation for forward-thinking designers.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence: Upholding high standards in all design work and client interactions.

• Collaboration: Working effectively within the creative team and across departments to achieve shared goals.

• Supportive Environment: Contributing to a positive and helpful workplace culture.

• Boldness: Willingness to explore innovative design solutions and push creative boundaries within brand guidelines.

• Integrity: Maintaining the highest ethical standards in work and client relationships.

Collaboration Style:

• The role requires strong cross-functional collaboration with Art Directors, Creative Project Managers, Digital Designers, video teams, and internal clients (attorneys, business professionals).

• A proactive and communicative approach is expected to ensure alignment on project requirements and creative direction.

• The team likely engages in regular feedback sessions and reviews to maintain quality and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: DLA Piper's stated values of "bold, exceptional, collaborative and supportive" should guide how candidates present themselves and their work. Demonstrating these values in past roles and in interview discussions will be key for cultural fit. The emphasis on collaboration across diverse internal groups is a hallmark of operations roles within large professional services firms.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Brand Consistency with Creative Innovation: Ensuring all designs adhere to strict brand guidelines while still being fresh and compelling.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Translating varied requests from attorneys and business professionals into cohesive visual solutions under tight deadlines.

• Keeping Pace with Evolving Design Trends and Technologies: Continuously learning and integrating new tools and techniques, including AI, into the workflow.

• Working in a Fast-Paced, Demanding Professional Services Environment: Adapting to high-pressure situations and managing multiple projects simultaneously.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to master new features within Adobe Creative Suite or learn new programs like Cinema 4D or advanced AI design tools.

• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Potential to attend design-focused events to stay current with trends and network.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced Art Directors and senior designers within the firm.

• Exposure to Legal Marketing: Gaining specialized knowledge in the unique design and marketing needs of the legal industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for adaptability, strong project management, and a commitment to lifelong learning, which are common in dynamic operations environments. The growth opportunities are tied to both technical skill enhancement and industry-specific knowledge acquisition.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate a complex business objective into a visual concept. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on strategic thinking and problem-solving).

• "How do you ensure brand consistency across various media (print, digital, video)? Can you provide an example from your portfolio?" (Assess understanding of brand guidelines and execution).

• "Walk me through a project in your portfolio that involved significant revisions or client feedback. How did you manage the process and achieve a successful outcome?" (Evaluate client management, adaptability, and problem-solving).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about DLA Piper and the legal industry specifically?" (Showcase research and genuine interest).

• "How do you embody DLA Piper's values of being bold, exceptional, collaborative, and supportive in your work?" (Align your experience with company culture).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically, perhaps by project type or complexity. Start with a strong overview of your most relevant work.

• Storytelling: For each key project, tell a story: the challenge, your role and process, the solution, and the results. Quantify impact whenever possible.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your presentation is visually clean, on-brand (if using firm templates), and easy to follow.

• Technical Discussion: Be prepared to discuss the software and techniques you used, and why.

• Conciseness: Practice your presentation to ensure it fits within the allotted time, allowing for Q&A.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions will likely probe design process, strategic thinking, collaboration skills, and cultural fit. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their design philosophy and demonstrate how their skills align with the demands of a large, professional services firm. The portfolio is the primary tool for demonstrating these capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided online link on the DLA Piper careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating strong branding, print and digital design versatility, and any experience with motion graphics or environmental design. If you have experience with AI tools or within professional services, ensure these are prominently featured.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your 3+ years of professional design experience, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, and any relevant software like After Effects or Figma. Use keywords from the job description, such as "visual identity," "brand consistency," "print production," and "digital design."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving skills, and how you manage client feedback. Prepare to discuss your portfolio projects in detail and how they align with DLA Piper's values and the role's requirements.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with DLA Piper's global presence, practice areas, and recent marketing initiatives. Understand their brand aesthetic and target audience to better tailor your responses.

⚠️ 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.