Graphic Designer II

Red Carrot
Full-timeโ€ขArlington, United States

๐Ÿ“ Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer II

Company: Red Carrot

Location: Remote (United States)

Job Type: FULL_TIME

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

Date Posted: 2026-06-08

Experience Level: 5-10 Years (Journeyman Level)

Remote Status: Remote Solely

๐Ÿš€ Role Summary

  • This role is for a seasoned Graphic Designer II, identified as a Journeyman level, responsible for leading visual projects for a federal communications contract.

  • The position requires independent execution of design tasks across both digital and print mediums, emphasizing creative output and technical proficiency.

  • A strong focus will be placed on creating visually compelling content, including static graphics, animations, infographics, and multimedia materials, optimized for various platforms.

  • Ensuring compliance with accessibility standards (508 compliant) and maintaining organized digital asset management are critical components of this role.

๐Ÿ“ Enhancement Note: The job title "Graphic Designer II" and the description of "Journeyman" level indicate a mid-to-senior level position. The explicit mention of a federal communications contract implies a need for understanding government-specific communication standards and potentially security clearance requirements (Fitness Determination). The remote nature of the role, coupled with the US-wide location, suggests a need for strong self-management and communication skills.

๐Ÿ“ˆ Primary Responsibilities

  • Design and develop a wide range of visual assets, including graphics for publications, presentations, factsheets, reports, and other communication collateral.

  • Create engaging static and digital graphics, animations, icons, and multimedia content suitable for both web and print applications.

  • Conceptualize and produce infographics that effectively visualize complex program information for diverse audiences.

  • Refresh and design templates for standard company products such as fact sheets, brochures, flyers, and reports to maintain brand consistency and visual appeal.

  • Provide design services for agency booths, displays, banners, and exhibits, including updating graphics as required for events.

  • Establish and manage a centralized, accessible repository for all icons, graphics, and design templates for customer employees.

  • Ensure all designed graphics and communication products adhere to Section 508 accessibility compliance standards.

  • Support events through photo and video capture, editing, and comprehensive documentation of activities.

  • Produce motion graphics and video products as needed to enhance communication materials and project deliverables.

๐Ÿ“ Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a comprehensive design role that goes beyond static imagery, encompassing multimedia, event support, and asset management. The emphasis on "508 compliant" graphics is a specific requirement for government contracts, indicating a need for designers familiar with accessibility standards in digital content creation.

๐ŸŽ“ Skills & Qualifications

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Information Technology, Animation, Computer Science, or a closely related field. Experience:

  • Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in graphic design, with a focus on digital content creation, motion design, and visual storytelling.

  • Proven experience in creating AI-generated content, motion design, rigging, and VFX (Visual Effects). Required Skills:

  • Mastery of the Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, and Premiere Pro.

  • Proficiency in 3D modeling software such as Blender, Cinema 4D, or Maya.

  • Hands-on experience with AI-powered design tools including Runway ML, DALLยทE, and MidJourney.

  • Expertise in creating static graphics, animations, icons, and multimedia materials.

  • Strong understanding of design principles for both web and print media.

  • Ability to ensure and implement 508 compliance in all design outputs.

  • Experience in designing and refreshing templates for various collateral types.

  • Skills in photo and video capture, editing, and multimedia production. Preferred Skills:

  • Experience working on federal communications contracts or with government agencies.

  • Knowledge of industrial engineering principles and data analytics, as mentioned in the company's "About Us" section, could be beneficial for understanding client needs.

  • Familiarity with content repository management systems.

๐Ÿ“ Enhancement Note: The minimum experience is stated as 5 years, but the "5-10" AI-derived experience level suggests that candidates with up to 10 years of experience would also be highly suitable. The inclusion of AI-powered design tools and 3D modeling is a significant differentiator, indicating a forward-thinking approach to design and a need for specialized skills.

๐Ÿ“Š Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Showcase a diverse range of projects demonstrating expertise in graphic design, motion graphics, animation, and 3D modeling.

  • Include examples of AI-generated content and how it was integrated into design workflows.

  • Highlight projects that required 508 compliance, detailing the process and outcomes.

  • Present case studies of template design and refresh initiatives, illustrating the impact on brand consistency and efficiency.

  • Demonstrate experience with multimedia production, including video editing and photo capture. Process Documentation:

  • Be prepared to discuss your design process from concept to final delivery, emphasizing workflow optimization and efficiency.

  • Articulate how you manage design projects independently, including client communication, feedback integration, and revision cycles.

  • Explain your approach to ensuring 508 compliance and accessibility in digital and print materials.

  • Detail your experience with content repository management and template standardization.

๐Ÿ“ Enhancement Note: Given the federal contract context, a portfolio demonstrating an understanding of government communication standards, clarity, and accessibility will be highly valued. The inclusion of AI tools and 3D modeling suggests that the company is looking for innovative and technically advanced design capabilities.

๐Ÿ’ต Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The salary range for a Graphic Designer II (Journeyman Level) with 5-10 years of experience in the US, particularly for government contracts, typically falls between $70,000 to $100,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for specialized design roles, the required technical proficiencies (including AI and 3D), and the federal contract environment, which often compensates for specialized skills and potential security clearance requirements. The exact salary will depend on the candidate's specific experience, skill set, and the final contract award.

Benefits:

  • Training and Development: Opportunities for professional growth, including tuition reimbursement and specialized training programs for eligible employees.

  • Healthcare: Comprehensive top-tier medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage, along with life insurance and long-term disability coverage.

  • 401(k) Plan: Retirement savings plan with both traditional and Roth options, including company matching and no vesting period.

  • Profit Sharing: A discretionary profit-sharing plan available to eligible employees after one year of service.

  • Paid Time Off: Flexible work hours, generous paid time off, and observance of 11 federal holidays.

Working Hours:

  • Standard full-time hours are expected to be around 40 hours per week, typical for a government contract role. The "Remote" work location offers flexibility in terms of where the work is performed, but adherence to core working hours for team collaboration and client availability is likely required.

๐Ÿ“ Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is derived from general US market data for graphic designers with advanced skills and experience, adjusted for the government contracting sector. The specific salary will be contingent on the contract award. The benefits package is comprehensive, catering to employee well-being and long-term financial security.

๐ŸŽฏ Team & Company Context

๐Ÿข Company Culture

Industry: Government Contracting, Strategic Communications, Management Consulting, Human Capital Solutions. Red Carrot operates within a competitive federal sector, requiring precision, reliability, and adherence to strict standards.

Company Size: Woman-owned small business. This size often implies a close-knit team environment where individual contributions are highly visible and valued. It also suggests agility and a direct impact on company success.

Founded: The company's founding date is not specified, but its focus on industrial engineering principles and data analytics suggests a modern, problem-solving approach to client challenges.

Team Structure:

  • The Graphic Designer II will likely be part of a broader communications or creative team, potentially supporting the "External Affairs office" of a federal client.

  • Reporting structure is likely to be to a Design Lead or a Project Manager within Red Carrot, with significant direct interaction with client stakeholders.

  • Cross-functional collaboration is expected with communications specialists, content writers, project managers, and potentially data analysts to ensure cohesive and effective project delivery. Methodology:

  • Red Carrot emphasizes an approach that is "research-centric, data-informed, and audience-oriented." This means design decisions should be backed by research and data, with a clear understanding of the target audience.

  • Industrial engineering principles and data analytics are core to their problem-solving methodology, suggesting a preference for systematic, efficient, and measurable outcomes.

Company Website: https://theredcarrot.com/

๐Ÿ“ Enhancement Note: Red Carrot's emphasis on industrial engineering and data analytics suggests they value a structured, efficient, and results-oriented approach to creative work, which is somewhat unique for a design role and warrants highlighting.

๐Ÿ“ˆ Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as "Graphic Designer II" and "Journeyman Level," indicating a mid-career professional with a solid foundation and the ability to work independently. It signifies a level of expertise beyond entry-level, with responsibilities for project leadership and complex creative tasks.

Reporting Structure: The designer will report to a manager within Red Carrot, likely a Creative Director, Design Lead, or Project Manager. They will also work closely with client-side stakeholders in the External Affairs office, requiring strong communication and client management skills.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role in RevOps or SalesOps, this Graphic Designer plays a crucial role in the operational success of federal communication contracts. Their work directly impacts the clarity, effectiveness, and professionalism of client communications, influencing public perception, stakeholder engagement, and the overall success of government programs. High-quality, compliant design is essential for effective program outreach and information dissemination.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Specialization: Deepen expertise in areas like AI-driven design, advanced motion graphics, VFX, or 508 compliance.

  • Leadership: Potentially move into senior designer roles, lead design projects, mentor junior designers, or manage client design portfolios.

  • Skill Expansion: Develop skills in strategic communication, user experience (UX) design for digital platforms, or data visualization, aligning with Red Carrot's data-centric approach.

  • Industry Exposure: Gain extensive experience within the federal government sector, understanding its unique communication needs and compliance requirements.

๐Ÿ“ Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities are framed to connect graphic design skills with broader strategic communication and data analysis, aligning with Red Carrot's stated methodologies and the federal contract environment.

๐ŸŒ Work Environment

Office Type: The position is explicitly listed as "Remote." This indicates a fully remote work arrangement, allowing the employee to work from any location within the United States.

Office Location(s): While the role is remote, Red Carrot is headquartered in Miami, Florida, with a "strong and growing presence in Washington, D.C." This suggests that while the designer will work remotely, there might be occasional opportunities or requirements to connect with teams or clients in these primary locations.

Workspace Context:

  • The remote setup necessitates a self-disciplined and organized work environment.

  • Access to reliable internet and a suitable home office setup is essential for productivity.

  • Collaboration will primarily occur through digital communication tools (e.g., video conferencing, instant messaging, project management software).

  • The team culture at Red Carrot values diversity and problem-solving, suggesting a collaborative yet independent remote working dynamic. Work Schedule:

  • The role is full-time (40 hours/week). While remote, adherence to core business hours for collaboration and client responsiveness within the US time zones is expected. The mention of "flexible work hours" in the benefits section may refer to the flexibility in when work is done, as long as deadlines and collaboration needs are met.

๐Ÿ“ Enhancement Note: The remote nature is a key aspect, emphasizing the need for strong self-management and digital collaboration skills. The company's headquarters and D.C. presence might imply potential for future in-person meetings or client site visits, though not explicitly stated for this role.

๐Ÿ“„ Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: Likely a review of resume and portfolio for technical skills, experience (especially with Adobe Suite, AI tools, 3D), and 508 compliance knowledge.

  • Technical Interview: A deeper dive into design process, software proficiency, and handling of specific design challenges. May include a portfolio review where candidates walk through their work.

  • Skills Assessment/Design Challenge: A practical test to evaluate design skills, problem-solving abilities, and efficiency under timed conditions. This could involve creating a graphic, infographic, or a short animation.

  • Client/Team Fit Interview: Discussion on collaboration style, understanding of federal communications, and ability to work effectively in a remote, client-facing environment.

  • Final Review: May involve a discussion about background checks and the "Fitness Determination" process for government contracts.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Showcase AI & 3D: Clearly present projects utilizing AI tools (Runway ML, DALLยทE, MidJourney) and 3D modeling (Blender, C4D, Maya). Explain the integration and benefits.

  • Highlight 508 Compliance: Include specific examples of work that meets accessibility standards. Detail the process you followed to ensure compliance.

  • Demonstrate Versatility: Present a range of work across digital (web graphics, social media, animations) and print (brochures, reports, fact sheets) mediums.

  • Tell a Story: For each project, explain the client's objective, your creative process, the challenges faced, and the impact of your design. Quantify results where possible.

  • Template Design: Include examples of template redesigns and explain how they improved efficiency or brand consistency.

  • Motion Graphics & Video: Showcase your skills in After Effects and Premiere Pro with compelling examples.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Practice with AI Tools: Familiarize yourself with prompt engineering and creative applications of AI design tools.

  • Master Adobe Suite: Be ready to demonstrate advanced techniques in Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, and Premiere Pro.

  • Understand 508 Compliance: Review WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) and common practices for making visual content accessible.

  • Prepare for Timed Tasks: Practice creating graphics or short animations under tight deadlines.

  • Articulate Process: Be ready to explain your design thinking and workflow clearly and concisely.

๐Ÿ“ Enhancement Note: The "Fitness Determination" requirement is a critical piece for government contracts, often involving background checks. Candidates should be prepared to discuss this. The portfolio should strongly emphasize the advanced skills like AI and 3D, as these are differentiators.

๐Ÿ›  Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, and Premiere Pro is explicitly required.

  • 3D Modeling Software: Experience with Blender, Cinema 4D, or Maya is a must.

  • AI-Powered Design Tools: Hands-on experience with Runway ML, DALLยทE, and MidJourney is a key requirement.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • While not explicitly listed, a designer in this role would likely benefit from understanding how their designs perform. Familiarity with basic analytics to understand engagement with digital assets would be advantageous. CRM & Automation:

  • Not directly applicable to the designer's core function, but understanding how visual assets are deployed within marketing or communication platforms might be beneficial.

๐Ÿ“ Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily weighted towards creative software and cutting-edge AI tools, indicating a focus on modern and advanced digital content creation.

๐Ÿ‘ฅ Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Precision & Expertise: Red Carrotโ€™s grounding in industrial engineering and data analytics suggests a value for meticulous work and deep subject matter expertise.

  • Data-Driven & Research-Centric: Design decisions should be informed by data and research, aiming for measurable impact.

  • Audience-Oriented: A strong focus on understanding and serving the needs of the end audience is paramount.

  • Purposeful Communication: The company exists to strengthen organizations through meaningful communication, implying a value for work that has a clear objective and positive outcome.

  • Diversity & Inclusion: "We attract and develop talent from all backgrounds because we believe thereโ€™s strength in diversity," indicating an inclusive and collaborative environment.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-functional Integration: Expect to collaborate closely with communications specialists, writers, and project managers to ensure visual assets align with strategic messaging.

  • Remote Collaboration: Proficiency in using digital collaboration tools and actively participating in virtual team meetings is essential.

  • Client-Focused: A significant aspect will involve working with and presenting to federal clients, requiring clear communication, responsiveness, and the ability to incorporate client feedback effectively.

๐Ÿ“ Enhancement Note: The company culture values a blend of creative innovation (AI, 3D) and rigorous, data-informed methodology, which is a unique combination. This means designers need to be both creative visionaries and analytical problem-solvers.

โšก Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Federal Contract Nuances: Adapting to the specific requirements, compliance standards (like 508), and communication protocols of federal government clients.

  • Balancing Innovation with Compliance: Integrating cutting-edge tools like AI and 3D modeling while strictly adhering to established government design and accessibility standards.

  • Remote Collaboration: Maintaining strong team cohesion and client relationships in a fully remote environment, ensuring clear communication and timely delivery.

  • AI Integration: Effectively leveraging AI tools to enhance creativity and efficiency without compromising design quality or originality, and understanding their limitations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Advanced Design Skills: Opportunities to hone skills in AI-generated content creation, advanced motion graphics, VFX, and 3D rendering.

  • Government Sector Expertise: Gaining in-depth knowledge of federal communication strategies, compliance requirements, and client engagement.

  • Strategic Communication: Developing a deeper understanding of how design contributes to broader communication strategies and program objectives.

  • Professional Certifications: Potential for utilizing tuition reimbursement for relevant design or technology certifications.

๐Ÿ“ Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for adaptability, strong technical skills in emerging areas, and a keen understanding of the government contracting landscape.

๐Ÿ’ก Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe your process for creating a set of graphics for a federal agency report, ensuring 508 compliance."

  • "How do you integrate AI tools like DALLยทE or Runway ML into your existing design workflow? Can you provide an example?"

  • "Walk us through a project where you used 3D modeling or advanced animation (After Effects) to solve a communication challenge for a client."

  • "How do you manage feedback and revisions from multiple stakeholders, especially in a remote setting?" Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What interests you about working for Red Carrot, particularly our focus on industrial engineering and data analytics in communications?"

  • "How do you ensure your design work is audience-oriented and data-informed?"

  • "Describe a time you worked with a diverse team and how you contributed to an inclusive environment."

  • "What are your thoughts on the ethical considerations of using AI in graphic design?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or skill. For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the tools used (especially AI/3D/Adobe), the process, challenges, and outcomes.

  • Highlight Advanced Skills: Dedicate specific sections or clearly label projects that showcase your AI, 3D, and motion graphics capabilities.

  • Demonstrate 508 Compliance: For relevant projects, explain how you achieved compliance and what specific considerations you made.

  • Storytelling: Present your work as a narrative. Explain the "why" and "how" behind your creative decisions.

  • Conciseness: Be prepared to present key projects within a set timeframe, focusing on the most impactful and relevant examples.

๐Ÿ“ Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily emphasize the unique requirements of this role: AI/3D proficiency, 508 compliance, and federal client experience. Candidates should be ready to articulate their process and demonstrate practical application of these skills.

๐Ÿ“Œ Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer II position:

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

  • Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to prominently feature your experience with Adobe Creative Suite, AI-powered design tools (Runway ML, DALLยทE, MidJourney), 3D modeling software (Blender, C4D, Maya), and motion graphics (After Effects). Ensure examples demonstrating 508 compliance are clearly marked and explained.

  • Resume Optimization: Highlight your 5+ years of experience, explicitly mentioning your proficiency in the required software and your background in creating AI-generated content, motion design, rigging, and VFX. Quantify achievements where possible, and mention any experience with federal contracts or government projects.

  • Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, how you integrate new technologies like AI, and how you ensure accessibility standards (508 compliance). Prepare specific examples from your portfolio to discuss during interviews.

  • Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Red Carrot's methodology, particularly their emphasis on industrial engineering, data analytics, and audience-oriented communication. Understand their mission and values to articulate your fit.

โš ๏ธ 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. The "contingent upon contract award" status means the role's commencement is dependent on the company securing a specific contract.

Application Requirements

Candidates must have a BA in a relevant field and a minimum of 5 years of experience in graphic design and related technologies. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and experience with 3D modeling software and AI-powered design tools are also required.