Graphic Designer, Mid

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer, Mid

Company: Booz Allen Hamilton

Location: Charlottesville, VA, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design

Date Posted: May 19, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Execute creative and impactful visual materials that support client missions and enhance brand identity through expert application of design principles.

• Develop a diverse range of deliverables including FINTEL, logos, publications, presentations, and multimedia products, ensuring strict adherence to Section 508 accessibility standards.

• Manage multiple design projects in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment by leveraging strong accuracy, time management, and problem-solving skills.

• Collaborate effectively with a team of designers and stakeholders to conceptualize project requirements and deliver visual solutions that effectively communicate government or defense-sector priorities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is focused on visual communication within the government and defense sectors, requiring not just creative design skills but also a strong understanding of accessibility standards (Section 508) and the ability to translate complex information into clear, impactful visuals for high-stakes environments. The "Mid" designation suggests a need for independent work with some guidance, and the active TS/SCI clearance is a critical qualification.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Apply advanced graphic design principles (typography, hierarchy, visual balance) to create visually appealing and consistent assets aligned with organizational branding and messaging.

• Design and develop accessible products that comply with Section 508 standards, ensuring usability for all audiences.

• Create a wide array of visual materials, including but not limited to logos, publications, presentations, multimedia products, and potentially videos.

• Facilitate client-facing discussions to interpret workforce messaging, visually display data, and conceptualize analytic ideas.

• Manage project timelines, prioritize tasks, and deliver high-quality design outcomes with minimal supervision in a dynamic environment.

• Collaborate with senior designers for feedback and engage with stakeholders to define project requirements and ensure design outcomes align with mission-focused goals.

• Support intelligence analysts and senior-level or executive staff with tailored graphic design solutions for complex challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative execution, technical compliance (Section 508), client interaction, and project management within a government/defense context. The ability to translate complex data and messaging into visual formats is a core expectation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree

Experience: 3+ years of graphic design experience across print, digital, and multimedia products.

Required Skills:

• Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator).

• Skilled in Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint, Word).

• Demonstrated experience with Section 508 compliance in design and development of accessible products.

• Experience facilitating client-facing discussions to interpret messaging, visualize data, and conceptualize analytic ideas.

• Ability to manage multiple work assignments with accuracy, strong time management, and problem-solving skills.

• Proven ability to collaborate with stakeholders to define project requirements and deliver mission-aligned design outcomes.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience supporting intelligence analysts and senior-level or executive staff with tailored graphic design solutions.

• Familiarity with design tools such as Premiere Pro, Adobe XD, and MAPublisher.

• Experience working within the government or defense sectors.

• Knowledge of Department of Defense (DoD) or Intelligence Community (IC) processes and requirements.

• Ability to set expectations, define project timelines, and deliver quality products with minimal supervision.

• Ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams in a dynamic environment.

• TS/SCI clearance with a polygraph.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills highlight technical proficiency in industry-standard design software and essential compliance knowledge. Preferred skills indicate a desire for candidates with specific domain experience (government/defense) and advanced toolsets, suggesting opportunities for growth and specialization. The mandatory TS/SCI clearance is a critical filter.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a broad range of design work, demonstrating solutions for complex challenges across print, digital, and multimedia formats.

• Visual examples of how design principles (typography, hierarchy, balance) have been applied to achieve specific communication goals.

• Proof of ability to translate abstract concepts or data into clear, impactful visual narratives.

• Demonstrations of Section 508 compliance in at least some presented work, highlighting accessibility considerations.

Process Documentation:

• While not explicitly requested as a separate submission, the portfolio should implicitly demonstrate an understanding of design workflows from concept to final delivery.

• Examples should reflect a structured approach to project execution, including requirements gathering, concept development, revision cycles, and final output.

• The ability to articulate the design process and rationale behind specific choices will be crucial during interviews.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical for this role, serving as tangible proof of design capabilities, technical proficiency, and problem-solving skills. It should not only showcase aesthetics but also the strategic thinking behind the designs, especially concerning accessibility and effective communication in a government context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $69,400 - $158,000 (annualized USD)

Benefits:

• Health Insurance

• Life Insurance

• Disability Insurance

• Financial Benefits

• Retirement Benefits

• Paid Leave

• Professional Development

• Tuition Assistance

• Work-life Programs

• Dependent Care

• Recognition Awards Program

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with potential for occasional in-person work at Booz Allen or customer facilities if the role is designated as remote. As this role is listed as On-site, standard business hours are expected with potential for flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is quite broad, reflecting the impact of experience, specific skills, and the critical clearance requirement on compensation. Booz Allen Hamilton offers a robust benefits package typical of large government contractors, emphasizing comprehensive support for employees and their families, alongside professional growth and recognition.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government Contracting, Consulting, Technology, Security & Safety. Booz Allen Hamilton is a major player in providing solutions to government and defense agencies, requiring a high degree of professionalism, security consciousness, and a mission-driven approach.

Company Size: Large (Booz Allen Hamilton is a global firm with tens of thousands of employees, indicating a structured environment with established processes and ample resources).

Founded: 1914. Booz Allen Hamilton has a long history of providing consulting and technology services, suggesting a stable organization with deep expertise and a strong reputation.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Design team likely operates within a larger department focused on communications, intelligence support, or program management.

• Designers will collaborate with project managers, analysts, technical experts, and potentially other creative professionals.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven insights and mission-focused solutions, translating complex information into clear and actionable visuals.

• Rigorous adherence to client requirements, security protocols, and accessibility standards (Section 508).

• Collaborative approach to problem-solving, leveraging diverse expertise within the team and across the organization.

• Continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies and design trends relevant to the defense and intelligence sectors.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Booz Allen Hamilton's culture is deeply rooted in serving government clients. This translates to a professional, security-conscious, and mission-oriented environment. For a Graphic Designer, this means focusing on clarity, accuracy, and compliance, rather than purely aesthetic or marketing-driven design.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Graphic Designer. This role is expected to handle independent design tasks, contribute to project strategy, and collaborate effectively, but may still require guidance on highly complex or sensitive projects.

Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a Senior Graphic Designer, Creative Lead, or Communications Manager within a project team or department. Will collaborate closely with project managers, analysts, and subject matter experts.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the clarity and effectiveness of communication for critical government and defense missions. By creating accessible and impactful visuals, they help stakeholders understand complex information, make informed decisions, and achieve mission objectives. This role supports the broader GTM strategy by ensuring that client communications and internal documentation are professional, compliant, and compelling.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deeper expertise in specific areas like multimedia production (video, animation), data visualization, or advanced Section 508 compliance.

• Leadership: Progress to a Senior Graphic Designer role, mentoring junior designers, leading design projects, and contributing to design strategy.

• Cross-functional Roles: Transition into roles focused on user experience (UX) design, instructional design, or technical illustration, leveraging core design skills.

• Skill Development: Access to professional development programs, certifications, and training through Booz Allen Hamilton to stay current with design tools and techniques relevant to the defense sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within a specialized niche of design. The emphasis on government and defense work provides unique challenges and opportunities for skill development beyond typical commercial design roles. Progression to senior or specialized roles is a realistic expectation.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site. This indicates a traditional office setting where in-person collaboration is expected to be the primary mode of work.

Office Location(s): 2460 Defense Way, Charlottesville, VA. This physical location is key for candidates in the region.

Workspace Context:

• A professional office environment designed for collaboration and focused work.

• Access to standard office technology, including high-performance workstations, and potentially specialized design software and hardware.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with colleagues, project teams, and potentially clients, fostering a collaborative and communicative atmosphere.

• Likely a security-conscious environment due to the nature of the work and client base.

Work Schedule: Standard business hours, approximately 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, Booz Allen Hamilton's overall culture may offer some flexibility, but adherence to project deadlines and client needs is paramount.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and specific location are crucial for candidates. The work environment is expected to be professional, collaborative, and secure, aligning with the company's role in government contracting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on design skills, software proficiency (Adobe Creative Suite), Section 508 compliance knowledge, and experience with data visualization or multimedia. Candidates may be asked to walk through specific portfolio pieces.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions assessing problem-solving abilities, teamwork, communication skills, client interaction experience, and ability to manage deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where the candidate presents selected work from their portfolio, explaining their design process, rationale, and the impact of their solutions. This is critical for demonstrating how they handle complex challenges and collaborate with stakeholders.

• Security & Clearance Verification: Formal process for verifying the candidate's TS/SCI clearance and suitability for further investigation (polygraph).

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 5-8 of your strongest projects that best represent the required skills (print, digital, multimedia, data visualization, Section 508 compliance). Prioritize work relevant to government or defense contexts if available.

• Showcase Process: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the design process, the tools used, the challenges faced, and the final outcome. Quantify results where possible (e.g., "improved clarity by X%", "met all accessibility requirements").

• Highlight Compliance: If possible, include examples that specifically address Section 508 compliance or data visualization for complex information. Explain how you ensured accessibility.

• Tell a Story: Structure your presentation to tell a compelling story about each project, focusing on how you solved a problem for the client or contributed to a mission.

• Practice Your Pitch: Be prepared to discuss your design philosophy, your strengths, and how your skills align with Booz Allen Hamilton's mission and the specific requirements of this role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss hypothetical design challenges related to communicating sensitive information or visualizing complex data sets for a government audience.

• Prepare to articulate your approach to gathering requirements from stakeholders who may have diverse technical backgrounds.

• Practice explaining technical design concepts (e.g., color theory, typography, accessibility standards) in a clear and concise manner.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is rigorous and heavily emphasizes the candidate's portfolio and their ability to articulate their design process and solutions, particularly in the context of government and defense work and Section 508 compliance. Security clearance verification is a non-negotiable step.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud: InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator (essential).

• Microsoft Office Suite: PowerPoint, Word (essential for presentations and document integration).

• Design & Multimedia Tools (Preferred): Premiere Pro (video editing), Adobe XD (prototyping/UI/UX), MAPublisher (map production).

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but understanding how design assets integrate into larger communication platforms or project management systems may be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is paramount. The "Nice to Have" tools indicate a potential for more advanced multimedia or interactive design work, which could be a growth area.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission-Driven: A strong focus on supporting client missions, particularly in defense and intelligence.

• Integrity & Trust: Essential due to handling sensitive information and requiring high-level security clearances.

• Excellence: Commitment to delivering high-quality, accurate, and compliant work.

• Collaboration: Working effectively within teams and across different client stakeholders.

• Innovation: Applying creative solutions to complex problems while adhering to stringent requirements.

• Security Consciousness: A fundamental understanding and practice of security protocols.

Collaboration Style:

• Expected to be professional, proactive, and communicative.

• Designers will likely work closely with project teams, including analysts and subject matter experts, requiring the ability to interpret needs and explain design choices clearly.

• Feedback loops with senior designers and clients are integral to the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Booz Allen Hamilton, especially for roles requiring security clearances, is highly professional and mission-focused. Collaboration is key, but it's within a structured, security-conscious framework.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complex Information: Effectively visualizing highly technical or sensitive data for diverse audiences without compromising accuracy or security.

• Adhering to Strict Standards: Meeting Section 508 compliance and client-specific branding guidelines simultaneously.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Balancing the requirements and expectations of various stakeholders, including senior military or intelligence personnel.

• Maintaining Security Protocols: Working within a highly secure environment and understanding the implications of design choices on classified information.

• Fast-Paced Environment: Delivering high-quality design work under tight deadlines common in government contracting.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to courses and certifications in advanced design software, data visualization techniques, and accessibility standards.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced designers and subject matter experts within Booz Allen Hamilton.

• Exposure to High-Impact Projects: Working on projects that contribute directly to national security and government missions.

• Career Advancement: Clear pathways to senior design roles, project leadership, or specialized design disciplines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are specific to the defense and government sector, requiring adaptability and a strong problem-solving mindset. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering specialized skill development and progression within a reputable organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate complex data into a visual format. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on data visualization, problem-solving, and impact).

• "How do you ensure your designs meet accessibility standards like Section 508? Can you provide an example?" (Focus on compliance, technical knowledge, and practical application).

• "Walk me through a project in your portfolio that you are particularly proud of. What made it successful?" (Focus on portfolio presentation, design process, and achievement articulation).

• "How do you handle feedback from clients or senior designers, especially if you disagree?" (Focus on collaboration, communication, and professionalism).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Booz Allen Hamilton and our mission in supporting government clients?" (Demonstrate research and alignment with company values).

• "How would you adapt your design approach to work within a highly secure government environment?" (Show understanding of security protocols and professional conduct).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each chosen project, present: The Problem/Objective, Your Role, The Solution (visuals), The Process, Any Challenges, The Outcome/Impact.

• Visuals: Ensure your presentation slides are clean, professional, and visually appealing, reflecting your design skills. Avoid clutter.

• Narrative: Tell a clear, concise story for each project. Focus on the "why" and "how," not just the "what."

• Quantify: If possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, tools used, and how you handled specific project constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on case studies from your portfolio that demonstrate problem-solving, technical skills, Section 508 compliance, and effective communication within a professional or government context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the Booz Allen Hamilton careers portal using the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your submitted portfolio is tailored to showcase projects demonstrating proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, Section 508 compliance, and ideally, experience with data visualization or government/defense-related work.

• Resume Optimization: Highlight keywords from the job description, such as "graphic design," "Section 508," "Adobe Creative Cloud," "TS/SCI clearance," "client-facing discussions," and "multimedia products." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process and the impact of your work, preparing specific examples for potential interview questions, especially those related to problem-solving and collaboration.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Booz Allen Hamilton's mission, values, and their role in the defense and government sectors to demonstrate alignment and interest.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Booz Allen Hamilton before making application decisions. The requirement for an active TS/SCI clearance is critical and must be met.