Graphic Designer - Senior

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Graphic Designer

Company: Leidos

Location: Bethesda, MD, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media Operations

Date Posted: April 13, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This Senior Graphic Designer role is critical for developing high-impact visual assets and multimedia products within the Intelligence Community's Analysis Solutions Business Area (ASBA).

• The position requires a deep understanding of design principles, digital media creation, and cartography to support mission-critical communication needs.

• A key aspect involves ensuring all visual content adheres to stringent production standards, copyright laws, accessibility compliance, and public release clearances.

• The role necessitates collaboration with UI/UX designers and utilization of request management tools to deliver exceptional customer support and user-friendly experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the provided job title is "Graphic Designer - Senior," the responsibilities clearly indicate a need for operational excellence in visual communication, making it relevant to "Creative & Media Operations" within the broader GTM/RevOps/Sales Ops ecosystem by supporting essential communication and branding efforts that drive engagement and understanding of complex solutions. The emphasis on "mission demands" and specific IC support suggests a highly structured and compliant operational environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and create compelling graphic designs for a wide array of written and digital products, including web pages, mobile applications, newsletters, advertisements, and infographics.

• Design and produce digital media assets such as banners, illustrations, and logos, ensuring they align with brand guidelines and project objectives.

• Collaborate with UI/UX designers to integrate graphics seamlessly into web pages and applications, enhancing user experience and engagement.

• Manage the creation and implementation of designs for online content, ensuring visual consistency and impact.

• Provide support for print projects, adapting digital designs to meet the requirements of physical media.

• Ensure all created products strictly conform to established production standards, copyright laws, accessibility compliance requirements (e.g., WCAG), and public release clearances.

• Conduct thorough technical quality checks on all graphic output to guarantee accuracy, functionality, and adherence to specifications.

• Manage approved design concepts and translate them into functional HTML/CSS code, ensuring compliance with responsive design principles for optimal viewing across all devices.

• Provide specialized cartography support, designing thematic and reference maps that accurately represent complex data and geographical information.

• Utilize request management tools, such as NarQuest, to efficiently process and respond to customer communication requests, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a blend of creative execution and operational adherence. The mention of "request management tools such as NarQuest" and "technical quality checks" points to a structured workflow typical in operations roles. The requirement to manage concepts in HTML/CSS and ensure responsive design also indicates a technical operational component beyond pure graphic design.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree with 18+ years of relevant experience, OR

• Master's degree with 10+ years of relevant experience, OR

Experience:

• Extensive experience in graphic design, digital media production, and multimedia product development is mandatory.

• Proven ability to manage design projects from concept to completion, ensuring all deliverables meet high standards.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in industry-standard graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite - Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Demonstrated expertise in digital media creation, including web graphics, social media assets, and banner ads.

• Strong understanding of UI/UX design principles and their application in digital interfaces.

• Proficiency in HTML and CSS for web development and responsive design implementation.

• Experience in cartography and map design, including thematic and reference map creation.

• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects simultaneously, utilizing request management systems like NarQuest.

• Deep understanding of copyright laws, accessibility compliance standards (e.g., Section 508, WCAG), and public release clearance processes.

• Excellent technical quality control skills to ensure accuracy and adherence to specifications.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with motion graphics and video editing software.

• Familiarity with content management systems (CMS) and web development frameworks.

• Knowledge of data visualization techniques beyond standard infographics.

• Experience in a government contracting or defense industry environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirements are structured unusually, offering significant flexibility based on education level. The emphasis on specific tools like NarQuest and technical skills like HTML/CSS for responsive design, alongside compliance requirements, points towards a role that requires operational rigor and technical execution, not just creative artistry. The mandatory clearance is a critical filter for any applicant.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of graphic design projects, including digital media, infographics, web graphics, and potentially print collateral.

• Include examples demonstrating proficiency in HTML/CSS implementation for responsive web design elements.

• Present at least one case study detailing the creation of thematic or reference maps, highlighting design choices and data representation.

• Provide evidence of managing design projects from initial concept through to final delivery, emphasizing workflow and process.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of how you have managed design requests and workflows, ideally referencing tools or methodologies similar to request management systems.

• Documentation or descriptions of quality assurance processes applied to design projects to ensure accuracy and compliance.

• Case studies illustrating the development of responsive web design elements or interactive digital content.

• Descriptions of how you ensure designs adhere to specific production standards, brand guidelines, and legal/compliance requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role this senior and in this specific sector, a portfolio is crucial. The emphasis should be on demonstrating not just creative output, but also the operational processes behind it – how projects are managed, how quality and compliance are ensured, and how technical skills like coding are integrated. This moves beyond a purely creative portfolio to one that showcases operational execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $105,300.00 - $190,350.00 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO to support work-life balance.

• Paid Holidays: 11 paid holidays annually.

• 401k: Company match of 6% with immediate vesting, providing strong retirement savings support.

• Flexible Schedules: Options to adjust working hours to better manage personal and professional commitments.

• Discounted Stock Purchase Plans: Opportunity to invest in Leidos through employee stock purchase programs.

• Technical Upskilling: Access to resources for continuous learning and skill development in relevant technologies.

• Education and Training Support: Financial assistance and opportunities for further education and professional development.

• Parental Paid Leave: Support for new parents during a significant life event.

• Health and Wellness Programs: Comprehensive programs to support employee well-being.

• Income Protection: Various insurance and protection plans to safeguard employees and their families.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week.

• Offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate operational needs and employee preferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is quite broad, reflecting the significant experience variability based on education level (from 10+ years for a Master's to 24+ years for no degree). The benefits package is robust, with particular emphasis on retirement savings (immediate vesting 401k match) and professional development, which are key attractors for senior-level talent in specialized fields.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government & Public Sector, Technology, Security & Safety, Creative & Media. Leidos operates as a prime contractor for the U.S. government, with a significant focus on national security, defense, and intelligence. Their work is mission-critical, demanding high levels of performance, security, and reliability.

Company Size: Leidos is a large enterprise, employing tens of thousands of individuals globally. This size offers stability, extensive resources, and diverse career opportunities, but may also mean a more structured and process-driven environment compared to smaller firms.

Founded: Leidos was founded in 1969. This long history signifies stability, deep industry expertise, and a well-established operational framework.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Graphic Designer will be part of the Intel Sector Analysis Solutions Business Area (ASBA).

• This team likely comprises specialists in areas such as Security Engineering, Computer Network Operations (CNO), Mission Software, Analytical Methods, SIGINT, and Cryptographic Key Management.

• The graphic design function will likely report into a communications, program management, or a dedicated creative services group within ASBA, collaborating closely with technical teams and project managers.

Methodology:

• Operations in this sector are heavily influenced by government contracting standards, security protocols, and specific program requirements.

• Data analysis and insights are crucial for understanding user needs and program objectives, informing design decisions.

• Workflow planning and optimization are essential for managing the volume and complexity of design requests within a classified environment.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely employed where possible, especially in managing repetitive tasks or standardizing outputs.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Leidos's position as a major government contractor dictates a culture of rigor, security, and precision. The "mission demands it" and "not hiring followers" rhetoric suggests a demanding but rewarding environment for those who thrive under pressure and are committed to impactful work. The operations within this context are heavily regulated and security-focused.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior-level position, implying a high degree of autonomy, expertise, and responsibility. The role is expected to not only execute design tasks but also to influence design direction, mentor junior staff (potentially), and ensure operational excellence in visual communications.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Graphic Designer will report to a manager within the Intel Sector Analysis Solutions Business Area (ASBA), likely overseeing graphics and multimedia production for various IC programs. They will collaborate closely with technical teams, project managers, and potentially client representatives.

Operations Impact: The visual products created by this role directly support intelligence analysis, mission operations, and program communication. High-quality, accurate, and compliant graphics are essential for effective decision-making, stakeholder engagement, and the overall success of critical national security programs. This role has a direct impact on how complex information is understood and disseminated.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas like advanced cartography, interactive data visualization, or specialized multimedia production for intelligence applications.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into lead designer roles, team lead positions, or management of creative services within specific programs or business areas.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain exposure to diverse technical domains (CNO, SIGINT, etc.) and program management, broadening understanding of the broader operational landscape.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior graphic designers and contribute to the development of the internal creative talent pool.

• Further Education/Certification: Leverage company support for advanced training in design, technology, or project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The senior title combined with the specific IC context suggests significant growth potential, not just in design but also in operational management and strategic contribution within a specialized government contracting environment. The emphasis on "outpace the status quo" implies a culture that rewards initiative and forward-thinking.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position. Given the nature of the work and the requirement for a TS/SCI Polygraph clearance, the work environment is likely within a secure government facility or a Leidos facility cleared for such operations. This implies a controlled, professional, and security-conscious setting.

Office Location(s): Bethesda, MD, United States. This location is within the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, a hub for government contracting and intelligence agencies.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be designed to support focused design work, likely equipped with high-performance workstations and specialized software.

• Collaboration will be facilitated through designated meeting spaces, potentially secure communication channels, and team areas.

• Access to necessary operations tools, technology, and secure networks will be provided to enable effective task execution.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week.

• The role offers flexible scheduling, allowing for adjustments to start and end times within operational parameters, which is beneficial for managing personal commitments while ensuring mission continuity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and the TS/SCI Polygraph clearance are defining factors of the work environment. It will be a secure, professional setting with a strong emphasis on operational procedures and collaborative problem-solving within a government/intelligence context.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and clearance status. Be prepared to clearly articulate your relevant experience and highlight your TS/SCI Polygraph.

• Technical Interview: May involve discussions about your design process, software proficiency, and experience with specific technologies (HTML/CSS, responsive design, cartography). Expect to be asked about how you handle complex design challenges and ensure compliance.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to walk through your portfolio. Focus on projects that demonstrate your ability to meet the responsibilities outlined, particularly those involving digital media, responsiveness, and any government/intelligence-related work. Explain your role, process, and the impact of your designs.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions will assess your problem-solving skills, teamwork, ability to work under pressure, and how you handle feedback and adhere to operational procedures. Prepare examples using the STAR method.

• Security & Clearance Verification: Given the clearance requirement, expect thorough vetting and verification processes.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 4-6 of your strongest projects that best align with the job description. Prioritize digital media, responsive design examples, and any work with complex data or a government/intelligence context.

• Showcase Process: For each project, briefly explain the objective, your role, the design process, tools used, challenges overcome, and the final outcome/impact.

• Highlight Compliance: If possible, demonstrate how you’ve considered or implemented accessibility standards or other compliance requirements in your designs.

• Technical Integration: Clearly articulate your HTML/CSS skills and how you've used them to create functional, responsive web elements.

• Map Design: If you have cartography examples, be ready to discuss the data sources, design choices, and how you ensured accuracy and clarity.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio efficiently, focusing on key takeaways for each project.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for potential design exercises or case studies, which might involve a quick turnaround to design a specific asset or solve a hypothetical design problem relevant to the IC.

• Practice articulating your design rationale clearly and concisely, especially under time constraints.

• Think about how you would approach designing for a secure, highly regulated environment where accuracy and compliance are paramount.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for a role requiring TS/SCI Polygraph will be rigorous. The portfolio review is a critical component, and candidates should focus on demonstrating not just creative skill but also operational discipline, technical proficiency, and an understanding of the unique demands of the Intelligence Community.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign are essential for graphic design.

• HTML/CSS: Crucial for building responsive web designs and implementing digital content.

• Request Management Tools: NarQuest is specifically mentioned, indicating its importance for workflow and task management.

• Cartography Software: Tools like ArcGIS or similar GIS software may be used for map design.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Less directly applicable to this design role, but familiarity with how design integrates into broader marketing or communication platforms could be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of NarQuest and the requirement for HTML/CSS proficiency are key technical indicators. Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is a given for a senior designer. The focus is on tools that support structured workflow and technical implementation of designs for digital platforms.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission Focus: A strong commitment to supporting the mission of the Intelligence Community is paramount. Designs must serve a clear purpose and contribute to operational objectives.

• Excellence & Quality: A drive for high-quality, accurate, and visually compelling outputs is expected. This includes meticulous attention to detail and adherence to standards.

• Integrity & Security: Upholding the highest standards of integrity and security is non-negotiable, given the sensitive nature of the work and the clearance requirements.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with cross-functional teams, including technical experts and other designers, is essential for successful project delivery.

• Adaptability & Responsiveness: The ability to adapt to changing requirements, manage multiple requests, and deliver under pressure is highly valued in this dynamic environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Designers will work closely with technical teams, analysts, and program managers to understand requirements and translate complex information into accessible visuals.

• Feedback Exchange: An open culture for providing and receiving constructive feedback on designs to ensure optimal results and adherence to standards.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share best practices, techniques, and insights with team members to elevate the collective skill set and efficiency of the operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Leidos, especially within an IC-focused business area, will heavily emphasize mission accomplishment, security, and collaborative problem-solving. The values will reflect the seriousness and criticality of the work being done.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Classified Environments: Working within strict security protocols and clearance requirements can present operational challenges.

• Translating Complex Data: The primary challenge will be to visually represent highly complex technical or intelligence data in an understandable and engaging manner for diverse audiences.

• Adhering to Strict Standards: Ensuring all designs meet stringent government standards for production, accessibility, copyright, and public release requires constant vigilance and process adherence.

• Managing High Volume/Pace: The "mission demands it" culture implies a potentially fast-paced environment with multiple, urgent requests.

• Balancing Creativity with Constraints: Finding creative solutions within the technical, security, and compliance constraints of the IC.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software & Techniques: Access to training for the latest design tools and cutting-edge multimedia production methods.

• Intelligence Community Domain Knowledge: Deepening understanding of SIGINT, CNO, and other intelligence disciplines to better inform design strategy.

• Project Management & Workflow Optimization: Opportunities to learn and implement best practices for managing design operations in a government contracting context.

• Security Clearance Benefits: Maintaining an active TS/SCI Polygraph opens doors to a wide range of high-impact projects and career paths within the sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are directly tied to the specialized nature of the role and the client. Growth opportunities are geared towards enhancing both technical design skills and operational acumen within the intelligence sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate highly technical information into a clear visual format. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your methodology, problem-solving, and communication impact.)

• "How do you ensure your designs comply with accessibility standards (e.g., Section 508/WCAG) and copyright laws, especially in a regulated environment?" (Highlight your process for compliance checks and awareness of legal/technical requirements.)

• "Walk us through your experience with HTML/CSS and responsive design. Provide an example of a complex web element you developed." (Be ready to discuss technical implementation and testing.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How does your design philosophy align with a mission-driven organization like Leidos, where security and accuracy are paramount?" (Connect your values to the company's stated mission and operational focus.)

• "Describe your experience working with technical teams or in a government/intelligence setting. How do you approach collaboration in such environments?" (Emphasize your ability to work with diverse stakeholders and understand technical requirements.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each project, tell a concise story: the problem, your solution, your process, the tools used, and the impact.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics or qualitative feedback to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., improved user engagement, clearer understanding of data, successful communication of key messages).

• Highlight Technical Skills: Clearly identify which projects showcase your HTML/CSS and responsive design capabilities, and explain your contribution.

• Demonstrate Compliance Awareness: If applicable, point out how specific projects adhered to accessibility or security guidelines.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Expect questions about specific design choices, technical implementations, or challenges encountered in your portfolio pieces.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only creative talent but also operational maturity, technical proficiency, and an understanding of the unique security and compliance requirements of the Intelligence Community.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the Leidos careers portal. Ensure your resume is up-to-date and clearly highlights your relevant experience, including your TS/SCI Polygraph clearance.

• Tailor your resume: Emphasize experience in digital media, responsive design, cartography, request management tools, and working within secure or regulated environments. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare your portfolio: Curate a selection of your best work that directly addresses the responsibilities and preferred skills, focusing on digital assets, responsive design, and any relevant government/IC experience. Be ready to present it effectively.

• Research Leidos and the ASBA: Understand the company's mission, values, and the specific work done by the Intel Sector Analysis Solutions Business Area to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

• Practice your interview responses: Prepare for behavioral questions using the STAR method and be ready to articulate your design process, technical skills, and problem-solving approach, especially concerning security and compliance.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details, particularly regarding security clearance requirements and specific tool usage, should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.