Graphic Designer
π Job Overview
Job Title: Graphic Designer
Company: Amentum
Location: Bethesda, MD, United States (On-site)
Job Type: FULL_TIME
Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design
Date Posted: April 10, 2026
Experience Level: 5-10 Years
π Role Summary
-
Develops and delivers a wide range of graphic, digital media, and multimedia products, including infographics, web content, and cartographic maps.
-
Collaborates closely with UI/UX designers to ensure all graphics products offer an engaging and user-friendly experience, enhancing overall knowledge management initiatives.
-
Manages the end-to-end creation of digital content, from conceptualization and design to implementation in HTML/CSS, adhering to responsive design principles.
-
Ensures all developed products meet stringent production standards, copyright laws, accessibility compliance, and public release clearance requirements.
π Enhancement Note: While the title is "Graphic Designer," the responsibilities and required skills indicate a hybrid role blending traditional graphic design with significant front-end web development and multimedia production capabilities, particularly for government or intelligence-related projects given the clearance requirement. This role is critical for visual communication strategy within Amentum.
π Primary Responsibilities
-
Design and produce visually compelling graphics, digital media, cartography, and other multimedia products that effectively communicate complex information.
-
Support customer requests for communication products through efficient use of request management tools, ensuring high-quality and timely delivery.
-
Partner with UI/UX designers to integrate graphic elements seamlessly into web pages, mobile applications, and other digital platforms for an optimal user experience.
-
Develop innovative design concepts and execute them for various digital assets, including but not limited to web pages, mobile applications, newsletters, advertisements, infographics, banners, illustrations, and logos.
-
Uphold and enforce all production standards, copyright laws, accessibility compliance (e.g., WCAG), and public release clearance protocols for all created assets.
-
Conduct thorough technical quality checks on all deliverables to ensure accuracy, functionality, and adherence to project specifications.
-
Build and manage approved design concepts using HTML/CSS, ensuring full compliance with responsive design principles for cross-device compatibility.
-
Provide specialized cartography support, including the design of thematic and reference maps, to support project requirements.
π Enhancement Note: The responsibilities suggest a senior-level role where the candidate is expected to lead projects, mentor junior staff (as indicated in requirements), and handle complex technical aspects like HTML/CSS implementation for responsive design, which goes beyond typical graphic design duties.
π Skills & Qualifications
Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, Digital Media, Web Design, or a related field is typically expected for this level of responsibility.
Experience: Minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in graphic design, with a strong emphasis on digital media production and front-end web development. Experience in a government contracting or intelligence community environment is highly advantageous.
Required Skills:
-
Proven expertise in graphic design principles, visual communication, and typography.
-
Strong proficiency in developing digital media, cartography, and other multimedia products.
-
Demonstrated experience with front-end web design, including a solid understanding of UI/UX principles.
-
Advanced skills in HTML and CSS for web page development and responsive design implementation.
-
Experience with photography and video editing software and techniques.
-
Ability to lead the development of graphics products and mentor junior staff.
-
Experience in creating engaging and user-friendly digital content for various platforms.
-
Familiarity with copyright laws, accessibility compliance requirements, and public release clearances.
Preferred Skills:
-
Experience with Content Management Systems (CMS) and their integration with design elements.
-
Familiarity with animation software (e.g., After Effects) for enhanced multimedia products.
-
Knowledge of data visualization techniques and infographic design best practices.
-
Experience with specific government or intelligence community design standards and branding guidelines.
-
Understanding of SEO principles as they relate to web content design.
π Enhancement Note: The requirements list "Leading the development of graphics..." and "Mentoring and trains junior staff" under "Experience with the following", implying these are crucial. The "TS/SCI with Polygraph" clearance is a non-negotiable requirement, heavily influencing the candidate pool and the nature of the work.
π Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
-
A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a diverse range of graphic design, digital media, and multimedia projects.
-
Specific examples of web page and mobile application designs, demonstrating UI/UX considerations and responsive design implementation.
-
Case studies detailing the development process for infographics, banners, illustrations, and logos, highlighting design rationale and problem-solving.
-
Examples of cartographic maps, illustrating thematic and reference map design capabilities.
-
Demonstrations of technical quality checks performed on previous projects.
Process Documentation:
-
Ability to document design processes, including workflow design, concept development, and implementation phases.
-
Experience in detailing the steps involved in creating and publishing digital content across various platforms.
-
Capacity to explain the methodology used for ensuring products meet specific technical, legal, and accessibility requirements.
π Enhancement Note: Given the emphasis on technical implementation (HTML/CSS, responsive design) and compliance, a portfolio that clearly illustrates the candidate's ability to manage these aspects, not just the aesthetic design, will be critical. For roles requiring clearance, portfolios might be subject to specific security protocols during review.
π΅ Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $88,000 - $149,000 USD per year.
Benefits:
-
Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans.
-
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid Holidays.
-
Robust Retirement Benefits, including 401(k) with company matching.
-
Opportunities for Educational Reimbursement.
-
Supportive Parental Leave policies.
-
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).
-
Various Tax-Saving Options.
-
Disability and Life Insurance coverage.
-
Optional Pet Insurance.
Working Hours: Standard full-time hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime depending on project demands.
π Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is a good faith estimate for the Bethesda, MD area for a role with this experience level and the unique clearance requirement. The extensive benefits package reflects Amentum's commitment to employee well-being and long-term engagement, common in large government contracting firms.
π― Team & Company Context
π’ Company Culture
Industry: Amentum operates within the Government & Public Sector industry, specializing in providing advanced technical solutions and services to defense, intelligence, and civil government agencies. This context implies a focus on security, compliance, and mission-critical support.
Company Size: Amentum is a large enterprise, with employee numbers often in the tens of thousands, indicating a structured corporate environment with established processes and extensive resources.
Founded: Amentum was formed in 2020 through the merger of DynCorp International and the government services segment of AECOM, building on decades of experience in defense and government services. This history suggests a culture that values experience, reliability, and adaptability.
Team Structure:
-
The Graphic Design role likely sits within a broader Communications, Marketing, or Technical Services department.
-
The reporting structure would typically involve reporting to a Creative Lead, Communications Manager, or Project Manager.
Methodology:
-
Data Analysis and Insights: While not a primary data analysis role, understanding how design impacts user engagement and information comprehension is key. The role will leverage analytics from web and application performance to inform design iterations.
-
Workflow Planning and Optimization: The candidate will be expected to manage their workflow efficiently, utilizing project management tools and potentially contributing to the optimization of design processes within the team.
-
Automation and Efficiency: Implementing designs using HTML/CSS and responsive design principles contributes to efficiency and reusability across platforms.
Company Website: https://www.amentum.com/
π Enhancement Note: Amentum's focus on government services means a strong emphasis on security protocols, clear communication, and adherence to strict deadlines and quality standards. The company culture likely values professionalism, integrity, and a mission-oriented approach.
π Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This "Graphic Designer" role, with its advanced technical requirements and clearance, functions at a mid-to-senior level within the creative and technical services domain. It requires not only design proficiency but also the ability to manage complex digital implementations and contribute to strategic visual communication.
Reporting Structure: The role likely reports to a manager overseeing creative services or technical production, with opportunities to collaborate with various project teams across different government agencies or initiatives.
Operations Impact: The designer's work directly impacts the clarity, effectiveness, and user experience of critical information products for government clients. High-quality visuals and intuitive interfaces are crucial for mission success, especially in intelligence and defense contexts.
Growth Opportunities:
-
Specialization: Develop deeper expertise in specific areas like advanced cartography, interactive data visualization, or specialized multimedia production for intelligence applications.
-
Leadership: Progress into a Lead Graphic Designer, Creative Director, or Project Manager role, overseeing teams and larger-scale projects.
-
Technical Proficiency: Expand skills in emerging design technologies, animation, or front-end development, potentially moving into UI/UX architecture or more technical creative roles.
-
Cross-Functional Mobility: Transition into related fields like technical documentation, training development, or program management, leveraging a strong understanding of visual communication and project execution.
π Enhancement Note: The TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance significantly enhances career mobility within the defense and intelligence sectors, opening doors to highly specialized and secure roles. Growth is often tied to successful project delivery and maintaining a strong security clearance.
π Work Environment
Office Type: The role is described as "TELECOMMUTE" in the initial data, but the derived status is "On-site" with specific locations in Bethesda, MD and McLean, VA. This suggests a hybrid or primarily on-site work environment is expected, particularly due to the security clearance requirements, which often necessitate working within secure facilities.
Office Location(s): Bethesda, Maryland, and McLean, Virginia, are key hubs for government contracting and intelligence agencies, offering proximity to major federal clients and a robust professional network.
Workspace Context:
-
The workspace is likely to be a professional office environment within secure government facilities or Amentum offices.
-
Access to high-performance workstations, specialized design software, and potentially secure network environments will be provided.
-
Opportunities for collaborative work sessions with cross-functional teams are probable, fostering a dynamic and interactive atmosphere.
Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected. Given the sensitive nature of the work and potential project deadlines, flexibility may be required, including occasional overtime or adjusted hours to meet critical project milestones.
π Enhancement Note: The "TELECOMMUTE" notation in the raw data appears to be a misclassification or legacy data point, as the derived "On-site" status and the nature of TS/SCI clearance work strongly suggest a physical presence at a secure facility is required. Candidates should clarify the exact work arrangement.
π Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
-
Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will likely conduct a preliminary review of applications, focusing on basic qualifications and the TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance.
-
Technical Interview: A hiring manager or senior team member will assess technical skills through a discussion of design principles, software proficiency, and problem-solving approaches. This may involve a portfolio review.
-
Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will be expected to present a curated selection of their work, explaining their design process, technical implementation (HTML/CSS, responsive design), and the impact of their contributions.
-
Security & Clearance Verification: Extensive background checks and verification of the TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance will be a significant part of the process.
-
Final Interview/Team Fit: A final interview may focus on cultural fit, teamwork, and understanding of the company's mission and values.
Portfolio Review Tips:
-
Showcase Versatility: Include examples covering graphic design, digital media, web design (HTML/CSS, responsive), cartography, and multimedia.
-
Detail Technical Implementation: For web-based projects, clearly explain your role in HTML/CSS coding, responsive design, and any CMS integration.
-
Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics or describe how your designs improved user experience, engagement, or mission effectiveness.
-
Highlight Compliance: Explicitly mention how your work adhered to accessibility standards, copyright, and any relevant production guidelines.
-
Prepare for Clearance Discussion: Be ready to discuss your experience with security protocols and the clearance process.
Challenge Preparation:
-
Be prepared for a design challenge that might involve creating a concept for a specific type of government communication product or adapting existing material to new standards.
-
Practice articulating your design decisions clearly and concisely, focusing on how your choices meet project requirements and user needs.
-
Understand how to present technical aspects of web design (HTML/CSS) in an accessible manner to a non-technical audience if necessary.
π Enhancement Note: The TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance is a critical gate. Candidates without this clearance will likely not proceed, regardless of their design skills. The interview process will heavily scrutinize both technical capabilities and security background.
π Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
-
Design Software: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) is standard.
-
Web Development: HTML, CSS (including preprocessors like SASS/LESS), JavaScript (for interactivity).
-
Content Management Systems (CMS): Experience with platforms like WordPress, Drupal, or custom government-specific CMS may be required.
-
Prototyping/Wireframing: Tools like Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, or Axure for UI/UX design and concept visualization.
-
Cartography Software: ArcGIS or similar geospatial software for map creation.
-
Video Editing Software: Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or similar.
-
Photography Software: Adobe Lightroom, Capture One.
Analytics & Reporting:
- Web analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics) to understand user behavior for web and app designs.
CRM & Automation:
-
While not directly a CRM role, understanding how design assets are managed and deployed within broader marketing or communication workflows could be beneficial.
-
Automation tools for design asset management or deployment might be used.
π Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is a baseline, but strong HTML/CSS and responsive design skills are equally critical given the job description. Experience with tools common in government contracting environments (e.g., specific CMS, GIS software) would be a significant advantage.
π₯ Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
-
Mission Focus: A strong commitment to supporting the company's mission and the objectives of its government clients.
-
Integrity & Security: Upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and data security, paramount due to the clearance requirement.
-
Excellence & Quality: A dedication to delivering high-quality, accurate, and effective visual and multimedia products.
-
Collaboration: A team-oriented approach that values open communication and mutual support among colleagues.
-
Adaptability: Willingness to adapt to evolving project requirements, technologies, and client needs.
Collaboration Style:
-
Cross-functional Integration: Designs are developed in close partnership with various stakeholders, requiring clear communication and the ability to incorporate feedback effectively.
-
Process-Oriented: Workflows are structured and documented, with an emphasis on efficiency and adherence to established procedures.
-
Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing best practices, new techniques, and lessons learned, particularly in a secure environment.
π Enhancement Note: The company culture at Amentum, especially for roles requiring security clearance, is likely to be highly professional, disciplined, and focused on delivering results that contribute to national security objectives.
β‘ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
-
High-Stakes Projects: Working on projects with significant national security implications requires meticulous attention to detail and an understanding of the sensitive nature of the information.
-
Technical Complexity: Balancing creative vision with the technical constraints and requirements of web development, accessibility, and responsive design.
-
Security Environment: Navigating the stringent security protocols and compliance requirements inherent in working with classified information.
-
Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with advancements in design software, web technologies, and multimedia production techniques to maintain relevance and effectiveness.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
-
Advanced Design & Tech Training: Access to training on new software, design methodologies, and emerging technologies relevant to multimedia and web development.
-
Security Clearance Advancement: Opportunities to maintain and potentially upgrade security clearances, opening doors to more specialized roles.
-
Project Leadership: Gaining experience in leading design efforts for complex, high-visibility government projects.
-
Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Opportunities to learn from and collaborate with experts in cybersecurity, engineering, intelligence analysis, and program management.
π Enhancement Note: The primary challenge and growth driver is the security clearance itself, which dictates the type of work and provides access to unique career paths within the defense and intelligence sectors.
π‘ Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
-
"Describe a complex graphic design project you led from concept to completion, detailing your process, the challenges you faced, and how you ensured it met all technical and compliance requirements."
-
"How do you approach designing for accessibility and ensuring your digital products meet standards like WCAG?"
-
"Walk us through your process for building a responsive web page using HTML and CSS. What are the key considerations?"
Company & Culture Questions:
-
"What interests you about Amentum and our mission in supporting government and defense clients?"
-
"How do you see your graphic design skills contributing to the success of our intelligence community partners?"
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
-
Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type (web, print, multimedia) or by showcasing the full lifecycle of a complex project.
-
Narrative: For each project, tell a story: the problem, your solution (design choices), the technical implementation, and the outcome or impact.
-
Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss your HTML/CSS code, responsive design strategies, and any specific tools or techniques used.
-
Compliance Focus: Explicitly call out how you addressed copyright, accessibility, and other relevant compliance issues in your work.
-
Conciseness: Be mindful of time; present your strongest, most relevant examples efficiently.
π Enhancement Note: Candidates should be ready to discuss their TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance openly and honestly. The interview will likely probe into their understanding of security protocols and their ability to operate within a secure environment.
π Application Steps
To apply for this Graphic Designer position:
-
Submit your application through the Amentum Careers portal via the provided link.
-
Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in graphic design, digital media, HTML/CSS, responsive design, cartography, and multimedia production. Emphasize any experience with government clients or projects requiring security clearances.
-
Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a digital portfolio that showcases your most relevant work, with clear explanations of your process, technical contributions, and adherence to standards. Ensure it's easily accessible (e.g., a personal website or professional portfolio platform).
-
Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio and answering potential interview questions, focusing on articulating your technical skills and design rationale clearly and concisely.
-
Research Amentum: Understand Amentum's mission, values, and recent projects, especially those related to defense and intelligence services, to demonstrate your alignment and interest.
β οΈ 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 TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance is a critical, non-negotiable requirement.
Application Requirements
Candidates must possess a TS/SCI with Polygraph level clearance and demonstrate extensive experience in graphic design, front-end web development, and multimedia production. Proficiency in HTML/CSS, photography, video editing, and the ability to mentor junior staff are essential for this position.