Graphic Designer at Barbaricum

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer Company: Barbaricum Location: Fort Belvoir, Virginia, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Marketing & Communications Operations Date Posted: March 05, 2025 Experience Level: 10+ Years (with High School Diploma) or 5+ Years (with Associate's Degree) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Develop and execute visual communication strategies to support government contractor initiatives, specifically for Program Executive Office Soldier.
Create high-impact graphics and multimedia content for presentations, publications, and digital platforms, ensuring brand consistency and aesthetic appeal.
Manage and organize digital assets, ensuring efficient retrieval and reuse for various projects and team members.
Collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders to understand project requirements and deliver tailored visual solutions.
Maintain a strong understanding of design best practices and adapt to evolving visual communication technologies within a government contracting environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Graphic Designer," the context of supporting a government contractor (Barbaricum) and a specific Program Executive Office (PEO Soldier) indicates a need for operations-level understanding of project timelines, client requirements, and the production of materials that support larger strategic objectives. This role likely involves more than just creative design; it requires operational efficiency in delivering visual assets that meet specific government and program needs.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

Independently apply expertise to multiple complex work assignments, demonstrating a high level of autonomy and problem-solving capability in graphic design and multimedia production.
Create and edit graphics, multimedia presentations, pamphlets, and handouts using government-provided software applications, ensuring adherence to client-specific style guides and branding.
Develop and integrate slide masters, templates, and formats to ensure consistency and aesthetic appeal in design and layout, balancing presentation features for maximum visual impact.
Incorporate digital images, video, audio, animations, and slide transitions into electronic presentations, utilizing current clipart and appropriate file formats to enhance engagement.
Create, edit, resize, crop, adjust parameters (color, brightness, etc.), and convert file formats of raster (bitmap) and vector images to meet project specifications.
Print, assemble, and prepare briefing packets and booklets as required, ensuring professional presentation and timely delivery to stakeholders.
Coordinate with customers to determine requirements for content, organization, and style, advising on alternative approaches, best practices, and production timelines to meet objectives.
Maintain an organized and accessible electronic library of digital imagery, videos, and other multimedia content for efficient retrieval, review, and reuse.
Perform other administrative duties as dependent on supported organization position demands, demonstrating flexibility and an understanding of operational support needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Government-provided software applications" and "Government-developed templates" suggests a need for adaptability and the ability to work within established, potentially rigid, frameworks common in government contracting. The responsibility to "advise customers on solutions, alternative approaches, best practices and production timelines" points to a consultative aspect of the role, requiring strong communication and operational planning skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

High School Diploma and 10+ years of relevant graphic design and multimedia experience.
OR Associate's Degree and 5+ years of relevant graphic design and multimedia experience.

Experience:

Proven experience in graphic design, multimedia presentation development, and content creation, with a focus on visual communication for professional or government clients.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.

Required Skills:

Active DoD Secret Clearance.
Proficiency in creating and editing graphics, multimedia presentations, pamphlets, and handouts.
Expertise in developing and integrating slide masters, templates, and formats for design consistency.
Skill in incorporating digital images, video, audio, animations, and slide transitions into electronic presentations.
Ability to create, edit, resize, crop, adjust, and convert file formats of raster (bitmap) and vector images.
Experience in printing, assembling, and preparing briefing packets and booklets.
Strong customer coordination and communication skills to understand and translate requirements.
Experience maintaining organized electronic libraries of digital assets.
Proficiency in using government-provided software applications for design and multimedia production.
Strong understanding of visual impact and design aesthetics.

Preferred Skills:

Experience working within a government contracting environment, particularly supporting Department of Defense (DoD) agencies.
Familiarity with specific cloud service offerings or technology deployment projects, as this role supports PEO Soldier's cloud initiatives.
Knowledge of advanced graphic design techniques and emerging multimedia trends.
Experience with project management tools or methodologies to track design projects.
Ability to adapt quickly to new software and technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for an active DoD Secret Clearance is a critical qualification that significantly narrows the candidate pool and implies a need for discretion and adherence to security protocols. The dual education/experience paths suggest flexibility in hiring, but the experience requirements are substantial, indicating a need for seasoned professionals.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of graphic design and multimedia projects, demonstrating versatility and technical skill.
Examples of presentation design, including the use of templates, slide masters, and visual storytelling techniques.
Demonstrations of image editing capabilities, including resizing, color correction, and file format conversion for various media applications.
Evidence of ability to create cohesive visual materials, such as pamphlets, handouts, or briefing packets, that maintain design consistency.
Examples of digital asset organization and management, illustrating how materials are cataloged for efficient retrieval and reuse.

Process Documentation:

Showcase a structured approach to managing design projects from conceptualization to final delivery, including client coordination and feedback integration.
Provide examples of how you have applied best practices in design and production timelines to meet project objectives.
Illustrate methods for ensuring design consistency and visual impact across different media types.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the government contracting context, a portfolio that highlights efficiency, adherence to client specifications, and the ability to produce professional, compliant materials will be highly valued. The emphasis on "government-provided software" means demonstrating proficiency in common enterprise design suites is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Given the location (Fort Belvoir, VA), the experience requirements (10+ years with HS Diploma or 5+ years with Associate's Degree), and the active DoD Secret Clearance requirement, a typical salary range for a Graphic Designer in this region and sector would likely fall between $70,000 and $100,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for specialized design roles within government contracting in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, considering the demand for cleared professionals and the complexity of the support provided to PEO Soldier.

Benefits:

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)) with potential company match.
Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
Professional development opportunities, including training and certifications relevant to graphic design and multimedia.
Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.
Access to government-provided software and technology resources.

Working Hours:

Standard full-time work schedule, likely around 40 hours per week. While not explicitly stated, typical government contractor roles operate on a Monday-Friday schedule, with potential for some flexibility depending on project needs and client demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on market data for similar roles in the specified location and industry. Actual compensation may vary based on candidate qualifications, specific contract terms, and negotiation.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government Contracting, Defense & National Security, Technology Solutions. Barbaricum specializes in providing cutting-edge support to federal customers, particularly within Defense and National Security sectors. Their focus on PEO Soldier's cloud service offerings indicates a commitment to modernizing government technology infrastructure. Company Size: Barbaricum is a growing government contractor, suggesting a dynamic environment where individual contributions are highly visible. While specific employee numbers aren't provided, their description implies a company with established capabilities yet room for expansion and innovation. Founded: Founded in 2008, Barbaricum has over 17 years of experience supporting federal government stakeholders, building a reputation for expertise in Intelligence, Analytics, Engineering, Mission Support, and Communications.

Team Structure:

The Graphic Designer will likely be part of a program support team or a broader marketing/communications department within Barbaricum.
Reporting structure would typically be to a Program Manager, Project Lead, or a Communications Manager, depending on the organizational matrix.
Cross-functional collaboration is expected with program managers, engineers, analysts, and other subject matter experts to translate technical information into visually appealing content.

Methodology:

Data analysis and insights are likely used to inform design choices, ensuring that visuals effectively communicate data and complex information to target audiences.
Workflow planning and optimization strategies are crucial for managing design requests, adhering to production timelines, and ensuring efficient delivery of visual assets.
Automation and efficiency practices might be employed in asset management and repetitive design tasks, though primary focus is on creative output.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Barbaricum's mission to "transform the way our customers approach constantly changing and complex problem sets" suggests a culture that values adaptability, innovation, and problem-solving. Supporting government clients means a strong emphasis on reliability, security, and adherence to established processes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-to-senior level Graphic Designer, requiring significant experience and the ability to work independently on complex assignments. It's an operational support role within a larger program. Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a project lead or management within Barbaricum, likely interacting closely with PEO Soldier program staff for project direction and feedback. Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's impact is crucial for translating complex technical and strategic information into accessible and persuasive visual content. This directly supports PEO Soldier's communication efforts, program documentation, and overall mission success by enhancing clarity and engagement.

Growth Opportunities:

Potential to specialize in specific types of government-focused design (e.g., technical illustration, UI/UX for government systems, advanced presentation graphics).
Opportunities to take on more complex or high-visibility projects within Barbaricum's portfolio.
Possibility of leading design efforts for specific proposals or campaigns, moving into a more senior or lead designer role.
Development of project management skills related to creative production timelines and client coordination within the government sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in this role is likely tied to expanding the scope of design responsibilities, taking on more strategic visual communication challenges, and potentially mentoring junior designers if the team grows. Understanding the specific needs of defense and national security clients can open doors to specialized career paths.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Fort Belvoir, VA, which is a significant military installation. This suggests a work environment that may be integrated with or in close proximity to government facilities, requiring adherence to facility-specific regulations and protocols. Office Location(s): Fort Belvoir, Virginia, a key hub for the U.S. Army. Workspace Context:

The workspace is likely professional and collaborative, with access to necessary design software and hardware.
Interaction with military and civilian government personnel is expected, necessitating clear and professional communication.
The environment supports the production of sensitive or classified materials, requiring strict adherence to security protocols. Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week, Monday through Friday, is typical for on-site roles supporting government contracts. Flexibility may be available depending on project deadlines and client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Working on a military installation like Fort Belvoir often involves specific security clearances for access and on-site work, which is already a requirement for this role. The environment will be structured and process-oriented, aligning with government operational standards.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: HR or a hiring manager will review your application and resume to ensure basic qualifications (clearance, education, experience) are met.
Portfolio Review: Candidates will be asked to submit a portfolio showcasing relevant design work. This is a critical step to assess design skills, technical proficiency, and adherence to professional standards.
Technical Interview: A more in-depth discussion about design processes, software proficiency, and experience with specific types of projects (e.g., presentations, infographics, digital assets). You may be asked to walk through specific pieces in your portfolio.
Customer/Stakeholder Interaction Simulation: You might be asked how you would approach gathering requirements from a client or how you would handle feedback on a design.
Final Interview: This may involve meeting with senior leadership or program managers to assess cultural fit, problem-solving abilities, and overall suitability for the role and Barbaricum's mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Curate Strategically: Select your strongest work that directly aligns with the responsibilities listed, especially examples of professional presentations, edited digital images, and organized asset libraries.
Showcase Process: If possible, include brief descriptions or case studies for 1-2 key projects that highlight your problem-solving approach, client collaboration, and the impact of your design.
Highlight Versatility: Include a variety of project types to demonstrate your range of skills.
Quality Over Quantity: Ensure all included work is high-resolution and professionally presented.
Tailor for Government Context: If you have any experience with government clients or projects requiring adherence to specific branding or security guidelines, highlight these.

Challenge Preparation:

Be prepared to discuss your design process, your approach to managing feedback, and how you ensure consistency and visual impact.
Brush up on common design software features and best practices for creating effective presentations and digital media.
Think about how you would translate complex technical information into easily understandable graphics.
Prepare questions for the interviewer about the team, the specific projects, and Barbaricum's culture.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "government-provided software applications" means candidates should be ready to discuss their experience with standard enterprise design tools, and potentially any specific software mandated by government agencies if they have such experience.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

Graphic Design Software: Proficiency in industry-standard tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) is expected.
Presentation Software: Advanced skills in Microsoft PowerPoint are crucial, including template creation, master slides, animation, and embedding multimedia.
Multimedia Tools: Experience with audio/video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, Audacity) may be beneficial for incorporating multimedia elements.
Digital Asset Management: Familiarity with systems or methodologies for organizing and managing digital libraries.

Analytics & Reporting:

While not a primary focus, understanding how visual assets are used and tracked (e.g., in reports or presentations) can be an advantage.

CRM & Automation:

Less directly relevant for this role, but understanding how visual assets integrate into larger communication workflows might be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description explicitly mentions "Government-provided software applications." While Adobe Creative Suite is the industry standard, candidates should be prepared to adapt to or demonstrate experience with any specific software mandated by the government client, which might include specialized government-off-the-shelf (GOTS) or commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) applications.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

Excellence and Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality visual products that meet rigorous standards.
Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams, including technical experts and program managers, to achieve shared goals.
Integrity: Upholding security protocols and professional ethics, especially within a government contracting environment.
Adaptability: The ability to adjust to changing project requirements, client feedback, and evolving technological landscapes.
Efficiency: Ensuring timely delivery of design assets while maintaining high standards of production.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-functional integration with program teams to understand technical details and translate them into visual narratives.
Proactive communication with stakeholders to gather requirements, present design concepts, and incorporate feedback.
A willingness to share knowledge and best practices within the design community or project teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: Barbaricum's culture emphasizes expertise, collaboration, and innovation. For a Graphic Designer, this translates to being a proactive member of project teams, contributing creative solutions, and working seamlessly with individuals from various technical and operational backgrounds.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

Translating Technical Complexity: The primary challenge will be to visually represent complex technical information, cloud service offerings, and defense-related concepts in an understandable and engaging manner.
Adherence to Government Standards: Working within strict government branding guidelines, security protocols, and potentially legacy software environments can be challenging.
Managing Multiple Stakeholder Needs: Balancing the design requirements and feedback from various stakeholders within PEO Soldier and Barbaricum.
Keeping Pace with Technology: Staying current with design software updates and multimedia trends while also adapting to government-specific technology requirements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen skills in Adobe Creative Suite or explore new design tools.
Government Contracting Best Practices: Learning how to navigate and excel within the unique operational and regulatory environment of government contracting.
Specialized Design Skills: Developing expertise in areas like data visualization, technical illustration, or UI/UX design for government platforms.
Project Management Skills: Gaining experience in managing creative projects from initiation to completion, including client interaction and timeline management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are largely operational, focusing on the practical application of design skills within a specific, regulated industry. Growth will come from mastering these operational aspects and expanding creative capabilities within that framework.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

"Describe your process for taking a complex technical concept and transforming it into a compelling visual representation." (Focus on your methodical approach, client interaction, and iterative design process.)
"How do you ensure design consistency across various media types (presentations, handouts, digital assets) while adhering to brand guidelines?" (Emphasize template use, style guides, and systematic organization.)
"Walk us through a project in your portfolio that you are particularly proud of. What was the objective, your role, the challenges, and the outcome?" (Be ready to discuss specific design decisions, software used, and client feedback.)
"How do you handle constructive criticism or significant changes requested by a client on a design project?" (Highlight your adaptability, communication skills, and focus on meeting client objectives.)

Company & Culture Questions:

"What interests you about working for Barbaricum and supporting PEO Soldier?" (Research Barbaricum's mission and PEO Soldier's role to articulate a genuine interest.)
"How do you see your graphic design skills contributing to the success of a government contractor like Barbaricum?" (Connect your skills to efficiency, communication, and mission support.)
"Describe your experience working in a team-oriented environment, especially with individuals from technical backgrounds." (Focus on collaboration, communication, and translating needs.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Clear Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by demonstrating a range of skills.
Context is Key: For each piece, provide a brief overview of the project's purpose, your specific contribution, the tools used, and the results achieved.
Highlight Process: Be prepared to talk about your design process, including concept development, revisions, and final output.
Showcase Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your mastery of design software and techniques.
Government Relevance: If you have any work that demonstrates experience with government projects, security clearances, or specific government software, make sure to highlight it.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will likely assess not only your creative talent but also your ability to operate effectively within a structured, government-focused environment. Demonstrating professionalism, clear communication, and an understanding of operational constraints will be as important as showcasing your design portfolio.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

Submit your application through the provided Greenhouse link.
Portfolio Preparation: Curate a digital portfolio that showcases your strongest graphic design and multimedia work, focusing on professional presentations, image editing, and organized asset management. Ensure it reflects adaptability and adherence to professional standards.
Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience with graphic design, multimedia creation, customer coordination, and any relevant government contracting or DoD support. Use keywords from the job description and emphasize your years of experience and clearance status.
Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your design processes, software proficiency, and how you translate complex information visually. Practice walking through your portfolio with a focus on project objectives, your role, and outcomes.
Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Barbaricum's mission, values, and the work of PEO Soldier. Understand their focus on cloud service offerings and defense modernization to better articulate your interest and fit.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Barbaricum before making application decisions.

Graphic Designer