Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer
Company: D.A. Davidson
Location: Great Falls, Montana, United States
Job Type: Full Time
Category: Marketing & Design Operations
Date Posted: January 05, 2026
Experience Level: 2-5 Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and execute innovative marketing materials that enhance market share and strengthen brand value for D.A. Davidson Companies.
• Collaborate effectively with editorial staff, managers, and other project stakeholders to understand project objectives and target audiences.
• Ensure all created visual media communicates desired messages in an engaging, unified, and brand-consistent manner.
• Manage print production coordination and develop proficiency in all aspects of printing final products.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a mid-level Graphic Designer, requiring a blend of creative execution and collaborative project management within a financial services organization. The focus on brand integrity and market share growth suggests a strategic contribution beyond purely aesthetic design.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop original visual concepts and designs for a variety of marketing collateral, including digital assets, print publications, and presentations.
• Select appropriate graphics, stock photography, and illustrations that align with client needs and D.A. Davidson's established brand guidelines.
• Work closely with Senior Graphic Designers, taking direction and contributing to a collaborative design process.
• Prepare design drafts and present samples for review by editorial staff and other relevant departments, incorporating feedback through revisions.
• Adhere strictly to project timelines and deadlines, ensuring timely delivery of all design assets.
• Assist in market research to inform design strategies and identify emerging visual trends relevant to the financial services industry.
• Ensure all created collateral is compatible for both print and digital distribution.
• Maintain meticulous attention to detail throughout the design and production process.
• Follow company policies and procedures, upholding client confidentiality and ethical standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities indicate a hands-on design role with significant collaboration and adherence to brand standards. The inclusion of "print production coordinator" and "market research" suggests a broader scope than a typical entry-level designer, requiring an understanding of production workflows and strategic market awareness.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree preferred or significant coursework in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Digital Design, or related disciplines.
Experience: Two or more years of related work experience highly preferred.

Required Skills:

• Proficient in PC-based design environments.
• Mastery of Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
• Demonstrated ability to create engaging digital and print designs, supported by an online portfolio.
• Strong foundation in typography, illustration, iconography, and layout principles.
• Capability to produce collateral compatible with both print and digital media.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration and feedback exchange.
• Highly organized with extreme attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Ability to collaborate effectively as a member of a cross-functional team.
• Ability to communicate clearly, professionally, and in a service-oriented manner with employees at all levels.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint for presentation design.
• Basic understanding of HTML for digital asset creation.
• Experience or knowledge in a broad range of media opportunities.
• Experience working within the financial services industry or a highly regulated environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Adobe Creative Suite proficiency, a strong design foundation, and an online portfolio are standard for graphic design roles. The inclusion of PowerPoint and HTML suggests a need for versatility in creating various marketing assets, common in corporate marketing departments. The preference for financial services experience highlights the specialized nature of the company's brand and client base.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 projects demonstrating successful creation of engaging digital and print designs.
• Include examples that highlight expertise in typography, illustration, iconography, and layout principles.
• Present designs that are both print and digitally compatible, illustrating an understanding of output requirements.
• Demonstrate ability to work within brand guidelines and maintain a unified brand message.
• Provide evidence of collaborative work processes and ability to incorporate feedback.

Process Documentation:

• Portfolio pieces should implicitly or explicitly demonstrate understanding of design workflows from concept to final delivery.
• Examples of market research integration into design strategy are valued.
• Showcase ability to manage project feedback loops and iterative design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a mid-level Graphic Designer, the portfolio is critical. It should not only display aesthetic talent but also demonstrate an understanding of practical application, brand adherence, and the ability to contribute to marketing objectives, especially within a corporate setting like financial services.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The provided description states, "Compensation offered will be determined on a case-by-case basis considering a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the skills, relevant work experience, and geographic location of each specific candidate." For a mid-level Graphic Designer in Great Falls, Montana, with 2-5 years of experience, the estimated salary range is approximately $60,000 - $85,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in regional markets, considering the cost of living in Montana and the specific requirements of the position.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.
• Company-sponsored 401(k) plan with an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) contribution.
• Generous paid time off, including sick leave, vacation leave, and parental (maternity/paternity) leave.
• Paid holidays for observance of national and company-recognized holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Tuition reimbursement program with a lifetime cap of $15,000.
• Charitable gift-matching program to support employee philanthropic efforts.
• Participation in Davidson Day of Giving, an initiative focused on community impact.

Working Hours: Standard full-time work schedule, likely 40 hours per week, with an on-site arrangement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general market data for Graphic Designers in mid-sized US cities and the specified experience level. Actual compensation will vary based on the candidate's specific qualifications and the company's internal compensation structure. The benefits package is robust and indicates a company that values employee well-being and long-term commitment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Services (Investment Banking, Wealth Management, Insurance). D.A. Davidson operates in a highly regulated industry where integrity, trust, and client confidentiality are paramount. This context influences design decisions, requiring a focus on professionalism, clarity, and adherence to strict compliance guidelines. Company Size: Employee-owned, with a history spanning over 90 years, suggesting a stable and established organization with a strong employee-centric culture. The exact employee count is not specified, but "Companies" implies multiple divisions or subsidiaries. Founded: Over 90 years ago, indicating a long-standing presence in the financial services sector.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer reports to senior employees, likely a Creative Director, Marketing Manager, or Senior Graphic Designer, indicating a hierarchical structure within the marketing or creative department.
• Expect close collaboration with editorial staff, project managers, and potentially marketing specialists.
• The role involves working with employees at all levels throughout the Companies, requiring strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Methodology:

• Design work is guided by brand guidelines and market research to ensure effectiveness and compliance.
• A collaborative feedback process is integral to the design lifecycle, involving multiple stakeholders.
• Emphasis on delivering high-quality, unified messages that strengthen the D.A. Davidson Companies brand.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and employee-owned structure suggest a stable, values-driven culture. The financial services industry context is crucial for a designer; it demands a more conservative and compliance-focused approach to creative output compared to other industries.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a mid-level Graphic Designer position. It signifies an individual contributor role with a focus on executing design projects under guidance from senior team members. The role requires independent work on assignments but also strong collaboration within a team. Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer reports to senior employees, implying a clear line of management and mentorship. This structure allows for learning from experienced professionals and receiving constructive feedback on design work. Operations Impact: The role's impact is centered on strengthening the D.A. Davidson Companies brand and increasing market share through innovative and engaging marketing materials. Effective design directly influences client perception, brand recognition, and the overall success of marketing campaigns.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, explore new design software, and develop advanced skills in digital and print production.
• Specialization: Potential to specialize in specific areas of design, such as digital marketing assets, corporate communications, or brand identity development within the financial services context.
• Leadership Potential: Advancement to Senior Graphic Designer roles, team lead positions, or potentially management roles within the creative department, with increased responsibility for strategy and team oversight.
• Cross-functional Exposure: Opportunities to collaborate with various departments, gaining a broader understanding of business operations and marketing strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a mid-level designer, growth often involves increasing project complexity, taking on more strategic responsibilities, and potentially mentoring junior designers. The employee-owned structure might also offer unique long-term career development pathways.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is listed as "On-site," indicating a traditional office environment within D.A. Davidson's Great Falls, Montana location. This suggests a collaborative workspace where in-person interaction is key. Office Location(s): Great Falls, Montana. This location offers a specific regional context for daily work life.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative office setting likely facilitates direct communication and brainstorming sessions with team members and stakeholders.
• Access to necessary design tools and technology, including the Adobe Creative Suite on PC platforms, is expected.
• Opportunities for regular interaction with Senior Graphic Designers and other project participants to receive guidance and feedback.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week, with an on-site presence. This schedule supports consistent teamwork and project continuity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes face-to-face collaboration, which is often beneficial for creative roles where spontaneous discussions and feedback can drive innovation. It also ensures easy access to internal resources and team members.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and online portfolio to assess basic qualifications and creative capabilities.
• Portfolio Presentation & Skills Assessment: Candidates will likely present their portfolio, discussing specific projects, design choices, and problem-solving approaches. This may also include a practical design exercise or test to evaluate proficiency in required software and design principles.
• Behavioral & Situational Interviews: Discussions focusing on collaboration, communication, ability to work under pressure, and how candidates handle feedback and deadlines. Questions may probe experience with market research and brand adherence.
• Team & Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with potential team members and key stakeholders (e.g., marketing managers, senior designers) to assess cultural fit and ability to work effectively within the team and across departments.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a department head or senior leader to confirm suitability and discuss overall fit with the company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Ensure your online portfolio is easily navigable and showcases your best work, with a clear emphasis on digital and print designs relevant to corporate branding.
• For each project, provide context: the brief, your role, the challenges, your creative process, the tools used, and the results achieved (especially if quantifiable).
• Highlight projects demonstrating strong typography, layout, and brand consistency. If possible, include examples of work created within a regulated industry or that adhere to strict guidelines.
• Be prepared to discuss how you incorporated feedback and collaborated with others.
• Tailor your portfolio selection to D.A. Davidson's industry (financial services) if possible, showcasing professionalism and attention to detail.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for a potential design challenge that tests your ability to quickly grasp a brief, apply brand guidelines, and produce a concept within a limited timeframe.
• Practice articulating your design decisions clearly and concisely, focusing on how your choices support the project's objectives and brand strategy.
• Prepare to discuss your understanding of print production processes and digital asset optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a designer in a financial institution will likely be thorough, focusing on both creative talent and professional conduct. A strong portfolio that demonstrates an understanding of brand integrity and the ability to work within structured environments will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:
  • Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, and creating digital graphics.
  • Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, icons, and illustrations.
  • InDesign: For page layout, brochure design, and print collateral creation.
• Microsoft PowerPoint: For creating and designing presentations, often a key deliverable for financial services marketing.
• HTML: Basic understanding for creating or preparing digital assets for web or email distribution.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed, designers may interact with analytics dashboards to understand the performance of digital assets they create, informing future design iterations.

CRM & Automation:

• No specific CRM or automation tools are listed as direct responsibilities for this role, but an understanding of how marketing materials integrate with CRM-driven campaigns could be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the core Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. The inclusion of PowerPoint and HTML indicates a need for versatility in output formats common in corporate marketing.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity and Ethics: Paramount in the financial services industry; reflected in honest and transparent design practices.
• Client Focus: Designs should serve client needs and enhance their perception of D.A. Davidson.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams and individuals across the organization.
• Excellence: Striving for high-quality, impactful design that strengthens the brand.
• Community Impact: Supporting the company's tradition of giving back through design contributions or awareness campaigns.

Collaboration Style:

• Expected to be open to feedback and able to integrate suggestions from senior designers and stakeholders.
• Proactive communication and a service-oriented approach when interacting with internal clients.
• A team player mentality, contributing to shared project goals and supporting colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values (integrity, ethics, community) combined with the industry context (financial services) suggest a professional, ethical, and client-centric work environment. The emphasis on collaboration indicates a preference for team-oriented individuals.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Compliance: Designing visually appealing materials that also meet strict regulatory and brand guidelines in the financial services sector.
• Managing Multiple Projects and Deadlines: Juggling various design requests from different departments with competing priorities.
• Adapting to Evolving Design Trends: Staying current with design software, techniques, and visual trends while maintaining brand consistency.
• Incorporating Feedback: Effectively translating constructive criticism into design improvements without compromising the original vision.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to master new features or explore additional Adobe Creative Suite applications.
• Industry-Specific Design Workshops: Learning about design best practices within financial services, compliance, and corporate communications.
• Mentorship from Senior Designers: Gaining insights and guidance from experienced professionals on career development and advanced design techniques.
• Exposure to Marketing Strategy: Understanding how design contributes to broader marketing objectives and business goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge will likely be navigating the intersection of creative expression and the stringent requirements of the financial services industry. Growth will come from mastering these constraints and expanding design capabilities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance creative freedom with strict brand guidelines. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your process for adhering to constraints while still producing effective design).
• "How do you prioritize your design tasks when faced with multiple urgent requests from different stakeholders?" (Demonstrate organizational and time management skills).
• "Walk us through a project in your portfolio that you are particularly proud of. What was the objective, your role, your creative process, and the results?" (Be ready to discuss your entire design thinking from brief to execution).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about D.A. Davidson and the financial services industry?" (Research the company's history, values, and recent news).
• "How do you see your design skills contributing to our goal of increasing market share and strengthening our brand?" (Connect your abilities to business objectives).
• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you collaborate with colleagues." (Align your preferences with the company's collaborative culture).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with a brief overview of your portfolio, then dive into 2-3 key projects that best represent your skills and experience relevant to this role.
• Narrative: For each project, tell a story: the challenge, your solution, your process, and the outcome. Use visuals effectively to illustrate your points.
• Metrics: If possible, include any quantifiable results or positive feedback received for your designs.
• Brand Awareness: Be prepared to discuss how your design approach would align with D.A. Davidson's brand and the financial services industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a blend of creative talent, technical proficiency, professionalism, and an understanding of the specific demands of the financial services industry. Your portfolio and your ability to articulate your design process will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on jobs.lever.co.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your online portfolio is up-to-date, easily accessible, and highlights your strongest digital and print design work. Tailor the selection to showcase relevant experience, especially any work related to corporate branding or regulated industries.
• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your years of experience, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), and any experience with PowerPoint and HTML. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Interview Preparation: Rehearse your portfolio presentation, focusing on storytelling and clearly explaining your design process and decision-making. Prepare answers to common interview questions, especially those about collaboration, handling feedback, and working within brand guidelines.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research D.A. Davidson, its history, values, and its position in the financial services market. Understand their brand identity and any recent marketing campaigns to demonstrate genuine interest and insight.

⚠️ 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.

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