Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer Company: DCS Corporation Location: Sterling Heights, MI, United States Job Type: Full Time Category: Creative Operations / Marketing Support Date Posted: July 09, 2025 Experience Level: 5-10 years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on creating and producing visual communication materials, bridging the gap between raw information and engaging presentations for a government-focused clientele, specifically within DoD and Federal environments.
• The Graphic Designer will be responsible for the end-to-end visual content creation process, from conceptualization to final output, utilizing a comprehensive suite of industry-standard design and multimedia tools.
• A key aspect of this position involves documenting and capturing organizational events through photography and videography, requiring proficiency in media capture and editing technologies.
• This role demands a strong understanding of visual storytelling and information design principles to effectively translate complex concepts into clear, impactful visual assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Graphic Designer," the detailed responsibilities and required software suggest a role that is heavily integrated with government contracting requirements and event support. The emphasis on visual communication for DoD/Federal environments, combined with photography and videography, points towards a specialized role within Creative Operations or Marketing Support, rather than a typical corporate graphic design position.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce a wide array of visual communication materials, including photographs, illustrations, diagrams, graphs, charts, and other visual elements for use in reports, presentations, exhibits, and digital media.
• Utilize the full spectrum of Government-approved software, including Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Creative Suite, for photo downloading, editing, and the creation of various documents such as briefing packages, documentation packages, spreadsheets, certificates, and awards.
• Operate audio and video capture and production tools to develop visual materials for organizational events and communications.
• Photograph and video record organizational events (e.g., retirements, town halls, change of commands, ribbon cuttings) using Government-furnished equipment or coordinating with available Government resources.
• Manage, edit, package, and replay recorded audio and video data, ensuring high-quality output for archival and distribution.
• Convert abstract concepts, descriptions, and ideas into compelling and accurate presentation materials that effectively convey information.
• Prepare printed media such as brochures, pamphlets, and leaflets, incorporating multiple illustrations, graphs, and photographs with attention to typesetting and typography.
• Ensure all final-form graphics are error-free and meet specific government formatting and quality standards before distribution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on static graphic design and dynamic multimedia capture/editing. The explicit mention of "Government-approved software" and "Government-furnished equipment" indicates a need for adaptability to specific client environments and adherence to strict protocols, common in defense contracting.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts, Graphic Arts, Visual Communications, or a closely related field. A strong portfolio demonstrating equivalent extensive experience can be considered in lieu of a degree for exceptionally qualified candidates.

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 consecutive years of professional experience within the last 10 years, working with a business or Government organization.
• Previous experience within the defense sector, particularly with ground combat vehicle systems, is highly preferred and will be considered a significant advantage.

Required Skills:

• Visual Design Proficiency: Demonstrated expertise in graphic design principles, layout, typography, color theory, and visual hierarchy.
• Software Mastery:
  • Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects, Premiere Pro, Lightroom Classic, Media Encoder).
  • Expertise in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, TEAMS).
  • Experience with Microsoft Publisher and Snag IT.
  • Familiarity with Adobe Acrobat DC (Professional, Distiller).
• Media Capture & Editing: Proven experience with photography and videography, including capturing events and editing raw footage using tools like Adobe Premiere Pro or similar.
• Presentation Development: Ability to create impactful and professional presentation materials using PowerPoint and other relevant tools.
• Conceptualization: Skill in transforming vague ideas and descriptions into clear, cohesive visual communications.
• Print Design: Experience in preparing print-ready materials, including knowledge of typesetting and typography best practices.
• Government Environment Experience: Familiarity with working within DoD, Federal, or Government contracting environments is a strong asset.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with audio capture and editing tools (e.g., Adobe Audition).
• Knowledge of content management systems (CMS) or digital asset management (DAM) systems.
• Familiarity with web design principles or front-end development tools (e.g., Dreamweaver).
• Experience with animation or motion graphics beyond basic video editing.
• Understanding of Section 508 accessibility compliance for digital content.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive list of required software, particularly within the Adobe Creative Suite, signifies a need for a highly proficient designer. The preference for government/DoD experience and a security clearance requirement are critical qualifications for this role within DCS Corporation.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a diverse range of visual design projects, including print collateral, digital graphics, and presentation materials.
• Demonstration of proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite applications through specific project examples.
• Inclusion of projects that highlight experience in event photography and videography, with examples of edited outputs.
• Examples of transforming complex or abstract information into easily understandable visual formats.
• Evidence of adhering to specific branding guidelines or client requirements in previous projects.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process, from initial concept development and client brief interpretation to final asset delivery and revisions.
• Highlighting experience with workflow management for design projects, including project scoping, timeline management, and revision cycles.
• Demonstrating an understanding of file management and archival processes for digital assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a government contractor like DCS Corporation, a portfolio is not just about aesthetics but also about demonstrating process discipline, adherence to requirements, and the ability to deliver polished, error-free work under specific constraints.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the 5-10 years of experience requirement, Bachelor's degree, specific software expertise, and the location in Sterling Heights, MI, a competitive salary range for a Graphic Designer in this specialized government contracting environment would typically fall between $65,000 and $85,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the Michigan area, factoring in the specialized skills and the defense sector context.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match.
• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning in design and multimedia technologies.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses and merit increases.
• Support for obtaining or maintaining security clearances.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule, typically 40 hours per week.
• The role is on-site, requiring full-time presence at the Sterling Heights, MI location. Occasional overtime may be required to meet project deadlines or support specific events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on average compensation for Graphic Designers with 5-10 years of experience in the Detroit metropolitan area, adjusted upwards due to the specialized government contracting environment and the extensive software requirements. Benefits are standard for a corporation of DCS Corporation's size and industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

• DCS Corporation operates within the Government Services industry, primarily focusing on providing engineering, technical, and management support services to the U.S. Department of Defense and other federal agencies. This context implies a culture that values precision, reliability, and adherence to stringent government standards. Company Size:
• DCS Corporation is a mid-to-large-sized company, likely employing several hundred to a few thousand employees. This size offers a balance of structure and opportunity, with established processes but also potential for individual impact. For operations professionals, this means access to resources and defined career paths, alongside the need to navigate established corporate frameworks. Founded:
• DCS Corporation was founded in 1977. This long history suggests stability, deep industry knowledge, and a well-established reputation within the government contracting sector.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer likely operates within a broader Marketing, Communications, or Technical Services department. This team may include other designers, technical writers, illustrators, and project managers who support various government contracts.
• Reporting structure would typically be to a Creative Manager, Communications Director, or a Program Manager overseeing specific support functions.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close work with engineers, program managers, proposal teams, and event coordinators to accurately represent technical information and support program objectives.

Methodology:

• DCS Corporation's operations are guided by rigorous project management methodologies and quality assurance processes, often aligned with industry standards like ISO 9001 or specific government compliance requirements.
• Data analysis and insights are driven by project performance metrics and client feedback, aiming for continuous improvement in service delivery.
• Workflow planning and optimization focus on efficiency, accuracy, and meeting client deadlines within budget constraints.
• Automation and efficiency practices are likely employed where applicable, especially in managing large volumes of documentation or repetitive design tasks, though creative roles may have more manual processes.

Company Website:

• https://www.dcscorp.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and focus on government services suggest a culture that prioritizes stability, compliance, and delivering high-quality, reliable support. Operations professionals in such an environment must be detail-oriented and understand the nuances of government contracting.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• This role represents an intermediate-level position within the creative operations or support functions. It requires a solid foundation in graphic design principles and practical experience with a range of tools and media. The responsibilities include execution of tasks and some degree of independent project management for specific visual assets.

Reporting Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely report to a manager or lead within a department responsible for communications, marketing, or technical support services. This manager will oversee project assignments, provide feedback, and support career development. The role involves collaboration with various internal stakeholders across different programs and project teams.

Operations Impact:

• This role significantly impacts DCS Corporation's ability to effectively communicate its capabilities, technical expertise, and project successes to government clients. High-quality visual assets are crucial for winning new contracts, supporting ongoing programs, and maintaining a professional brand image. The designer's work directly contributes to the clarity and impact of proposals, presentations, and official documentation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized design software (e.g., advanced video editing, motion graphics) or to learn new tools and technologies relevant to government communications.
• Specialization: Potential to specialize in areas such as proposal graphics, marketing collateral design, technical illustration, or event media production.
• Leadership Potential: With proven performance and expanded responsibilities, opportunities may arise to mentor junior designers, lead small creative projects, or move into a Senior Graphic Designer or Creative Lead role.
• Cross-Departmental Exposure: Potential to gain experience working on diverse government contracts, providing exposure to different technical areas and client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Career growth in this role is likely tied to demonstrating increasing proficiency, reliability, and the ability to handle more complex or critical visual communication tasks within the government contracting framework.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• The work environment is expected to be a professional office setting, typical of a government contractor. This includes standard office amenities, cubicle or shared office spaces, and meeting rooms designed for team collaboration and client interactions.

Office Location(s):

• The primary office location is Sterling Heights, Michigan. Applicants should expect to work from this site. Details regarding specific office accessibility or amenities would be provided during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be equipped with standard office technology, including computers, monitors, and network access. Access to specialized hardware and software for graphic design and media production will be provided.
• The environment fosters collaboration, requiring designers to work closely with project teams, subject matter experts, and management to ensure visual content aligns with technical accuracy and project objectives.
• Opportunities for interaction with other creative professionals and support staff will be available, promoting knowledge sharing and professional development.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, on-site. Flexibility may be limited due to the nature of government contracts and event support requirements, which may necessitate adherence to specific timelines or availability for event coverage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Sterling Heights, MI, is a key factor. The workspace context suggests a structured, professional environment focused on delivering project-based support services.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio by the HR and/or hiring team to assess qualifications and suitability for the role.
• Technical Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager or a senior designer to evaluate your design skills, software proficiency, understanding of visual communication principles, and experience with relevant tools. This may include a review of your portfolio and specific project discussions.
• Skills Assessment/Challenge: You may be given a design challenge or asked to complete a practical exercise to demonstrate your abilities in creating specific types of visual content under timed conditions. This assesses your problem-solving skills and design process.
• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: A conversation to assess your work ethic, communication style, ability to collaborate, and fit with DCS Corporation's culture, particularly concerning working within a government contracting environment.
• Final Interview: Potentially with higher-level management or program leads, focusing on how your skills align with the company's broader objectives and specific contract needs.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase your strongest and most relevant work. Tailor the selection to highlight experience with government-style presentations, technical graphics, and event media if possible.
• Demonstrate Process: For key projects, be prepared to explain your thought process, design decisions, problem-solving approaches, and how you met client requirements. Visuals of early concepts or wireframes can be beneficial.
• Highlight Impact: Quantify results where possible. For example, if your designs improved proposal win rates or significantly enhanced presentation clarity, mention it.
• Showcase Software Proficiency: Ensure your portfolio visually represents your mastery of Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft PowerPoint.
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and visually polished. A digital format (PDF or dedicated website) is usually preferred.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: Carefully read and understand any design challenge instructions. Ask clarifying questions if needed.
• Time Management: Practice working efficiently to complete the task within the allotted time.
• Focus on Requirements: Ensure your solution directly addresses all aspects of the design brief, including content, audience, and format.
• Contextualize: If the challenge involves a government or technical theme, demonstrate an understanding of how to present such information clearly and professionally.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely emphasize technical proficiency, ability to work with government clients, and adherence to standards. A strong portfolio is critical, and candidates should be ready to articulate their design process and problem-solving skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:
  • Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, and digital asset creation.
  • Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, diagrams, and illustrations.
  • InDesign: For layout design, brochures, pamphlets, and print collateral.
  • Premiere Pro: For video editing, sequencing, and final output of event footage.
  • After Effects: For motion graphics, animations, and advanced video effects.
  • Lightroom Classic: For managing and processing large volumes of photographs.
  • Media Encoder: For rendering and exporting video files in various formats.
• Microsoft Office Suite:
  • PowerPoint: Essential for creating government briefing packages, presentations, and visual aids.
  • Word: For incorporating graphics into documentation and reports.
  • Excel: For data visualization and creating charts/graphs.
  • Outlook: For communication and calendar management.
  • TEAMS: For internal communication and collaboration.
• Microsoft Publisher: For creating print media like brochures and leaflets.
• Adobe Acrobat DC: For creating, editing, and managing PDF documents, including pre-press optimization.
• Snag IT: Likely used for screen capture and basic image editing/annotation.
• VLC Media Player: For playback of various media formats during editing or review.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly analytics tools, designers will use these for reporting on project completion and asset management. Basic understanding of how visual assets contribute to project reporting metrics may be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design function, but understanding how design assets are requested and managed through internal systems or project management tools would be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive list of required Adobe Creative Suite tools, coupled with Microsoft Office, signifies a need for a highly versatile and technically proficient designer capable of handling diverse visual communication needs within a government context.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision and Accuracy: A strong emphasis on delivering error-free work that meets stringent government specifications and client requirements. This translates to meticulous attention to detail in all design outputs.
• Reliability and Dependability: Being a trusted partner for government clients and internal teams, consistently delivering high-quality work on time.
• Adaptability and Responsiveness: The ability to quickly adapt to changing project needs, client feedback, and evolving technical requirements common in government contracting.
• Professionalism: Maintaining a high standard of professional conduct in all interactions, communications, and deliverables.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams, including engineers, project managers, and other technical staff, to achieve common goals.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Designers are expected to integrate seamlessly with various departments, understanding project goals and contributing visual solutions that support technical and programmatic objectives.
• Process Review and Feedback: A culture that encourages constructive feedback on designs to ensure accuracy, clarity, and adherence to standards. This involves active participation in review sessions.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, new techniques, and creative solutions among team members to foster continuous improvement and innovation within the creative process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at DCS Corporation, given its industry, likely values a structured, collaborative, and detail-oriented approach to creative work, with a strong emphasis on meeting client needs and deadlines within government parameters.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Technical Concepts: A primary challenge will be converting complex technical information and abstract ideas from subject matter experts into clear, visually appealing, and accurate graphics.
• Adhering to Government Standards: Navigating and complying with specific government branding guidelines, security protocols, and accessibility requirements for all visual materials.
• Managing Diverse Project Demands: Balancing multiple projects with varying deadlines and creative requirements simultaneously, often under tight timelines.
• Rapid Technological Adoption: Keeping pace with the latest design software updates and multimedia technologies to maintain a high level of output quality and efficiency.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to gain certifications or advanced training in specific Adobe Creative Suite applications or new design technologies.
• Industry Best Practices: Exposure to and learning of best practices in visual communication for government and defense sectors.
• Project Diversity: Working on a variety of government contracts can broaden exposure to different technical fields and communication challenges.
• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior designers or creative leads within the organization, fostering skill development and career progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to working in a specialized government contracting environment. Growth opportunities will be focused on deepening technical skills and gaining experience within the defense sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "How do you approach translating complex technical information into easily digestible visual formats for a government audience?" Be prepared to discuss your process, referencing past projects where you simplified intricate data or concepts.
• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "Describe a time you had to collaborate with engineers or subject matter experts who had different ideas about visual representation. How did you reach a consensus?" Focus on your communication skills, ability to understand technical constraints, and negotiation tactics.
• Problem-Solving: "Imagine you're given a vague concept for a presentation slide. What steps do you take to develop it into a polished, impactful visual?" Emphasize your research, questioning, and iterative design process.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Operations: "What do you know about DCS Corporation and our work within the defense industry?" Research the company's mission, past projects, and values.
• Team Dynamics: "How do you handle feedback on your designs, especially if it's critical or from someone outside a creative field?" Discuss your receptiveness to feedback and how you incorporate it constructively.
• Operations Impact: "How can high-quality graphic design support the success of a government contract or proposal?" Connect your skills to business outcomes like clarity, persuasiveness, and professionalism.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Structure: For each key project in your portfolio, tell a story: the challenge, your approach, the tools used, the solution, and the impact.
• Metrics & Results: If possible, include metrics or qualitative feedback that demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs (e.g., "this design helped clarify X," "received positive feedback on Y").
• Process Demonstration: Be ready to walk through your design process for a specific project, explaining your rationale behind key creative decisions.
• Interactive Elements: If presenting digitally, ensure it's interactive and easy to navigate. Be prepared to zoom in on details or discuss specific layers if asked.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating technical expertise, a structured design process, strong communication skills, and an understanding of the government contracting environment. Be ready to back up claims with specific examples from your portfolio.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the DCS Corporation careers portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to specifically highlight experience with government clients, DoD environments, and the required software suite (Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office). Select projects that demonstrate your ability to translate technical information into visual assets.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 5+ years of relevant experience, your Bachelor's degree, and your proficiency with the specified tools. Quantify achievements where possible and use keywords from the job description.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving approaches, and experience with visual communication for technical or government audiences. Prepare specific examples from your portfolio that align with the primary responsibilities.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research DCS Corporation, its mission, its clients, and its work within the defense sector. Understand their values and how your skills can contribute to their success.

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