Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer
Company: DCS Corporation
Location: Sterling Heights, Michigan, United States
Job Type: Full Time
Category: Creative Operations / Marketing Operations
Date Posted: June 30, 2025
Experience Level: 5-10 Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on visual communication and content creation, requiring proficiency in graphic design principles and tools to support government and DoD environments.
• Responsibilities include the end-to-end process of visual material development, from concept to final output, for diverse communication needs.
• The position demands strong technical skills in graphic design software, photo/video editing, and presentation tools to produce high-quality corporate and event-related materials.
• This role necessitates meticulous attention to detail in preparing printed and digital media, ensuring accuracy and adherence to government standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Graphic Designer," the description strongly indicates a need for operations-style execution in managing visual content production for a government contractor. The emphasis on "visual material utilized for events" and "briefing packages" suggests a role that bridges creative execution with operational project management for visual assets. The "Category" has been broadened to "Creative Operations / Marketing Operations" to reflect this blend.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and develop visual communication materials, including photographs, illustrations, diagrams, graphs, objects, models, slides, and charts for various media formats.
• Utilize the full suite of Government-approved software, including Microsoft Office products and Adobe Creative Suite, for photo downloading, editing, and production of visual materials.
• Create and edit visual content for corporate communication needs such as briefing packages, documentation packages, spreadsheets, certificates, and awards.
• Photograph and video record organizational events (e.g., retirements, town halls, change of commands, ribbon cuttings) using Government-furnished equipment or coordinating available resources.
• Store, edit, package, and replay recorded audio and video data, ensuring proper archival and accessibility.
• Prepare printed media, including brochures, pamphlets, and leaflets, incorporating multiple illustrations, graphs, and photographs with attention to typesetting and typography.
• Convert vague concepts, descriptions, and ideas into polished presentation materials for various stakeholders.
• Ensure all final-form graphics are error-free and meet all technical and aesthetic requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities highlight a hands-on creative role with significant operational responsibilities in managing the lifecycle of visual assets. The emphasis on government-approved software, event coverage, and specific documentation types points to a structured workflow and adherence to established protocols, typical in operations-focused environments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts, Graphic Arts, or a closely related field with extensive experience directly applicable to the required tasks.

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 consecutive years of relevant experience within the last 10 years, working with a business or Government organization.
• Preferably, experience with ground combat vehicle systems or similar DoD-related environments.
• Proven experience in the preparation of printed media such as brochures, pamphlets, and leaflets, including the integration of illustrations, graphs, and photographs, and demonstrating proficiency in typesetting and typography.
• Demonstrated experience in creating final-form graphics with meticulous attention to detail and accuracy, utilizing software like PowerPoint, Claris Draw, Adobe Photoshop, and Microsoft Publisher.
• Experience in transforming abstract concepts, descriptions, and ideas into effective and engaging presentation materials.
• Hands-on experience using Microsoft Office products, photo downloading and editing tools, and audio/video capture tools to develop comprehensive briefing packages, documentation, spreadsheets, awards, and certificates.

Required Skills:

• U.S. Citizenship is mandatory due to the sensitivity of customer-related requirements.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
• Graphic Design: Expertise in visual design principles, layout, typography, and color theory.
• Adobe Creative Suite: Proficiency in a wide range of Adobe applications including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects, Premiere Pro, and Lightroom.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced skills in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and TEAMS for document creation, data management, and presentation development.
• Photography & Videography: Experience in capturing high-quality images and video footage, including event recording.
• Visual Communication: Ability to convey information effectively through visual means for diverse audiences.
• Typesetting & Typography: Strong understanding and application of typographic principles for print and digital media.
• Presentation Development: Skill in creating impactful presentations from conceptual ideas.
• Software Proficiency: Familiarity with Microsoft Publisher, Adobe Acrobat DC (Professional), Adobe Acrobat Distiller, Snag IT, and VLC Media Player.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in DoD or Federal Government environments.
• Ground combat vehicle systems experience.
• Experience with audio editing software (e.g., Adobe Audition).
• Knowledge of animation and motion graphics (e.g., Adobe After Effects).

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 5+ years of experience within the last 10 years, particularly in government or business environments, suggests a need for candidates who can quickly adapt to established processes and security protocols. The extensive list of required software highlights the technical demands of the role, emphasizing the need for deep operational understanding of these tools.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of graphic design projects, demonstrating proficiency across print, digital, and presentation media.
• Include examples of visual communication materials developed for government or corporate clients, highlighting adherence to branding guidelines and specific project requirements.
• Provide case studies of projects where vague concepts or descriptions were successfully translated into clear and impactful visual presentations.
• Demonstrate experience in creating comprehensive documentation packages or briefing materials, showcasing organization, clarity, and visual appeal.
• Include examples of work involving photo and video editing, illustrating skills in post-production and media manipulation.
• Highlight projects that involved the preparation of printed materials like brochures or pamphlets, emphasizing layout, typography, and image integration.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their process for conceptualizing and developing visual assets from initial brief to final delivery, emphasizing workflow management and quality control.
• Be ready to explain how they manage multiple design projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines, particularly within a government contracting framework.
• Demonstrate an understanding of version control and asset management for design files and finished products.
• Ability to articulate the steps involved in obtaining feedback and incorporating revisions from stakeholders within a structured approval process.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role involving government clients and specific software suites, a portfolio demonstrating process adherence, quality control, and successful project completion under potentially strict guidelines is crucial. The emphasis should be on how designs are executed efficiently and effectively within an operational context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on the experience level (5-10 years), a Bachelor's degree, and the specialized nature of working with government contracts and security clearances, the estimated salary range for a Graphic Designer in Sterling Heights, Michigan, would typically fall between $65,000 - $95,000 annually. This estimate is derived from industry benchmarks for similar roles in the automotive and defense sectors in the Detroit metropolitan area, factoring in the requirement for specific technical proficiencies and potential security clearance stipends.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) with company match.
• Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training and certifications in design software and related fields.
• Security Clearance Support: Assistance with obtaining and maintaining security clearances.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Employer-provided coverage.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week. The role is on-site, suggesting a consistent daily schedule, likely aligned with standard business hours (e.g., 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday), with potential for occasional extended hours during critical project deadlines or events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on the provided experience level, location, and the demanding nature of government contracting work. A candidate's ability to obtain a security clearance is a significant factor that often influences compensation. Benefits are typical for a full-time corporate role, with specific emphasis on professional development relevant to the technical demands of the position.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: DCS Corporation operates within the Government Contracting and Defense industry, providing a range of technical and professional services to military and civilian agencies. This context implies a structured, process-driven environment with a strong emphasis on compliance, security, and mission support. Company Size: DCS Corporation is a medium-to-large enterprise, typically employing over 1,000 individuals. This size suggests a professional organizational structure with established HR, IT, and operational support systems, offering opportunities for collaboration across various departments. Founded: DCS Corporation was founded in 1977. This long history indicates a stable company with a proven track record, likely possessing deep institutional knowledge and established operational methodologies.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of a broader communications, marketing, or program support team within DCS Corporation.
• Reporting structure will likely be to a Communications Manager, Marketing Director, or a Program Manager overseeing visual support requirements.
• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with program managers, technical writers, engineers, and event coordinators who require visual assets for their projects and events.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis: While not a data analyst role, the designer will need to interpret project briefs and stakeholder feedback to inform design decisions.
• Workflow Planning: Managing multiple design requests and prioritizing tasks based on project deadlines and client needs will be key.
• Automation/Efficiency: Utilizing software features and templates to streamline the design process for recurring tasks or standardized materials.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Working for a government contractor like DCS Corporation means the operational environment is highly regulated and process-oriented. The company's long history suggests a stable, established culture where adherence to procedures and quality standards is paramount.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an experienced individual contributor level within the creative or program support functions. It requires significant technical skill and the ability to work independently on assigned tasks while also collaborating effectively within a team. The emphasis on government environments and security clearances suggests a path towards specialized roles within government contracting. Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a manager responsible for communications, marketing, or a specific program requiring visual support. This manager will oversee project assignments, performance reviews, and professional development. Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the clarity and effectiveness of internal and external communications, the professionalism of company presentations and documentation, and the overall visual branding of DCS Corporation. High-quality visual assets are crucial for successful government proposals, client engagements, and internal morale during events.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop expertise in specific areas such as motion graphics, UI/UX design for government platforms, or advanced video production for defense applications.
• Senior Designer/Lead Role: Progress to a senior designer position, mentoring junior staff, leading design projects, and contributing to design strategy.
• Program Management: Transition into program management roles where visual support is a key component, leveraging design knowledge to manage creative project lifecycles.
• Technical Training: Access to advanced training and certifications in specialized design software or related technologies relevant to defense contracting.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a creative role, the "operations" aspect comes from the structured delivery of visual assets within a government contracting framework. Growth opportunities will likely involve deepening technical skills, taking on more complex projects, or moving into leadership roles that manage creative workflows and teams.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site, indicating a traditional office environment within DCS Corporation's facilities. This setting typically offers structured workspaces, access to company IT infrastructure, and opportunities for direct collaboration with colleagues. Office Location(s): Sterling Heights, Michigan. This location is within the greater Detroit metropolitan area, known for its strong presence in the automotive and defense industries.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be equipped with standard office technology, including computers, monitors, and access to necessary software licenses.
• Opportunities for collaboration will be readily available with colleagues physically present in the office, facilitating immediate feedback and team discussions.
• Access to specialized equipment for photography and videography may be provided or coordinated through company resources.

Work Schedule:

• The work schedule will be standard business hours (e.g., 8 AM - 5 PM, Monday-Friday), with potential for flexibility or overtime depending on project demands or event coverage. Adherence to a consistent schedule is generally expected in on-site government contracting roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes a traditional work environment where direct team interaction and access to physical resources (like studios or equipment) are expected. This contrasts with remote or hybrid roles that rely more heavily on digital collaboration tools.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and experience against the job requirements.
• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on your graphic design skills, software proficiency, and experience with visual communication in government or corporate settings. You may be asked to walk through specific projects from your portfolio.
• Skills Assessment/Challenge: Potentially a practical exercise to evaluate your design capabilities, problem-solving approach, and ability to translate concepts into visual materials under a time constraint.
• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Questions to assess your ability to work within a team, handle feedback, and align with DCS Corporation's values and the demands of a government contracting environment.
• Final Interview: May involve meeting with higher-level management or program leads to discuss your fit for the role and potential impact.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase 5-8 of your strongest, most relevant projects. Prioritize work that demonstrates experience with government clients, corporate branding, event materials, and strong visual communication.
• Highlight Process: For each project, briefly explain the objective, your role, the tools used, the process you followed (from concept to completion), and the outcome or impact.
• Showcase Versatility: Include examples of print design (brochures, pamphlets), digital graphics (web assets, social media if applicable), and presentations (PowerPoint, etc.).
• Demonstrate Technical Skill: Ensure your portfolio reflects proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office, particularly PowerPoint. If you have video or photo editing samples, include them.
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and visually appealing. A dedicated PDF or a professional online portfolio (e.g., Behance, personal website) is recommended.

Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate Design Tasks: Be ready for a task that might involve creating a visual asset (e.g., a social media graphic, a slide for a presentation, a concept for a brochure) based on a brief.
• Focus on Problem-Solving: Demonstrate your thought process, how you interpret requirements, and how you arrive at a design solution.
• Time Management: Practice completing design tasks within a set timeframe.
• Explain Your Choices: Be prepared to articulate the rationale behind your design decisions, including font choices, color palettes, and imagery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for government contracting roles often includes a strong emphasis on demonstrating adherence to established processes and the ability to work within specific regulatory or client-defined frameworks. A well-prepared portfolio is critical for showcasing these capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:
  • Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, and digital asset creation.
  • Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, icons, and illustrations.
  • InDesign: For layout and design of print materials like brochures, pamphlets, and reports.
  • After Effects: For motion graphics, animation, and visual effects.
  • Premiere Pro: For video editing, assembly, and production.
  • Lightroom Classic: For photo management and advanced editing.
• Microsoft Office Suite:
  • PowerPoint: Essential for creating professional briefing packages and presentations.
  • Word: For document creation, reports, and certificates.
  • Excel: For data organization and potential use in creating charts or graphs.
  • Outlook: For communication and calendar management.
  • TEAMS: For collaboration and communication within the organization.
• Adobe Acrobat DC (Professional & Distiller): For creating, editing, and managing PDF files, including print-ready outputs.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Snag IT: Likely used for screen capture and basic image editing for documentation or quick visual aids.
• VLC Media Player: For playback and testing of video and audio files.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly listed, understanding how design assets integrate with CRM or marketing automation platforms might be beneficial for broader GTM roles, though less critical for this specific position.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive list of Adobe Creative Suite tools indicates a high level of technical expectation. Proficiency across this suite, coupled with mastery of Microsoft Office (especially PowerPoint), is crucial for success in this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision and Accuracy: Upholding high standards for error-free work, especially in government documentation and presentations.
• Reliability: Consistently delivering quality work on time, meeting project deadlines and client expectations.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams, incorporating feedback, and contributing to shared project goals.
• Adaptability: Being able to adjust to changing project requirements, new software, and evolving client needs within the defense sector.
• Professionalism: Maintaining a high level of professional conduct in all interactions and deliverables.

Collaboration Style:

• Expect a collaborative environment where designers work closely with project managers, technical experts, and other stakeholders to understand visual requirements.
• Open communication channels will be utilized, likely including Microsoft Teams, email, and in-person meetings.
• Feedback loops are important; designers will need to be receptive to constructive criticism and adept at incorporating revisions from various team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture within a government contractor often emphasizes accountability, adherence to process, and a strong sense of mission. Designers are expected to be team players who can support broader organizational objectives through their creative output.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complex Concepts: Effectively converting technical or abstract ideas into easily understandable visual materials for diverse audiences.
• Meeting Government Standards: Navigating and adhering to specific branding guidelines, security protocols, and formatting requirements mandated by government clients.
• Managing Multiple Projects: Balancing the demands of various projects with competing deadlines and stakeholder priorities.
• Adapting to New Technologies: Staying current with the latest design software updates and exploring new tools that can enhance efficiency and creative output.
• Securing and Maintaining Clearance: The process of obtaining and maintaining a security clearance can be demanding.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Adobe Creative Suite applications or learn new creative software.
• Industry Best Practices: Learning about current trends in graphic design, visual communication, and presentation design, particularly within the defense and government sectors.
• Project Management Skills: Developing skills in managing creative projects, including scope definition, timeline management, and stakeholder communication.
• Specialized Design Fields: Potential to explore niche areas like motion graphics, data visualization, or user interface (UI) design for specialized government applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role are tied to the specific environment of government contracting, requiring not just creative skill but also an operational mindset for adherence to rules and project management. Growth is often tied to specialization and mastering the tools and processes relevant to the industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Describe your process for taking a project from initial concept to final delivery. How do you ensure all requirements are met?" (Focus on workflow, feedback integration, and quality control).
• Problem-Solving: "Tell me about a time you had to create presentation materials for a complex or abstract idea. How did you approach it?" (Highlight your ability to translate concepts visually).
• Tool Proficiency: "Which Adobe Creative Suite applications are you most proficient in, and how have you used them to solve specific design challenges?" (Be ready to give examples for Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, PowerPoint).
• Government/DoD Experience: "Describe your experience working with government or DoD clients. What are the key differences you've observed compared to commercial projects?" (Focus on compliance, security, and specific client needs).
• Teamwork: "How do you handle feedback on your designs, especially if it conflicts with your initial vision?" (Emphasize collaboration and constructive response).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about DCS Corporation and our work in the defense industry?" (Show you've researched the company).
• "How do you see your role contributing to the success of our projects and client engagements?" (Connect your skills to the company's mission).
• "How do you stay current with design trends and new software?" (Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each project, present it as a mini-case study: the challenge, your solution, and the result.
• Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize projects that showcase your ability to work with government clients, manage visual assets for events, and create effective presentations.
• Showcase Software Proficiency: Verbally confirm the tools used for each project and be ready to speak to specific techniques.
• Be Prepared for Technical Questions: If you present a video, be ready to discuss editing techniques; if you show print, discuss file preparation for print.
• Conciseness: Keep your explanations focused and to the point, respecting the interviewer's time.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only creative talent but also the operational discipline, technical proficiency, and understanding of the government contracting environment that DCS Corporation requires.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position at DCS Corporation:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Taleo careers portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your resume and portfolio are tailored to highlight your experience with government clients, event visual support, and proficiency in the specified design software (Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office). Select your strongest projects that demonstrate visual communication of complex ideas and adherence to client requirements.
• Resume Optimization: Clearly list your 5+ years of experience, bachelor's degree, and any specific government or defense industry experience. Use keywords from the job description like "visual communication," "graphic design," "Adobe Creative Suite," "PowerPoint," and "event photography/videography."
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, how you translate concepts into visuals, and your experience with the required software. Prepare to discuss your portfolio projects in detail, focusing on outcomes and your role. Research DCS Corporation's mission and recent projects.
• Company Research: Understand DCS Corporation's role in the defense sector and the importance of visual communications in government contracting. Be prepared to discuss why you are interested in working in this specific industry and environment.

⚠️ 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.