Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: FedWriters, Inc.

Location: Washington, DC (On-site)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Government Services Operations

Date Posted: March 27, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site (Some telework may be allowed)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for supporting the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Office of Public Affairs by providing essential graphic design and production services.

• The Graphic Designer will be responsible for creating a wide array of digital and print materials that communicate DOL program missions and initiatives.

• A strong emphasis will be placed on adhering to Section 508 accessibility standards for all produced visual media, ensuring inclusivity.

• The position involves working within a collaborative creative services facility, alongside senior designers, requiring strong teamwork and communication skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Graphic Designer," the context of supporting a government agency (U.S. Department of Labor) and the specific mention of "production services," "Section 508 remediation," and "metadata tracking" indicate a role with significant operational and compliance components beyond traditional graphic design. This suggests a need for process-oriented thinking, adherence to strict guidelines, and potentially project management aspects, common in government contracting environments.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Produce a diverse range of digital and print products, including but not limited to: posters, exhibits, stage banners, web banners, infographics, cover designs, booklets, flyers, forms, certificates, brochures, stationery, charts, graphs, tent cards, and signs.

• Utilize Macintosh computers and industry-standard software (Adobe Creative Suite) to import, generate, and manipulate graphic images.

• Perform electronic scanning of documents and conversion of electronic files to meet project specifications.

• Operate standard graphic design tools and production equipment, such as printers, mounting equipment, and cutting boards, ensuring proper maintenance and functionality.

• Provide support to senior designers on complex projects, high-priority assignments, and initiatives requiring specialized design expertise.

• Proactively manage workload and prioritize tasks to ensure all projects are completed within required timeframes, with timely communication to the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) regarding any potential delays.

• Ensure all final products meticulously meet Section 508 accessibility standards, including color contrast, font choices, and alternative text for images.

• Upload all final files to the designated DOL server, ensuring accurate metadata tracking of content in accordance with IPTC standards for archival and retrieval.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative output and strict adherence to government standards. The mention of "metadata tracking in accordance with IPTC standards" and "Section 508 accessibility standards" indicates a need for meticulous attention to detail and process, which are critical in operations and compliance roles within government contracts.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in the graphic design field is required.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe InDesign for layout and print design.

• Expertise in Adobe Photoshop for image editing and manipulation.

• Strong skills in Adobe Illustrator for vector graphics and illustrations.

• Proficiency in Adobe After Effects for motion graphics and animation (as indicated by the need for digital products).

• Competency in Adobe Acrobat for PDF creation, editing, and accessibility checks.

• Solid understanding of Microsoft Word for incorporating graphics into documents.

• Familiarity with electronic scanning processes and file format conversions.

• Experience operating standard graphic production equipment (printers, mounting, cutting).

• Basic knowledge and application of Section 508 Accessibility Requirements.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working within a government contracting environment, particularly with the Department of Labor.

• Familiarity with IPTC metadata standards for digital asset management.

• Experience with project prioritization and workflow management in a deadline-driven environment.

• Basic understanding of photography principles for image selection or minor retouching.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit listing of multiple Adobe Creative Suite applications and specific operational tasks like "electronic scanning" and "file upload with metadata tracking" points to a need for candidates who are not only creative but also technically adept and process-driven. The "basic knowledge of Section 508" is a key compliance skill that differentiates this from a purely creative role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A professional portfolio is mandatory, showcasing a diverse range of computer-generated graphic images and materials.

• The portfolio must demonstrate competence in producing both digital and print products, reflecting the variety of materials listed in the responsibilities.

• Examples of work that have adhered to specific design briefs or client requirements should be included to highlight responsiveness.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal design workflow from concept to final delivery, including client feedback integration.

• Showcase understanding of file management and organization for project assets.

• Be ready to explain how they ensure design quality and adherence to specifications, especially concerning accessibility standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role supporting a government agency and emphasizing Section 508 compliance, the portfolio should go beyond just aesthetic presentation. It needs to implicitly or explicitly demonstrate an understanding of accessibility in design, file management, and the capacity to work within defined production processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Health Insurance

• Dental Insurance

• Vision Insurance

• Long-term Disability Insurance

• Short-term Disability Insurance

• Life Insurance

• 401(k) Plan

• Holiday Pay

Working Hours:

• 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

• This is an on-site position, but some telework may be allowed, offering a degree of flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Negotiable" pay range combined with the experience level and location suggests that FedWriters is looking for experienced candidates and is willing to offer a competitive package. The listed benefits are standard for full-time employees and are comprehensive. The mention of potential "some telework" indicates a hybrid-friendly approach within an otherwise on-site requirement.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

Company Size:

Founded:

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of a creative services team supporting the DOL's Office of Public Affairs.

• This team likely includes senior designers, potentially photographers, and specialists in areas like Section 508 remediation.

• The reporting structure will involve working under senior designers and reporting to a project manager or COR, with a clear hierarchy common in government contracting.

Methodology:

• The team's methodology will likely involve a structured approach to project management, from initial brief and concept development through production, review, and final delivery.

• Emphasis will be placed on iterative design processes with client feedback loops.

• Data analysis might be less direct for a designer, but understanding audience engagement metrics for digital products could inform design choices.

Company Website:

• https://www.fedwriters.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on government contracting implies a culture that values reliability, compliance, and clear communication. Being a "Top Workplace" suggests a positive internal environment that supports professional development and employee well-being, which is a significant draw for candidates in this competitive market.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

Reporting Structure:

Operations Impact:

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to deepen expertise in Section 508 compliance, advanced digital asset management, and workflow optimization within government contracting.

• Specialization: Opportunities to specialize in specific types of design (e.g., infographics, web design, motion graphics) or in areas like accessibility remediation.

• Leadership Potential: With proven performance and experience, there could be pathways to Senior Graphic Designer roles, team lead positions, or project management roles within FedWriters, particularly on other government contracts.

• Professional Development: FedWriters' recognition as a Top Workplace suggests a commitment to employee growth, potentially offering training, workshops, or support for certifications relevant to design and government contracting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path here is less about climbing a purely creative ladder and more about becoming an indispensable asset within the government contracting ecosystem, where compliance, process adherence, and reliable delivery are as critical as creative talent.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• The position is strictly on-site at the DOL Frances Perkins Building in Washington, DC. This means working within a government facility, which often entails specific security protocols and a professional, structured work environment.

Office Location(s):

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be a dedicated creative services facility, equipped with Macintosh computers and industry-standard graphic design and production equipment.

• It will be a collaborative environment, requiring interaction with senior designers and potentially other FedWriters team members or DOL staff.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

• While primarily on-site, the description mentions "Some telework may be allowed," indicating potential flexibility on certain days or for specific tasks, though this would be subject to contract and management approval.

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within a government building means adhering to its specific rules and procedures. The mention of a dedicated "Creative Services facility" indicates a specialized workspace designed for the needs of graphic production, which is a positive aspect for a designer.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio for experience, software proficiency, and adherence to requirements.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focusing on design process, software usage, and problem-solving scenarios related to graphic design challenges. This may include a review of specific portfolio pieces.

• Skills Assessment/Work Sample: Candidates may be asked to complete a design exercise or review existing work samples to assess their technical skills, understanding of accessibility, and ability to meet specific project requirements (e.g., creating an infographic with specific data, or designing a banner for a DOL initiative).

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Discussion about teamwork, communication, handling deadlines, and working within a government agency environment. Questions will likely assess how candidates approach collaboration and client interaction.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior management or the COR, to confirm suitability and discuss contract specifics.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that showcase your range across digital and print media, and ideally, include examples that demonstrate your understanding of accessibility or compliance-related design.

• Highlight Process: For each project, briefly explain the objective, your role, the tools used, and the outcome. If possible, show how you incorporated feedback or addressed specific constraints.

• Section 508 Clarity: If you have specific examples of designing for accessibility, make them prominent. If not, be prepared to articulate your understanding of the principles and how you would apply them.

• Technical Proficiency: Ensure your portfolio clearly illustrates your command of Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat, and After Effects.

• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and professionally presented (e.g., a clean PDF or well-designed website).

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss your approach to creating accessible digital content, especially infographics or web banners.

• Practice explaining how you would manage multiple design requests with competing deadlines from different stakeholders.

• Prepare to articulate your understanding of Section 508 requirements and how they influence design decisions.

• Have specific examples of how you've used design to communicate complex information or support program objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Section 508 and government contracting means interviewers will be looking for more than just creativity. They'll assess process adherence, compliance knowledge, and the ability to work effectively within a structured, regulated environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:

  • Adobe InDesign: Essential for layout, print production (booklets, flyers, brochures, stationery, forms, certificates, signs).
  • Adobe Photoshop: Critical for image editing, retouching, and digital asset creation.
  • Adobe Illustrator: Key for vector graphics, logos, charts, and infographics.
  • Adobe After Effects: For creating motion graphics, web banners, and animated elements for digital products.
  • Adobe Acrobat: Primarily for PDF creation, editing, and crucially, for checking and remediating Section 508 accessibility compliance.

• Microsoft Word: Used for incorporating graphics into documents, reports, and potentially for creating simpler print materials.

• Macintosh Computers: The primary operating system environment for this role.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the graphic design function, but understanding how design assets are stored, managed, and deployed within a larger content management or workflow system might be relevant.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit listing of Adobe software, especially Acrobat for accessibility, and the requirement for Macintosh computers are critical technical skills. This is not a general design role; it's a specialized one within a specific technological ecosystem.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision & Compliance: A strong emphasis on accuracy, adherence to government regulations (especially Section 508), and meticulous attention to detail in all design and production tasks.

• Collaboration: Working effectively within a team structure, sharing ideas, and supporting senior designers and external stakeholders to achieve common goals.

• Reliability: Delivering high-quality work consistently and on time, understanding the critical nature of communication materials for government programs.

• Service Orientation: A commitment to supporting the mission of the U.S. Department of Labor through excellent design and production services.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with DOL program staff to understand their communication needs and with FedWriters project managers to ensure project scope and timelines are met.

• Feedback Exchange: An open environment for receiving and giving constructive feedback on designs to ensure optimal results and compliance.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging team members to share best practices, new techniques, and insights, particularly regarding design software, accessibility standards, and production efficiencies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is likely a blend of creative studio dynamics and the structured, process-driven environment of government contracting. Candidates should expect a professional atmosphere where quality, compliance, and client satisfaction are paramount.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Compliance: The primary challenge will be to produce visually engaging and effective designs while strictly adhering to Section 508 accessibility standards and government branding guidelines.

• Managing Diverse Project Demands: Juggling multiple projects for different DOL initiatives, each with unique requirements, deadlines, and stakeholders.

• Technical Proficiency Maintenance: Keeping up-to-date with the latest features and best practices in Adobe Creative Suite, especially concerning accessibility features within Acrobat.

• Adapting to Government Processes: Navigating the specific workflows, approval processes, and reporting requirements inherent in government contracting.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Section 508 Expertise: Deepening knowledge and practical application of accessibility standards for digital and print media, becoming a go-to resource for compliance.

• Advanced Software Skills: Mastering advanced features within After Effects for motion graphics or developing expertise in specialized design areas.

• Government Contracting Acumen: Gaining practical experience in project management, client relations, and operational processes specific to federal agencies.

• Industry Certifications: Potential to pursue certifications related to graphic design, accessibility, or project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges here are very specific to the environment. Success will depend on a candidate's ability to not only be a talented designer but also a diligent, process-oriented professional who can navigate complex requirements.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for ensuring a graphic design project meets Section 508 accessibility standards." (Focus on specific steps, tools like Acrobat, and considerations).

• "How do you balance creative expression with strict client guidelines and branding requirements, especially for a government agency like the DOL?" (Highlight flexibility, problem-solving, and communication).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working with the U.S. Department of Labor and FedWriters, Inc.?" (Research DOL's mission and FedWriters' role).

• "How would you handle a situation where a DOL stakeholder provides feedback that conflicts with Section 508 requirements?" (Assess problem-solving and communication skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Showcase Accessibility: If possible, highlight projects where accessibility was a key consideration. Be ready to explain your approach.

• Demonstrate Software Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss which software you used for specific elements in your projects and why.

• Articulate Process: For each piece, explain your thought process, the tools used, and how you achieved the final result.

• Tailor to DOL: If you have examples of public-facing communications or infographics, emphasize those to align with the DOL's mission.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a candidate who demonstrates not only creative talent but also a strong understanding of government contracting environments, compliance requirements, and professional workflow management.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the FedWriters careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio is easily accessible and highlights projects demonstrating your proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat, and After Effects. Prioritize any work that shows experience with digital and print media production, and ideally, adherence to accessibility standards.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your 5+ years of graphic design experience, specific software proficiencies, and any experience with government agencies, Section 508 compliance, or production equipment. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, your approach to accessibility, and your ability to manage multiple projects under deadlines. Prepare specific examples from your experience that align with the responsibilities listed.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with FedWriters, Inc., their work with government agencies, and the mission of the U.S. Department of Labor. Understanding their context will help you 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 the hiring organization before making application decisions.