Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: PCI Productions LLC

Location: Washington DC, DC

Job Type: Contractor

Category: Creative & Design Operations

Date Posted: March 12, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is contingent upon contract award, indicating a potential government or large-scale project environment where operational stability and adherence to specific client requirements are paramount.

• The position demands a strong foundation in graphic design principles, with a focus on creating compelling visual assets for both print and digital platforms, crucial for effective communication and brand representation within an operational framework.

• Core responsibilities include the creation and editing of Microsoft PowerPoint presentations, a key tool for internal and external stakeholder communication, reporting, and operational strategy dissemination.

• A significant aspect of the role involves the development of infographics and other visual aids to clarify complex information, essential for operational efficiency and audience comprehension, especially in scientific or public outreach contexts.

• The Graphic Designer will be responsible for adhering to established branding guidelines and maintaining the agency's visual identity, ensuring consistency across all operational outputs and communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "contingent upon contract award" status suggests this role is tied to a specific project or client, likely within the government or a large enterprise sector. This implies a need for meticulous adherence to specific protocols, reporting structures, and potentially security clearances, impacting day-to-day operations and project management. The emphasis on Section 508 compliance further supports this, indicating a requirement to meet federal accessibility standards for digital content.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Execute comprehensive graphic design and layout for a diverse range of print and digital media, ensuring visual appeal and effective communication of key messages.

• Design, create, and edit Microsoft PowerPoint presentations, optimizing them for clarity, impact, and stakeholder engagement in operational reviews and project updates.

• Develop engaging graphic designs for print press kits, digital documents, and marketing collateral, supporting external communications and public outreach initiatives.

• Illustrate and design informative infographics to visually explain complex data and concepts, enhancing understanding for press kits, press releases, and media events.

• Create impactful graphics for trade shows, event booths, conferences, and exhibits, ensuring a cohesive and professional brand presence.

• Produce graphic materials tailored for video production, including animated content for web, social media, and internal communication channels.

• Generate original illustrations in traditional and digital formats, including 3-D, to clarify complex information and enhance visual storytelling.

• Uphold and implement the agency's branding guidelines, ensuring consistency and reinforcing the organization's visual identity across all projects.

• Research subject matter thoroughly to ensure accuracy in illustrations, infographics, and other visual content, collaborating with subject matter experts.

• Communicate effectively with researchers and stakeholders to interpret subject matter and gather detailed requirements for design projects.

• Manage multiple simultaneous projects, prioritizing tasks and meeting tight deadlines in a dynamic operational environment.

• Ensure all created content adheres to current Section 508 accessibility requirements, making digital assets usable for all individuals.

• Provide expert technical and artistic advice to staff on visual information design and implementation.

• Participate in special projects and undertake additional creative duties as assigned, demonstrating flexibility and a proactive approach to operational support.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for versatility across various design mediums and formats, from static print materials to dynamic animated content and interactive presentations. The emphasis on Section 508 compliance and scientific accuracy points towards a role that requires not only creative skill but also a diligent, detail-oriented approach to ensure content is accessible and factually correct, critical for operational integrity in specialized sectors like government or research.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of five (5) years of professional graphic design experience, with a proven track record of producing high-quality visual assets.

• For senior designer positions, a minimum of 5-7 years of relevant experience is required.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in the Adobe Creative Cloud suite of products (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Acrobat).

• Expertise in creating graphic design and layout for both print and digital media.

• Proven ability to design, create, and edit Microsoft PowerPoint presentations.

• Experience in developing infographics and visual aids for complex information.

• Strong understanding and application of branding guidelines and visual identity principles.

• Thorough knowledge and practical experience with Section 508 accessibility compliance for digital content.

• Excellent conceptual thinking and ability to develop cohesive design treatments across a suite of products.

• Ability to gather requirements from stakeholders and collaborate effectively within a team or work independently.

• Skill in creating original illustrations in traditional and digital formats, including 3-D.

Preferred Skills:

• Demonstrated competency in mentoring junior designers, providing guidance and feedback.

• Knowledge of motion graphics and video editing software (e.g., After Effects, Premiere Pro).

• Experience creating highly detailed and scientifically accurate depictions.

• Ability to take creative direction from stakeholders and incorporate feedback effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Adobe Creative Cloud, Section 508 compliance, and project/digital asset management software are critical keywords for operations professionals. The requirement for a portfolio demonstrating specific types of work (posters, flyers, brochures) and the mention of scientific accuracy suggest a specific niche within design, potentially related to government contracts, scientific research, or public health initiatives, where precision and adherence to standards are paramount.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a minimum of 3-5 pieces of original work, demonstrating core visual design skills across multiple formats and delivery methods (digital and print).

• Specific examples should include:

  • 2-3 Posters (e.g., event, scientific, public outreach)
  • 2-3 Flyers (e.g., one-pagers, fact sheets)
  • 2-3 Brochures (e.g., bi-fold, trifold, gatefold)

• The portfolio must illustrate the ability to develop and incorporate cohesive design treatments to a suite of products, showcasing consistency and brand alignment.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to demonstrate understanding of design process workflows, from initial concept and requirement gathering to final asset delivery and implementation.

• The portfolio should implicitly or explicitly reflect the candidate's approach to managing project timelines, incorporating feedback, and ensuring final deliverables meet specified technical and accessibility requirements (e.g., Section 508).

• Familiarity with digital asset management systems suggests an understanding of organized file structures, version control, and efficient retrieval of design assets within an operational context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The detailed requirements for the portfolio are crucial. This is not just about aesthetic skill but about demonstrating an ability to execute specific design tasks relevant to operational outputs (like fact sheets, event materials, and scientific illustrations) and adhere to client-specific standards (like branding and accessibility). The mention of project/digital asset management software points to an expectation of organized workflow and asset handling, common in operations-focused roles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• As a contractor position, benefits may vary and are often provided through the contracting agency. However, typical benefits for such roles might include:
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance (often with employer contribution)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) / Vacation Days
  • Sick Leave
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan options
  • Potential for professional development and training opportunities

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week.

• The role is on-site, requiring consistent presence during core business hours.

• Flexibility may be available depending on project demands and contract stipulations, but adherence to operational schedules is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on AI analysis of similar roles in the specified location and experience level. As this is a contractor role contingent upon contract award, the actual compensation and benefits package will be dependent on the specific contract terms secured by PCI Productions LLC. Candidates should inquire directly about the full scope of benefits and compensation structure during the interview process.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Advertising & Marketing / Government Contracting / Media Production

Company Size: Small to Medium-sized Business (SMB) - Likely between 15-50 employees based on typical production company structures.

Founded: Specific founding date not provided, but PCI Productions LLC likely operates within established production or creative services sectors.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of a creative team, reporting to a Creative Director or a Project Manager.

• This team may include other designers, video editors, animators, and content specialists.

• Close collaboration with project managers, account executives, and potentially client-side stakeholders will be essential for successful project execution and operational alignment.

Methodology:

• The agency likely employs a project-based workflow, focusing on client briefs and requirements.

• Emphasis will be placed on adherence to project timelines, budget constraints, and client-specific operational protocols.

• Data-driven insights might be incorporated for design decisions, particularly in understanding audience engagement and accessibility compliance.

• Workflow optimization will be key to ensure efficient delivery of high-quality creative assets under contract requirements.

Company Website: [PCI Productions LLC Website URL - Placeholder, as not provided in input]

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "contingent upon contract award" status and the mention of specific deliverables like press kits and scientific illustrations, PCI Productions LLC likely serves government agencies or organizations requiring specialized creative support. This suggests a culture that values precision, adherence to guidelines, and project-based delivery, common in government contracting environments.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level to Senior Designer

This role represents a mid-level to senior position within the graphic design discipline. It requires a solid foundation of professional experience (5+ years) and the ability to work independently while also collaborating within a team and with stakeholders. The responsibilities indicate a capacity to handle complex projects, adhere to strict guidelines (like Section 508), and contribute to the overall visual strategy for clients.

Reporting Structure:

The Graphic Designer will typically report to a Creative Director, Design Lead, or a Project Manager. They will collaborate closely with other members of the creative team (e.g., other designers, animators, video editors) and potentially with account managers or client liaisons to ensure project objectives are met.

Operations Impact:

The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the clarity, effectiveness, and professionalism of PCI Productions LLC's client deliverables. High-quality, accessible, and brand-aligned visual assets are critical for client satisfaction, successful project outcomes, and securing future contracts. Their contributions are essential for communicating complex information accurately and engaging target audiences, thereby supporting the operational success of client projects and the agency itself.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Designer/Art Director: With continued strong performance and experience, growth into a Senior Designer role with greater project leadership and potentially mentoring responsibilities is possible. A path to Art Director, overseeing creative concepts and guiding design teams, may also exist.

• Specialization: Opportunities to specialize in specific areas such as motion graphics, 3D illustration, or accessibility design, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Project Management: Developing skills in project management could lead to roles managing creative projects or even transitioning into a producer role within the production/operations side.

• Client Relationship Management: Building strong client relationships through effective communication and delivery can open doors to roles with more direct client interaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a graphic designer in this context is tied to both creative excellence and operational efficiency. Demonstrating an ability to manage projects, adhere to compliance standards, and work within contract frameworks will be key for advancement, potentially leading to leadership roles within creative operations or project management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Professional Office Environment

PCI Productions LLC likely operates from a professional office space designed to facilitate creative work, client meetings, and project collaboration. This would include design workstations, meeting rooms, and potentially a small studio space for video or photography if applicable to their services.

Office Location(s): Washington DC, DC

The office is located in Washington D.C., a hub for government contracting, non-profit organizations, and various industries that require specialized creative and communication services. This location offers access to potential clients and a dynamic professional network.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace will encourage interaction among designers, project managers, and other creative professionals. Teamwork is essential for brainstorming, feedback sessions, and ensuring project coherence.

• Technology & Tools: Access to high-performance workstations equipped with the latest versions of Adobe Creative Cloud and other relevant design software. Digital asset management systems will likely be integrated into the workflow for organized storage and retrieval of project files.

• Operations Integration: The designer will be integrated into the company's operational processes, working within project management systems to track progress, manage deadlines, and communicate status updates. Regular team meetings and client communication will be part of the routine.

Work Schedule:

• Typically a standard 40-hour work week, Monday through Friday.

• While the role is on-site, there might be occasional flexibility required based on project deadlines or client needs, but core operational hours are expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Washington D.C. suggests a need for designers who can actively participate in team dynamics, client meetings, and leverage the collaborative environment. The focus on operations implies a structured workday where efficiency, communication, and adherence to project timelines are paramount, even within a creative role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and creative fit.

2. Portfolio Review & Technical Interview: A deeper dive into your portfolio, discussing specific projects, design process, problem-solving approaches, and technical skills (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Section 508 compliance). This may involve a live demonstration or screen-sharing.

3. Skills Assessment/Creative Challenge: Candidates may be asked to complete a design exercise or a small project (often paid for larger tasks) to evaluate their practical skills, problem-solving abilities, and ability to meet specific requirements under simulated project conditions.

4. Behavioral/Team Fit Interview: An interview to assess collaboration skills, communication style, ability to take direction, and cultural fit within the PCI Productions LLC team and potentially with client expectations.

5. Final Interview: May involve a discussion with senior leadership or client representatives, focusing on strategic thinking, operational impact, and long-term fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 pieces that directly address the requirements: posters, flyers, brochures, infographics. Ensure they showcase versatility and adherence to given constraints (like branding or accessibility).

• Highlight Process: Be prepared to walk through your design process for each selected piece. Explain your understanding of the brief, your conceptualization, your tool usage, how you incorporated feedback, and how you ensured accuracy and compliance (e.g., Section 508).

• Showcase Impact: If possible, demonstrate the impact of your designs. For example, did a flyer increase event attendance? Did an infographic improve understanding of a complex topic? Quantify results where feasible.

• Demonstrate Technical Skill: Be ready to discuss your proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud and any other relevant software. Showcase your ability to create detailed illustrations and potentially 3D work.

• Address Niche Requirements: Explicitly point out how your work meets requirements like scientific accuracy or adherence to branding guidelines.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: Carefully read and deconstruct any design challenge. Identify the target audience, objective, key message, and any specific constraints (format, color palette, accessibility).

• Time Management: Practice completing design tasks within a set timeframe. Prioritize elements that are critical to fulfilling the brief.

• Presentation Skills: Prepare a concise presentation for your challenge submission. Clearly articulate your design choices, process, and how your solution meets the requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical application and a structured approach, typical for roles supporting contracts and specific client deliverables. The portfolio review is paramount, requiring candidates to not only showcase their creative output but also their process, technical proficiency, and understanding of operational requirements like accessibility and accuracy.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud Suite: Essential for this role. Proficiency required in:

  • Adobe Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, and raster graphics creation.
  • Adobe Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, icons, and complex illustrations.
  • Adobe InDesign: For layout design of brochures, flyers, posters, and press kits.
  • Adobe Acrobat Pro: For PDF creation, editing, and ensuring 508 compliance.

• Microsoft PowerPoint: Critical for creating and editing presentations, a key responsibility.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Asana, Trello, Jira, Monday.com, or similar platforms is expected for managing project timelines, tasks, and team collaboration.

• Digital Asset Management (DAM) Software: Expert level of experience with DAM systems is specifically mentioned, indicating a need for organized storage, retrieval, and version control of design assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "expert level of experience with project / digital asset management software" is a significant indicator of the operational rigor expected. This isn't just about design skills; it's about managing design assets efficiently within a larger operational framework, ensuring accessibility, version control, and easy retrieval for various projects and stakeholders.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision & Accuracy: A strong emphasis on detail, factual correctness (especially for scientific illustrations), and adherence to specifications like Section 508 compliance.

• Reliability & Timeliness: Commitment to meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality work consistently, reflecting the project-based nature of the work and client expectations.

• Collaboration & Communication: Valuing teamwork, open communication with colleagues and stakeholders, and the ability to incorporate feedback effectively.

• Adaptability & Flexibility: Willingness to take on diverse projects, adapt to changing client needs, and learn new techniques or software as required.

• Brand Stewardship: A deep respect for established branding guidelines and a commitment to maintaining a consistent and professional visual identity for the agency and its clients.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Designers will work closely with project managers, account managers, writers, and potentially video production teams to ensure cohesive project delivery.

• Feedback-Driven: An environment where constructive feedback is welcomed and expected, leading to iterative improvements in design work.

• Proactive Communication: Regularly updating team members and project managers on progress, potential roadblocks, and seeking clarification when needed to maintain operational flow.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of design techniques, software tips, and best practices within the creative team to foster collective growth and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values and collaboration style reflect a professional services environment, likely geared towards client satisfaction and project success. The emphasis on precision, reliability, and communication highlights the operational demands of working with external clients or government contracts, where clear processes and dependable execution are critical.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Client/Contractual Requirements: Effectively translating client needs and strict operational guidelines (like Section 508) into compelling designs without compromising creative integrity.

• Managing Multiple Projects and Tight Deadlines: Juggling numerous design tasks simultaneously, each with its own set of requirements and deadlines, requiring strong organizational and time-management skills.

• Ensuring Scientific Accuracy in Illustrations: For specific projects, the challenge of researching and accurately depicting complex scientific subjects requires meticulous attention to detail and potentially collaboration with subject matter experts.

• Adapting to Evolving Design Trends and Technologies: Staying current with the latest design software, techniques, and digital trends while also mastering legacy systems or specific client platforms.

• Interpreting Stakeholder Feedback: Effectively understanding and implementing feedback from various stakeholders, some of whom may have limited design knowledge, to achieve desired outcomes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Adobe Creative Cloud, motion graphics, or 3D modeling software.

• Accessibility Design Workshops: Focused training on Section 508 compliance and inclusive design principles.

• Project Management Skills: Developing skills in managing project scope, timelines, and resources, potentially leading to project management roles.

• Industry Conferences & Webinars: Attending events or online sessions to stay abreast of design trends, best practices, and new technologies.

• Mentorship: Learning from senior designers or art directors within the team, gaining insights into strategic design thinking and career development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges listed are common in operational design roles where creativity meets strict requirements. The growth opportunities are geared towards both deepening design expertise and developing transferable operational skills like project management and client communication.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for creating a flyer for a public outreach event, ensuring it adheres to branding guidelines and meets accessibility standards." (Focus on process, branding, accessibility)

• "How do you approach creating an infographic to explain a complex scientific concept? Walk us through an example from your portfolio." (Focus on complexity, illustration, accuracy, process)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working on projects that are contingent upon contract award, potentially for government clients?" (Assess understanding of the environment)

• "How do you ensure your designs are not only visually appealing but also meet strict operational requirements like Section 508 compliance?" (Assess alignment with operational values)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each piece, clearly state the objective, your role, the tools used, your design process, any challenges overcome, and the final outcome.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs (e.g., engagement rates, clarity achieved).

• Highlight Compliance: Explicitly point out how specific pieces meet requirements like Section 508 accessibility or scientific accuracy.

• Demonstrate Versatility: Ensure your selected pieces represent the range of formats requested (posters, flyers, brochures) and show your ability to maintain a consistent visual identity.

• Be Ready for Technical Questions: Prepare to discuss specific software techniques, file formats, and best practices related to print and digital production.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just creative talent but also an operational mindset. Candidates need to articulate their process, highlight their understanding of compliance and client requirements, and showcase their ability to manage projects efficiently. The portfolio is the primary tool for demonstrating these capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations-adjacent design position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the recruiting platform.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features examples of posters, flyers, and brochures, and specifically highlights any work demonstrating scientific accuracy or adherence to accessibility standards (like Section 508). Tailor your presentation to emphasize these specific requirements.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly list your proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud, Microsoft PowerPoint, project management software, and digital asset management systems. Quantify your experience where possible, e.g., "Managed design for X projects simultaneously, meeting all deadlines."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, how you handle stakeholder feedback, and your understanding of operational requirements. Prepare to walk through your portfolio with confidence, focusing on the requested deliverables and your problem-solving approach.

• Company Research: Research PCI Productions LLC and understand their typical client base and project types. Consider how your design skills can support their operational goals, especially if they are involved in government contracting or specialized communication projects.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details, including the contingent status of the contract and specific benefits, should be verified directly with PCI Productions LLC during the application and interview process.