Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Peraton

Location: Chantilly, Virginia, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Government & Public Sector

Date Posted: 2026-05-07T00:00:00

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and produce high-quality multimedia assets, including graphics, digital media, and cartography for diverse government communication needs.

• Collaborate with UI/UX designers and cross-functional teams to develop visually engaging and user-friendly graphic products for websites, mobile applications, and other digital platforms.

• Manage and fulfill communication requests efficiently using dedicated request management tools, ensuring timely delivery of design assets.

• Ensure all graphic products adhere strictly to production standards, copyright laws, accessibility requirements, and public release guidelines.

• Build and maintain approved concepts in HTML/CSS, incorporating responsive design principles for optimal viewing across various devices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is heavily focused on supporting government clients, necessitating a strong understanding of security protocols, compliance, and clearance requirements (TS/SCI with polygraph). The emphasis on multimedia production, web design (HTML/CSS), and cartography indicates a need for a versatile designer capable of producing a wide range of visual content for critical national security missions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce a comprehensive range of multimedia assets, including graphics, digital media, and cartography, tailored for specific government communication objectives and audiences.

• Utilize advanced request management tools to track, prioritize, and execute design requests, ensuring efficient workflow and project completion within defined timelines.

• Partner closely with UI/UX designers to translate user interface requirements and user experience goals into compelling and intuitive graphic product designs for digital interfaces.

• Develop creative and impactful designs for various formats such as websites, mobile applications, newsletters, advertisements, infographics, banners, illustrations, and logos.

• Rigorously ensure all created graphic products comply with stringent production standards, copyright laws, accessibility requirements (e.g., WCAG), and specific public release guidelines mandated by government clients.

• Conduct thorough technical quality assurance checks on all design deliverables to maintain the highest standards of integrity, functionality, and aesthetic quality.

• Build and maintain responsive web elements and concepts using HTML/CSS, ensuring seamless integration and optimal presentation across diverse screen sizes and devices.

• Provide specialized cartography support, including the design and production of thematic and reference maps that accurately represent geospatial data for analysis and reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The detailed responsibilities highlight a need for a designer who can operate independently within a secure government environment, manage multiple project streams, and possess a blend of creative design skills and technical web development capabilities. The emphasis on compliance and quality assurance points to a role requiring meticulous attention to detail and adherence to strict protocols.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design, Multimedia Arts, Communications, or a related field.

Experience: Minimum of 5+ years of relevant professional graphic design experience with a Bachelor's degree, or 3+ years with a Master's degree. This experience should specifically include leading the development of graphics, digital media, and multimedia products.

Required Skills:

• Active TS/SCI security clearance with a relevant polygraph.

• Proven expertise in graphic design principles and software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite - Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Demonstrated experience in digital media production, including creation of web graphics, social media assets, and interactive content.

• Proficiency in cartography principles and software for designing thematic and reference maps.

• Solid understanding and practical experience with front-end web design, including HTML and CSS.

• Experience with UI/UX design principles and their application in creating user-friendly graphic products.

• Skills in photography and video editing, including post-production techniques.

• Ability to create engaging and user-friendly graphic products for various written and digital formats.

• Experience producing graphic designs for websites, mobile apps, newsletters, advertisements, infographics, and other digital content.

• Strong understanding of production standards, copyright laws, and accessibility requirements (e.g., Section 508 compliance).

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with content management systems (CMS) and website deployment processes.

• Familiarity with motion graphics and animation software (e.g., After Effects).

• Experience working within government contracting environments or supporting defense/intelligence agencies.

• Knowledge of data visualization techniques and tools for creating compelling infographics.

• Familiarity with agile development methodologies and their application in design workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for an active TS/SCI clearance with a polygraph is a critical qualification that significantly narrows the candidate pool. The blend of creative design, technical web development (HTML/CSS), and specific domain knowledge (cartography, government compliance) indicates a specialized role within a high-security environment. Emphasis on experience leading projects suggests a candidate who can manage their own workload and potentially guide junior designers.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a minimum of 5-10 diverse projects that demonstrate proficiency in graphic design, digital media creation, and cartography.

• Specific examples of web design elements created using HTML/CSS, including responsive design implementations.

• Case studies detailing the process of designing graphics for websites, mobile apps, infographics, or advertisements, highlighting problem-solving and creative execution.

• Samples of cartographic products, such as thematic maps or reference maps, showcasing data visualization and design accuracy.

• Demonstrations of compliance with design standards, accessibility requirements, and copyright considerations within past projects.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to document design workflows, from initial concept and request intake to final delivery and quality assurance.

• Experience in outlining the steps taken to ensure graphic products meet production standards, copyright laws, and accessibility requirements.

• Examples of how design processes were adapted to meet specific client needs or project constraints within a government context.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role requiring a TS/SCI clearance, the portfolio will likely be scrutinized for adherence to security guidelines and professional standards. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process in detail, emphasizing how they manage projects, ensure compliance, and utilize technical skills like HTML/CSS within a secure framework. The ability to articulate the "why" behind design choices and demonstrate impact will be crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $86,000 - $138,000 per year. This range is determined by factors such as scope of responsibilities, individual experience, education, skills, geographic location, and business/contract considerations.

Benefits:

• Potential for overtime and shift differential pay.

• Eligibility for a discretionary bonus.

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401k) with potential company match.

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Professional development opportunities, including training and certifications.

• Life insurance and disability coverage.

• Employee assistance program (EAP).

Working Hours: 40 hours per week. This is an on-site position, and while a standard 40-hour work week is expected, flexibility may be required based on project demands and government client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is a broad estimate for a Graphic Designer with 5-10 years of experience in the Chantilly, VA area. Actual compensation can vary significantly based on the specific contract Peraton holds with its government customer, the candidate's precise experience and qualifications, and the exact responsibilities within the role. The mention of overtime and potential bonuses suggests a performance-driven compensation structure common in government contracting.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: National Security / Government Contracting / Information Technology / Aerospace & Defense. Peraton operates at the forefront of national security, providing mission-critical solutions and transformative IT services to government agencies and defense branches.

Company Size: Large enterprise (Peraton is a significant player in the national security sector, employing thousands of individuals). This size offers stability, extensive resources, and opportunities for broad impact.

Founded: Peraton was founded with a mission to deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions. Its history is rooted in supporting critical government missions, emphasizing a culture of dedication and high performance.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of a larger communications, marketing, or program support team, potentially integrated within a specific government program or project.

• Collaboration will occur with cross-functional teams, including UI/UX designers, program managers, technical writers, and government stakeholders.

Methodology:

• Data-driven design approaches, utilizing analytics and user feedback to inform visual strategies.

• Agile project management methodologies for efficient workflow and iterative design improvements.

• Emphasis on compliance and security, ensuring all design outputs meet government standards and protocols.

• Collaborative problem-solving to address complex communication challenges for national security missions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Peraton's focus on "missions of consequence" implies a work environment that values dedication, precision, and a strong sense of purpose. The company's role as a mission capability integrator suggests a culture that supports complex problem-solving and innovation within the national security domain.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-to-Senior Level Graphic Designer. This role requires substantial experience and the ability to work independently, manage projects, and ensure compliance with stringent requirements. It may involve leading specific design initiatives or mentoring junior team members.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a Program Manager, Communications Lead, or a Senior Designer, with significant direct interaction with government clients and project teams. This structure emphasizes client-facing communication and project ownership.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the clarity, effectiveness, and professionalism of critical government communications. High-quality visual assets are essential for conveying complex information, supporting operational readiness, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. This role contributes to the success of national security missions by enhancing information dissemination and understanding.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Opportunity to specialize further in areas such as advanced cartography, interactive multimedia development, or UI/UX for secure applications.

• Leadership: Potential to move into a Lead Graphic Designer role, overseeing project teams, managing client relationships, and contributing to strategic design planning.

• Technical Skill Expansion: Development in areas like motion graphics, advanced web development (JavaScript frameworks), or data visualization tools relevant to national security intelligence.

• Program Management: Transition into roles managing design projects or broader communication initiatives within government programs.

• Certifications: Pursue industry certifications in graphic design, web development, or project management to enhance career trajectory.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the government contracting environment and the requirement for a TS/SCI clearance, career progression often involves staying with specific programs or contracts where cleared personnel are in high demand. Growth can be lateral into related technical fields or upward into management roles, often requiring continued security clearance maintenance and development of specialized skills.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site within a government facility or a secure Peraton office. This environment will be subject to strict security protocols and access controls.

Office Location(s): Chantilly, Virginia. This location is a hub for government contractors and defense organizations, offering proximity to major federal agencies.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will prioritize security and functionality, likely featuring standard office setups with specialized software and hardware.

• Collaboration will be facilitated through team meetings, project discussions, and potentially secure digital collaboration platforms.

• Access to necessary design software (Adobe Creative Suite), web development tools, and potentially specialized cartography or multimedia production software will be provided.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is typical, with potential for overtime based on project deadlines and mission criticalities. Adherence to specific government facility operating hours and security procedures is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: Working in a secure government environment means adhering to strict access controls, potential limitations on personal electronic devices, and a focus on mission objectives. The environment is likely professional and task-oriented, with a strong emphasis on security compliance.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter call to verify basic qualifications, clearance status, and interest.

• Technical Interview: Meeting with the hiring manager and potentially senior design team members to discuss design philosophy, technical skills (HTML/CSS, UI/UX, cartography), and software proficiency. Expect questions about past projects and problem-solving approaches.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates present their portfolio, discussing specific projects, design challenges, solutions, and the impact of their work. Be prepared to articulate your process, decision-making, and adherence to standards.

• Security & Clearance Verification: Formal process to verify the active TS/SCI clearance and polygraph.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with program leadership or key stakeholders to assess cultural fit and alignment with mission objectives.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best highlight your skills in graphic design, digital media, cartography, and web development (HTML/CSS). Prioritize work that demonstrates compliance with standards and effective communication for diverse audiences.

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the problem, your approach, the tools used, the challenges faced, your solutions, and the measurable outcomes or impact. Focus on your role and contributions.

• Showcase Compliance: Include examples that demonstrate your understanding and application of production standards, copyright laws, and accessibility requirements.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Specifically include examples of responsive web design using HTML/CSS, or discuss how you collaborated with developers on these aspects.

• Be Prepared for Security: Understand that some portfolio pieces might need to be anonymized or presented conceptually due to security restrictions. Be ready to discuss your process for handling sensitive information.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: You might be given a hypothetical design brief related to government communication or data visualization and asked to outline your approach or create a concept.

• Technical Questions: Be ready for questions about HTML/CSS, responsive design, and UI/UX best practices.

• Process Explanation: Prepare to explain your workflow for managing requests, ensuring quality, and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily emphasize the candidate's ability to work within a secure government environment and meet stringent compliance requirements. The portfolio review is critical, and candidates should be prepared to demonstrate not just creative talent but also technical proficiency and a disciplined approach to design.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign (essential for graphic design, illustration, layout).

• Web Development Tools: HTML, CSS (for building responsive web concepts and front-end elements).

• Content Management Systems (CMS): Familiarity with platforms used for website content updates.

• Cartography Software: ArcGIS, QGIS, or similar geospatial software for map creation (if applicable).

• Video Editing Software: Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or similar (for digital media production).

• Photography Tools: Experience with digital cameras and photo editing software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Web Analytics Tools: Basic understanding of how to interpret analytics for web design effectiveness (e.g., Google Analytics).

• Design Feedback Tools: Platforms for gathering and incorporating feedback on design deliverables.

CRM & Automation:

• Request Management Tools: Experience with ticketing systems or project management software (e.g., Jira, Asana, Trello, or custom government systems) for managing design requests.

• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and file sharing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is a baseline requirement. The specific need for HTML/CSS and experience with government-specific request management tools are key differentiators for this role. Familiarity with geospatial software for cartography indicates a specialized skill set that will be highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission Focus: A strong commitment to supporting national security objectives and government client success.

• Integrity & Compliance: Upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct, security protocols, and regulatory compliance.

• Excellence & Quality: Delivering high-quality, error-free work that meets or exceeds client expectations.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with diverse teams to achieve common goals.

• Adaptability & Innovation: Ability to adapt to evolving requirements and explore innovative solutions within security constraints.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Close collaboration with UI/UX designers, program managers, technical writers, and government stakeholders to ensure cohesive communication strategies.

• Feedback-Driven: Openness to constructive criticism and iterative design processes to refine deliverables.

• Proactive Communication: Regular updates and clear communication regarding project status, challenges, and proposed solutions.

• Secure Information Sharing: Adherence to strict protocols for sharing sensitive information and design assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Peraton, especially within government-facing roles, will likely be highly professional, security-conscious, and mission-oriented. Teamwork and adherence to protocols are paramount, alongside a drive for delivering impactful results for national security.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Security Protocols: Adapting to and strictly adhering to the rigorous security requirements and operational procedures of a government environment.

• Managing Diverse Requests: Handling a high volume of varied design requests from different stakeholders, each with unique requirements and deadlines.

• Balancing Creativity with Compliance: Fulfilling creative design objectives while strictly adhering to government regulations, copyright laws, and accessibility standards.

• Technical Integration: Ensuring seamless integration of HTML/CSS designs into existing web platforms and systems, potentially requiring close work with development teams.

• Evolving Mission Needs: Staying current with the dynamic nature of national security missions and adapting design strategies accordingly.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized areas of the Adobe Creative Suite or other design tools.

• Web Development Skills Enhancement: Training in newer front-end technologies or JavaScript frameworks relevant to modern web design.

• Government Contracting & Security Training: Courses and certifications related to government project management, cybersecurity awareness, and compliance.

• Data Visualization & Cartography Workshops: Opportunities to hone skills in presenting complex data visually and creating sophisticated maps.

• Mentorship Programs: Guidance from senior designers or program leaders to foster professional growth and career development within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge will be operating effectively within a highly regulated and secure environment. Growth opportunities are tied to developing specialized skills that are in high demand within the national security sector and demonstrating reliability and expertise in handling sensitive projects.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex graphic design project you managed from concept to completion. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure it met all requirements, including compliance?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and adherence to standards).

• "How do you approach designing for specific government audiences or ensuring accessibility (e.g., Section 508 compliance) in your digital graphics?" (Highlight knowledge of standards and user-centered design).

• "Walk us through your process for creating a responsive web graphic or front-end element using HTML/CSS. What are the critical considerations?" (Demonstrate technical understanding and practical application).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Peraton and supporting national security missions?" (Research Peraton's mission and values; align your interests with their work).

• "How do you stay updated on design trends and emerging technologies, especially within a government context?" (Demonstrate continuous learning and adaptability).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by skill set (Graphic Design, Digital Media, Cartography, Web Design) or by project type. For each project, clearly state the client/context (anonymized if necessary), your role, the objective, your process, the tools used, and the outcome.

• Highlight Key Projects: Focus on 2-3 projects that best showcase your versatility, technical skills (HTML/CSS, UI/UX), and experience with compliance and complex problem-solving.

• Demonstrate Process: Be ready to discuss your design thinking, how you interpret briefs, conduct research, iterate on designs, and finalize deliverables.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, use metrics or describe the tangible impact of your designs (e.g., improved user engagement, clearer communication, successful information dissemination).

• Technical Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of your web design examples and your collaboration with developers.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily lean into demonstrating an understanding of the unique demands of government contracting and national security. Candidates must be able to articulate their technical skills alongside their creative abilities and their commitment to security and compliance.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the official Peraton careers portal via the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating graphic design, digital media, cartography, and front-end web development (HTML/CSS) skills, with a focus on compliance and government-relevant work.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to prominently feature your active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph, years of relevant experience, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, HTML/CSS, UI/UX, and any experience with government contracting or national security projects. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving strategies, and technical skills. Prepare to present your portfolio and discuss how your work aligns with Peraton's mission and the requirements of supporting government clients.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Peraton's mission, values, and current projects, particularly those related to national security and government services. Understand the company's role in the industry and how your contributions as a Graphic Designer would support their objectives.

⚠️ 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.