Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer Company: SAIC Location: Washington, District of Columbia, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Data & Analytics (Government/Public Sector focus) Date Posted: January 11, 2026 Experience Level: 5-10 Years

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the creation of impactful visual communication products for the U.S. Coast Guard's (USCG) data modernization and analytics transformation initiatives.
• Translate complex data strategies, research findings, and analytical insights into compelling executive-level presentations, infographics, and data storytelling artifacts.
• Develop and maintain visual branding, templates, and communication materials aligned with Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and USCG style guidelines.
• Collaborate closely with data scientists, product owners, researchers, and mission stakeholders in an agile environment to ensure visual outputs effectively communicate project progress and outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically focused on supporting government initiatives within the U.S. Coast Guard's Office of Data Analytics (ODA), requiring a strong understanding of government communication standards and the ability to design for high-level executive audiences. The emphasis on "data modernization and analytic transformation efforts" suggests a need for designers who can visualize technical concepts and data-driven insights, bridging the gap between technical teams and leadership.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design high-impact graphics, infographics, charts, and visual storytelling products tailored for senior Coast Guard leaders and mission partners.
• Produce polished executive presentations that clearly articulate complex data, technical concepts, and strategic initiatives.
• Develop and implement visual branding, templates, and communication products that support the ODA's identity and strategic messaging.
• Collaborate effectively with UI/UX designers, data visualization specialists, data scientists, and sprint leads to transform analytical results into visually compelling and digestible formats.
• Create and deliver on-brand graphic materials to support agile sprint reviews, program updates, and stakeholder engagements.
• Ensure all visual products maintain consistency with DHS/USCG style guidelines, accessibility standards (e.g., Section 508 compliance), and the ODA communication strategy.
• Illustrate conceptual frameworks, workflows, system architectures, and "as-is / to-be" transformation visuals to aid understanding of modernization efforts.
• Provide rapid-turn creative support for leadership briefs, concept papers, strategic roadmaps, and essential program artifacts.
• Assist in developing comprehensive communication collateral for ODA, including posters, one-pagers, campaign graphics, and digital media assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for a designer who can not only create aesthetically pleasing visuals but also translate complex technical and strategic information into clear, actionable communication for a government audience. The emphasis on "rapid-turn creative support" and "iterative design" implies a fast-paced, responsive work environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Communication Arts, Visual Communication, or a related field.
• Alternatively, an additional six (6) years of relevant professional experience can be substituted for a degree, per contract vehicle requirements.

Experience:

• Minimum of six (6) years of professional graphic design experience.
• If a degree is not held, a total of twelve (12) years of relevant experience is required.
• Demonstrated experience in developing visuals for senior government leadership or producing polished, branded deliverables for high-visibility audiences.
• Experience supporting Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), Department of Defense (DoD), or other Federal clients is highly desired.

Required Skills:

• Strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign).
• Expertise in presentation design tools such as Microsoft PowerPoint, Figma, or similar platforms.
• Proven ability to translate complex technical or analytical information into clear, elegant visuals.
• Strong creative portfolio demonstrating excellent use of typography, grid-based design principles, strategic use of white space, and a solid understanding of color theory.
• Demonstrated experience in gathering requirements and employing iterative design processes.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and collaboration skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Some experience with and/or knowledge of motion design tools like Adobe After Effects and Adobe Premiere Pro.
• Familiarity with data visualization concepts and design principles.
• Experience working within agile sprint environments or supporting modernization efforts.
• Knowledge of accessibility standards (e.g., Section 508) and government style guides.
• Experience developing comprehensive branding systems, iconography, and communication campaigns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "per contract vehicle" mention for experience in lieu of a degree is a common nuance in government contracting. Candidates with extensive experience but no formal degree should highlight this equivalency. The preferred skills indicate a growing need for multimedia capabilities and an understanding of data-driven communication within government projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive and professional portfolio is mandatory for interview consideration.
• The portfolio must demonstrate a strong grasp of design fundamentals, including typography, layout, grid systems, and color theory.
• Showcase examples of transforming complex information (technical, analytical, strategic) into clear, visually engaging graphics, infographics, and presentations.
• Include case studies or examples of work produced for high-visibility audiences or senior leadership.
• Highlight experience with branding, template creation, and maintaining visual consistency across different media.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of iterative design processes, illustrating how feedback was incorporated to refine visual outputs.
• Demonstrate experience in requirements gathering and translating stakeholder needs into design solutions.
• Showcase the ability to create visual frameworks, conceptual illustrations, and workflow diagrams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a portfolio prior to an interview is critical. Candidates must ensure their portfolio is readily accessible and highlights relevant government or complex data visualization work. The focus should be on demonstrating problem-solving through design, not just aesthetic output.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for experienced Graphic Designers in Washington, D.C., with a Secret clearance requirement and government contracting experience, a competitive salary range is estimated between $75,000 - $105,000 annually. This range accounts for the required experience level, location, and specialized skills.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401k) with company match.
• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities, including training, certifications, and conference attendance.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Access to employee assistance programs.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule of 40 hours per week.
• Specific daily hours to be determined based on project needs and team coordination, likely aligned with standard government contractor hours (e.g., 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM ET).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical compensation for similar roles in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, considering the government sector and the need for a Secret clearance. SAIC, as a large government contractor, typically offers a robust benefits package.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Information Technology (IT) Services and Consulting, Government Contracting. SAIC is a major player in providing technical solutions and services to government clients, including defense, intelligence, and civilian agencies. Company Size: Large Enterprise (typically 15,000+ employees). This implies structured processes, significant resources, and opportunities for internal mobility. Founded: 1969. SAIC has a long history and established reputation in the government contracting space, suggesting stability and deep industry knowledge.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be embedded within a larger team supporting the U.S. Coast Guard's Office of Data Analytics (ODA).
• This team is likely cross-functional, comprising data scientists, product owners, researchers, UI/UX designers, and project managers.
• The Graphic Designer will report to a project lead or program manager, with direct collaboration with various technical and mission stakeholders.

Methodology:

• The team operates within an agile framework, likely employing methodologies such as Scrum or Kanban for managing modernization efforts and data analytics projects.
• Emphasis is placed on iterative development, continuous feedback, and rapid prototyping to deliver value incrementally.
• Data-driven decision-making and a focus on translating complex analytical outputs into actionable insights for leadership are core to the team's mission.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within a large government contractor like SAIC for a client like the USCG means navigating specific procurement processes, security protocols, and communication norms. The culture often blends corporate structure with client-specific project demands.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-to-Senior Level Graphic Designer. This role requires significant experience and the ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and contribute strategically to communication efforts. Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Project Manager or a Lead within the SAIC team supporting the USCG ODA. Direct collaboration will occur with data scientists, product owners, and USCG stakeholders. Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly influences how critical data modernization and analytic transformation initiatives are perceived and understood by senior leadership and stakeholders. Effective visuals can drive decision-making, secure buy-in, and clearly communicate the value and progress of complex projects.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in data visualization, motion graphics, or specialized government communication design.
• Leadership Potential: Transition into a Lead Graphic Designer role, managing junior designers or overseeing design strategy for larger programs.
• Cross-Functional Development: Gain exposure to data science, analytics, and project management through close collaboration, potentially leading to roles in GTM strategy visualization or technical communication.
• Contract Mobility: Opportunities to move to other SAIC projects or clients within the federal government sector.
• Continuing Education: Access to company-sponsored training and certifications to enhance design skills and stay current with industry trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a unique opportunity to apply creative skills within a mission-critical government context, focusing on data and analytics. Growth is likely tied to expanding expertise in specialized design areas and demonstrating leadership within project teams.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site, full-time role located at U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, D.C. This implies a professional office environment typical of government facilities. Office Location(s): U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters, Washington, D.C. This location offers access to key government decision-makers and a dynamic urban professional setting. Workspace Context:

• The designer will work within a collaborative team environment alongside data scientists, product owners, and researchers.
• Access to standard office technology, design software, and potentially specialized visualization tools will be provided.
• The environment is fast-paced, supporting agile development cycles and requiring responsiveness to leadership needs.
• Opportunities for direct interaction with mission stakeholders to understand requirements and present design concepts.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week, likely with core hours for team collaboration and stakeholder engagement.
• Flexibility may be possible within project demands, but the role is explicitly stated as not remote.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Washington D.C. is a key factor. Candidates must be willing and able to commute to this location daily and possess the necessary security clearance. The collaborative nature of the team suggests an open-plan or shared office space conducive to frequent communication.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: HR and/or recruiter review of application and resume, focusing on required experience, skills, and clearance status.
2. Portfolio Submission & Review: Candidates are required to submit a portfolio prior to an interview. This is a critical gatekeeping step. The portfolio will be evaluated for design quality, relevance to the role's responsibilities (data visualization, executive presentations), and overall professionalism.
3. Technical Interview: A discussion with hiring managers or senior team members focusing on design skills, software proficiency, and problem-solving approaches. This may involve discussing specific portfolio pieces and design challenges.
4. Behavioral/Situational Interview: Assessment of communication skills, ability to work in a team, experience with requirements gathering, and understanding of government/client environments.
5. Final Interview/Offer: Potential final interviews with key stakeholders or leadership, followed by a job offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 4-6 projects that best showcase your ability to design for data, create executive presentations, and work within brand guidelines. Prioritize government or complex technical/analytical projects if available.
• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically. For each project, include: a brief overview of the client/objective, your role and responsibilities, the challenge, your design process, and the final outcome with key metrics or impact if possible.
• Highlight Data Visualization & Presentation Design: Explicitly call out projects that demonstrate your skill in making complex data understandable through visual design and your ability to create compelling executive-level presentations.
• Showcase Software Proficiency: Mention the tools used for each project.
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-designed, easy to navigate (whether online or PDF), and free of errors.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss how you would approach designing a specific type of visual (e.g., an infographic explaining a new data strategy, a template for monthly program updates).
• Practice articulating your design process, decision-making rationale, and how you incorporate feedback.
• Understand the importance of DHS/USCG branding and accessibility standards and how to apply them.
• Be ready to discuss your experience working under pressure or with tight deadlines, common in government contracting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mandatory portfolio submission before an interview is a crucial detail. Candidates must be prepared with a polished, relevant portfolio from the outset. The focus on government clients and data transformation means that examples demonstrating clarity, efficiency, and compliance will be highly valued.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud: Expert proficiency required in Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign for creating graphics, infographics, branding elements, and layout designs.
• Presentation Software: Advanced skills in Microsoft PowerPoint are essential for executive presentations. Experience with Figma or similar modern design/prototyping tools is also highly beneficial.
• Motion Design (Preferred): Familiarity with Adobe After Effects and Adobe Premiere Pro for potential animation or video elements.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a direct analytics role, understanding data visualization principles is key. Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) is a plus for understanding how data is presented and how to best complement it visually.

CRM & Automation:

• Generally not directly applicable for a graphic designer role, but familiarity with collaborative platforms like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or project management tools (e.g., Jira, Asana) is expected for team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core requirement is mastery of the Adobe Creative Suite and PowerPoint. Any experience with motion graphics or data visualization software will be a strong differentiator, indicating an ability to contribute to more dynamic and data-informed visual products.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: Delivering high-quality, polished visual products that meet client needs and exceed expectations.
• Collaboration & Communication: Working effectively within a cross-functional team and communicating design rationale clearly to stakeholders.
• Adaptability & Responsiveness: Thriving in a fast-paced environment, adapting to changing requirements, and providing timely creative support.
• Mission Focus: Understanding the importance of the USCG's mission and aligning design efforts to support its data modernization goals.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulousness in adhering to brand guidelines, accessibility standards, and project specifications.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, working closely with data scientists, product owners, and project managers to translate technical information into visual narratives.
• Requires proactive engagement in requirements gathering and iterative feedback loops.
• Emphasis on clear, concise communication to ensure alignment on design objectives and deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is likely a blend of a corporate environment (SAIC) and a government client setting (USCG). This means a professional, process-oriented approach combined with a mission-driven focus and potentially formal communication channels.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complexity: The primary challenge is distilling complex technical data, analytical insights, and strategic initiatives into clear, visually compelling, and easily understandable graphics for diverse audiences, including senior executives.
• Government Client Environment: Navigating the specific requirements, security protocols, and communication styles inherent in government contracting and working with military branches like the Coast Guard.
• Rapid Turnaround: Meeting the demand for rapid creative support for leadership briefs, concept papers, and program artifacts often requires efficient workflows and quick iteration.
• Balancing Brand & Clarity: Ensuring all designs adhere to strict DHS/USCG style guides and accessibility standards while still being creative and impactful.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Techniques: Opportunities to learn and apply advanced data visualization and motion graphics techniques.
• Government Sector Expertise: Deepen understanding of government communication strategies, security clearances, and client-specific needs.
• Cross-Disciplinary Knowledge: Gain insights into data science, analytics, and agile development processes through close team collaboration.
• Portfolio Expansion: Build a strong portfolio of work within a prestigious government client context, enhancing career prospects in federal contracting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for a designer who is not only technically skilled but also a strong communicator and problem-solver, capable of adapting to a unique client environment and complex subject matter.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for taking a complex dataset or technical concept and turning it into an infographic or presentation slide." (Focus on your methodology, tools, and how you ensure clarity.)
• "How do you approach gathering design requirements from stakeholders, especially when they may not be familiar with design terminology?" (Highlight your communication and requirements-gathering skills.)
• "Tell me about a time you had to design under strict brand guidelines or accessibility requirements. How did you balance creativity with compliance?" (Demonstrate your understanding of government/corporate standards.)
• "How would you approach designing a visual to communicate the 'as-is' and 'to-be' state of a data modernization initiative?" (Showcase your ability to illustrate concepts and transformations.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working with the U.S. Coast Guard and SAIC?" (Research SAIC's mission and the USCG's role.)
• "How do you handle receiving constructive criticism or multiple rounds of revisions on your designs?" (Assess your collaboration and iterative design approach.)
• "Describe your experience working in a team environment, particularly with technical professionals like data scientists or engineers." (Highlight your collaborative skills and ability to bridge technical and creative gaps.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Prepare a Narrative: For each selected portfolio piece, have a concise story ready that outlines the project's objective, your role, the challenge, your design solution, and the impact.
• Highlight Relevance: Clearly connect your portfolio examples to the responsibilities and requirements of this specific Graphic Designer role (e.g., "This executive presentation demonstrates my ability to simplify complex data for leadership," or "This infographic showcases my skill in visualizing technical processes.")
• Demonstrate Process: Be ready to walk through your design process for a specific project, explaining your choices regarding typography, color, layout, and imagery.
• Technical Proficiency: Be prepared to briefly discuss the software and techniques you used.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will heavily focus on your portfolio and your ability to translate complex information visually. Be ready to articulate your design decisions and demonstrate your understanding of the government context and data-centric nature of the project.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the SAIC careers portal at the provided URL.
• Crucially, ensure your resume clearly highlights your years of experience, proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud and presentation tools, and any experience with government clients or complex data visualization.
• Prepare your portfolio meticulously, focusing on projects that demonstrate your ability to design for data, create executive presentations, and adhere to branding/accessibility standards. Be ready to submit this prior to any interview.
• Research SAIC's work in the government sector and the U.S. Coast Guard's current data modernization initiatives to tailor your responses during interviews.
• Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving skills, and how you effectively collaborate with technical teams and stakeholders.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details, especially regarding specific security clearance requirements, contract vehicles, and exact benefit packages, should be verified directly with SAIC during the application and interview process.