GRAPHIC DESIGNER

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer
Company: State of Florida - Department of Corrections
Location: Tallahassee, FL
Job Type: Temporary (Other Personal Services - OPS)
Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Government & Public Sector
Date Posted: December 09, 2025
Experience Level: 2-5 Years (with educational substitution)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on creating visual content for internal and external communications within the Florida Department of Corrections (FDC).
• Responsibilities include graphic design for print and digital media, photography, and coordination with the FDC web team.
• The position emphasizes effective visual storytelling to disseminate information to the public and department staff.
• This is a temporary OPS (Other Personal Services) position requiring on-site presence in Tallahassee, FL.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "OPS" designation is crucial for understanding the employment structure, benefits, and potential for long-term engagement, as OPS roles in Florida government can vary significantly from permanent state positions. The hourly rate of $18.59 suggests an entry to mid-level role within the graphic design field, with a focus on execution rather than strategic design leadership.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and prepare compelling graphics for the department's social media platforms, brochures, reports, booklets, and pamphlets, ensuring optimal content arrangement for effective presentation.
• Capture high-quality photographs and videos of departmental activities, ensuring diverse coverage including live and still scenes, portraits, reports, exhibits, and digital content for social media.
• Assist in the photographic process and the reproduction of graphic materials, maintaining consistency in visual branding and messaging.
• Develop formatting and graphic elements for internal communications and educational materials tailored for Department staff, aiming for clear and impactful communication with the public.
• Collaborate closely with team members to discuss layout options, design aesthetics, and project requirements, fostering a cohesive visual output.
• Implement and maintain a robust system for tracking project progress, diligently ensuring all deadlines are met and project milestones are achieved.
• Support the development of plans, presentations, studies, and reports through visually engaging design elements and data visualization.
• Coordinate effectively with the Department's web team to ensure seamless integration of graphic assets across digital channels and adherence to web standards.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Director of Communications, demonstrating flexibility and a proactive approach to departmental needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative execution and project management. The emphasis on "arranges content in the most effective manner for presentation" and "develops formatting and graphic elements... to ensure effective communication" points to a need for design thinking that prioritizes clarity and impact over pure aesthetics. The inclusion of photography and video suggests a broader multimedia role than a pure graphic designer.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Postsecondary education in a relevant field may substitute for experience on a year-for-year basis.

Experience:

• A minimum of two (2) years of experience in multimedia design is required.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud suite (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).
• Strong graphic design principles and layout composition skills.
• Experience with multimedia design, including digital and print collateral.
• Photography and videography skills for capturing departmental activities and events.
• Ability to communicate design ideas and collaborate effectively with team members.
• Project management skills to track progress and meet deadlines.
• Familiarity with internal communications and educational material development.
• Experience coordinating with web teams or digital content creators.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in video editing and production.
• Knowledge of social media content best practices and design trends.
• Familiarity with government or public sector communication standards.
• Experience in creating visual assets for reports and publications.
• Ability to interpret and translate complex information into clear visual designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "2 years of experience in multimedia design" combined with the educational substitution clause indicates that candidates with a strong portfolio and demonstrated skills may be considered even if they don't have a formal degree, provided they meet the experience threshold. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud is a non-negotiable technical requirement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of graphic design projects, including examples for social media, brochures, reports, booklets, and pamphlets.
• Demonstrations of photographic and videographic work relevant to organizational activities.
• Visual examples of internal communications and educational materials designed for staff.
• Evidence of ability to coordinate design elements with web content or digital platforms.
• Projects that illustrate effective content arrangement and clear communication of messages.

Process Documentation:

• The ability to maintain a system for tracking project progress and deadlines is critical, implying a need for organizational and workflow management skills.
• While not explicitly stated as a portfolio requirement, demonstrating how you manage projects and ensure timely delivery in your portfolio or during the interview will be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's responsibilities, a portfolio is paramount. It should not only display aesthetic capabilities but also the ability to design for specific communication objectives and audiences within a government context. The emphasis on "tracking progress on projects" suggests that candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal project management methodologies.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $18.59 per hour.

Benefits: As an OPS (Other Personal Services) employee working an average of 30+ hours per week, you are eligible for:

• State Group Health Insurance (PPO/HMO Options):
  • Employee Only: $25 bi-weekly
  • Spouse Program: $15 bi-weekly
  • Employee & Family: $90 bi-weekly
• Dental Insurance: Multiple plans and options with premiums as low as $12.64/month.
• Vision Insurance: Single plan through Humana with premiums as low as $5.92/month.
• Life Insurance: $25,000 group term life insurance through Securian at $3.78/month, with options for child and spouse life insurance.
• Retirement: Mandatory enrollment in the Florida FICA Alternative Plan with Corebridge Financial (7.5% contribution of compensation).

Working Hours:

• The role is not a Telework position and requires on-site reporting to the FDC office in Tallahassee, FL.
• While not explicitly stated, standard full-time government positions typically operate on a 40-hour work week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hourly rate of $18.59 translates to approximately $38,660 annually for a full 40-hour work week. The benefits package for OPS employees is a significant component, especially health insurance, which is offered at a subsidized rate. The mandatory FICA Alternative Plan is a defined contribution retirement savings plan, distinct from the Florida Retirement System (FRS) typically offered to full-time state employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government & Public Sector - Corrections & Law Enforcement. Company Size: Large (State Agency with numerous employees across Florida). Founded: The Florida Department of Corrections was established in 1969, operating under state governance and public service mandates.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of the Office of Communications at the FDC Central Office in Tallahassee, FL.
• This team is responsible for managing information dissemination to the public, media, and stakeholders.
• The role will likely involve direct reporting to a Communications Director or a lead designer within the office.

Methodology:

• The Office of Communications aims to provide clear, accurate, and timely information, suggesting a focus on precision and efficiency in all communication materials.
• Design work will support departmental missions, requiring adherence to brand guidelines and public service communication standards.
• Collaboration with various internal departments and the FDC web team is integral to the workflow.

Company Website: https://www.fldocjobs.com/ (General FDC Careers) and https://www.myflorida.com/ (State of Florida Portal)

📝 Enhancement Note: Working for a state agency like the Department of Corrections involves a structured environment with established protocols and a strong emphasis on public accountability. The "We Never Walk Alone" slogan suggests a culture of support and collaboration within the department, which can be beneficial for new team members.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is classified as a Temporary OPS Graphic Designer, indicating an entry to mid-level execution role within the creative services function of the Department of Corrections.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to the Director of Communications or a designated supervisor within the Office of Communications. This provides a clear line of management and feedback.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts the FDC's ability to communicate effectively with the public, media, and internal stakeholders. High-quality visual content is crucial for brand perception, public information campaigns, and internal engagement, thereby supporting the broader operational and public service mission of the department.

Growth Opportunities:

• While this is a temporary OPS position, successful performance could lead to opportunities for extended contracts or internal applications for permanent state positions within the FDC or other state agencies.
• Gaining experience in government communication and design can be valuable for future career steps in public sector roles or agencies with similar communication needs.
• Exposure to a wide range of design projects for a large state agency provides a diverse portfolio.
• Opportunities for skill enhancement through on-the-job training and exposure to various communication channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: For OPS roles, "growth" often refers to the accumulation of experience and the potential for future permanent positions rather than a defined promotion track. Highlighting the value of experience gained in a government setting is key for candidates.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is on-site at the FDC Central Office in Tallahassee, FL. This implies a traditional office setting within a government agency.

Office Location(s): Tallahassee, FL, with specific postal codes listed indicating various areas within the city.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be a professional office environment within the Florida Department of Corrections.
• Access to necessary design software (Adobe Creative Cloud) and potentially hardware (computers, cameras) will be provided.
• Collaboration with the Office of Communications team and the web team will be a regular part of the daily work.

Work Schedule:

• This is a temporary OPS position, typically expected to be full-time (around 40 hours per week) to be eligible for benefits.
• The role is not remote; on-site presence is mandatory.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is firm. Candidates should be prepared for a structured office environment typical of government agencies, which often involves established working hours and protocols.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit a complete application through the State of Florida's People First system, ensuring all relevant experience and education are detailed.
• Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely be screened based on their submitted portfolio. Ensure it clearly showcases skills relevant to the job description, including diverse design applications and multimedia capabilities.
• Initial Interview: A phone or video interview may be conducted to assess basic qualifications, experience, and communication skills.
• In-Person Interview/Skills Assessment: Candidates may be invited for an on-site interview, which could include a practical design exercise or a more in-depth portfolio review and discussion.
• Background Check: All applicants must pass a Level 2 background check as a prerequisite for employment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase your strongest, most relevant work. Prioritize projects that align with the FDC's needs (e.g., public information materials, internal communications, social media graphics).
• Demonstrate Versatility: Include examples of print, digital, and multimedia (photo/video) work.
• Explain Your Process: For key projects, briefly outline the objective, your role, the design process, and the outcome or impact.
• Highlight Impact: If possible, show how your designs achieved specific communication goals or engaged audiences.
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and visually appealing.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your experience with Adobe Creative Cloud and other design tools.
• Anticipate questions about your design process, how you handle feedback, and how you manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Familiarize yourself with the mission and public-facing communications of the Florida Department of Corrections to understand their context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a Level 2 background check is standard for Florida government positions. Candidates should be upfront about any potential issues that might arise during this process. The interview process will likely assess both technical design skills and an understanding of public sector communication needs.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud Suite: This is a mandatory requirement. Proficiency is expected in:
  • Adobe Photoshop (for image editing and manipulation)
  • Adobe Illustrator (for vector graphics and illustrations)
  • Adobe InDesign (for page layout and print design)
• Photography/Videography Equipment: Access to and proficiency with cameras and potentially basic video editing software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a direct requirement for this role, an understanding of how design impacts engagement metrics on social media or web platforms would be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this graphic design role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "Adobe Creative Cloud" is the primary technical skill required. Candidates should be prepared to speak to their specific level of expertise and experience with each application within the suite.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Clarity and Accuracy: In public service, clear, accurate, and timely communication is paramount. Designs must reflect this.
• Professionalism: Maintaining a professional demeanor and producing high-quality work is expected.
• Efficiency: As a government entity, efficient use of resources and adherence to deadlines are important.
• Public Service: A commitment to serving the public and supporting the mission of the Department of Corrections.
• Collaboration: Working effectively within a team and with other departments is essential.

Collaboration Style:

• The role requires close collaboration with team members within the Office of Communications, including discussions on layout and design.
• Coordination with the Department's web team is also a key collaborative aspect.
• The "We Never Walk Alone" slogan suggests an emphasis on mutual support and teamwork.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values of a government agency often center on public trust, accountability, and service. Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of these principles and how design contributes to them.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Meeting Diverse Demands: Designing for various mediums (social media, print, web) and audiences requires adaptability.
• Adhering to Government Protocols: Navigating the specific branding guidelines, approval processes, and communication standards of a large state agency.
• Time Management: Balancing multiple projects with competing deadlines in a fast-paced communication environment.
• Technical Skill Maintenance: Staying current with evolving design software and digital media trends.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Skill Expansion: Opportunity to expand portfolio with diverse government communication projects.
• Industry Exposure: Gaining experience within the public sector and understanding its unique communication challenges.
• Networking: Building professional connections within the FDC and potentially other state agencies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a creative role within a large, structured organization. Highlighting how one overcomes these challenges, such as through strong organizational skills and proactive communication, is beneficial.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience using Adobe Creative Cloud and which applications you are most proficient in."
• "Walk me through a project from your portfolio where you had to design for a specific audience or communication goal."
• "How do you ensure your designs effectively communicate complex information to a broad audience?"
• "Describe your process for managing multiple design projects with competing deadlines."
• "How do you incorporate feedback from team members or stakeholders into your design work?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for the Florida Department of Corrections?"
• "How do you align your design work with the mission and values of a public service organization?"
• "Describe your experience collaborating with web teams or other departments."

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by showcasing your strongest work first.
• Narrative: For each selected project, be ready to explain the brief, your creative process, the tools used, and the impact or outcome.
• Visuals: Ensure high-resolution images and clear examples of your design execution.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio within a set timeframe, focusing on the most impactful pieces.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a combination of technical proficiency, creative problem-solving skills, and an understanding of the public sector context. Be prepared to articulate your value proposition clearly.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the State of Florida's People First job portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your submitted portfolio is tailored to highlight experience in social media graphics, print collateral (brochures, reports), and any multimedia (photo/video) work.
• Resume Optimization: Clearly list your proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud applications and quantify your years of multimedia design experience. Highlight any experience in government or public sector communications.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, your experience with project management, and your understanding of FDC's communication needs. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with the Florida Department of Corrections' mission, recent public communications, and their overall brand presence.

⚠️ 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.