Graphic Designer, Mid
π Job Overview
Job Title: Graphic Designer, Mid
Company: Booz Allen Hamilton
Location: MacDill AFB, Florida, United States
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Creative & Design Operations
Date Posted: March 23, 2026
Experience Level: Mid-Level (7+ years)
Remote Status: On-site
π Role Summary
-
This role is critical for developing visually compelling and mission-critical design assets that support client objectives and enhance organizational brand identity within a government or defense sector context.
-
Responsibilities include the end-to-end design process for a variety of deliverables, ensuring adherence to strict accessibility standards (Section 508) and client-specific branding guidelines.
-
The position requires strong project management capabilities, including managing multiple assignments, prioritizing tasks, and solving complex visual communication challenges under tight deadlines.
-
Collaboration is key, involving engagement with senior designers, cross-functional teams, and government/defense sector stakeholders to translate complex messaging and data into effective visual solutions.
π Enhancement Note: While the title is "Graphic Designer," the context of Booz Allen Hamilton, government/defense sector experience, and the requirement for a TS/SCI clearance with polygraph strongly indicate this role operates within a specialized, high-security environment. The focus on mission support, client-facing discussions, and translating complex data suggests a blend of creative design and strategic communication, leaning towards a "GTM Design" or "Communications Design" function within a consultancy or defense contractor, rather than a purely marketing-focused creative role.
π Primary Responsibilities
-
Design and produce a wide range of visual materials, including but not limited to FINTEL (likely referring to intelligence-related documents or visual intelligence products), logos, publications, presentations, and multimedia products, ensuring high-quality output.
-
Apply advanced design principles such as typography, color theory, hierarchy, and visual balance to create aesthetically pleasing and functionally effective assets that align with organizational branding and messaging standards.
-
Ensure all designed materials are compliant with Section 508 accessibility standards, making them usable by individuals with disabilities.
-
Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, accurately tracking progress, managing time effectively, and proactively solving design and production challenges in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
-
Collaborate with senior designers and creative leads to receive feedback, refine designs, and ensure best practices are implemented in all creative output.
-
Engage directly with government and defense sector clients and stakeholders to interpret messaging requirements, visualize complex data, conceptualize analytic ideas, and deliver design outcomes that meet mission-focused goals.
-
Maintain consistency in branding and messaging across all design deliverables, acting as a brand steward for the projects undertaken.
π Enhancement Note: The mention of "FINTEL" is likely an internal or classified term for intelligence-related visual products. The emphasis on interpreting "workforce messaging," displaying "data visually," and conceptualizing "analytic ideas" points to a role that requires not just aesthetic skill but also the ability to understand and translate complex information for specific audiences within the defense and intelligence community. This elevates the role beyond standard graphic design to a more strategic visual communication function.
π Skills & Qualifications
Education:
Experience:
-
A minimum of 7 years of professional experience in graphic design, encompassing print, digital, and multimedia product development.
-
Demonstrated experience in creating and delivering accessible products compliant with Section 508 standards.
-
Proven track record of working within the government or defense sectors, with a strong understanding of their unique operational and communication needs.
Required Skills:
-
Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud suite, specifically InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator, for creating high-quality design assets.
-
Expertise in Microsoft Office Suite, including PowerPoint for presentations and Word for document design and layout.
-
Experience with video editing and motion graphics tools such as Premiere Pro, XD, and After Effects for multimedia projects.
-
Ability to use specialized design tools like MAPublisher for advanced layout and mapping functionalities.
-
Strong client-facing communication skills, with the ability to facilitate discussions, interpret client needs, and present design concepts effectively.
-
Excellent time management and problem-solving skills, with the capacity to manage multiple projects and meet stringent deadlines.
Preferred Skills:
-
Experience supporting intelligence analysts, senior-level executives, or other high-level staff with tailored graphic design solutions.
-
Proven ability to manage project expectations, define realistic timelines, and deliver high-quality products with minimal supervision.
-
Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams in a dynamic and often sensitive environment.
π Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Section 508 compliance, specific software like MAPublisher, and experience within the government/defense sectors are critical discriminators. The "7+ years" requirement places this firmly in a mid-level to senior designer role, expected to operate with significant autonomy and possess advanced problem-solving capabilities in complex environments.
π Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
-
A comprehensive portfolio is mandatory, showcasing a broad range of design work, with a particular emphasis on visual solutions for complex challenges relevant to government or defense clients.
-
The portfolio should demonstrate proficiency across various media, including print, digital, and multimedia.
-
Specific examples of Section 508 compliant designs should be highlighted to prove understanding and application of accessibility standards.
-
Include case studies or examples that illustrate the ability to translate complex data or abstract concepts into clear, impactful visual communications.
Process Documentation:
-
Evidence of a systematic approach to design projects, from initial concept development and client requirement gathering to final delivery and revisions.
-
Examples of how design processes were adapted to meet specific project constraints, such as security protocols, accessibility mandates, or tight deadlines.
-
Documentation or explanation of how feedback from stakeholders and senior designers was incorporated into the design process and final output.
-
Demonstration of how design tools and software were leveraged to streamline workflows, enhance efficiency, and achieve desired visual outcomes.
π Enhancement Note: For a role requiring a TS/SCI clearance, a portfolio is not just a showcase of skills but also a testament to discretion, professionalism, and the ability to handle sensitive information. The emphasis should be on clarity, impact, and adherence to specific client requirements, rather than solely on cutting-edge trends. Demonstrating the process behind the design is crucial, showing problem-solving and client-centric thinking.
π΅ Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range:
Benefits:
-
Comprehensive health, life, and disability insurance.
-
Robust financial and retirement benefits.
-
Generous paid time off, including paid leave.
-
Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
-
Tuition assistance programs.
-
Work-life balance programs and dependent care support.
Working Hours:
- Standard full-time work schedule, typically 40 hours per week. The role is on-site, requiring consistent presence at the MacDill AFB facility.
π Enhancement Note: The salary range provided ($69,300 - $158,000) is quite broad, reflecting the potential for significant variation based on the candidate's exact experience, specific skill set, and the exact nature of the contract they would be supporting. The upper end of the range likely accounts for candidates with extensive experience, specialized certifications, and a fully cleared status. The benefits package is typical for a large, established defense contractor like Booz Allen Hamilton.
π― Team & Company Context
π’ Company Culture
Industry: Consulting Services, Government & Defense Contracting. Booz Allen Hamilton is a prominent player in providing management and technology consulting, analysis, and engineering services to a wide range of clients, including the U.S. government, defense agencies, and intelligence community. This industry context means a strong emphasis on mission success, security, client satisfaction, and rigorous adherence to protocols.
Company Size: Large (typically 20,000+ employees). This indicates a structured environment with established processes, extensive resources, and diverse career paths. For operations professionals, this often means opportunities for specialization, but also a need to navigate larger organizational systems.
Founded: 1917. Booz Allen Hamilton has a long-standing history, suggesting a stable, experienced organization with deep institutional knowledge and established best practices.
Team Structure:
-
The Graphic Design team likely operates within a larger communications, marketing, or program support department.
-
Team members may specialize in different areas (e.g., print, digital, multimedia) or work across various projects depending on client needs.
-
Reporting structure typically involves a Senior Graphic Designer or a Creative Director, with direct collaboration with project managers, analysts, and subject matter experts on specific government/defense contracts.
Methodology:
-
Data Analysis & Insights: Designers are expected to interpret data and analytic findings provided by clients or analysts, translating them into clear, visual formats that enhance understanding. This involves selecting appropriate chart types, data visualization techniques, and ensuring accuracy.
-
Workflow Planning & Optimization: The role emphasizes managing multiple assignments and deadlines, requiring efficient workflow planning, task prioritization, and the use of design tools to optimize the production process.
-
Automation & Efficiency: While not explicitly stated as a core responsibility for this designer role, leveraging the capabilities of the Adobe Creative Suite and other tools to automate repetitive tasks or create efficient templates contributes to overall productivity and faster delivery of design assets.
Company Website: https://www.boozallen.com/
π Enhancement Note: Booz Allen Hamilton's culture is deeply rooted in serving national security interests. This means a high degree of professionalism, discretion, and a focus on delivering impactful results for government clients. Operations professionals in such an environment must be adaptable, detail-oriented, and capable of working within stringent security and compliance frameworks.
π Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Designer. This position is for an experienced professional who can work independently on assigned projects, manage their workload effectively, and contribute significantly to project outcomes. They are expected to mentor junior designers and provide creative direction.
Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Senior Graphic Designer, Creative Lead, or a Manager overseeing design services within a specific program or department. There will be significant collaboration with project managers, subject matter experts, and client representatives.
Operations Impact: The graphic designer's work directly impacts the clarity and effectiveness of communication for critical government and defense initiatives. High-quality, accessible, and mission-aligned visual materials can enhance understanding, support decision-making, and contribute to the overall success of client programs. This role bridges the gap between complex information and actionable insights for various stakeholders.
Growth Opportunities:
-
Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specialized design areas such as data visualization, intelligence product design, or secure communication design.
-
Industry Certifications & Training: Access to Booz Allen Hamilton's professional development resources, potentially including advanced training in design software, Section 508 compliance, and project management.
-
Leadership Potential: With demonstrated success and leadership qualities, there are pathways to become a Senior Graphic Designer, Creative Lead, or move into program management roles within the design and communications disciplines. Opportunities may also exist to lead design efforts on specific contracts or projects.
π Enhancement Note: For a role requiring a TS/SCI clearance, career advancement often involves moving onto more sensitive or high-profile projects, potentially leading to roles with greater responsibility for strategic design direction and client engagement within the national security space.
π Work Environment
Office Type: The role is on-site at MacDill AFB, Florida. This indicates a professional office environment within a military installation, likely characterized by security protocols, dedicated workspaces, and collaborative areas.
Office Location(s): MacDill Air Force Base, Tampa, Florida. This specific location suggests a focus on supporting military operations and defense-related projects.
Workspace Context:
-
The workspace will likely be designed to foster collaboration, with access to design studios, meeting rooms, and potentially secure work areas depending on project requirements.
-
Designers will have access to the necessary technology and software, including powerful workstations and the full Adobe Creative Cloud suite, as well as other project-specific tools.
-
Opportunities for direct interaction with colleagues, project teams, and potentially client representatives will be frequent, facilitating real-time feedback and problem-solving.
Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with the flexibility to manage project timelines. Given the on-site nature and government contract work, adherence to specific facility hours and potential for occasional extended hours to meet critical deadlines may be required.
π Enhancement Note: Working on a military installation like MacDill AFB implies a professional, security-conscious environment. While collaboration is encouraged, there will be a strong emphasis on adhering to facility rules and security procedures.
π Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
-
Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's requirements.
-
Technical Interview: This may involve a discussion of your design process, problem-solving approaches, and a review of your portfolio with a focus on specific case studies and how you handled complex design challenges. Expect questions about Section 508 compliance and your experience with government/defense sector projects.
-
Skills Assessment/Design Challenge: You might be given a hypothetical design problem or a take-home assignment to assess your creative thinking, technical skills, and ability to meet project objectives under simulated conditions.
-
Security & Clearance Verification: A significant portion of the process will involve vetting for the TS/SCI clearance with polygraph. This includes background checks and interviews.
-
Final Interview: Potentially with hiring managers or senior leadership to discuss cultural fit, long-term career goals, and final suitability for the role and the sensitive nature of the work.
Portfolio Review Tips:
-
Curate Strategically: Showcase projects that directly align with the job description, emphasizing government/defense sector work, complex data visualization, and Section 508 compliance.
-
Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the process you followed, the tools you used, the challenges you overcame, and the measurable impact or outcome of your design.
-
Highlight Process: Clearly explain your design methodology, from initial client consultation and concept development to execution and final delivery.
-
Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss your expertise with specific software (Adobe Creative Cloud, etc.) and how you leverage them for efficiency and impact.
-
Accessibility Focus: Explicitly point out how you ensure Section 508 compliance in your designs.
Challenge Preparation:
-
Understand the Context: If given a design challenge, ensure you fully grasp the client's mission, audience, and objectives.
-
Focus on Problem-Solving: Demonstrate your ability to break down complex problems and devise creative, effective visual solutions.
-
Prioritize Clarity and Impact: For government/defense work, clear communication and mission impact are paramount. Ensure your solutions are understandable and directly address the stated needs.
-
Time Management: Practice completing design tasks within a given timeframe, simulating the pressure of real-world project deadlines.
π Enhancement Note: Given the security clearance requirement, expect the interview process to be thorough and potentially longer than a standard design role. Be prepared to discuss your background and experiences openly and honestly. The portfolio review will be a critical component, so ensure it is polished, relevant, and effectively communicates your capabilities.
π Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
-
Adobe Creative Cloud: This is the core suite for graphic design. Specific emphasis on:
- InDesign: For layout of publications, reports, and FINTEL documents.
- Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, and digital asset creation.
- Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, icons, and complex illustrations.
-
Microsoft Office Suite:
- PowerPoint: Essential for creating client presentations, briefings, and visual reports.
- Word: For document layout and design of text-heavy materials.
-
Multimedia & Motion Graphics Tools:
- Premiere Pro: For video editing and production of multimedia products.
- XD: For UI/UX design and prototyping, potentially for interactive digital products.
- After Effects: For motion graphics, animations, and visual effects.
-
Specialized Design Software:
- MAPublisher: For advanced mapping and geospatial data visualization within Adobe products.
Analytics & Reporting:
CRM & Automation:
- Not directly applicable to the graphic designer's core tools, but understanding how design assets are managed and deployed within broader project management or content management systems might be beneficial.
π Enhancement Note: Proficiency across the entire Adobe Creative Cloud suite, with a particular emphasis on InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator, is non-negotiable. Experience with video editing (Premiere Pro) and motion graphics (After Effects) is highly valued for multimedia products. The explicit mention of MAPublisher indicates a potential need for creating maps or working with geospatial data in design outputs.
π₯ Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
-
Mission Focus: A deep commitment to supporting client missions, particularly within national security and defense, is paramount. Designs must serve a clear purpose and contribute directly to client objectives.
-
Integrity & Trust: Upholding the highest ethical standards and maintaining the confidentiality and security of sensitive information is critical, especially given the security clearance requirements.
-
Excellence & Quality: A drive to produce exceptional, high-quality work that meets rigorous standards for accuracy, clarity, and aesthetic appeal.
-
Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with diverse teams, sharing knowledge, and contributing to a positive and productive team environment is essential for success in complex projects.
-
Adaptability & Innovation: The ability to adapt to changing project requirements, client needs, and evolving technologies, while bringing creative solutions to complex problems.
Collaboration Style:
-
Cross-functional Integration: Designers are expected to integrate seamlessly with project teams, including analysts, engineers, consultants, and program managers, to ensure design solutions are well-informed and effectively support broader project goals.
-
Process Review & Feedback: An open culture of providing and receiving constructive feedback is encouraged to refine designs and uphold quality standards. Regular design reviews and critiques are likely part of the workflow.
-
Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of design techniques, best practices, and lessons learned within the design team and across project teams.
π Enhancement Note: The culture at Booz Allen Hamilton, especially within roles requiring security clearances, will heavily emphasize discretion, professionalism, and a strong sense of responsibility. Teamwork is crucial for tackling complex, multi-faceted projects common in the defense and intelligence sectors.
β‘ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
-
Translating Complex Data: Effectively visualizing highly technical, abstract, or classified information into clear, understandable, and impactful graphics for diverse audiences.
-
Navigating Security Requirements: Working within strict security protocols and clearance levels, which may limit access to certain tools or information and require careful handling of sensitive materials.
-
Managing Multiple, High-Stakes Projects: Balancing the demands of various government contracts and internal projects, each with unique requirements, stakeholders, and tight deadlines.
-
Adhering to Strict Mandates: Ensuring all designs meet specific compliance standards like Section 508, while also satisfying client-specific branding and messaging guidelines.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
-
Specialized Design Training: Opportunities to enhance skills in areas like data visualization, interactive design, motion graphics, and information architecture relevant to defense and intelligence work.
-
Industry Conferences & Certifications: Potential to attend relevant design and industry conferences or pursue certifications that enhance professional expertise and network.
-
Mentorship & Leadership Development: Access to mentorship from senior designers and opportunities to develop leadership skills through leading design efforts on projects or mentoring junior team members.
π Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role are significant due to the nature of the clients and the information handled. Growth opportunities will be tied to successfully navigating these challenges and demonstrating advanced capabilities in specialized design disciplines.
π‘ Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
-
"Describe a time you had to visualize complex or classified data for a government client. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your problem-solving, data interpretation, and design choices.)
-
"How do you ensure your designs meet Section 508 accessibility standards? Can you walk me through a specific example from your portfolio?" (Highlight your technical knowledge and practical application.)
Company & Culture Questions:
-
"Why are you interested in working for Booz Allen Hamilton and specifically supporting our government clients?" (Show genuine interest and alignment with the company's mission.)
-
"How do you handle feedback on your designs, especially from senior stakeholders or clients who may have different creative visions?" (Demonstrate collaboration, professionalism, and a results-oriented approach.)
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
- Select Targeted Projects: Choose 3-5 projects that best represent your skills in data visualization,
Section 508 compliance, government/defense sector work, and complex problem-solving.
-
Structure Each Case Study: For each project, clearly present:
- The Challenge/Objective: What was the client's need or problem?
- Your Role: What specifically did you do?
- The Process: Your approach, tools, and key decisions.
- The Solution: The final design and its key features.
- The Impact/Outcome: How did your design help achieve the objective?
-
Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about technical implementation, design rationale, and how you overcame specific challenges.
-
Highlight Accessibility: Explicitly call out how Section 508 compliance was integrated into your designs.
π Enhancement Note: Given the security clearance requirement, interviewers will be looking for candidates who demonstrate not only strong design skills but also maturity, discretion, excellent communication, and a deep understanding of the operational environment of government and defense contractors.
π Application Steps
To apply for this operations position:
-
Submit your application through the official Booz Allen Hamilton careers portal via the provided link.
-
Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight your 7+ years of graphic design experience, specifically emphasizing projects related to government/defense sectors, complex data visualization, and Section 508 compliance. Ensure your portfolio showcases a breadth of work across print, digital, and multimedia.
-
Resume Optimization: Integrate keywords from the job description such as "Graphic Design," "Section 508 Compliance," "Adobe Creative Cloud," "InDesign," "Photoshop," "Illustrator," "Premiere Pro," "Government Sector," "Defense Sector," and "TS/SCI Clearance." Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Designed X number of presentations for Y client, improving data clarity by Z%").
-
Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving methodologies, and how you translate complex information into effective visuals. Prepare specific examples from your portfolio for discussion, focusing on government/defense projects and accessibility standards.
-
Company Research: Thoroughly research Booz Allen Hamilton's mission, values, and recent work, particularly within the defense and intelligence communities. Understand their commitment to national security and how your design skills can contribute to their client's success.
β οΈ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details, especially regarding security clearances and specific project types, should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions. The requirement for a TS/SCI clearance with polygraph is a significant factor that must be met.
Application Requirements
Candidates must possess over 7 years of graphic design experience across print, digital, and multimedia, along with expertise in Section 508 compliance and the Adobe Creative Cloud suite. A TS/SCI clearance with a polygraph and a Bachelorβs degree are required, preferably with experience in government or defense sectors.