Jr. Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Jr. Graphic Designer Company: WRA Architects Location: Plano, Texas, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Marketing & Design Operations Date Posted: 2025-10-18 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the creation and execution of visual assets to support marketing campaigns and brand initiatives within an architectural firm.
• Key responsibilities include designing digital marketing materials for bond election campaigns, brand marketing deliverables, and assisting with various creative tasks.
• The position requires proficiency in core design software and an understanding of visual design principles to produce high-quality outputs.
• This is an entry-level position, offering an excellent opportunity to gain experience in marketing operations and design within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is framed as a "Jr. Graphic Designer" but given the context of "marketing materials for bond election campaigns" and "brand marketing deliverables" within an architectural firm, it strongly aligns with a Marketing Operations or GTM Design support function, focusing on the visual execution of Go-To-Market strategies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Prepare approved artwork for bond campaign production across multiple platforms, ensuring brand consistency and adherence to campaign guidelines.
• Create and manage bond campaign branding templates to streamline the production of localized campaign materials.
• Assist with timely changes or edits across bond campaign deliverables, collaborating closely with marketing managers and coordinators.
• Contribute to layout, typography, and photography decisions for marketing collateral, enhancing visual appeal and message clarity.
• Develop brand marketing or promotional materials for WRA Architects, supporting internal and external communications.
• Work efficiently in a fast-paced environment with strict timelines, effectively managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Collaborate with team members to meet client deadlines and project milestones, fostering a team-oriented approach.
• Take direction from senior designers and marketing team members, demonstrating a willingness to learn and adapt.
• Participate in industry seminars, conventions, and organizations (SMPS, AMA, TSPRATASA/TASB, AIA) to stay abreast of best practices and emerging trends in marketing and design.
• Ensure quality control and maintain a high level of attention to design detail across all assigned tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed indicate a strong focus on campaign execution and support, particularly for bond elections which are crucial for public sector projects in AEC. This requires rapid, high-volume design output under tight deadlines, a common challenge in GTM and marketing operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design is strongly preferred.

Experience:

• Experience in an internship or entry-level graphic design role is required.

Required Skills:

• Proficient with Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator.
• Strong understanding of visual elements such as type, layout, and fonts.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, essential for working within a team and with clients.
• Ability to multitask effectively and manage time efficiently to meet deadlines.
• Keen attention to detail and a commitment to quality control in design work.
• Eagerness to learn and adapt to new design challenges and feedback.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with digital marketing materials and campaign branding.
• Familiarity with the architecture, engineering, or construction (AEC) industry.
• Basic understanding of photography principles for marketing collateral.
• Experience in preparing artwork for multi-platform production.
• Knowledge of industry-specific organizations like SMPS, AMA, TSPRATASA/TASB, and AIA.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator) is standard for design roles. The preference for a Bachelor's degree and a portfolio signifies a foundational requirement, while the mention of industry organizations points towards a need for understanding the specific marketing nuances within the AEC sector.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing design skills, particularly in digital marketing materials and campaign branding.
• Examples demonstrating proficiency in layout, typography, and the use of visual elements.
• Work samples that highlight an understanding of brand consistency and template creation.
• Projects that reflect the ability to adapt designs based on project requirements and client feedback.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to follow established design workflows and production processes for campaign materials.
• Understanding of how to manage design assets and templates for efficient reuse and updates.
• Capacity to document design decisions and rationale when required for campaign strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a portfolio is critical for a design role. For this specific position, the portfolio should emphasize work relevant to campaign execution, demonstrating an understanding of deadlines and brand adherence, aligning with GTM and marketing operations needs.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $53,000 - $65,000 per year (Estimated based on provided data)

Benefits:

• Outstanding Benefits Package: This typically includes health, dental, vision insurance, retirement plans (e.g., 401k), paid time off (PTO), and potentially life insurance or disability coverage.
• Optional Work-From-Home Fridays: Offers flexibility and a better work-life balance, allowing employees to work remotely on Fridays if approved.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, likely around 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime during peak campaign periods. The hybrid arrangement may offer flexibility in scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of $53,000 - $65,000 aligns with entry-level graphic design positions in a high-cost-of-living area like Plano, Texas. The "Outstanding Benefits Package" and "Optional Work-From-Home Fridays" are significant perks that enhance the overall compensation and work-life balance, attractive for operations roles that often value flexibility and comprehensive support.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) - specializing in PreK-12 and Higher Education Facilities, as well as municipal facilities. Company Size: Mid-sized firm with a significant presence in Texas and Oklahoma, indicated by employee count and project scope. Founded: Over 70 years of experience, suggesting a stable, established firm with a strong track record and deep expertise.

Team Structure:

• The Jr. Graphic Designer reports to the Senior Graphic Designer, indicating a clear reporting line within a creative or marketing department.
• Collaboration with Marketing Managers and Coordinators is explicitly mentioned, highlighting integration with the broader marketing function.
• The firm's culture emphasizes building communities, client satisfaction ("Raving Fans"), and fostering innovation through diversity and inclusion.

Methodology:

• The company prioritizes positive influence through design and building communities.
• Innovation is driven by a diverse workforce, bringing together different talents, cultures, and generations.
• A client-centric approach is evident with the goal of having "Raving Fans."

Company Website: https://wraarchitects.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: WRA Architects' focus on educational and municipal facilities places them in a niche within the AEC sector. Their emphasis on client satisfaction and innovation through diversity suggests a collaborative and forward-thinking environment, which is beneficial for operations roles that rely on strong team dynamics and strategic thinking.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years experience). This role is designed for individuals starting their career in graphic design, with a specific focus on applying design skills within a marketing and GTM context.

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Senior Graphic Designer, providing a clear path for mentorship and skill development under experienced guidance. Collaboration with Marketing Managers and Coordinators indicates exposure to broader marketing strategy.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role, the Jr. Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, particularly bond election campaigns which are critical for securing new projects. High-quality visual assets and consistent branding contribute significantly to client perception and campaign success, thus influencing business development outcomes.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunity to hone design skills in Adobe Creative Suite and develop expertise in campaign branding, layout, and typography within the AEC industry.
• Industry Exposure: Learning about marketing strategies for educational and municipal facilities, and participating in industry events like SMPS and AMA.
• Mentorship: Direct guidance from a Senior Graphic Designer can accelerate professional development and understanding of design best practices.
• Potential for Specialization: With experience, could specialize in AEC marketing, campaign design, or brand management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a Jr. Graphic Designer in this context involves deepening expertise in AEC marketing design, understanding client needs for public sector projects, and potentially moving into roles with more strategic input or management responsibilities within the marketing team.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The description mentions "optional work-from-home Fridays," indicating a hybrid work environment. This suggests a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility.

Office Location(s): 6000 Headquarters Dr, Plano, TX 75024. Plano is a major hub in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, offering a dynamic professional environment.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires close collaboration with the Senior Graphic Designer, Marketing Managers, and Coordinators, suggesting an open or team-oriented workspace.
• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite) and company branding guidelines will be provided.
• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with marketing and design teams will be integral to project execution and learning.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time (likely 40 hours/week).
• Hybrid arrangement allows for flexibility, balancing in-office presence for collaboration with remote work options.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a significant draw for many professionals seeking work-life balance. For a design role, the ability to focus on detailed creative work at home while collaborating in person for brainstorming and feedback sessions can be highly productive.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and design capabilities.
• Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely present their portfolio to the hiring manager (Senior Graphic Designer or Marketing Manager), discussing their design process, creative choices, and project outcomes. Emphasis will be on understanding their approach to campaign design and brand consistency.
• Skills Assessment/Case Study: May involve a practical design exercise or a discussion about how they would approach specific design challenges related to bond campaigns or brand marketing.
• Behavioral Interview: Assessing communication skills, teamwork, ability to take direction, and cultural fit with WRA Architects.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase 3-5 of your strongest projects that best align with the job description, particularly those involving marketing collateral, campaign branding, or digital assets.
• Highlight Process: For each project, briefly explain the brief, your design process, the tools used, and the outcome or impact.
• Showcase Versatility: Include examples that demonstrate your command of layout, typography, color theory, and image selection.
• Tailor to AEC: If possible, include any relevant work from internships or academic projects that might relate to the AEC industry or public sector campaigns.
• Be Prepared to Discuss: Be ready to articulate your design decisions and how they meet the project objectives.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Context: Research WRA Architects, their projects, and the types of clients they serve (educational, municipal). Familiarize yourself with common visual elements in AEC marketing and bond campaigns.
• Practice Design Fundamentals: Be ready to discuss basic design principles and how you apply them.
• Prepare for Software Questions: Be confident in your ability to use Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator for various design tasks.
• Think About Collaboration: Prepare examples of how you've collaborated with others on projects and handled feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount for this application. Candidates should meticulously select and present work that demonstrates their ability to produce professional, on-brand marketing materials, especially for campaign-style initiatives relevant to WRA's client base.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:
  • Adobe Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, and digital asset creation.
  • Adobe InDesign: For page layout, brochure design, and multi-page document creation (essential for campaign materials).
  • Adobe Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, icons, and illustrations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly mentioned for this role, understanding how design impacts campaign performance (e.g., click-through rates on digital ads, engagement with social media graphics) is beneficial. Familiarity with basic analytics concepts is a plus.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but an awareness of how marketing materials are distributed through CRM or marketing automation platforms could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator is non-negotiable. For a Jr. Graphic Designer, the expectation is solid execution within these tools, rather than deep expertise in advanced analytics or CRM systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Focus: Dedication to client satisfaction ("Raving Fans") and positively influencing lives through design.
• Innovation: Encouraging new ideas through a diverse and inclusive workforce.
• Community Building: A core purpose centered on building communities through their architectural work.
• Excellence: Striving for high-quality design and project delivery.
• Collaboration: Working together across disciplines and experience levels.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-oriented, with a strong emphasis on collaboration between designers and marketing professionals.
• Openness to feedback and direction from senior team members.
• A culture that values diverse talents and perspectives to drive innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values of client focus, innovation, and community building suggest a professional environment where creativity is valued, and teamwork is essential for success, particularly in client-facing projects like bond campaigns.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Fast-Paced Environment: Managing multiple bond election campaigns and other marketing deliverables under strict, often short, deadlines.
• Brand Consistency: Ensuring all materials adhere to WRA's brand guidelines and client-specific campaign requirements.
• Feedback Integration: Effectively incorporating feedback from various stakeholders (Senior Designer, Marketing Managers, potentially clients) into designs.
• Industry Specificity: Adapting design approaches to the unique needs and audiences of educational and municipal clients.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Skills: Deepening expertise in Adobe Creative Suite and mastering techniques for effective campaign design.
• Industry Knowledge: Gaining insights into the AEC sector, particularly K-12/Higher Education and municipal projects, and the marketing strategies employed.
• Professional Networking: Participating in industry events (SMPS, AMA) to build connections and learn from peers.
• Mentorship: Receiving guidance from experienced professionals within WRA Architects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a prime opportunity for a junior designer to gain practical experience in high-stakes campaign design, learn to manage client expectations, and develop a strong understanding of the AEC marketing landscape.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for designing a marketing campaign for a public sector client, such as a school district bond election." (Focus on research, audience understanding, visual strategy, and execution.)
• "How do you ensure brand consistency across multiple marketing collateral pieces for a single campaign?" (Discuss templates, style guides, and quality control.)
• "Walk me through a project in your portfolio that demonstrates your ability to meet tight deadlines. What were the challenges and how did you overcome them?" (Highlight time management, prioritization, and problem-solving.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about WRA Architects and our work in the education and municipal sectors?" (Research their projects and values.)
• "How do you approach receiving and incorporating constructive criticism on your designs?" (Demonstrate receptiveness and a growth mindset.)
• "Describe a time you collaborated with a team on a creative project. What was your role, and how did you contribute to the team's success?" (Showcase teamwork and communication.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically, perhaps by project type or by showcasing your strongest skills.
• Storytelling: For each project, tell a brief story about the client, the challenge, your creative solution, and the outcome.
• Highlight Key Skills: Explicitly point out how your work demonstrates proficiency in Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, layout, typography, and brand application.
• Focus on Relevance: Emphasize projects that are most similar to the responsibilities outlined in the job description (campaigns, digital marketing, branding).
• Keep it Concise: Be mindful of time; aim for 10-15 minutes for the presentation, leaving ample time for Q&A.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be assessing not just design skill but also the candidate's ability to understand and execute within a specific industry context, manage deadlines, and collaborate effectively. A strong portfolio that clearly articulates design intent and process is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Jr. Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the WRA Architects careers page.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator), any relevant design internships or projects, and your communication/collaboration skills. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your strongest design projects, focusing on those that demonstrate campaign design, branding, layout, and typography. Ensure your portfolio is easily accessible online (e.g., personal website, Behance, PDF).
• Write a Targeted Cover Letter: Briefly explain why you are interested in WRA Architects, how your skills align with the role, and your enthusiasm for working in the AEC industry.
• Prepare for the Interview: Research WRA Architects, practice discussing your portfolio projects, and be ready to answer questions about your design process, collaboration, and ability to work under deadlines.

⚠️ 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.