Junior Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Graphic Designer

Company: ICF

Location: Brussels, Belgium

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Design / Visual Communication

Date Posted: April 02, 2026

Experience Level: Junior (2+ years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on creating compelling visual content for a variety of digital and print platforms, supporting the Joint Research Center's (JRC) visual communication team.

• Responsibilities include conceptualizing and designing infographics, report layouts, and data visualizations from complex source materials.

• The position requires hands-on experience with industry-standard design software and a strong understanding of visual communication strategies for diverse audiences.

• This is an excellent opportunity for a junior designer looking to gain experience within a significant public sector organization, contributing to EU policy communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within ICF NEXT, a division of ICF, and operates on-site at the client's premises, specifically the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC). This implies a focus on public sector communication, scientific data visualization, and adherence to EU branding guidelines. The "Junior" designation, coupled with the "+2 years of experience" requirement, suggests a need for foundational skills and a capacity for rapid learning and execution within established frameworks.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and design compelling digital assets for web and social media, including banners, illustrations, icons, infographics, motion graphics, and interactive elements.

• Conceptualize, design, and deliver web-optimized infographics, which involve gathering and simplifying complex data, interpreting information, and creating effective visualizations.

• Edit photos and images to enhance visual quality for websites and social media posts, ensuring they meet design requirements and brand standards.

• Capture event photography and high-level meetings involving EU staff, requiring a professional and discreet approach.

• Advise on visual communication strategies to ensure materials are accessible, informative, and engaging for diverse target audiences.

• Develop visual identity materials and templates for special projects, maintaining consistent branding and design integrity.

• Maintain graphics standards, develop new design concepts, and create original graphics that align with project objectives.

• Provide expert guidance to ensure all delivered materials are accessible, informative, and engaging for a broad range of audiences, including non-technical stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative design and technical execution, particularly in transforming complex scientific data into understandable visual narratives. The requirement to take photos during events points to a need for versatility and on-the-spot content creation. Advising on visual communication strategies suggests a growing role in strategic input as the designer gains experience.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Fine Arts, or a related field is typically expected for this level of role.

Experience: Minimum of 2 years of proven experience in graphic design, with a strong portfolio showcasing relevant projects.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in graphic design with a demonstrated record of staying abreast of industry trends and providing creative, innovative solutions.

• Strong practical experience in using design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), and other graphic design tools.

• Experience using online tools like Canva for creating high-quality infographics.

• Creativity and innovative design skills with a keen eye for aesthetics and detail.

• Familiarity with user-centered design principles and methodologies to create accessible and effective visuals.

• Proficiency in photography and photo-editing software for enhancing visual content.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with motion graphics software (e.g., Adobe After Effects) for creating dynamic visual content.

• Knowledge of data visualization best practices and tools beyond standard Adobe Suite.

• Familiarity with EU institutional branding guidelines and public sector communication standards.

• Experience in designing for web content management systems (CMS) or understanding their limitations.

• Basic understanding of HTML/CSS for web design considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for B2 English proficiency is crucial for collaboration within the JRC and ICF, which are international environments. The explicit mention of Canva suggests a need for rapid content creation and potentially empowering non-designers with templates, a common practice in large organizations. The inclusion of "user-centered design" hints at a focus on audience comprehension and accessibility.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A robust portfolio demonstrating a minimum of two years of professional graphic design work, highlighting versatility across digital and print mediums.

• Specific examples of infographic design, showcasing the ability to translate complex data into clear, compelling visual narratives.

• Demonstrations of report layout and publication design, illustrating an understanding of typography, hierarchy, and reader flow.

• Inclusion of digital assets created for web and social media, showing an awareness of platform-specific design considerations.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of workflow from initial brief to final asset delivery, illustrating project management and iterative design processes.

• Case studies that detail problem-solving approaches to design challenges, particularly those involving data interpretation or communication strategy.

• Demonstrations of how design standards and branding guidelines were applied and maintained across multiple projects.

• Any experience or examples of contributing to or developing design templates for increased efficiency and consistency.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Junior Graphic Designer role, the portfolio is paramount. It should not only showcase aesthetic talent but also the practical ability to execute designs efficiently and effectively, particularly when dealing with complex information streams common in scientific and public sector contexts. The ability to articulate the design process behind portfolio pieces will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a Junior Graphic Designer role with 2+ years of experience in Brussels, Belgium, a competitive salary range would typically fall between €30,000 to €45,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for junior creative roles in major European cities, considering the cost of living and the specific demands of public sector communication projects.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage, potentially including dental and vision.

• Retirement savings plan or pension contribution options.

• Paid time off, including vacation days, public holidays, and sick leave, in line with Belgian labor laws.

• Professional development opportunities, such as training, workshops, and access to design conferences, to enhance skills in areas like motion graphics, advanced data visualization, or new design software.

• Potential for flexible working arrangements (though this role is primarily on-site) or support for professional certifications.

• Access to ICF's internal resources, employee assistance programs, and potential for internal mobility within ICF NEXT projects.

Working Hours: The standard work week is typically 40 hours, aligning with Belgian labor regulations. While the role is primarily on-site, there may be some flexibility in daily start/end times, subject to team coordination and client needs. Occasional overtime may be required for event support or urgent project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on general market data for Brussels and the specified experience level. Actual compensation will depend on ICF's internal banding, the candidate's specific qualifications, and the precise nature of the client contract. The benefits are standard for a professional role in Belgium, with an emphasis on professional development relevant to a design career.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: ICF operates across multiple sectors including energy, environment, health, public sector, and technology. This specific role supports the Joint Research Centre (JRC), a directorate-general of the European Commission, which focuses on scientific research and evidence-based policy support for the EU. This context suggests a culture that values data integrity, scientific accuracy, and clear communication of complex information to diverse stakeholders.

Company Size: ICF is a large global advisory and technology services provider, with tens of thousands of employees worldwide. This specific project operates within ICF NEXT, the creative agency arm, and is embedded with the JRC. The JRC itself is a substantial organization within the European Commission structure.

Founded: ICF was founded in 1969. The JRC has a long history, established in 1957 as part of the Euratom Treaty and evolving significantly since then. This longevity indicates a stable, established environment with deep expertise.

Team Structure:

• The Junior Graphic Designer will be part of the JRC's Visual Communication team, which likely consists of designers, communication specialists, and potentially data visualization experts.

• This team reports within the JRC's broader communication or directorate structure, focusing on supporting scientific communication efforts across various policy areas.

Methodology:

• The team likely employs a data-driven approach to visual communication, prioritizing clarity, accuracy, and accessibility in all designs.

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies will be crucial, especially given the fast-paced environment of public service and the need to respond to evolving policy needs.

• Automation and efficiency practices may be leveraged, particularly through the use of templates and shared design systems, to manage a high volume of requests.

Company Website: https://www.icf.com/ and https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is likely a blend of corporate professionalism (ICF) and public service rigor (JRC). Expect a focus on impactful work, adherence to protocols, and a commitment to evidence-based communication. The role's embedded nature means integrating into the client's operational rhythm.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a "Junior" role, indicating an entry-level to early-career position (2+ years of experience). The primary focus is on executing design tasks under guidance, learning established processes, and developing foundational skills in visual communication for a complex organization. The "operations" aspect here refers to the operational execution of design services within a client-facing framework.

Reporting Structure: The Junior Graphic Designer will report to a Lead Graphic Designer or Visual Communication Manager within the JRC team, who will provide direction, feedback, and project assignments. They will also work closely with various JRC departments and potentially ICF project managers.

Operations Impact: The designer's work directly impacts how scientific research and policy recommendations are perceived and understood by a broad audience, including policymakers, scientists, and the general public. Effective visuals can enhance engagement, facilitate comprehension of complex data, and strengthen the JRC's mission of providing evidence for EU policy.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas such as advanced data visualization techniques, motion graphics, interactive design, or scientific illustration.

• Client Exposure: Gaining significant experience working with a major European institution, understanding public sector communication needs and processes.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced designers and communication professionals within the JRC and ICF NEXT, receiving constructive feedback to refine design skills.

• Advancement: Potential to progress to a mid-level or senior Graphic Designer role within ICF or the JRC, taking on more complex projects, leading smaller initiatives, or specializing in a particular design discipline.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in this role will be driven by demonstrating proficiency, reliability, creativity, and the ability to adapt to the specific communication needs of scientific research and EU policy. The "operations" focus is on the efficient and effective delivery of design services within a structured environment.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is on-site at the client's (JRC) premises in Brussels, Belgium. This means working within a large, institutional office environment typical of EU bodies.

Office Location(s): Brussels, Belgium. The specific JRC site may vary but will be located within the Brussels region.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be collaborative, with designers working together and interacting regularly with communication officers and subject matter experts.

• Access to standard office technology, including computers, design software, and potentially photography equipment, will be provided.

• Opportunities for team interaction and knowledge sharing will be present through regular team meetings, project reviews, and informal discussions.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week is expected. While there may be some flexibility in daily hours, core working times will likely be established to ensure team availability and client accessibility. The fast-paced nature of policy-related work might occasionally require flexibility to meet critical deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within an EU institution environment means adhering to specific security protocols, communication standards, and a structured workflow. It offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful, large-scale public initiatives.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess foundational skills and experience alignment with the role requirements.

• Technical Assessment/Portfolio Review: An in-depth discussion about your portfolio, focusing on specific projects, your design process, problem-solving skills, and technical proficiency with design software. You may be asked to walk through a case study.

• Skills-Based Interview: A discussion assessing your knowledge of graphic design principles, data visualization, user-centered design, and experience with relevant tools. Questions might be posed to gauge your approach to challenges.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions designed to understand your work style, collaboration skills, ability to handle feedback, and cultural fit within the JRC and ICF NEXT teams. Expect questions related to working in a public sector or client-facing environment.

• Final Interview (Potentially): A final conversation with a hiring manager or senior team member to confirm suitability and discuss role expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 4-6 of your strongest, most relevant projects. Prioritize those demonstrating infographic creation, data visualization, and digital/social media assets.

• Showcase Process: For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your conceptualization process, design choices, challenges faced, and the final outcome. Explain why you made certain design decisions.

• Highlight Data Skills: Emphasize projects where you successfully translated complex data into understandable and visually appealing graphics. Detail your approach to data interpretation and simplification.

• Demonstrate Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience with Adobe Creative Suite and other relevant tools, and how you leverage them to achieve specific design goals.

• Tailor to JRC: If possible, include projects that show an understanding of public sector communication, scientific communication, or information design for broad audiences.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a practical design challenge, which might involve creating a concept for an infographic based on provided data or designing a social media graphic.

• Focus on demonstrating your ability to work efficiently, interpret briefs accurately, and apply design principles under time constraints.

• Practice articulating your design choices clearly and concisely, linking them to the project's objectives and target audience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is critical. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their work in detail, demonstrating not just creative talent but also a structured approach to design problem-solving and an understanding of the client's communication needs.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: In-depth proficiency required in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for creating a wide range of visual assets, from detailed illustrations and photo editing to complex layouts.

• Canva: Experience with Canva for rapid creation of high-quality infographics and social media content, indicating a need for efficiency and potentially template-based design.

• Photography Equipment: Proficiency in using cameras and associated equipment for event and meeting photography.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable for this design role, but familiarity with project management tools or systems used for managing design requests and workflows within ICF or the JRC would be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Adobe Creative Suite and Canva highlights a need for both high-end creative execution and efficient, scalable content production. Photography skills are a specific requirement for event coverage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Accuracy & Integrity: A strong emphasis on presenting scientific data and information accurately and ethically, reflecting the JRC's mission as a provider of scientific evidence.

• Clarity & Accessibility: A commitment to making complex information understandable and accessible to diverse audiences, requiring design that prioritizes readability and engagement.

• Collaboration & Support: A culture where team members work together, share knowledge, and support each other to meet project demands and client needs.

• Efficiency & Adaptability: The ability to manage multiple projects, adapt to changing priorities, and deliver high-quality work within deadlines, especially in a public sector context.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Close collaboration with scientists, communication specialists, and policy advisors to understand project requirements and translate technical information into visuals.

• Feedback-Driven: An open environment for constructive feedback on designs, with a focus on iterative improvement to meet project goals.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of sharing best practices, design trends, and tool tips within the visual communication team to foster continuous learning and elevate the team's overall output.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture is likely to be professional, results-oriented, and focused on supporting the critical work of the JRC. Expect a collaborative environment where attention to detail and clear communication are highly valued.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complex Data: The primary challenge will be to effectively visualize highly technical and scientific information for diverse audiences, requiring strong analytical and interpretive skills.

• Navigating Stakeholder Needs: Balancing the creative vision with the specific requirements and feedback from multiple stakeholders within the JRC and potentially ICF.

• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring all visual outputs adhere to established JRC and EU branding guidelines while still being creative and engaging.

• Volume and Pace: Managing a potentially high volume of design requests and meeting tight deadlines common in public sector communication.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Design Training: Opportunities to attend workshops or online courses focused on advanced data visualization, motion graphics, or user experience (UX) design for digital interfaces.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining deep insight into scientific communication and public policy support through daily work with the JRC.

• Mentorship Program: Access to experienced designers within ICF NEXT and the JRC who can provide guidance on career development and skill enhancement.

• Networking: Building professional connections within the European Commission and the broader ICF network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges present significant opportunities for a junior designer to develop critical skills in information design, stakeholder management, and working within large institutional frameworks.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Walk me through a complex infographic project from our portfolio. What was the biggest challenge in visualizing the data, and how did you overcome it?" Focus on your methodology, problem-solving, and ability to simplify complex information.

• Tool Proficiency: "Describe your experience with Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop for data visualization. Can you give an example of a specific technique you used to represent data effectively?" Be ready to detail your practical application of tools.

• Client/Stakeholder Management: "Imagine a JRC scientist provides you with raw data and asks for 'something impactful.' How would you approach this request to ensure the final visual meets their needs and communicates the science clearly?" Demonstrate your ability to elicit requirements and manage expectations.

Company & Culture Questions:

• JRC Mission: "What do you understand about the JRC's role in supporting EU policy, and how do you see graphic design contributing to that mission?" Research the JRC's current priorities and communication goals.

• Team Collaboration: "Describe a time you received critical feedback on a design. How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?" Show your receptiveness to feedback and collaborative spirit.

• Impact Measurement: "How would you measure the success of a visual asset you designed for a JRC publication or social media campaign?" Think about engagement, clarity, and alignment with communication objectives.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each project, tell a concise story: the problem, your solution, your process, and the impact.

• Data Focus: Clearly explain how you translated complex data into understandable visuals. Highlight specific design choices made for clarity and accuracy.

• Tool Demonstration: If asked, be prepared to briefly demonstrate a technique in Photoshop or Illustrator that highlights your skill with the software.

• Conciseness: Respect the interviewers' time. Present your most impactful work efficiently, focusing on outcomes and lessons learned.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just creative talent, but also a structured, analytical, and collaborative approach to design, with a clear understanding of how visuals support communication objectives, particularly in a scientific and public sector context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Junior Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the ICF Careers portal via the provided link. Ensure your CV is up-to-date and highlights your relevant graphic design experience, particularly with Adobe Creative Suite and infographic creation.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a digital portfolio (PDF or a professional website link) that prominently features your strongest work in infographic design, data visualization, and digital/social media assets. Tailor your selection to showcase projects that demonstrate your ability to work with complex information.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly articulate your 2+ years of experience, specific software proficiencies (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Canva), and any experience relevant to public sector or scientific communication. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Research the Joint Research Centre (JRC) and ICF. Prepare to discuss your portfolio projects in detail, focusing on your design process, problem-solving skills, and how you translate complex information into visual communications. Practice articulating your skills and experience clearly.

• Company Research: Understand the JRC's mission and current work. Consider how your design skills can contribute to their goal of providing scientific expertise for EU policy. Familiarize yourself with EU visual identity guidelines if possible.

⚠️ 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.

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