Senior Graphic Designer

ATPCO
Full_timeβ€’$87k-109k/year (USD)β€’Herndon, United States

πŸ“ Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Graphic Designer Company: ATPCO Location: Herndon, Virginia, United States Job Type: Full-time Category: Creative & Media / Marketing / Technology Date Posted: 2025-11-03T15:41:44.184 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: Hybrid (with Remote-First Culture emphasis)

πŸš€ Role Summary

  • This Senior Graphic Designer role is a hybrid position, blending core graphic design responsibilities with significant video editing and motion graphics capabilities to enhance ATPCO's brand storytelling.
  • The position requires a strong conceptual thinker and technical executor adept at translating complex ideas into compelling visual narratives across digital, video, print, and interactive media.
  • Success in this role hinges on maintaining brand consistency while driving creative innovation, utilizing a comprehensive understanding of branding and marketing principles.
  • The role involves supporting team operations through project tracking tools and collaborating across diverse teams and time zones in a remote-first environment.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The "Hybrid visual role" description, combined with the emphasis on video editing and motion graphics, indicates a strategic need for a versatile creative professional who can bridge traditional design with dynamic visual content creation. The mention of "scroll-stopping assets" and "brand story" suggests a focus on engagement and impactful communication.

πŸ“ˆ Primary Responsibilities

  • Conceptualize, design, and execute on-brand creative assets across digital, video, print, and interactive media, managing projects from initial ideation through final delivery.
  • Lead the production of short-form and long-form video content, including promotional reels, product explainers, and social media assets, utilizing Adobe Premiere Pro and/or After Effects for editing and motion graphics.
  • Collaborate effectively with the Creative & Digital Manager, marketing stakeholders, and subject matter experts to ensure all creative assets align with ATPCO’s brand identity, tone, and strategic objectives.
  • Translate abstract ideas and information into powerful, resonant visual narratives that effectively communicate complex concepts to diverse audiences, demonstrating strong visual storytelling skills.
  • Maintain stringent brand consistency across all creative outputs while actively exploring and pushing creative boundaries within established brand guidelines.
  • Design a variety of assets, including those for presentations, infographics, social media campaigns, events, internal communications, and detailed video storyboards, showcasing versatility in design applications.
  • Support efficient team operations by utilizing project tracking tools such as Asana and managing assets within shared systems including Microsoft 365, SharePoint, and Digital Asset Management (DAM) systems.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "project tracking tools like Asana" and "Microsoft 365, SharePoint, Digital Asset Management Systems" points to a structured operational environment where process adherence and system utilization are critical for effective collaboration and workflow management within the creative team. This implies a need for candidates comfortable with these tools and processes.

πŸŽ“ Skills & Qualifications

Education: While specific degree requirements are not listed, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, Film/Video Production, or a related field is typically expected for a senior-level role of this nature. Equivalent practical experience will also be strongly considered. Experience: 5+ years of professional experience in graphic design, with a dedicated focus of at least 2 years on video editing and motion graphics.

Required Skills:

  • Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud: Specifically, expert-level skills in Premiere Pro, After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign are essential for executing a wide range of design and video production tasks.
  • Exceptional Visual Design Acumen: A keen eye for layout, typography, color theory, and composition, applied effectively to both static graphic design and dynamic motion graphics.
  • Brand Design and Storytelling: Proven ability to develop and maintain strong brand identities, coupled with a talent for crafting compelling visual narratives that resonate with target audiences.
  • Cross-Media Adaptation: Demonstrated experience in adapting design concepts and assets across various mediums (print, digital, video), understanding platform-specific requirements and best practices (e.g., social media GIFs vs. email banners).
  • Microsoft PowerPoint Expertise: Proven skill in creating sophisticated Microsoft PowerPoint theme templates and updating complex slide layouts to ensure professional and consistent presentations.
  • Branding and Marketing Principles: Solid understanding of core branding concepts and marketing strategies, with the ability to flexibly adjust visual styles to meet campaign objectives or brand evolution.
  • Remote Collaboration Skills: Comfort and effectiveness in navigating asynchronous feedback cycles, working across different time zones, and managing multiple competing priorities in a remote or hybrid work setting.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience in B2B technology sectors or with enterprise-level brands, demonstrating an understanding of corporate communication needs and audiences.
  • Familiarity with project management and workflow tools such as Asana, Digital Asset Management (DAM) systems like MediaValet, and collaborative design platforms like Figma.
  • Proficiency with web-based animation platforms or tools that enhance motion graphics capabilities.
  • Knowledge of the airline, travel technology, or pricing data sectors, providing an advantage in understanding ATPCO's industry context.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The strong emphasis on Adobe Creative Cloud, particularly Premiere Pro and After Effects, along with specific mentions of PowerPoint template creation and adapting designs across mediums, highlights the need for a technically proficient and versatile designer. The "Nice to Have" section further refines the ideal candidate profile, suggesting a preference for those with industry-specific or advanced tool experience.

πŸ“Š Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a diverse range of work, critically including both high-quality graphic design projects and compelling video editing/motion graphics examples.
  • Demonstrate mastery of visual storytelling through case studies that highlight your process from concept to execution, emphasizing problem-solving and creative strategy.
  • Include examples of brand identity development, adaptation of assets across various platforms (digital, print, social), and sophisticated presentation design (e.g., PowerPoint templates).
  • Showcase video projects that highlight editing skills, motion graphics integration, narrative structure, and effective use of audio and visual elements.

Process Documentation:

  • Evidence of experience in managing design projects from brief to final delivery, including stages of concept development, revisions, and final asset preparation.
  • Examples of how you've translated complex information or strategic briefs into clear, impactful visual communications.
  • Demonstrate familiarity with working within established brand guidelines while also innovating and pushing creative boundaries, showcasing an understanding of brand governance.
  • Illustrate your approach to receiving and incorporating feedback from stakeholders, especially in asynchronous or remote collaboration environments.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: For a senior-level creative role, especially one involving video and motion graphics, a robust portfolio is paramount. The expectation is not just a collection of final work but a demonstration of process, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. The mention of "project tracking tools" and "shared systems" implies that candidates comfortable with structured workflows and digital asset management will be favored.

πŸ’΅ Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $87,287 – $109,165 USD per year.

  • This range is an estimate and may not be adjusted for geographic differentials. For roles with remote flexibility, candidates in higher cost-of-living areas may be compensated at the higher end or beyond this range, while those in lower cost-of-living areas may be compensated at the lower end.
  • The specific salary offered will be determined by factors including the candidate's experience, skills, qualifications, and the specific geographic location of employment if not fully remote.

Benefits:

  • Remote-First Culture: Flexibility to work from home within your country of hire, promoting work-life balance and autonomy.
  • "Leave Your Way" PTO: Generous paid time off policy that allows employees to take the time they need, when they need it, fostering well-being.
  • 401(k) with Generous Employer Match: A strong retirement savings plan with employer contributions to help employees build long-term financial security.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as robust mental health support to ensure holistic employee well-being.
  • Global Tuition and Gym Reimbursement: Opportunities for continuous learning and personal development through financial support for education and fitness.
  • Standby Flight Program: A unique perk that allows employees to explore the world, aligning with the travel industry context of ATPCO.
  • Inclusive, Collaborative Culture: A commitment to fostering an environment where employees feel seen, heard, valued, and connected.

Working Hours: While not explicitly stated, a standard full-time role typically implies around 40 hours per week. The remote-first and flexible PTO policies suggest a focus on output and results rather than strict adherence to traditional office hours, though responsiveness during core business hours for collaboration will be expected.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is a key piece of information. The note about geographic differentials is important for candidates in different US regions. The listed benefits are extensive and highlight ATPCO's commitment to employee well-being, flexibility, and professional development, which are attractive selling points for operations and creative professionals alike.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏒 Company Culture

Industry: ATPCO operates within the Aviation Software and Data Services sector, specifically as a primary global source for airfare content. They provide critical technology and data solutions that power the travel industry worldwide. Company Size: ATPCO is part of the larger ATPCO ecosystem, which is a significant player in the travel tech industry. While the exact size of the specific design team isn't detailed, the company's global reach and extensive data holdings (200 million fares across 160 countries) suggest a substantial, well-established organization. Founded: The founding date is not explicitly provided in the job description, but ATPCO has a long-standing history and is a foundational entity in airfare distribution. Their longevity in a dynamic industry speaks to their adaptability and market significance.

Team Structure:

  • The role reports to the Creative & Digital Manager, indicating a structured creative department.
  • The Senior Graphic Designer will collaborate closely with marketing stakeholders and subject matter experts, implying a cross-functional team environment where creative input is integrated into broader business initiatives.
  • The team operates within a remote-first culture, emphasizing asynchronous communication and collaboration tools.

Methodology:

  • Data-Driven Insights: ATPCO's core business relies on vast amounts of data, suggesting that the creative team likely uses data to inform design decisions and measure impact, even if indirectly.
  • Workflow Optimization: The mention of project tracking tools (Asana) and digital asset management systems points to a structured approach to workflow management and content governance.
  • Innovation within Structure: The company culture emphasizes innovation and pushing creative boundaries, but within the framework of established brand guidelines and strategic objectives.

Company Website: [ATPCO Company Website URL - placeholder as it was not provided in the input]

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Understanding ATPCO's position as a critical data provider in the travel industry is key. The "Sage" archetype description for their brand suggests a company focused on wisdom, expertise, and forward-thinking solutions. This context is crucial for a designer to align their work with the company's brand personality and strategic goals.

πŸ“ˆ Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Graphic Designer position, indicating a mid-to-senior level role. It requires significant experience (5+ years in graphic design, 2+ in video/motion) and the ability to work independently and lead projects. The role demands conceptual thinking, technical execution, and the ability to translate complex business needs into creative solutions. Reporting Structure: The role reports to the Creative & Digital Manager. This structure suggests a clear hierarchy within the creative team, with opportunities for guidance and mentorship from a senior leader. Collaboration with marketing and subject matter experts indicates a matrixed reporting or project-based interaction model. Operations Impact: While not a direct "operations" role in the traditional sense of revenue or sales ops, this designer's work has a significant impact on ATPCO's brand perception, marketing effectiveness, and internal communications. High-quality visual assets are crucial for conveying the company's message, explaining complex products, and supporting sales and marketing initiatives, thereby indirectly contributing to revenue and business growth.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Skill Specialization: Potential to deepen expertise in motion graphics, video production, or specific areas of digital design, becoming a go-to expert within the team.
  • Leadership Potential: As a senior role, there's an opportunity to mentor junior designers, lead creative projects, and potentially move into team lead or art director positions within the evolving creative department.
  • Industry Exposure: Working within the travel tech industry provides unique learning opportunities, especially with ATPCO's central role in airfare data. Exposure to B2B tech and enterprise-level branding can broaden professional experience.
  • Cross-Functional Development: Collaborating with marketing, product, and other departments allows for a broader understanding of business operations and strategic initiatives.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title implies a level of autonomy and expected contribution beyond junior roles. Growth opportunities are likely tied to deepening technical skills, taking on more strategic creative leadership, and expanding understanding of the travel tech industry's unique communication challenges.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: ATPCO emphasizes a "Remote-First Culture" with flexibility to work from home in the country of hire. While the job is listed with a physical address in Herndon, VA, the company's culture strongly supports remote work. This suggests a hybrid model where employees can choose to work from home predominantly, with potential for occasional in-office collaboration or team meetings, or it could mean the office is available as a resource. Office Location(s): The primary listed office is at 2340 Dulles Corner Boulevard, Herndon, VA 20171, United States. However, the "Remote-First" policy indicates that employees are not necessarily required to be in this specific location for day-to-day work.

Workspace Context:

  • Flexible Workspace: The remote-first approach allows designers to create their optimal work environment, prioritizing comfort and productivity.
  • Digital Collaboration Hub: The team relies heavily on digital tools like Asana, Microsoft 365, SharePoint, and DAM systems, suggesting a highly connected virtual workspace where seamless digital interaction is key.
  • Cross-Functional Interaction: Opportunities to connect with colleagues across different departments and geographical locations, fostering a broad network and diverse perspectives.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is typical, the "Leave Your Way" PTO and remote-first culture suggest a focus on results and flexibility. This allows designers to manage their schedules effectively, balancing project deadlines with personal well-being, with an expectation of responsiveness and availability during core collaboration hours across time zones.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The "Remote-First Culture" is a critical aspect of the work environment. Candidates should understand that while a physical office exists, the primary mode of operation is remote. This requires strong self-discipline, communication skills, and comfort with virtual collaboration tools.

πŸ“„ Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: Likely a review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and creative output. Candidates should ensure their portfolio clearly showcases both graphic design and video editing skills, with specific examples relevant to B2B tech or enterprise brands if possible.
  • Creative Assessment/Challenge: Expect a practical exercise or case study. This could involve designing assets for a hypothetical campaign, editing a short explainer video from provided footage, or updating an existing presentation template. Focus on demonstrating your process, problem-solving abilities, and how you apply brand guidelines.
  • Interviews with Hiring Team: This will likely include discussions with the Creative & Digital Manager and potentially other marketing or creative team members. Prepare to articulate your design philosophy, explain your portfolio pieces in detail (process, rationale, challenges, outcomes), and discuss how you collaborate and manage feedback.
  • Cultural Fit Assessment: Interviews will also gauge alignment with ATPCO's "Sage" archetype values (clarity, quality, curiosity, wisdom, forward-thinking, approachable) and their remote-first, collaborative culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate Strategically: Select 5-7 of your strongest projects that best represent the required skills (graphic design, video editing, motion graphics, PowerPoint). Prioritize quality over quantity.
  • Showcase Process: For each project, clearly outline the brief, your role, the challenges faced, your creative process, the tools used, and the final results or impact. Use visuals and concise text.
  • Highlight Video Expertise: Dedicate specific sections or examples to your video editing and motion graphics work. Include links to hosted videos (e.g., Vimeo, YouTube) or embed them if possible within a digital portfolio.
  • Demonstrate Brand Adaptability: Include examples that show your ability to work within existing brand guidelines and also to adapt visual styles for different audiences or campaign objectives.
  • Quantify Impact: Where possible, include metrics or outcomes that demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs (e.g., engagement rates for social media assets, clarity achieved in presentations).

Challenge Preparation:

  • Understand the Brief: Carefully read and deconstruct any creative challenge. Identify the core objective, target audience, and key message.
  • Time Management: Allocate your time wisely between concept development, execution, and refinement.
  • Articulate Your Rationale: Be prepared to explain why you made certain design choices, referencing brand guidelines, marketing objectives, and best practices in design and video.
  • Focus on ATPCO's Brand: If the challenge relates to ATPCO, try to align your approach with their "Sage" archetype and their industry context in travel tech.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio that includes both graphic design and video editing is crucial. Candidates should prepare to present their work through a digital portfolio (website, PDF, or platform like Behance/Dribbble) and be ready to walk through specific projects, explaining their thought process and problem-solving approach.

πŸ›  Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Adobe Creative Cloud Suite: Essential proficiency in Premiere Pro, After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. These are the core tools for graphic design, video editing, and motion graphics.
  • Microsoft PowerPoint: Advanced skills required for creating and updating theme templates and layouts, indicating its importance for internal and external presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • While not explicitly mentioned for design, understanding how design impacts analytics (e.g., engagement rates for digital assets) is beneficial. Familiarity with web analytics or social media analytics platforms could be a plus.

CRM & Automation:

  • Project Management Tools: Proficiency with Asana is explicitly mentioned for supporting team operations and project tracking.
  • Collaboration & File Sharing: Experience with Microsoft 365 and SharePoint for document management and team collaboration.
  • Digital Asset Management (DAM): Familiarity with systems like MediaValet or similar DAM solutions for organizing, storing, and retrieving digital assets is preferred, indicating a need for structured content management.
  • Collaborative Design Tools: Experience with Figma is listed as a preferred skill, suggesting its use for collaborative design workflows, prototyping, or asset handoff.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for Adobe Creative Cloud, particularly Premiere Pro and After Effects, along with specific mentions of Asana and PowerPoint, defines the core technical requirements. Preferred skills like Figma and DAM systems indicate a modern, structured creative operations environment.

πŸ‘₯ Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Clarity, Quality, Curiosity: These are the stated drivers of the creative team's work. Designers are expected to communicate with precision, deliver high-quality outputs, and maintain a curious mindset for exploration and improvement.
  • Brand Archetype Alignment (Sage): The team embodies wisdom, forward-thinking, and approachability. Designs should reflect these traits, simplifying complex information and presenting it in an accessible, intelligent manner.
  • Intentional Design: Designs are created with purpose, aiming to simplify complexity and deliver with precision, reflecting a thoughtful and strategic approach to creative problem-solving.
  • Data-Informed Creativity: While not explicitly stated for design, ATPCO's business is data-centric. Designers are likely encouraged to consider how their work can be measured and to use insights where available to inform creative decisions.
  • Efficiency and Precision: Delivering with precision implies a focus on accuracy, detail, and meeting project requirements effectively.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-functional Integration: The role requires close collaboration with marketing stakeholders and subject matter experts, emphasizing teamwork and the ability to integrate creative ideas with business objectives.
  • Asynchronous Feedback Cycles: Comfort and effectiveness in working with feedback across different times and communication channels, crucial for a remote-first environment.
  • Open Communication: The company culture promotes open-door leadership and transparency, suggesting that open dialogue and constructive feedback are encouraged within the team.
  • Shared Systems and Processes: Working within shared systems like Microsoft 365 and SharePoint implies a collaborative approach to information management and document sharing.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of the "Sage" archetype and values like "clarity, quality, and curiosity" provides a strong framework for understanding the team's ethos. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate how their work and approach align with these principles, particularly in a remote, collaborative setting.

⚑ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Balancing Brand Consistency with Innovation: A common challenge in senior design roles is maintaining strict brand guidelines while also pushing creative boundaries to keep assets fresh and engaging.
  • Translating Complex Data/Concepts: ATPCO deals with complex airfare data. The challenge lies in visually simplifying this complexity into understandable and compelling graphics and videos for diverse audiences.
  • Remote Collaboration Dynamics: Effectively communicating, collaborating, and receiving feedback across different time zones and without in-person interaction requires strong digital communication skills and adaptability.
  • Managing Multiple Priorities: As a senior designer, juggling various projects with different deadlines and stakeholders is a constant challenge that requires excellent organizational and time management skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Deepening Motion Graphics and Video Production Skills: The role offers ample opportunity to hone skills in Premiere Pro and After Effects, potentially exploring advanced animation techniques or post-production workflows.
  • Industry-Specific Knowledge: Gaining insights into the travel tech industry, airline retailing, and pricing data sectors provides unique professional development.
  • Cross-Functional Project Exposure: Working on diverse projects with marketing, product, and other teams broadens business acumen and understanding of strategic GTM initiatives.
  • Mentorship and Leadership: Opportunities to mentor junior designers and take on project leadership roles within the creative team, fostering leadership development.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Identifying potential challenges allows candidates to prepare thoughtful responses during interviews, showcasing their problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. The growth opportunities highlight the potential for career advancement and skill enhancement within ATPCO.

πŸ’‘ Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe a time you had to translate complex technical information or data into a clear and compelling visual asset. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your process, tools, and ability to simplify complexity.)
  • "How do you approach maintaining brand consistency across various digital and video platforms while also introducing creative innovation?" (Highlight your understanding of brand guidelines and your creative problem-solving approach.)
  • "Walk us through your experience using Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects for a project similar to our needs (e.g., explainer videos, promotional reels). What was your role, and what techniques did you employ?" (Be ready to detail your technical skills and project execution.)
  • "How do you manage feedback from multiple stakeholders, especially in a remote or asynchronous environment?" (Emphasize your communication, organization, and collaborative skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "Based on our company description and the 'Sage' archetype, how would you approach designing a visual campaign for ATPCO?" (Show you've researched the brand and can apply its personality.)
  • "Our culture is remote-first and emphasizes collaboration and transparency. How do you thrive in such an environment?" (Discuss your self-management, communication strategies, and experience with remote tools.)
  • "What are your thoughts on the importance of graphic design and video in B2B technology marketing?" (Demonstrate your understanding of the role of creative in enterprise sales and marketing.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio to highlight your strongest work first, clearly separating graphic design and video/motion graphics projects. Use clear headings and concise descriptions.
  • Tell the Story: For each project, articulate the problem, your approach, the tools used, your specific contributions, and the results or learnings. Make it a narrative, not just a display of images.
  • Demo Your Tools: Be prepared to briefly demonstrate your proficiency with key software if asked, or at least speak confidently about your workflow within them.
  • Focus on Relevance: Emphasize projects that align with ATPCO's needs: B2B focus, complex information simplification, brand consistency, and video production.
  • Be Ready for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, challenges, and how you'd handle specific scenarios relevant to the role.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing both technical design skills and strategic thinking, with a particular emphasis on video production and the ability to thrive in a remote-first, collaborative environment. Demonstrating an understanding of ATPCO's brand and industry is key.

πŸ“Œ Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Graphic Designer position:

  • Submit your application through the official application portal linked from the job posting.
  • Tailor your Resume: Highlight your 5+ years of graphic design experience and, crucially, your 2+ years focused on video editing and motion graphics. Use keywords from the job description such as Adobe Creative Cloud (Premiere Pro, After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), brand design, storytelling, A/B testing, and remote collaboration. Quantify achievements where possible.
  • Curate Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio prominently features strong examples of both graphic design and video/motion graphics work. Organize it logically with clear case studies that explain your process and demonstrate your ability to translate complex ideas and maintain brand consistency. Include direct links to video samples.
  • Prepare for a Creative Challenge: Anticipate a practical design or video editing exercise. Practice translating briefs into visual concepts and executing them efficiently, focusing on clarity, brand alignment, and your chosen tools.
  • Research ATPCO: Familiarize yourself with ATPCO's business, their "Sage" brand archetype, and their commitment to a remote-first, collaborative culture. Understand their position in the travel tech industry to better align your responses and portfolio examples.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

Candidates should have 5+ years of graphic design experience, with at least 2 years focused on video editing. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud and a strong portfolio showcasing both graphic and video-based design is essential.