Senior Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

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

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for translating complex ideas into compelling visual narratives, focusing on both static and motion graphics to enhance ATPCO's brand presence.
• It requires a blend of creative design expertise and technical proficiency in video editing and motion graphics, making it a hybrid visual role.
• The position involves developing on-brand creative assets across digital, video, print, and interactive media, ensuring a consistent and impactful brand story.
• Key responsibilities include leading short-form and long-form video content creation, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and maintaining brand integrity while fostering creative innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Senior Graphic Designer," the emphasis on video editing, motion graphics, and specific software like Premiere Pro and After Effects indicates a strong need for multimedia production skills, positioning this role beyond traditional graphic design into a more integrated creative production capacity. The "Remote-First Culture" combined with a "Hybrid" office type suggests a flexible work model where remote work is primary, but occasional in-office collaboration might be expected.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and execute high-quality graphic design assets for digital platforms, print materials, interactive media, and presentations, ensuring they align with ATPCO's brand identity and marketing objectives.
• Lead the end-to-end production of video content, including promotional reels, product explainers, and social media clips, utilizing advanced techniques in Adobe Premiere Pro and/or After Effects.
• Collaborate closely with the Creative & Digital Manager, marketing teams, and subject matter experts to ensure creative deliverables effectively communicate key messages and resonate with target audiences.
• Translate abstract concepts and written information into powerful visual stories that enhance understanding and engagement across diverse communication channels.
• Champion brand consistency across all creative outputs while actively seeking opportunities for creative innovation and pushing the boundaries of visual communication within brand guidelines.
• Design specialized assets such as infographics, social media graphics, event collateral, internal communication materials, and visual storyboards for video projects.
• Support efficient team operations by managing projects within tracking tools like Asana and utilizing shared systems such as Microsoft 365, SharePoint, and Digital Asset Management (DAM) systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on graphic design and video production, requiring a candidate who can manage the entire creative lifecycle from concept to final delivery across multiple formats. The mention of specific tools like Asana and DAM systems indicates a need for operational efficiency and familiarity with collaborative project management environments common in creative operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, Digital Media, or a related field is typically expected for a Senior role, or equivalent practical experience. Experience: 5+ years in graphic design, with a minimum of 2 years specifically focused on video editing and motion graphics. Experience in B2B tech or enterprise-level brands is a plus.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud suite, with a strong emphasis on Premiere Pro, After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
• Exceptional eye for visual aesthetics, including layout, typography, color theory, and compelling storytelling in both static and dynamic (motion) design contexts.
• Proven ability to adapt and maintain brand consistency across diverse mediums such as print, digital, and video, understanding platform-specific requirements (e.g., optimizing for LinkedIn vs. email campaigns).
• Demonstrated experience in creating and updating Microsoft PowerPoint theme templates and layouts, a critical skill for business presentations.
• Solid understanding of branding principles and marketing fundamentals, with the flexibility to adapt visual styles to meet project needs and brand evolution.
• Proficiency in using project tracking tools (e.g., Asana) and navigating asynchronous feedback cycles, essential for remote and cross-timezone collaboration.
• Ability to balance multiple priorities effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• A comprehensive portfolio that clearly showcases a diverse range of work, including both graphic design and video/motion graphics projects.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working within the B2B technology sector or with enterprise-level brands.
• Familiarity with Digital Asset Management (DAM) systems, such as MediaValet, or similar platforms.
• Experience with collaborative design tools like Figma.
• Knowledge of animation platforms accessible via web browsers.
• Exposure to the airline, travel technology, or pricing data sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for specific Adobe Creative Cloud applications (Premiere Pro, After Effects) alongside traditional design tools (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and presentation software (PowerPoint) is critical. The emphasis on a portfolio that spans both graphic and video work underscores the hybrid nature of this role. Preferred skills point towards familiarity with enterprise-level tools and specific industry knowledge.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated collection demonstrating expertise in brand system design, showcasing how core branding elements are applied consistently across various assets.
• Examples of workflow optimization in design projects, illustrating efficient processes from brief to final delivery, ideally with quantifiable improvements.
• Case studies that highlight the successful implementation of visual strategies across different media (digital, video, print), emphasizing adaptability and impact.
• Projects that clearly articulate the problem-solution narrative, showing how design challenges were overcome to achieve specific business or communication goals.
• Demonstration of proficiency in creating engaging video content, including showreels, explainer videos, or social media clips, with a focus on storytelling and technical execution.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of how design briefs are translated into actionable creative plans, detailing the workflow design and optimization phase.
• Evidence of experience with collaboration tools and processes (e.g., Asana, shared drives, DAM systems) for streamlined project management and asset delivery.
• Demonstrations of how design feedback is incorporated and iterated upon, showcasing a measurement and performance analysis approach to design effectiveness where applicable.
• Experience with digital asset management principles and practices to ensure organized and accessible creative assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Graphic Designer with video responsibilities, the portfolio should not just showcase aesthetics but also strategic thinking, process management, and the ability to deliver measurable impact. Evidence of managing complex projects, collaborating effectively, and adapting to different platforms and feedback cycles will be key differentiators.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

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

• This range is a base estimate and has not been adjusted for geographic differentials applicable to the Herndon, Virginia location.
• The final compensation will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and the specific geographic location of employment if different from the listed office.

Benefits:

• Remote-First Culture: Flexibility to work from home in your country of hire, providing significant autonomy and work-life balance.
• "Leave Your Way" PTO: Generous paid time off policy that allows employees to take the time they need, when they need it, emphasizing trust and personal responsibility.
• 401(k) with Generous Employer Match: A strong retirement savings plan with employer contributions to help employees build long-term financial security.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Robust medical, dental, vision, and mental health coverage, ensuring holistic employee well-being.
• Global Tuition and Gym Reimbursement: Support for continuous learning and physical health through reimbursement programs for educational pursuits and fitness.
• Standby Flight Program: An attractive perk for travel enthusiasts, offering opportunities to explore the world.
• Inclusive, Collaborative Culture: A workplace environment that values diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, where employees are seen, heard, and valued.

Working Hours: While not explicitly stated, a full-time role typically implies around 40 hours per week. The "Remote-First Culture" and "Leave Your Way" PTO suggest flexibility in daily scheduling, provided core responsibilities and collaboration needs are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided, but the note explicitly states it's not geographically adjusted, which is crucial for candidates in higher cost-of-living areas within the US. The benefits package is exceptionally strong, particularly the "Leave Your Way" PTO and travel-related perks, which are significant differentiators for attracting talent. The "Remote-First" aspect combined with "Hybrid" office type needs clarification on expected in-office presence, if any.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Travel Technology / Data Solutions. ATPCO is a critical player in the global travel ecosystem, providing essential airfare content and technology solutions that power flight purchases worldwide. Company Size: The specific size isn't listed in the provided data, but ATPCO is described as a global entity holding vast amounts of fare data, implying a significant, established organization. Founded: Company founded date is not provided, but it is positioned as a long-standing, foundational entity in the airfare content space.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of an in-house Creative team, suggesting a dedicated internal resource for design and multimedia production rather than relying solely on external agencies.
• The Senior Graphic Designer will likely report to a Creative & Digital Manager, indicating a clear reporting line within the creative department.
• Close collaboration with marketing stakeholders, subject matter experts, and potentially product teams is expected, emphasizing cross-functional integration within ATPCO's broader organization.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Creativity: ATPCO's core business relies on data, suggesting that creative output is informed by insights, performance metrics, and strategic objectives rather than purely subjective aesthetics.
• Process-Oriented Workflow: The mention of project tracking tools (Asana) and DAM systems points towards a structured approach to managing creative projects and assets.
• Innovation within Structure: While brand guidelines are paramount, there's an expectation to "push for creative innovation," indicating a culture that balances established processes with a forward-thinking approach.

Company Website: [ATPCO Website URL - Not provided, but implied by domain 'atpco.net']

📝 Enhancement Note: ATPCO's position as a foundational entity in airfare content suggests a stable, yet innovative environment. The "Remote-First Culture" and emphasis on well-being, alongside core business operations, indicates a modern company balancing operational excellence with employee experience. The "Sage" archetype mentioned in the job description implies a culture valuing wisdom, foresight, and clear communication.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a "Senior" level position within the Creative & Media category, indicating a need for significant experience, autonomy, and the ability to lead projects and mentor junior team members. It implies a role that contributes strategically to visual communication efforts. Reporting Structure: The Senior Graphic Designer will report to the Creative & Digital Manager, placing them within a structured creative department. This role will likely interact with various internal stakeholders across marketing, product, and potentially sales teams. Operations Impact: The role directly impacts ATPCO's brand perception, market communication, and internal engagement. By creating compelling visual assets and video content, the designer influences how ATPCO is perceived by its B2B clients, partners, and employees, thereby contributing to brand authority, lead generation (through marketing collateral), and internal alignment.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in motion graphics, advanced video editing techniques, and potentially explore emerging visual technologies relevant to the travel tech industry.
• Leadership Development: As a senior role, there's potential for growth into team lead positions, mentorship roles for junior designers, or taking ownership of larger creative campaigns and initiatives.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Working closely with marketing and subject matter experts provides exposure to broader business strategies, allowing for growth into roles with more strategic input or a focus on specific business units.
• Industry Expertise: Developing a niche understanding of the travel tech and airline retailing sectors can open doors to specialized creative roles within the industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title suggests a pathway for growth either through deeper specialization in visual media or by moving into leadership and strategic roles within the creative function. The company's focus on innovation and its unique industry position offer interesting development avenues.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company describes a "Remote-First Culture" and lists "Hybrid" as the work arrangement. This suggests that remote work is the default, with potential for occasional in-office collaboration or team meetings at their Herndon, Virginia location. Office Location(s): The primary office is located at 2340 Dulles Corner Boulevard, Herndon, VA 20171, USA. This location is situated in the Dulles Technology Corridor, a hub for tech companies.

Workspace Context:

• Flexibility: The remote-first approach offers significant flexibility in setting up a personal workspace conducive to creative tasks and focused work.
• Technology Access: Employees are expected to have reliable internet access. The company provides access to essential software (Adobe Creative Cloud, Microsoft 365) and systems (SharePoint, DAM), likely accessed remotely.
• Collaboration: While remote, the company emphasizes an "Inclusive, Collaborative Culture," suggesting that virtual collaboration tools and practices are well-established to facilitate teamwork and idea sharing.

Work Schedule: The "Leave Your Way" PTO and remote-first policy imply a degree of flexibility in daily working hours. However, as a full-time role requiring collaboration, standard business hours for communication and project synchronization are generally expected, potentially with flexibility around core meeting times.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Remote-First" designation is key here. It suggests that while there's a physical office, the expectation is for employees to work remotely most of the time. Candidates should clarify expectations regarding any mandatory in-office days or travel for team events.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves a review of the resume and portfolio by a recruiter or hiring manager to assess basic qualifications and creative fit.
• Portfolio Review & Discussion: Candidates will be expected to present their portfolio, highlighting relevant graphic design and video editing projects. This stage will focus on conceptual thinking, technical execution, and storytelling.
• Skills Assessment: A practical exercise or a more in-depth discussion about specific design challenges, software proficiency, and problem-solving approaches, potentially including a take-home assignment or a live design challenge.
• Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with the Creative & Digital Manager and potentially other marketing or team members to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and strategic alignment with ATPCO's brand and business objectives.
• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to confirm fit and discuss overall role expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 5-7 of your strongest projects that best represent the required skills (graphic design, video editing, motion graphics, branding, PowerPoint). Ensure a clear balance between static and motion work.
• Showcase Process: For each project, briefly outline the brief, your role, the challenges, your creative process, the tools used, and the outcome/impact. Use visuals to support your narrative.
• Highlight Video Expertise: Clearly demonstrate your proficiency in Premiere Pro and After Effects. Include examples of different video types (e.g., explainer, promotional, social).
• Emphasize Brand Consistency: Show how you've maintained brand integrity across diverse applications, especially if you have B2B tech or enterprise experience.
• Include PowerPoint Examples: If possible, showcase your ability to create professional and branded PowerPoint templates and presentations.
• Be Ready to Discuss: Prepare to articulate your design choices, problem-solving approaches, and how your work aligns with business objectives.

Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate Design Challenges: Be prepared for questions about how you would approach a specific design brief, e.g., creating assets for a new product launch or a marketing campaign.
• Technical Proficiency: Expect questions about your familiarity with Adobe CC, project management tools, and any preferred workflows for video production and asset management.
• Collaboration Scenarios: Think about how you would handle feedback, work with remote teams, and collaborate with non-design stakeholders.
• Brand Application: Understand ATPCO's brand (Sage archetype – wise, forward-thinking, approachable) and be ready to discuss how you would apply it creatively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is the central piece of this application. It needs to clearly demonstrate a strong command of both graphic design and video editing, with specific examples that align with the job requirements and ATPCO's brand. Preparation should focus on articulating the strategic thought process behind the creative work.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud Suite: Essential, with specific emphasis on Premiere Pro (video editing), After Effects (motion graphics, visual effects), Photoshop (image editing, manipulation), Illustrator (vector graphics, logos, illustrations), and InDesign (layout, print design, presentations).
• Microsoft PowerPoint: Critical for creating and updating theme templates and layouts for business presentations.
• Project Tracking Tools: Proficiency in Asana is explicitly mentioned, indicating its use for task management, project timelines, and team coordination.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed for this role, a general understanding of how creative assets perform on different platforms (digital, social) might be beneficial, suggesting familiarity with basic analytics dashboards.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to this design role, but understanding how marketing collateral integrates with CRM systems or marketing automation platforms could be a plus.

Other Potential Tools:

• Digital Asset Management (DAM) Systems: Familiarity with systems like MediaValet or similar is preferred for organizing, storing, and distributing creative assets.
• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft 365 suite (including SharePoint for file sharing and collaboration) is expected.
• Web-based Animation Platforms: Mentioned as a nice-to-have, suggesting potential future tools or integrations.
• Figma: Preferred tool for collaborative design and prototyping.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement is deep proficiency in the Adobe Creative Cloud, particularly Premiere Pro and After Effects, alongside PowerPoint. Familiarity with project management (Asana) and DAM systems will streamline workflow and demonstrate operational efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Clarity, Quality, Curiosity: These are the driving forces of the Creative team, suggesting an environment that values clear communication, high standards of execution, and an inquisitive approach to problem-solving and innovation.
• Sage Archetype: The brand embodies wisdom, forward-thinking, and approachability. This translates to a culture that values expertise, strategic planning, and clear, accessible communication in its creative output.
• Intentional Design: A focus on "simplifying the complex while delivering with precision" implies a deliberate and thoughtful approach to design, aiming for clarity and effectiveness.
• Collaboration: Stated as "at the heart of our work," emphasizing teamwork and collective effort.
• Evolution: A commitment to "always evolving to meet the future of airline retailing" points to a dynamic and adaptive culture that embraces change and continuous improvement.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires close collaboration with marketing stakeholders and subject matter experts, indicating a need for strong communication and partnership skills across departments.
• Remote Teamwork: Given the remote-first culture, the collaboration style will heavily rely on virtual tools and asynchronous communication, requiring proactive engagement and clear articulation of ideas.
• Feedback Exchange: An "open-door leadership" and "weekly 1:1s" suggest a culture that encourages open feedback and dialogue, essential for creative iteration and growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on the "Sage" archetype and the core values of clarity, quality, and curiosity provide a unique insight into the team's operational philosophy. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate how their work and collaboration style align with these principles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Brand Consistency with Innovation: Effectively maintaining ATPCO's established brand guidelines while pushing creative boundaries to produce fresh and impactful visuals.
• Translating Complex Data into Simple Visuals: Condensing intricate airfare data and technology concepts into easily digestible and engaging graphics and videos for diverse audiences.
• Remote Collaboration Efficiency: Navigating asynchronous communication and time zone differences to ensure seamless project execution and timely delivery of assets.
• Adapting to Evolving Technology: Staying current with the latest design and video editing software, techniques, and digital trends to maintain a high level of creative output.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Creative Skills: Opportunity to hone expertise in motion graphics, advanced video production, and potentially explore new design software or techniques.
• Industry Insight: Gaining deep knowledge of the airline retailing and travel tech sectors, which can lead to specialized career paths within the industry.
• Cross-Departmental Understanding: Developing a broader business acumen by working closely with marketing and product teams on strategic initiatives.
• Mentorship: Potential to mentor junior designers and contribute to the growth of the internal creative team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to a senior creative role in a specialized industry. Highlighting how one can overcome these challenges, particularly in a remote setting, will be key. The growth opportunities are significant, offering both technical and strategic career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate a complex technical concept or data into a clear and compelling visual. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and impact.)
• "How do you ensure brand consistency across diverse media formats (digital, print, video) while still allowing for creative innovation?" (Assess understanding of branding, adaptability, and creative balance.)
• "Walk us through your process for creating a short promotional video from concept to final delivery. What tools do you use, and how do you manage feedback?" (Evaluate video production workflow, software proficiency, and collaboration.)
• "How would you approach designing a new PowerPoint template for ATPCO, keeping our 'Sage' brand archetype in mind?" (Test understanding of brand application and presentation design skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about ATPCO and our role in the travel tech industry?" (Gauge research and genuine interest.)
• "Our brand embodies the 'Sage' archetype. How does this influence your design philosophy, and how would you apply it to your work here?" (Assess cultural alignment and strategic thinking.)
• "How do you contribute to a collaborative and inclusive team environment, especially in a remote-first setting?" (Evaluate teamwork and communication skills.)
• "How do you approach receiving and incorporating feedback on your creative work?" (Understand receptiveness to critique and iteration.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your portfolio presentation as a narrative. For each project, explain the "why" – the problem, the objective, and how your solution achieved it.
• Demonstrate Range: Showcase both your graphic design and video editing skills. Ensure your video examples exhibit strong editing, pacing, and motion graphics.
• Highlight Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your mastery of Adobe Creative Cloud tools, especially Premiere Pro and After Effects, and how you leverage them for efficiency and quality.
• Focus on Impact: Whenever possible, quantify the results of your work (e.g., increased engagement, improved clarity, successful campaign execution).
• Tailor to ATPCO: Select projects that best align with ATPCO's industry (B2B tech, travel) and brand personality (Sage archetype – wise, forward-thinking, approachable).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation should focus on showcasing not just design talent but also strategic thinking, strong communication skills, and an understanding of ATPCO's business and culture. The portfolio presentation is paramount and should be treated as a strategic opportunity to "sell" your capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.
• Curate your portfolio meticulously: Select 5-7 of your strongest projects that showcase both graphic design and video editing expertise, ensuring they align with ATPCO's brand and industry. Prepare to present these projects with a clear narrative of the problem, your solution, and the impact.
• Tailor your resume: Highlight your 5+ years of graphic design experience, specifically mentioning your 2+ years in video editing and motion graphics. Emphasize proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud (Premiere Pro, After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), PowerPoint, and project management tools like Asana. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare for interview questions: Practice articulating your creative process, problem-solving skills, and experience collaborating in a remote environment. Be ready to discuss ATPCO's brand archetype and how you would apply it.
• Research ATPCO: Understand their business (airfare content, travel tech), their market position, and their company culture (remote-first, well-being, Sage archetype). This will help you tailor your answers and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ 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.

---