Senior Graphic Designer - Communications

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Graphic Designer - Communications Company: HDR Location: Los Angeles, California, United States; San Francisco, California, United States; Chicago, Illinois, United States; Seattle, Washington, United States Job Type: Full-time, Regular Category: Marketing & Design Operations Date Posted: January 28, 2026 Experience Level: 5-10 years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive visual communication strategy by applying graphic design fundamentals to architectural content, creating compelling narratives through various media.
• Develop and refine print and digital design assets for high-impact campaigns, publications, and client presentations within the AEC industry.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including architects, designers, and marketing specialists, to translate complex ideas into clear, visually engaging graphics and infographics.
• Maintain and elevate visual standards for award submittals, external media platforms, and flagship publications, ensuring brand consistency and design excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Senior Graphic Designer - Communications," the role's deep integration with architectural content, complex data visualization, and cross-functional collaboration with design and marketing studios positions it within a specialized area of Marketing Operations, focusing on the visual execution of GTM strategies and brand storytelling in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector. The emphasis on interpreting architectural drawings and translating technical information suggests a need for operational efficiency in content creation and a strong understanding of stakeholder communication needs.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Apply expertise in graphic design fundamentals such as layout, typography, alignment, and composition to elevate all visual outputs for HDR's architecture practice.
• Interpret architectural design content, extracting key ideas to communicate visually through compelling narratives using graphics, layouts, diagrams, infographics, and mixed media storytelling from concept through completion.
• Create refined print and digital-ready deliverables for a variety of platforms including award submittals, book design, social media posts, articles, publications, infographics, videos, web, and presentations.
• Demonstrate curiosity and ability with an understanding of basic architectural drawings to effectively translate design intent into visual assets.
• Brainstorm and develop diagrams and graphics that convey complex data and information in collaboration with experts from architecture, design, computational, sustainability, research, and planning disciplines.
• Refine architectural drawings, renderings, and animations to translate and simplify design ideas for clients, media partners, and other key stakeholders.
• Collaborate with the architecture communications team and the larger Architecture Marketing Studio to brainstorm and develop new ideas and projects in support of architecture practice business goals.
• Deliver assignments on time while consistently meeting high-quality standards, managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Work with peer or senior designers on multi-component projects, contributing to team-based project success.
• Research technology and production techniques or processes for each project as necessary to ensure optimal execution and innovation.
• Work alongside design, marketing, and communications leadership to develop and maintain visual standards for awards and external media platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong operational component, requiring efficient project management, adherence to quality standards, and the ability to manage multiple design streams simultaneously. The emphasis on translating complex architectural and technical information into accessible visuals points to a process-oriented approach to content creation and a need for clear communication protocols with subject matter experts.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Degree in Graphic Design, Design Communication, Architecture, or a related discipline.

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of relevant industry experience.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience specifically within the Architecture industry is preferred.

Required Skills:

• Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign).
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to design a wide variety of styles, demonstrating versatility and adaptability.
• Strong eye for design details, including typography, alignment, and hierarchy.
• Demonstrated understanding of branding/brand development, communications, and research principles.
• Proficiency in customer service, strong communication, and negotiation skills.
• Excellent time management, project management, and organizational skills.
• Detail-oriented with a rigorous mindset committed to quality.
• Experience working on strategic campaigns, with a focus on integrated visual and written content.
• Understanding of offset printing/digital printing and color correction processes.
• Ability to coordinate complex projects from concept to completion.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with video editing and motion graphics software, including Premiere, After Effects, and Audition.
• Ability to curate and design compelling project narratives for high-end publications, presentations, brochures, infographics, and architecture graphics, ensuring clarity and visual impact.
• Advanced proficiency in layout design, typography, and graphic design principles.
• Experience collaborating with architects, project managers, and marketing teams.
• Familiarity with visualization tools such as Rhino, Revit, or similar AEC software is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Required Qualifications" section mentions specific software and skills that are crucial for operational efficiency in a design context. The mention of "coordinating complex projects" and "time management" strongly suggests an operational focus on process execution and delivery. The preferred skills in video and AEC software indicate a desire for candidates who can streamline workflows and contribute to a multi-faceted GTM collateral creation process.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A robust portfolio demonstrating a minimum of 5 years of graphic design experience, with a preference for work within the Architecture industry.
• Showcase a diverse range of design projects, including print collateral, digital assets, infographics, and visual storytelling examples.
• Highlight projects that required interpreting complex information (e.g., architectural drawings, data) and translating it into clear, impactful visual narratives.
• Include case studies or examples that demonstrate proficiency in layout, typography, composition, and brand application.
• Provide examples of work that adhere to established visual standards or demonstrate the ability to develop new ones.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of managing design projects from concept through completion, illustrating an understanding of project lifecycles and workflow management.
• Examples of how you have collaborated with subject matter experts (e.g., architects, engineers) to gather information and refine design concepts.
• Documentation or case studies that showcase problem-solving skills in design, particularly in simplifying complex ideas or data.
• Examples of deliverables created for various media (print, digital, web, social media), demonstrating adaptability in output formats.

📝 Enhancement Note: The request for a portfolio that showcases "interpreting complex information" and "workflow management" emphasizes the operational aspect of design. Candidates should prepare to discuss their process for intake, concept development, revision cycles, and final delivery, demonstrating efficiency and a structured approach to design operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Senior Graphic Designer with 5-10 years of experience in major metropolitan areas like Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, the estimated salary range is $85,000 - $115,000 annually. This estimate accounts for the specialized nature of the role within the AEC industry and the required technical and creative proficiencies.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)) with company match.
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), reflecting HDR's commitment to employee ownership.
• Professional development opportunities, including training, conferences, and tuition reimbursement.
• Wellness programs and resources.
• Potential for flexible work arrangements on a case-by-case basis, though the role is primarily on-site.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week.
• Occasional overtime may be required to meet project deadlines or specific campaign needs, reflecting the demands of project-based work in a communications studio.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on market data for Senior Graphic Designers in the specified US locations, considering the AEC industry context. HDR's status as an employee-owned company (ESOP) is a significant benefit that influences compensation and overall employee engagement, aligning with a strong operational culture focused on shared success.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) and related consulting services. HDR is a global firm specializing in infrastructure, architecture, environmental, and construction services. Company Size: HDR is a large enterprise, employing over 13,000 professionals globally and operating across numerous studios. This scale indicates robust operational infrastructure and a structured approach to project delivery and internal communications. Founded: 1917, with a long history of significant contributions to design and engineering projects worldwide. This longevity suggests a stable environment with established processes and a deep understanding of industry best practices.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the Architecture Marketing Studio, a specialized team focused on supporting the firm's architecture practice.
• It involves close collaboration with a team of designers, marketers, and communications professionals.
• Reporting structure likely involves a Marketing Director or a Creative Director within the studio, with day-to-day guidance from project leads or senior team members.
• Cross-functional collaboration is key, requiring interaction with architects, designers, computational specialists, sustainability experts, researchers, and planners across various disciplines and project teams.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis and Insights: While not directly a data analysis role, the Senior Graphic Designer is expected to interpret and visualize complex data and information provided by subject matter experts, requiring analytical thinking to distill key messages.
• Workflow Planning and Optimization: The role demands efficient project execution, managing multiple design tasks, and adhering to timelines and quality standards, reflecting an operational focus on process optimization.
• Automation and Efficiency Practices: While not explicitly stated, leveraging design software efficiently and potentially exploring new tools or techniques to streamline the creation of visual assets would contribute to operational efficiency.

Company Website: https://www.hdrinc.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: HDR's strong emphasis on employee ownership and a culture of inclusion, as highlighted in their description, suggests an operational framework that values collaboration, respect, and employee empowerment. The company's significant presence in the AEC industry implies a need for structured communication and marketing operations to support a global client base.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior-level position, indicating a need for significant independent work, creative problem-solving, and mentorship capabilities. The role requires not just execution but also strategic input into visual communication approaches within the architecture practice. Reporting Structure: The Senior Graphic Designer will likely report to a Marketing Manager, Creative Director, or a similar leadership role within the Architecture Marketing Studio. This structure provides clear lines of communication and strategic direction for operations within the design function. Operations Impact: The role directly impacts the firm's ability to win new business, enhance its brand reputation, and communicate its design expertise effectively. High-quality visual assets are critical for award submittals, client proposals, marketing campaigns, and thought leadership publications, all of which drive business development and client engagement.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunity to deepen expertise in visual storytelling for complex technical subjects and lead design initiatives within specific campaigns or publications.
• Industry Skill Development: Potential to gain specialized knowledge in AEC industry communications, learn about advanced design visualization techniques, and explore new software and technologies relevant to the field.
• Leadership Potential: With proven performance, opportunities may arise for leading design aspects of major projects, mentoring junior designers, or contributing to the development of firm-wide visual standards and operational processes within the marketing studio.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" designation implies a level of operational autonomy and responsibility. Growth opportunities should be viewed through the lens of advancing within design operations, potentially leading teams or projects, and contributing to the strategic development of HDR's visual communication function.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a traditional office environment designed for collaboration and focused work. The presence of multiple office locations suggests that the work environment may vary slightly but will generally be professional and equipped for creative tasks. Office Location(s): The role is available in major US cities: Los Angeles, California; San Francisco, California; Chicago, Illinois; and Seattle, Washington. These are large, vibrant urban centers with significant operational hubs for HDR. Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, fostering interaction with other designers, marketers, and architects.
• Access to necessary design tools, software, and potentially advanced rendering or visualization hardware will be provided.
• Opportunities for in-person brainstorming sessions, project reviews, and team meetings are integral to the work environment.
• The environment likely supports a structured workflow, with clear project assignments and communication channels.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is full-time, typically 40 hours per week.
• Flexibility may be offered as per company policy, but the core expectation is on-site presence during business hours to facilitate collaboration and project coordination. Adherence to deadlines is paramount.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes a structured work environment conducive to team collaboration and efficient execution of design operations. The availability in multiple major cities offers candidates flexibility in choosing a location that best suits their professional and personal needs, impacting daily commute and local work culture.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit resume, portfolio, and cover letter. The portfolio is a critical component.
• Initial Screening: HR or a hiring manager reviews applications for basic qualifications and fit.
• Portfolio Review: A deeper dive into the candidate's portfolio by senior design or marketing staff to assess design skills, relevant experience, and visual storytelling capabilities.
• Skills Assessment/Technical Interview: This may involve a design challenge or a discussion about specific design software proficiency, problem-solving approaches, and understanding of AEC industry communications.
• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Discussions with team members and leadership to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with HDR's values and culture.
• Final Interview: Potential interview with higher-level management to discuss strategic contributions and overall fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 5-7 of your strongest projects that best represent the skills and experience required for this role, especially those involving complex data, architectural interpretation, or integrated campaigns.
• Showcase Process: For key projects, briefly explain your design process, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the final outcome. Highlight how you interpreted client needs or complex information.
• Highlight AEC Relevance: If possible, include projects from the AEC industry or similar complex technical fields. If not, emphasize transferable skills in data visualization and clear communication of technical concepts.
• Demonstrate Versatility: Include a mix of print and digital examples, infographics, and potentially examples of visual storytelling through diagrams or narrative layouts.
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate, whether it's a digital PDF or an online platform.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a design challenge that may require you to interpret a piece of architectural content or data and create a visual representation for a specific audience (e.g., a publication, a client presentation).
• Practice articulating your design decisions, rationale, and problem-solving approach clearly and concisely.
• Understand HDR's core business and recent projects to demonstrate informed interest and ability to align your design thinking with the company's goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and potential design challenge underscores the operational reality of design roles – demonstrating tangible skills and a structured approach to creative problem-solving. Applicants should prepare to discuss their process, not just the final output.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for all graphic design tasks.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Required for general document creation and collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly an analytics role, the designer will work with data presented in reports or proposals, requiring an understanding of how to visualize information effectively.

CRM & Automation:

• No direct CRM or automation tools are specified for this role, but familiarity with project management tools that facilitate workflow and task tracking (e.g., Asana, Trello, or internal HDR systems) would be beneficial for operational efficiency.

Specific to the Role:

• Video Editing/Motion Graphics: Premiere, After Effects, and Audition are listed as preferred, indicating potential use for multimedia campaign assets.
• Visualization Tools (Preferred): Rhino, Revit, or other AEC-specific visualization software are noted as "nice to haves," suggesting that an understanding of these tools can aid in interpreting and refining architectural drawings and renderings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core requirement for Adobe Creative Suite highlights the fundamental operational tools for graphic design. The preferred tools in video and AEC visualization suggest a desire for candidates who can contribute to a broader spectrum of GTM collateral creation, streamlining the production process for diverse media.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Excellence: A strong commitment to high-quality standards in all visual outputs, ensuring clarity, impact, and aesthetic appeal.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with diverse teams, including architects, designers, and marketing professionals, to achieve common goals.
• Curiosity & Critical Thinking: An inquisitive mindset, willingness to ask questions, and ability to think critically to solve design challenges and interpret complex information.
• Detail-Oriented: A rigorous, detail-focused approach to design, ensuring accuracy and polish in all deliverables.
• Accountability: Holding oneself and the team accountable for delivering excellent contributions on time.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with subject matter experts across disciplines to understand project nuances and translate them visually.
• Iterative Design: Participating in brainstorming sessions and design reviews, being open to feedback, and iterating on designs collaboratively.
• Shared Knowledge: Contributing to a team environment where design knowledge, best practices, and creative ideas are shared.
• Client-Focused: Understanding the needs of clients and media partners, and designing assets that effectively communicate HDR's value and expertise to these stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "accountability," "collaboration," and "detail-oriented" reflects an operational culture focused on reliable execution and team synergy, essential for managing complex design projects within a large organization.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complex Technical Information: The primary challenge will be to interpret and visually communicate intricate architectural designs, engineering concepts, and complex data into easily understandable and engaging graphics for diverse audiences.
• Balancing Creative Vision with Brand Standards: Ensuring that creative output aligns with HDR's brand identity and architectural practice goals while pushing creative boundaries.
• Managing Multiple Projects and Deadlines: Juggling concurrent projects with varying requirements and tight deadlines within a fast-paced studio environment.
• Staying Current with Design Trends and AEC Technology: Continuously learning about new design tools, techniques, and emerging technologies in both graphic design and the AEC industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to refine skills in project management, workflow optimization, and efficient design production within the AEC context.
• Industry Specialization: Deepen understanding of architectural design principles, sustainability in design, and urban planning to better inform visual communications.
• Advanced Tool Proficiency: Potential to become proficient in motion graphics, video editing, or advanced visualization software if those become core to the role or team needs.
• Mentorship: Learning from senior designers and marketing leaders within HDR, potentially leading to mentorship roles for junior staff.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are framed to highlight areas where operational efficiency and strategic thinking are crucial. The growth opportunities are tied to both enhancing creative/technical skills and developing operational leadership within the design function.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate complex technical information into a compelling visual narrative. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your problem-solving approach, use of diagrams/infographics, and impact.)
• "How do you ensure your design work aligns with brand guidelines while still being innovative and impactful, especially within the AEC industry?" (Discuss your understanding of brand operations and creative strategy.)
• "Walk us through your process for managing multiple design projects with competing deadlines. How do you prioritize and ensure quality?" (Highlight your project management and time management skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about HDR's work in the AEC industry, and how do you see your design skills contributing to our mission?" (Research HDR's recent projects and values.)
• "How do you approach collaboration with architects and engineers who may have different communication styles or technical jargon?" (Demonstrate your communication and interpersonal skills.)
• "How do you measure the success of your design work, particularly in the context of marketing campaigns or award submittals?" (Focus on quantifiable results or impact.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the brief, your approach, key design decisions, challenges, and the final results. Emphasize your role and contributions.
• Highlight Process: Show sketches, wireframes, or early concepts to illustrate your thinking and iterative design process.
• Quantify Impact: Where possible, mention metrics or outcomes related to your designs (e.g., increased engagement, successful award submission, positive client feedback).
• Tailor to HDR: Connect your work and experience to HDR's specific needs and the AEC industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just creative talent but also operational competence – how you manage your work, collaborate, solve problems, and deliver results consistently.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the HDR Taleo career portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features projects that demonstrate your skills in visual storytelling, data visualization, interpreting technical information, and creating assets for print and digital media. Prioritize any AEC-related work.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 5+ years of experience, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, project management capabilities, and successful campaign contributions. Use keywords from the job description.
• Cover Letter Crafting: Write a compelling cover letter that articulates your passion for design within the AEC context, your understanding of HDR's work, and how your skills align with the role's responsibilities and operational demands.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research HDR, its core values, recent projects, and its position in the AEC industry to demonstrate genuine interest and an understanding of the company's operational and strategic goals.

⚠️ 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.