Visual Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Visual Designer Company: Nen Creative Location: Remote (US-based) Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design Date Posted: 2025-09-03 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: Remote Solely

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the visual strategy for tech startups, translating creative briefs into impactful brand systems, websites, and marketing assets.
• Execute high-level visual craft with a modern, tech-oriented aesthetic, focusing on innovative design solutions.
• Collaborate closely with creative directors, strategists, and cross-functional teams to ensure cohesive and elevated design outcomes.
• Develop and present multiple design concepts, demonstrating a balance between speed, iteration, and exceptional craft.
• Maintain visual coherence across all client and internal project deliverables, ensuring brand consistency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Visual Designer," the responsibilities and company description strongly suggest a focus on Brand Design and Digital Product Design within the tech startup ecosystem. The role requires not just aesthetic execution but also strategic contribution to a startup's visual identity and market presence.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and execution of visual design for brand identity systems, websites, and marketing collateral for technology startups.
• Translate complex creative briefs and strategic objectives into compelling visual narratives and user-centered design solutions.
• Develop and present a range of design concepts, articulating the rationale behind design decisions concerning layout, typography, color palettes, and visual hierarchy.
• Collaborate with creative directors and brand strategists to define and maintain a consistent visual language across all client touchpoints.
• Ensure the successful implementation of visual designs, working closely with development teams or external partners to uphold design integrity.
• Drive the visual design process from initial concept through to final asset delivery, managing timelines and stakeholder feedback.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and workflows within the studio, fostering a culture of innovation and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities emphasize a leadership role in visual design execution and strategy, particularly for tech startups. The role requires strong conceptual thinking and the ability to translate business needs into effective visual communication, with a focus on brand building and digital presence.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience, is highly recommended. Experience: 3+ years of professional experience in visual design, brand identity development, or digital design, preferably within an agency, startup, or studio environment.

Required Skills:

• Proven ability to lead the development of brand systems and visual identities for tech-focused clients.
• Exceptional visual craft demonstrated through a strong portfolio showcasing expertise in digital design, web design, and marketing assets.
• Proficiency in creating innovative visuals with a modern, tech-oriented aesthetic that appeals to ambitious startups.
• Mastery of design principles including typography, color theory, composition, and visual hierarchy.
• Advanced proficiency in design software, specifically Figma and the Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts and rationale effectively to diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to take ownership, initiate action, and operate independently while fostering collaborative teamwork.
• Experience successfully navigating fast-paced, client-facing environments with evolving project requirements.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with animation, illustration, motion design, or 3D design, adding depth to visual storytelling.
• Expertise in marketing design, including campaign creative, social media graphics, and digital advertising.
• Adaptability and comfort working in dynamic, less structured environments where priorities can shift rapidly.
• Familiarity with UX/UI principles and their application in digital product design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "modern, tech-oriented style" and "innovative visuals" for startups indicates a need for a designer who understands current design trends in the tech industry and can apply them strategically. The required software proficiency is key, and a portfolio demonstrating relevant work is paramount.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated selection of projects showcasing end-to-end visual design execution, from concept to final delivery.
• Case studies that clearly articulate the design problem, the strategic approach taken, and the visual solutions implemented for tech startups or similar clients.
• Demonstrations of brand system development, including logos, color palettes, typography, and brand guidelines.
• Examples of website design, highlighting layout, user interface elements, and visual coherence.
• Marketing collateral design, such as social media graphics, ad creatives, or pitch decks.
• Projects that illustrate the ability to adapt design style to different brand personalities while maintaining a modern, tech-forward aesthetic.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase examples of how creative briefs were translated into design concepts and executed.
• Provide insights into the iteration process and how feedback was incorporated to refine designs.
• Demonstrate the ability to maintain visual consistency across multiple deliverables and platforms.
• Include examples of presenting design concepts and articulating the strategic rationale behind them.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is the critical evaluation tool for this role. It needs to go beyond just aesthetics to demonstrate strategic thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to execute a modern, tech-centric brand vision. The "process" aspect refers to showing how the work was done, not just the final output.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for a Visual Designer with 3+ years of experience in a high-cost-of-living area like New York City, and considering the remote nature and startup environment, an estimated annual salary range would be $80,000 - $110,000. This range accounts for the specialized skills in tech-oriented brand design and agency/studio experience.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous allowance for vacation, sick days, and personal time.
• Remote Work Flexibility: Opportunity to work from anywhere within the United States.
• Professional Development: Potential for growth and learning opportunities as the studio scales.
• Collaborative Environment: Work with a dynamic, fast-growing creative team on impactful projects.

Working Hours: This is a full-time position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week. While remote, adherence to core business hours for collaboration and client interaction is expected to facilitate effective teamwork and communication within US time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on market data for similar roles in major US tech hubs and the specified experience level. Benefits are confirmed as healthcare coverage and paid time off. The "US-based" requirement suggests a need for alignment with US business hours.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Creative & Media / Marketing & Advertising / Technology Consulting. Nen Creative operates at the intersection of design, branding, and technology, serving primarily tech startups. Company Size: Small (Less than 50 employees, likely much smaller currently). This implies a lean, agile, and highly collaborative environment where individual contributions have a significant impact. Founded: 2022. This indicates a relatively young and rapidly growing company, offering opportunities to shape processes and culture as it scales.

Team Structure:

• The design team is likely small and closely integrated with strategy and client management functions.
• The Visual Designer will report to a Creative Director or similar senior creative lead.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close partnerships with strategists, project managers, and potentially founders or marketing leads at client companies.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Design decisions are informed by client briefs, market research, and understanding of target audiences within the tech sector.
• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Emphasis on agile processes, rapid iteration, and efficient project management to meet startup timelines.
• Automation & Efficiency Practices: While not explicitly stated for design, efficiency in tool usage and process streamlining is implied given the startup context.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Nen Creative positions itself as a studio for ambitious tech startups, suggesting a culture that values innovation, speed, and high-quality output. The company's recent founding and rapid growth imply an entrepreneurial and dynamic work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Visual Designer. This role is for an individual contributor with a solid foundation in visual design principles and practical experience, ready to take on significant project ownership. Reporting Structure: The Visual Designer will likely report to a Creative Director or Principal Designer, working within a small, focused creative team. Operations Impact: The Visual Designer's work directly influences how tech startups present themselves to investors, customers, and the market. High-impact visual design is crucial for brand perception, user engagement, and ultimately, a startup's success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: As the studio grows, opportunities to take on larger projects, lead design initiatives, and mentor junior designers may arise.
• Industry Skill Development: Exposure to a wide range of tech startups allows for diversification of design experience and staying ahead of industry trends.
• Leadership Potential: The chance to help shape the design function and processes within a scaling company offers a clear path toward leadership roles in design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "clear growth path as we scale" mentioned in the job description is a significant draw. This role offers the potential to grow with the company, taking on more responsibility and potentially leadership as Nen Creative expands its client base and service offerings.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Remote. The position is fully remote, allowing for flexibility in work location within the United States. Office Location(s): While the company is based in New York City, the role is US-based remote. This means candidates from various locations across the US are welcome, provided they can align with US business hours and client needs.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Despite being remote, the company emphasizes close collaboration with internal teams and clients.
• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to standard design software (Figma, Adobe Suite) is expected. Effective use of communication and project management tools (e.g., Slack, Asana, email) will be crucial.
• Operations Team Interaction: Regular virtual check-ins, team meetings, and project-specific discussions will facilitate interaction and knowledge sharing.

Work Schedule: Full-time, approximately 40 hours per week. The remote setting offers flexibility, but candidates must be prepared to align with client needs and team collaboration requirements, which may include early morning or late afternoon meetings depending on team and client locations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The remote nature is a key aspect of the work environment. Candidates should be comfortable with asynchronous communication and proactive self-management, while also being available for synchronous collaboration during core US business hours.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Focus on submitted portfolio and resume. A strong portfolio demonstrating relevant experience is critical for advancing.
• Portfolio Presentation/Discussion: Candidates will likely be asked to walk through selected projects from their portfolio, explaining their process, design rationale, and impact.
• Skills Assessment/Design Challenge: A practical design exercise may be given to assess design thinking, problem-solving skills, and proficiency in required tools.
• Team/Culture Fit Interview: Discussions with creative directors or other team members to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with Nen Creative's values.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a founder or senior leadership to discuss overall fit and long-term contribution.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate your portfolio to highlight 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects, prioritizing those with a tech startup focus or demonstrating modern brand/digital design.
• For each project, clearly articulate the client's challenge, your role, your design process, key decisions made, and the outcome or impact.
• Be prepared to discuss your proficiency with Figma and the Adobe Creative Suite, and how you leverage these tools.
• Ensure your portfolio reflects a modern, tech-oriented aesthetic and strong visual craft, as requested in the job description.
• Organize your portfolio for easy navigation, ideally with a clear introduction to each project.

Challenge Preparation:

• If a design challenge is provided, focus on understanding the brief and constraints.
• Prioritize clear communication of your thought process and design decisions, not just the final deliverable.
• Practice time management to ensure you can complete the task within the given timeframe.
• Be ready to present your solution and defend your design choices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process heavily relies on the portfolio. Candidates should meticulously prepare their portfolio to showcase not only their creative output but also their strategic thinking and process, directly addressing the needs of tech startups.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for collaborative design, prototyping, and UI/UX work. Proficiency is a must.
• Adobe Creative Suite: Including Photoshop for image editing and manipulation, Illustrator for vector graphics and logo design, and potentially InDesign for layout and presentation materials.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly a design tool, understanding how design impacts user behavior and business metrics (e.g., conversion rates, engagement) is beneficial. Familiarity with analytics platforms like Google Analytics or product analytics tools (e.g., Mixpanel, Amplitude) can be advantageous.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design function, but understanding how brands interact with customers via CRM systems or marketing automation platforms can provide context for marketing design assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: Figma and the Adobe Creative Suite are the core technical requirements for this role. While direct involvement with analytics or CRM tools isn't expected, an awareness of their impact on design strategy is a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Boldness: Encouraging the creation of "bold ideas" and helping tech startups launch them.
• High-Craft & Quality: Commitment to exceptional visual craft and producing high-impact work.
• Speed & Iteration: Thriving in a fast-paced environment that requires quick turnarounds and iterative design processes.
• Collaboration & Partnership: Working closely with clients and internal teams to achieve shared goals.
• Ownership & Initiative: Empowering team members to take responsibility and drive projects forward independently.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Designers will work closely with strategists and creative directors, requiring strong communication and feedback loops.
• Process Improvement: As a young studio, there's an opportunity to contribute to and refine design workflows.
• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that supports learning from each other and sharing best practices will be crucial in a small, growing team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be entrepreneurial, results-oriented, and focused on delivering high-quality creative solutions for the tech industry. Team members are expected to be proactive and collaborative.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Fast-Paced Environment: Adapting to the rapid iteration cycles and shifting priorities common in startup client work.
• Diverse Client Needs: Designing for a variety of tech startups, each with unique brand identities and market positions, requires versatility.
• Remote Collaboration: Maintaining strong communication and collaboration effectively within a fully remote team.
• Shaping Design Processes: As a young company, there's an opportunity to influence and build out design methodologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to High-Growth Startups: Gaining experience with a broad spectrum of innovative tech companies.
• Skill Specialization: Opportunities to build expertise in specific areas like brand systems, web design, or marketing campaigns for the tech sector.
• Mentorship & Leadership: As the studio grows, potential for mentorship from senior creatives and opportunities to lead design projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are directly linked to the growth opportunities. The dynamic nature of working with startups provides a fertile ground for skill development and career progression, especially for those who are adaptable and eager to learn.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How do you approach translating a creative brief into a visual concept for a tech startup?" (Focus on process, research, and initial ideation.)
• "Describe a time you had to balance speed and iteration with high-level craft. What was your approach?" (Highlight your workflow and decision-making under pressure.)
• "How do you ensure visual coherence across multiple design deliverables for a client's brand?" (Discuss your systemization and quality control methods.)
• "What are your preferred tools for brand development and digital design, and why?" (Be ready to articulate your expertise with Figma and Adobe Suite.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Nen Creative and our work with tech startups?" (Show you've researched the company and understand its niche.)
• "How do you thrive in a fast-paced, client-facing environment?" (Provide examples of your adaptability and client interaction skills.)
• "Describe your ideal collaboration style when working with creative directors and strategists." (Emphasize communication, feedback, and shared goals.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Start with a brief overview of Nen Creative and the role, then dive into 2-3 key projects. For each project, cover: Client context, your specific role and contributions, the design problem, your process (ideation, iteration, tools), the solution, and the impact/outcome.
• Metrics: Quantify impact where possible (e.g., "helped achieve X engagement rate," "contributed to successful product launch"). If direct metrics aren't available, discuss the intended impact and how the design supports business goals.
• Visuals: Use high-quality mockups and clear visuals. Ensure your presentation is visually consistent with your design style.
• Narrative: Tell a compelling story about each project, highlighting your problem-solving skills and creative approach.

Challenge Preparation:

• If given a hypothetical client brief, focus on understanding the target audience and business objectives.
• Prepare to present your thinking process, even if you don't complete a full design. Explain your choices for layout, color, typography, and imagery.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating both creative skill and strategic thinking. The ability to articulate your process, justify your design decisions, and showcase relevant experience with tech startups will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Visual Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link.
• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to highlight your strongest, most relevant projects (3-5) that showcase modern brand and digital design for tech companies. Ensure it clearly demonstrates your visual craft and process.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize 3+ years of experience in visual/brand/digital design, highlighting achievements and skills in Figma, Adobe Creative Suite, typography, and working with startups. Use keywords like "brand systems," "digital design," and "client-facing."
• Interview Preparation: Practice walking through your portfolio projects, focusing on the "why" and "how" behind your design decisions. Prepare to discuss your experience in fast-paced, tech-oriented environments.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Nen Creative's client roster, past projects (if available), and their mission to help tech startups launch bold ideas. Understand their aesthetic and client focus.

⚠️ 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.