Junior Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Graphic Designer

Company: Distro

Location: Washington, D.C. Region (Hybrid, primarily remote)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Graphic Design / Visual Communications (Federal Support)

Date Posted: June 12, 2026

Experience Level: Early Career (2-5 Years)

Remote Status: Hybrid (Primarily Remote, Must reside within 75 miles of Washington, D.C.)

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and execute visual communication products for federal public affairs and strategic communication initiatives, focusing on supporting the Marine Corps.

• Create a variety of graphics, layouts, and digital media assets for print, web, social media, and executive-level presentations.

• Ensure all design deliverables adhere to strict brand standards, style guides, and critical Section 508 accessibility requirements.

• Collaborate within a fast-paced, formal federal customer environment, managing multiple priorities and quick-turn revisions while maintaining high quality and accuracy.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is for a Junior Graphic Designer, the context of supporting a federal public affairs contract with the Marine Corps implies a need for a strong understanding of compliance, formal processes, and professional communication. The emphasis on Section 508 and the requirement for a Secret clearance indicate a non-standard design role that prioritizes accuracy and adherence to regulations as much as creativity.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce high-quality graphic design assets, including infographics, visual summaries, social media graphics, presentation slides, and digital media content, to support public affairs and communication strategy objectives.

• Translate complex information and messaging into clear, compelling visual narratives for diverse audiences, including senior leaders and external stakeholders.

• Format and optimize images and graphics for various platforms, ensuring consistency in style, branding, and overall visual impact across all channels.

• Implement Section 508 accessibility standards into digital products, ensuring compliance with federal mandates for individuals with disabilities.

• Manage project workflows, maintain organized digital asset libraries, and adhere to formal review and approval processes for all creative deliverables.

• Respond promptly and professionally to feedback from Program Managers, customers, and senior communication staff, executing revisions accurately and efficiently.

• Communicate effectively with the project team regarding task progress, potential issues, and clarification needs, fostering a collaborative and responsive work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design and operational adherence. The emphasis on "fast-turn revisions," "formal review and approval processes," and "applying feedback accurately and quickly" suggests a need for designers who can balance artistic execution with strict project management and client responsiveness within a government contracting framework.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Digital Media, Visual Communication, Communications, Marketing, or a closely related field.

• Alternatively, a minimum of three (3) years of directly relevant professional graphic design or digital graphics experience may substitute for a degree. Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in a professional graphic design capacity, with a portfolio showcasing a range of design projects and a clear understanding of design principles.

• Proven ability to work within formal processes, manage feedback, and deliver polished products under deadline pressures. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe InDesign for graphic creation and layout.

• Strong portfolio demonstrating clean, professional design work relevant to communication products and digital media.

• Ability to create graphics tailored for presentations, social media, web content, print materials, and executive-level communication products.

• Foundational understanding of Section 508 compliance and accessibility considerations for graphics and digital products.

• Exceptional attention to detail, including accuracy in layout, spelling, formatting, alignment, image quality, and brand consistency.

• Capacity to follow detailed instructions precisely and apply customer feedback effectively with minimal iteration.

• Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with dynamic priorities and tight deadlines.

• Excellent communication skills and professional demeanor suitable for a federal government customer support setting. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with animation and motion graphics software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Adobe After Effects.

• Prior experience supporting a federal government customer, particularly within the Department of Defense (DoD), Department of the Navy, or Marine Corps.

• Familiarity with government communication products, visual identity standards, public affairs, or strategic communication frameworks relevant to military organizations.

• Experience applying established brand books, style guides, or formal visual identity standards to creative projects.

• Knowledge of visual information standards, digital asset organization, captioning, file naming conventions, and archival practices.

• Understanding of broader accessibility best practices, including color contrast, readable typography, and accessible layout choices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Required Qualifications" indicate a need for both technical design skills and the soft skills necessary for professional client service in a government context. The preference for federal/DoD experience and familiarity with specific government communication standards suggests that candidates with this background will have a distinct advantage.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of graphic design projects, with a specific emphasis on communication-oriented deliverables such as presentations, social media graphics, and digital assets.

• Demonstrate ability to translate client briefs into visually compelling and accurate designs, highlighting problem-solving through design.

• Include examples that illustrate adherence to brand guidelines, style guides, or formal visual identity standards.

• Showcase projects that required quick turnaround times or involved incorporating client feedback through revisions. Process Documentation:

• Portfolio pieces should ideally indicate the design process, from initial concept or brief to final approved product, demonstrating workflow management.

• Examples of work that successfully implemented Section 508 accessibility principles should be highlighted, with brief explanations of the considerations made.

• Where applicable, include case studies or project descriptions that detail how specific design choices supported communication objectives or stakeholder engagement goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the portfolio is critical for demonstrating not just creative talent but also the ability to execute within specific constraints and client requirements. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their design process and how they ensure accuracy, compliance, and responsiveness in their work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $40,000 to $55,000 annually.

Benefits:

• Full-time employment benefits package (specifics not detailed but standard for full-time roles).

• Opportunity to work on impactful projects supporting federal public affairs and communication strategies for the Marine Corps.

• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility with primarily remote work.

• Professional development opportunities, including exposure to government contracting environments and specialized communication support.

• Potential for growth and advancement within the company for successful candidates who demonstrate strong performance and commitment. Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, aligning with standard federal contract work schedules.

• Flexibility offered through the hybrid model, with an expectation of responsiveness during core working hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is typical for an entry-level to early-career graphic designer position in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, especially for roles requiring a security clearance and specialized federal support. The hybrid nature allows for remote work but necessitates proximity to the D.C. area for occasional on-site needs.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government Contracting / Professional Services (supporting Federal Agencies)

Company Size: (Information not provided, but typical for government contractors supporting federal contracts, likely ranging from small to medium-sized businesses.)

Founded: (Information not provided)

Team Structure:

• The role operates within a project-based team structure, likely reporting to a Program Manager or a Lead Communications Specialist.

• Collaboration will be cross-functional, involving communication strategists, public affairs specialists, and potentially other creative personnel.

• The team functions in a formal government customer environment, requiring adherence to established protocols and communication channels. Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven visual communication, ensuring designs support strategic messaging and engagement goals.

• Workflow planning prioritizes accuracy, compliance (Section 508), and timely delivery of high-quality products.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely focused on streamlining production processes and managing revisions effectively.

Company Website: distro.tv

📝 Enhancement Note: Distro's involvement in federal contracts, particularly with the Marine Corps, suggests a culture that values professionalism, compliance, and mission support. The "formal federal customer environment" implies a structured approach to work, communication, and project management.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Junior Graphic Designer. This role is positioned as an early-career opportunity, intended to build foundational experience in a specialized field within a government support context. The scope is focused on executing design tasks under guidance.

Reporting Structure: The Junior Graphic Designer will likely report to a Program Manager or a senior member of the communications/design team, who will provide direction, feedback, and manage project assignments.

Operations Impact: While not directly an "operations" role in the traditional sense (like RevOps or SalesOps), this position's output directly impacts the effectiveness of federal public affairs and strategic communication efforts. High-quality, compliant visual assets are crucial for clear messaging, stakeholder engagement, and achieving the client's communication objectives for the Marine Corps.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in graphic design for federal communications, including advanced Section 508 compliance techniques, motion graphics, and specific government branding standards.

• Career Progression: Potential to advance to Mid-Level or Senior Graphic Designer roles, or specialize in areas like visual information management, digital media production, or lead design on specific projects.

• Client & Industry Knowledge: Gain in-depth understanding of government contracting, public affairs, and strategic communication within the Department of Defense.

• Security Clearance: Maintaining and potentially upgrading security clearance can open doors to more sensitive and high-impact projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a Junior Graphic Designer in this context is less about traditional "operations" metrics and more about mastering the specific requirements of government communication design, building a strong client relationship, and demonstrating reliability and technical proficiency.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid. The role is primarily remote, offering flexibility, but requires the candidate to reside within a 75-mile radius of Washington, D.C. for occasional on-site requirements.

Office Location(s): Washington, D.C. Region. While largely remote, candidates must be accessible for potential on-site meetings, client interactions, or mission-specific needs within the National Capital Region.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is described as "fast-paced and formal," typical of government contractor support roles.

• Expect a structured workflow with defined review processes and clear communication protocols.

• Access to necessary design software and tools will be provided, but candidates must have a reliable remote work setup.

• Collaboration is key, requiring effective virtual communication with team members and stakeholders.

Work Schedule: Primarily full-time (40 hours/week). While the role is primarily remote, adherence to project deadlines and responsiveness during core business hours are expected. Occasional on-site presence may be required on short notice.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature combined with the proximity requirement to D.C. suggests the company values face-to-face interaction for critical meetings or client engagement, while leveraging remote work for day-to-day design tasks. Candidates should be prepared for the formality and structured nature of government contracting work.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess fundamental design skills, relevant experience, and alignment with role requirements.

• Technical Assessment/Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely present their portfolio, discussing their design choices, process, and ability to meet project objectives. This may include a practical design exercise or case study.

• Behavioral/Situational Interviews: Questions will assess professionalism, attention to detail, ability to take direction, handle feedback, and work in a fast-paced, formal environment. Emphasis will be placed on understanding of Section 508 and federal client support.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with the Program Manager or key stakeholders to discuss cultural fit, long-term potential, and confirm clearance eligibility.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 5-8 of your strongest projects that best represent the skills required for this role – focus on presentations, infographics, digital media, and any government-related work.

• Highlight Process: For each project, briefly explain the brief, your design process, the tools used, and how you incorporated feedback or met specific requirements (like accessibility).

• Emphasize Compliance: Clearly articulate any experience with Section 508 or adherence to brand guidelines. If you don't have direct experience, explain your understanding and willingness to learn.

• Showcase Professionalism: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and free of errors. The quality of your portfolio directly reflects your attention to detail.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach designing a specific type of federal communication product (e.g., an infographic explaining a policy, a social media graphic for an announcement).

• Prepare to articulate your understanding of Section 508 and how you would ensure a graphic is accessible.

• Practice explaining how you handle constructive criticism and incorporate feedback from multiple stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh a candidate's ability to perform within a structured, compliance-driven environment. Beyond creative skills, demonstrating professionalism, coachability, and a commitment to accuracy will be paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe InDesign for creating and manipulating graphics, layouts, and visual assets.

• Adobe Premiere Pro & After Effects (Preferred): Experience with these tools for motion graphics, video editing, and adding dynamic elements to visual content is a significant plus.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly an analytics role, understanding how visual content performs on different platforms (social media analytics, web traffic) can be beneficial.

• Familiarity with tools that track digital asset usage or engagement metrics may be advantageous. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design responsibilities, but understanding how digital assets are managed and distributed within client systems could be a minor advantage.

• Familiarity with project management or digital asset management (DAM) systems used in corporate or government environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technology requirement is the Adobe Creative Suite. Proficiency here is non-negotiable. Any experience with motion graphics or video editing software will differentiate candidates, especially given the "digital media" aspect of the role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Professionalism & Integrity: Upholding high standards of conduct and delivering reliable, accurate work in a federal environment.

• Accuracy & Detail-Orientation: A commitment to precision in design, ensuring all elements meet client specifications and compliance requirements.

• Responsiveness & Adaptability: Ability to manage shifting priorities, quick turnarounds, and client feedback with a positive and professional attitude.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with a team of communication specialists and other designers to achieve common goals.

• Mission Support: Understanding that the design work directly contributes to the success of federal communication strategies and public affairs objectives.

Collaboration Style:

• Emphasis on clear, concise communication, both written and verbal, within a structured team.

• Openness to feedback and a willingness to iterate on designs based on direction from program managers and clients.

• Proactive problem-solving and a team-oriented approach to meeting project deadlines and client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is likely to be highly structured, mission-focused, and client-centric, reflecting the demands of government contracting. Success will depend on a candidate's ability to integrate into this formal environment while maintaining creative output.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Fast-Paced Environment & Tight Deadlines: The need to produce high-quality work quickly, often with multiple revisions, can be demanding.

• Formal Review Processes: Navigating structured approval workflows and incorporating feedback from senior stakeholders requires patience and adaptability.

• Balancing Creativity with Compliance: Ensuring designs are both visually appealing and strictly adhere to Section 508 accessibility and brand standards.

• Federal Client Dynamics: Understanding and working within the specific communication needs and protocols of a federal agency like the Marine Corps.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Design Skills: Gaining expertise in federal communication design, visual information standards, and advanced accessibility implementation.

• Government Contracting Exposure: Understanding the nuances of working with government clients, including security clearance requirements and contract deliverables.

• Portfolio Expansion: Building a robust portfolio with high-impact federal projects that can lead to future opportunities in government contracting or public affairs.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced communication strategists and senior designers within the federal support space.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are directly tied to the nature of government contracting and public affairs support. Overcoming these challenges presents significant growth opportunities in a specialized and secure sector of the design industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to incorporate significant feedback on a design. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your process for receiving and implementing feedback, and your professional response.)

• "How do you ensure your digital graphics are Section 508 compliant? What are some key considerations?" (Demonstrate knowledge of accessibility principles, even if basic.)

• "Imagine you're given a brief for a social media graphic for a Marine Corps event. What steps would you take from concept to final delivery?" (Outline your workflow, including understanding requirements, design, review, and revisions.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Distro and our work supporting federal agencies?" (Research the company and its mission.)

• "How do you handle working under tight deadlines and with shifting priorities?" (Highlight your organizational skills and adaptability.)

• "Describe your experience working in a formal client-facing environment. What is your approach to professional communication?" (Emphasize your maturity and attention to professional conduct.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each project, tell a brief story about the challenge, your solution, and the impact.

• Highlight Compliance: Explicitly point out how you addressed brand standards and accessibility requirements.

• Demonstrate Process: Walk through your steps, showing how you iterated and incorporated feedback.

• Be Concise: Respect the interviewer's time; focus on the most relevant projects and insights.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating not just design talent, but also a professional, compliant, and adaptable mindset suitable for a government support role. Understanding the specific context of federal public affairs and the Marine Corps will be beneficial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Junior Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on jobs.lever.co.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your resume and portfolio are tailored to highlight relevant design skills, experience with Adobe Creative Suite, and any exposure to government or compliance-driven environments.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly articulate your degree or years of experience, specific software proficiencies, and any projects demonstrating attention to detail, Section 508 understanding, or fast-turnaround work.

• Interview Preparation: Practice discussing your portfolio projects, emphasizing your design process, ability to take direction, and understanding of federal communication needs. Prepare specific examples for behavioral questions.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Distro's work, the federal contracting landscape, and the general mission of the Marine Corps public affairs to better understand the client context.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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