Junior Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Graphic Designer

Company: ICF

Location: Brussels, Belgium

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design

Date Posted: August 17, 2026

Experience Level: Junior (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and produce high-quality visual assets for print and digital communication channels, ensuring brand consistency and adherence to accessibility standards.

• Create engaging digital content for websites, social media, newsletters, and interactive formats, including infographics and banners.

• Develop and edit motion graphics, animations, and multimedia content to support internal and external communication campaigns.

• Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, from concept to delivery, while coordinating with external suppliers and maintaining structured file management.

• Apply and maintain visual identity guidelines, providing guidance on design best practices and contributing to improved visual communication standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Junior Graphic Designer," the responsibilities heavily emphasize motion design and multimedia production, suggesting a need for a candidate with a strong portfolio in these areas, even at a junior level. The role also involves significant project coordination and stakeholder interaction, indicating a need for organizational and communication skills beyond pure design execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce high-quality visual assets for print and digital communication channels, including brochures, reports, factsheets, posters, roll-ups, and presentations.

• Develop engaging digital content for websites, newsletters, social media campaigns, infographics, banners, and interactive formats.

• Produce and edit motion graphics, animations, and multimedia content to support communication campaigns and enhance storytelling.

• Adapt existing visual assets, templates, and creative concepts for new audiences, channels, and formats, ensuring brand consistency.

• Prepare print-ready, web-optimized, and video-ready files according to technical requirements and deadlines.

• Apply and maintain visual identity guidelines across all communication materials, ensuring consistency, clarity, and usability.

• Develop and update graphic, presentation, and animation templates to streamline content creation.

• Provide advice and guidance on design, visual storytelling, and motion design best practices to stakeholders.

• Support the technical and organizational aspects of design and multimedia production, including preparing technical specifications.

• Coordinate with external suppliers, printers, and production partners when required for specialized outputs.

• Maintain structured file management, archiving, and version control practices for all design assets.

• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and timely delivery in a fast-paced environment.

• Collaborate closely with communication specialists, project managers, content creators, and other stakeholders to achieve project goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a dual focus on graphic design and motion graphics, with a significant emphasis on adapting content for various channels and ensuring brand consistency. The inclusion of project coordination and supplier management suggests the role requires strong organizational skills and the ability to manage production workflows.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Multimedia Arts, Animation, or a related field is typically expected for this level of role. A strong portfolio demonstrating equivalent practical experience will also be considered.

Experience: 2-5 years of professional experience in graphic design and motion design is required. Experience in a consulting or agency environment, or within a corporate communications department, would be advantageous.

Required Skills:

• Strong graphic design skills with a comprehensive portfolio demonstrating proficiency in both print and digital design.

• Proven experience in motion design and animation, with a portfolio showcasing animation capabilities.

• Excellent visual storytelling abilities and a keen eye for detail.

• Solid understanding of branding principles, layout, typography, and visual communication strategies.

• Knowledge of accessibility and usability principles for digital communication materials.

• Ability to manage multiple design priorities and deliver high-quality work under tight deadlines.

• Strong organizational and project management skills, including file management and version control.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating effectively with various stakeholders.

• Flexibility and adaptability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving work environment.

• English language proficiency at a minimum B2 level (written, spoken, and reading comprehension). Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in motion graphics software such as Adobe After Effects, Cinema 4D, or similar.

• Experience with 3D animation software.

• Familiarity with content management systems (CMS) and web design principles.

• Knowledge of UX/UI design principles.

• Experience with project management software (e.g., Asana, Trello, Jira).

• Familiarity with working in a consulting or advisory services environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for B2 English proficiency is critical for candidates to understand project briefs and communicate effectively with the team and stakeholders. The portfolio is paramount, needing to showcase both static graphic design and dynamic motion graphics work, demonstrating a breadth of creative capabilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a range of graphic design projects (brochures, reports, social media graphics, infographics, presentations).

• A dedicated section within the portfolio demonstrating motion design and animation capabilities (e.g., explainer videos, animated logos, social media animations).

• Case studies or examples that highlight the candidate's role in adapting existing visual assets for different channels or audiences.

• Demonstrations of how brand identity guidelines were applied and maintained across various projects.

• Examples of technical file preparation for both print and digital outputs. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of workflow management for multiple design projects, illustrating how deadlines were met and quality was maintained.

• Examples of how accessibility and usability principles were integrated into design solutions.

• Documentation or examples of template creation and usage for consistent brand application.

• Descriptions of collaboration processes with communication specialists, project managers, or content creators.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to walk through specific projects in their portfolio, explaining their design process, the tools used, the challenges encountered, and the impact of their work. For motion design pieces, articulating the narrative and animation strategy is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Junior Graphic Designers with 2-5 years of experience in Brussels, Belgium, the estimated salary range is €35,000 - €48,000 per year. This range accounts for the strong emphasis on motion design and the specific requirements of the role within a consulting context.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary package.

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.

• Pension scheme contributions.

• Paid time off, including vacation days and public holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development and training in design software and techniques.

• Access to ICF's global network and resources.

• Potential for visa sponsorship on a case-by-case basis for eligible candidates.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are 40 hours per week, typically Monday to Friday. While the role is on-site, there may be flexibility depending on project demands and team agreements, though core office hours are expected for collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is derived from research on junior-level design roles in Brussels, factoring in the additional demand for motion design skills and the consulting industry context. Visa sponsorship is mentioned as a possibility, which is a significant benefit for non-EU candidates.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: ICF operates as a global advisory and technology services provider, working across various sectors including energy, environment, health, social policy, and defense. This diverse industry experience means the design team supports a wide array of clients and communication needs, requiring adaptability and broad creative thinking.

Company Size: ICF is a large enterprise, employing over 10,000 people globally. This means the operations and design teams are part of a structured organization with established processes, but also offer opportunities for specialized roles and cross-functional collaboration within a vast network.

Founded: ICF was founded in 1969. Its long history suggests a stable organization with deep expertise and a well-defined corporate structure.

Team Structure:

• The design team is likely part of a larger Communications or Marketing department, supporting various project teams and client engagements.

• Reporting structure will likely involve a Design Lead or Manager, with direct collaboration with Communication Specialists and Project Managers.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, working closely with subject matter experts, project managers, and external vendors to translate complex information into compelling visuals. Methodology:

• Data-driven insights inform design choices, ensuring visual communication is effective and aligned with campaign objectives.

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies are employed to manage multiple projects efficiently and maintain quality standards.

• Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged, particularly in template creation and utilizing design software to its fullest potential.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within a large consultancy like ICF means the Junior Graphic Designer will be exposed to a wide variety of projects and industries, requiring them to quickly grasp new subject matters and translate them visually. The emphasis on "advisory and technology services" suggests a need for designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also informative and functional.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Junior-level role, typically suited for individuals in the early stages of their design career (2-5 years of experience). The focus is on developing core design skills, mastering specific software, and learning to manage project workflows within established guidelines.

Reporting Structure: The Junior Graphic Designer will likely report to a Senior Graphic Designer, Design Manager, or Head of Communications. They will collaborate closely with project managers and communication specialists on various client and internal projects.

Operations Impact: The designer's work directly impacts the clarity, engagement, and effectiveness of ICF's communication materials. High-quality visuals enhance brand perception, improve information dissemination, and contribute to the overall success of client projects and internal initiatives.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in motion graphics, animation software, and potentially explore new design tools and technologies.

• Specialization: Potential to specialize in areas like data visualization, interactive design, or specific industry communication needs.

• Career Progression: With proven performance and expanded skill sets, progression to Graphic Designer, Senior Graphic Designer, or Motion Graphics Lead roles is possible.

• Cross-functional Learning: Exposure to various project types and client sectors provides broad industry knowledge and enhances understanding of strategic communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a junior role, growth is often tied to mastering the core responsibilities and demonstrating a strong ability to learn and adapt. The "advisory and technology services" nature of ICF means that understanding how design supports strategic goals is key to career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in Brussels, Belgium. This implies a traditional office setting designed for collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): Brussels, Belgium (BE75). This location offers access to a vibrant European capital with good transport links.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be collaborative, with dedicated areas for individual design work and meeting spaces for team discussions and client presentations.

• Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite, potentially motion graphics tools) will be provided.

• Opportunities for interaction with a diverse team of communication specialists, project managers, and fellow designers will be frequent.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday. While on-site, the company may offer some flexibility for personal appointments or specific project needs, but consistent presence is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Brussels is a key factor for applicants. Candidates should be prepared for a structured office environment where collaboration and in-person communication are prioritized.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and creative output.

• Technical Interview: Discussion of design process, software proficiency, and problem-solving approaches, likely including a review of portfolio pieces.

• Creative Challenge: A practical design exercise or case study focusing on graphic and/or motion design, assessing ability to interpret briefs and deliver within constraints.

• Team/Hiring Manager Interview: Assessment of cultural fit, communication skills, and alignment with team dynamics and company values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Effectively: Select your strongest and most relevant work. Ensure a clear distinction between graphic design and motion design samples.

• Tell a Story: For each piece, explain the brief, your design process, the tools used, challenges overcome, and the outcome or impact.

• Highlight Motion: For motion graphics, emphasize the narrative, animation principles applied, and technical execution.

• Demonstrate Brand Adherence: Showcase examples where you've successfully applied brand guidelines.

• Technical Readiness: Be prepared to discuss file formats, optimization techniques, and production requirements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: Carefully read and re-read any design challenge to fully grasp the objectives and constraints.

• Time Management: Allocate your time wisely between concept, execution, and refinement.

• Presentation: Prepare to present your solution clearly and concisely, explaining your rationale and design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on the candidate's portfolio. Be prepared to discuss specific projects in detail, including the "why" behind your design choices, rather than just the "what."

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign are essential for graphic design.

• Motion Graphics & Animation: Adobe After Effects is a primary requirement. Experience with Cinema 4D or similar 3D software is a strong plus.

• Presentation Software: PowerPoint, Google Slides, or Keynote for creating client presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly a design tool, understanding how design impacts engagement metrics (e.g., click-through rates for banners, engagement on social media) is beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• No direct CRM or automation tools are specified as primary for this role, but familiarity with how design assets are deployed through marketing automation platforms or content management systems could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe After Effects is crucial, given its emphasis in the responsibilities. Candidates should be ready to demonstrate their command of these tools during the interview process, perhaps through a live demonstration or by discussing complex techniques used in their portfolio pieces.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence: A commitment to producing high-quality, impactful visual communications that meet client needs and brand standards.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams, sharing ideas, and providing constructive feedback to achieve collective goals.

• Adaptability: Flexibility to respond to changing project requirements, new technologies, and diverse client needs in a dynamic consulting environment.

• Innovation: A drive to explore new design techniques, animation styles, and visual storytelling methods to keep ICF's communications fresh and engaging.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Designers work closely with communication specialists, project managers, and subject matter experts to translate complex information into visually accessible formats.

• Process Review: Openness to feedback on design work and participation in iterative design processes to refine deliverables.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing of best practices, new techniques, and insights within the design and communications teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: ICF's values likely emphasize client success and problem-solving. For a designer, this translates to creating visuals that not only look good but also effectively serve a strategic purpose and contribute to client objectives.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Projects: Effectively managing time and creative resources across numerous diverse projects with varying deadlines and client demands.

• Translating Complex Information: Simplifying and visualizing intricate technical or policy-related information for broad audiences.

• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring a unified visual identity across a wide range of deliverables and client projects.

• Adapting to New Technologies: Staying current with evolving design software, animation techniques, and digital media trends.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly After Effects, and explore new motion graphics tools.

• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Potential to attend design and multimedia events to gain insights and network with peers.

• Mentorship: Learning from senior designers and communication professionals within ICF's global network.

• Project Diversity: Exposure to a wide range of industries and project types offers continuous learning and skill development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge will be managing the sheer volume and variety of work. Growth opportunities are substantial due to ICF's broad client base and commitment to professional development, allowing for significant skill expansion.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a project where you had to adapt existing brand guidelines for a new medium or audience. What were the challenges and how did you overcome them?" (Assesses adaptability and brand adherence)

• "Walk me through your process for creating a short animated explainer video. What software do you use, and how do you approach storytelling?" (Assesses motion design process and storytelling)

• "How do you ensure your digital designs are accessible and user-friendly?" (Assesses understanding of accessibility and usability principles) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for ICF, specifically in a consulting environment?" (Assesses research and motivation)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your design work?" (Assesses collaboration and receptiveness)

• "Describe a time you had to collaborate with a subject matter expert to create a visual representation of complex information." (Assesses communication and simplification skills) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type (graphic vs. motion) or by impact.

• Narrative: For each piece, articulate the problem, your solution, your role, the tools used, and the outcome.

• Motion Emphasis: For motion graphics, be prepared to discuss the animation strategy, timing, and how it enhances the message.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key projects efficiently, focusing on the most impactful aspects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be ready to demonstrate your understanding of how design supports business objectives and client communication goals. Highlight projects that showcase your ability to translate complex ideas into clear, compelling visuals.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Junior Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application directly through the ICF careers portal, ensuring you do not use third-party applications or AI-generated content for your submission.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to prominently feature both your graphic design and motion design work, with a focus on projects that demonstrate adaptability, brand consistency, and visual storytelling.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly highlight your experience with relevant design software (Adobe Creative Suite, After Effects), your years of experience, and any specific achievements in creating print and digital assets, including motion graphics.

• Interview Preparation: Practice discussing your portfolio pieces, focusing on your design process, problem-solving skills, and how your work contributed to project objectives. Prepare to articulate your understanding of brand management and accessibility.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with ICF's services, client sectors, and company culture to articulate your interest and how your skills align with their mission and the specific demands of this role.

⚠️ 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.