Marketing Graphic Designer - Entry level

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Marketing Graphic Designer - Entry Level

Company: IES Communications

Location: Tempe, Arizona, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-13

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in developing and executing visual brand strategies across multiple marketing channels, ensuring a cohesive and impactful brand presence.

• The position requires a strong understanding of design principles, digital media, and print production to support diverse company initiatives.

• It involves close collaboration with marketing, public relations, and client support teams to deliver creative projects that drive customer engagement and business growth.

• The role focuses on maintaining brand consistency and elevating the visual identity of IES Communications through high-quality design output.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw job title is "Marketing Graphic Designer - Entry level," the responsibilities and company context suggest a role that bridges marketing execution and creative operations, requiring a blend of design skills and an understanding of brand management within a corporate GTM strategy.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce a wide array of marketing collateral, including brochures, flyers, one-pagers, case studies, and comprehensive presentations to support sales and marketing efforts.

• Create engaging graphics and visual assets for social media platforms, email marketing campaigns, website updates, and digital advertising initiatives to enhance online presence and lead generation.

• Develop impactful event materials such as signage, banners, booth graphics, name badges, programs, and promotional items to support brand visibility at industry events.

• Produce internal communication materials, including newsletters, recognition programs, and company announcements, to foster employee engagement and uphold corporate culture.

• Prepare artwork for professional print production, meticulously coordinating with external vendors to ensure high-quality output and timely delivery.

• Uphold and enforce brand consistency across all marketing materials, ensuring adherence to brand guidelines and visual identity standards.

• Assist with photography selection, image editing, and the creation of basic video graphics to enrich multimedia content.

• Systematically organize and maintain all design files and brand assets, ensuring efficient accessibility and version control.

• Support website content by creating and optimizing graphics and imagery for web pages and landing pages.

• Collaborate effectively with content writers, event coordinators, and marketing leadership to ensure timely and successful project completion.

• Manage a diverse project workload, prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for proficiency in design software and an understanding of how design contributes to broader marketing objectives, such as lead generation, brand awareness, and internal communications. This role is crucial for the operational execution of marketing campaigns.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a closely related field is required.

• Equivalent professional experience demonstrated through a strong portfolio will also be considered, particularly for candidates with 0-2 years of experience. Experience:

• 0-2 years of professional design experience is required, making this an ideal role for recent graduates or individuals early in their design careers.

• Experience in preparing files for commercial printing is a preferred qualification, indicating a need for understanding print production workflows. Required Skills:

• Strong portfolio demonstrating creative thinking, technical design ability, and a solid understanding of design principles.

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud suite, specifically Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop.

• Excellent typography, layout, and branding skills, essential for creating visually appealing and on-brand materials.

• Meticulous attention to detail in all design work and file management.

• Proven ability to manage multiple design projects simultaneously and meet strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong communication and collaboration skills for effective teamwork with cross-functional departments. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Canva for quick design tasks and broader accessibility.

• Basic video editing skills using software like Premiere Pro or After Effects for multimedia content.

• Familiarity with Microsoft PowerPoint for creating and editing presentations.

• Experience preparing files for commercial printing, ensuring proper setup for offset and digital printing processes.

• Photography or advanced photo editing experience to enhance visual assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience requirement positions this as a foundational role within the creative operations function. The emphasis on Adobe Creative Cloud and a strong portfolio are standard for design roles, but the inclusion of preferred skills like Canva and video editing suggests a need for versatility in a modern marketing environment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of design projects that demonstrate creative problem-solving and technical proficiency.

• Projects should highlight versatility across different media, including print collateral, digital graphics, and event materials.

• The portfolio must clearly illustrate strong typography, layout design, and brand application skills.

• Evidence of understanding and applying brand guidelines consistently across multiple projects is crucial. Process Documentation:

• While not explicitly stated as a requirement for this entry-level role, candidates are expected to demonstrate an understanding of design workflows, from concept to final production.

• Familiarity with file management best practices and version control for design assets is implied by the responsibility to "Organize and maintain design files."

• The ability to collaborate and communicate effectively within a project lifecycle suggests an understanding of iterative design processes and feedback incorporation.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level design role, the portfolio is the primary indicator of process and system understanding. The emphasis on a strong portfolio that showcases diverse applications and adherence to brand standards is key. The company expects candidates to implicitly understand design workflows and asset management.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The estimated annual salary for this role is between $52,000 and $60,320 USD. This is based on an hourly rate of $25.00 to $29.00, assuming a standard 40-hour work week.

• This range is competitive for an entry-level graphic design position in the Tempe, Arizona area, considering the required skills and responsibilities. Benefits:

• Health & Wellness:

  • Choice of Medical Coverage, including prescription plans.
  • Dental coverage.
  • Vision coverage.
  • Short Term Disability Plans.
  • Long-term disability options.
  • Critical Illness coverage.
  • Accident coverage.
  • Legal coverage.
  • Pet coverage.

• Financial & Retirement:

  • Company 401K plan with Employer Contribution Match.

• Time Off:

  • Company Paid Time Off.

• Insurance:

  • Company Paid Life Insurance.

• Perks:

  • Auto and home insurance discount programs. Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position, typically requiring 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid work arrangement suggests a flexible schedule that may involve a combination of in-office and remote workdays.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of $25-$29/hr ($52,000-$60,320 annually) aligns with entry-level graphic design roles in a mid-cost-of-living area like Tempe, Arizona. The extensive benefits package offered by IES Communications is a significant draw for candidates. The hybrid work arrangement offers some flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Industrial Products & Infrastructure Services. IES Communications operates within a broad industrial sector, providing contracting solutions for electrical, mechanical, and communications infrastructure across commercial, industrial, residential, and renewable energy markets. This diverse industry exposure means the graphic designer will work on visuals for a wide range of applications and clients.

Company Size: Over 5,000 employees. As a large organization, IES Communications offers stability and opportunities for growth within a structured corporate environment. This scale implies a need for robust brand management and consistent visual communication across numerous business units and locations.

Founded: The company's fiscal year ending September 30, 2020, indicates a significant operational history. The company's revenue exceeding $1.19 billion in FY2020 and its presence across over 79 domestic locations underscore its market position and reach.

Team Structure:

• The graphic designer will be part of the Marketing team, collaborating closely with Public Relations and Client Support teams.

• This structure suggests a collaborative environment where design directly supports broader marketing and client-facing initiatives.

• Reporting lines likely lead up to a Marketing Manager or Director, with functional collaboration across various departments. Methodology:

• The company's mission is to design, build, and maintain systems that empower lives, from office buildings to wind farms. This implies a practical, results-oriented approach to all functions, including marketing.

• The emphasis on "Safety is Priority One" reflects a core value that likely permeates all operational aspects, including how projects are managed and executed.

• The company's public trading status (NASDAQ: IESC) suggests a focus on performance, accountability, and professional standards.

Company Website: https://joinus.ies-co.com

📝 Enhancement Note: IES Communications is a large, established player in the industrial services sector. The graphic design role will support a broad range of business activities, requiring adaptability and an understanding of how visual communication impacts diverse markets. The company culture appears to prioritize safety, professionalism, and tangible results.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an Entry-Level (0-2 years) position, designed for individuals starting their careers in graphic design within a corporate marketing context. It's a foundational role focused on executing design tasks under guidance.

Reporting Structure: The Marketing Graphic Designer will report to a member of the Marketing team, likely a Marketing Manager or Director. They will collaborate closely with content writers, event coordinators, and potentially client support personnel.

Operations Impact: The graphic designer's work directly impacts the company's brand perception, marketing campaign effectiveness, and internal communications. High-quality visual assets are crucial for strengthening the IES brand, supporting sales efforts, engaging customers, and fostering employee morale. The role contributes to the operational efficiency of the marketing department by producing necessary visual assets.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific design areas (e.g., digital, print, event graphics) and master advanced features of Adobe Creative Cloud.

• Cross-Functional Learning: Gain exposure to broader marketing strategies, public relations efforts, and client support functions, understanding how design integrates into these areas.

• Potential Advancement: With demonstrated success and skill development, potential to advance to a Senior Graphic Designer role or specialize in areas like digital marketing design, brand management, or creative project management within IES Communications.

• Industry Exposure: Develop a strong understanding of visual communication needs within the industrial products and infrastructure services sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This entry-level role is a stepping stone. Growth will come from mastering core design skills, understanding the company's diverse business needs, and demonstrating reliability and creativity. The hybrid model also offers a modern work-life balance that can contribute to long-term employee satisfaction.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid Work Environment. This role involves a combination of working remotely and from the company's office in Tempe, Arizona. The specific days in the office will be determined by team needs and company policy, fostering a balance between focused individual work and collaborative in-person interaction.

Office Location(s): Tempe, Arizona. This location serves as the primary base for the graphic designer's in-office work.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model allows for in-office collaboration with marketing, public relations, and client support teams, facilitating idea exchange and project alignment.

• Tools and Technology: Access to standard office technology and design software (Adobe Creative Cloud) is expected. The company's IT infrastructure will support both remote and in-office work.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities to connect with colleagues in person and virtually, fostering a sense of team cohesion despite the hybrid setup.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (likely 40 hours per week) apply.

• The hybrid arrangement offers flexibility in managing workdays, allowing for focused design work at home and collaborative sessions or team meetings at the office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of this role is a significant aspect of the work environment, offering flexibility. Candidates should be comfortable managing their time effectively across both remote and in-office settings. The Tempe location is central to the Arizona operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and design aesthetic.

• First Interview: Likely a conversation with a hiring manager or HR representative to discuss your background, motivation, and understanding of the role. This may include behavioral questions.

• Portfolio Review & Skills Assessment: A more in-depth discussion of your portfolio, potentially including a skills test or a small design challenge to evaluate your proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud and your approach to design problems.

• Team/Cross-functional Interviews: Meetings with key team members you'll collaborate with (e.g., Marketing, PR) to assess cultural fit and collaboration style.

• Final Interview: Possibly with senior leadership to discuss your long-term potential and alignment with company values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 4-6 of your strongest projects that best represent the skills required for this role (print, digital, branding, typography).

• Showcase Process: For each project, briefly explain the brief, your design process, challenges faced, and the final outcome. Highlight how your design solved a problem or met an objective.

• Highlight Brand Consistency: Include at least one project that demonstrates your ability to apply brand guidelines effectively.

• Technical Proficiency: Ensure your portfolio clearly shows your command of Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop.

• Accessibility: Make your portfolio easily accessible online (e.g., personal website, Behance, Adobe Portfolio).

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Fundamentals: Be ready to discuss basic design principles, color theory, and typography.

• Software Proficiency: Expect questions about your experience with Adobe Creative Cloud tools.

• Problem-Solving: Prepare to discuss how you would approach a design brief for a specific marketing material (e.g., a brochure for a new service).

• Brand Alignment: Understand how to maintain brand consistency across different types of collateral.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this entry-level role, the portfolio is paramount. Candidates should focus on showcasing their foundational design skills and potential rather than extensive experience. The interview process will likely assess both technical ability and cultural fit.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud: This is the core software suite. Expect to demonstrate proficiency in:

  • Adobe Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, and illustrations.
  • Adobe InDesign: For layout design of brochures, flyers, case studies, and presentations.
  • Adobe Photoshop: For image editing, retouching, and creating digital graphics.

• Canva: Preferred for its ease of use in creating social media graphics and quick marketing materials.

• Microsoft PowerPoint: Essential for creating and editing presentations, often a key deliverable for marketing and internal communications.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for this design role, an understanding of how design impacts digital engagement metrics (e.g., click-through rates on ads, social media engagement) is beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• No direct CRM or automation tools are specified for this role, but awareness of how marketing materials are distributed (e.g., through email campaigns, website content management systems) is helpful.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud is non-negotiable. The inclusion of Canva and PowerPoint indicates a need for versatility and efficiency in creating a range of marketing assets for different purposes and audiences.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Brand Integrity: A strong commitment to maintaining and enhancing the IES Communications brand through consistent and high-quality visual design.

• Collaboration: A team-oriented approach, valuing input from colleagues in marketing, PR, and client support to achieve project goals.

• Efficiency & Timeliness: The ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment is critical.

• Detail-Oriented: A focus on accuracy and precision in all design work and file management.

• Professionalism: Upholding a positive, professional attitude and promoting company culture.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with various departments, understanding their needs and translating them into effective visual communications.

• Feedback Incorporation: A willingness to receive and act on feedback from marketing leadership and project stakeholders to refine designs.

• Proactive Communication: Engaging in clear and consistent communication to manage expectations, report progress, and resolve any design-related issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes professionalism, teamwork, and efficiency. For a graphic designer, this translates to being a reliable team player who can produce high-quality work efficiently while respecting brand guidelines and collaborating effectively with other departments.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Projects: Managing diverse design requests from various departments simultaneously while maintaining quality and meeting deadlines.

• Brand Consistency Across Diverse Markets: Ensuring brand integrity across a wide range of industrial sectors and marketing materials.

• Adapting to Evolving Design Trends: Staying current with design best practices and incorporating them into work while adhering to established brand guidelines.

• Feedback Management: Navigating constructive criticism and revisions from multiple stakeholders to arrive at optimal design solutions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Software Mastery: Deepen expertise in Adobe Creative Cloud, potentially exploring advanced features or new tools.

• Industry Design Knowledge: Learn the specific visual communication needs of the industrial products and infrastructure services sector.

• Project Management Basics: Develop skills in managing design projects from initiation to completion, including scope, timelines, and stakeholder communication.

• Cross-Departmental Understanding: Gain insight into how design supports marketing strategy, sales enablement, and corporate communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to develop core design skills and gain experience in a large, diverse industrial company. The primary challenges will revolve around project management and adapting design to various business needs.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a project from your portfolio where you had to balance multiple design requirements from different stakeholders. How did you manage it?" (Assesses project management and collaboration)

• "How do you ensure brand consistency across various marketing materials, especially when working with different teams or for diverse product lines?" (Assesses understanding of branding and brand management)

• "Walk us through your process for creating a new piece of marketing collateral, from initial brief to final delivery." (Assesses design workflow and problem-solving) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about IES Communications and the industries we serve? How do you see graphic design supporting our business goals?" (Assesses company research and understanding of role impact)

• "How do you handle creative feedback or constructive criticism on your designs?" (Assesses adaptability and collaboration)

• "Describe your experience with Adobe Creative Cloud. Which applications are you most proficient in, and why?" (Assesses technical skills and software knowledge) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each project, narrate the problem, your solution, and the impact. Focus on the "why" behind your design choices.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your presentation is clean, well-organized, and visually appealing, mirroring your design skills.

• Highlight Key Skills: Clearly point out examples that demonstrate your typography, layout, branding, and software proficiency.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio within a given timeframe, focusing on the most relevant projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating foundational design skills, an understanding of brand management, and the ability to collaborate effectively. Highlighting relevant projects in the portfolio and being ready to discuss the design process are key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the IES Communications careers portal at https://joinus.ies-co.com.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight the "0-2 years of professional design experience," "Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design or related field," and "Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud" requirements. Use keywords from the job description such as "marketing collateral," "digital graphics," "social media," and "brand consistency."

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 4-6 of your strongest design projects that showcase your skills in Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, typography, layout, and branding. Ensure your portfolio is easily accessible online and clearly demonstrates your creative process and attention to detail.

• Prepare for Skills Assessment: Be ready to discuss your design process, your experience with Adobe Creative Cloud, and potentially complete a small design challenge or provide examples of how you would approach a specific design task.

• Research IES Communications: Familiarize yourself with the company's services, markets, and overall brand. Understand how your design skills can contribute to their objectives in the industrial products and infrastructure services sector.

⚠️ 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.