Senior Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Graphic Designer

Company: CACI International

Location: Chantilly, Virginia, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Creative & Media / Communications Operations

Date Posted: April 27, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the strategic development and execution of mission-critical visual concepts for internal and external communications.

• Translate complex technical data and information into clear, high-impact digital and print artwork, adhering to strict quality and security standards.

• Act as a strategic design consultant, leveraging strong communication and emotional intelligence to build trusted partnerships with enterprise-wide stakeholders.

• Manage project timelines and scope autonomously from conceptualization through final production, ensuring efficient workflow management.

• Foster a collaborative team environment by mentoring junior designers and contributing to overall team efficiency and output.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits within CACI's Communications department, implying a strong connection to GTM (Go-To-Market) and internal operations, requiring designers to align visual assets with strategic objectives and ensure brand consistency across various platforms. The emphasis on "mission-critical visual solutions" and "security standards" suggests a need for operational rigor and understanding of sensitive information handling.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and execute compelling visual concepts that elevate communications for customers and stakeholders, ensuring brand consistency and strategic alignment.

• Translate complex, technical, or detail-rich data and information into clear, digestible, and visually engaging graphics across print, digital, and environmental mediums.

• Conduct advanced technical execution of design elements including typography, layout, and color to create polished, high-quality final products that convey trust and professionalism.

• Act as a strategic design consultant, actively listening to customer requirements, uncovering underlying needs, and confidently articulating design rationale to build long-term partnerships.

• Proactively manage workload and project timelines within Workamajig, identifying scope creep, diplomatically realigning stakeholder expectations, and keeping deliverables on track.

• Provide collaborative mentorship to junior designers, offering constructive feedback in creative critiques and sharing knowledge to elevate the team's overall visual output and efficiency.

• Perform secure production functions, including basic digital press and large-format printing, conducting pre-flight checks, and operating production equipment within secure facility guidelines.

• Research and leverage the latest design tools and industry trends to drive creative innovation and enhance team efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibility for "Mission-Driven Creative Execution" and ensuring "high-grade accuracy and compliance with complex data, brand standards, and classification guidelines" indicates a need for operational discipline in handling sensitive information and adhering to strict government contracting requirements. This goes beyond typical graphic design tasks, requiring an understanding of operational impact and security protocols.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, Interactive Design, or a related field.

Experience:

• 5+ years of relevant experience in the graphic design field (Required).

• 10+ years of relevant experience in the graphic design field (Desired).

• 3+ years of relevant customer service experience, preferably within the government sector (Required).

• 5+ years of relevant customer service experience (Desired).

• 3+ years of relevant project management experience (Required).

Required Skills:

• Active TS/SCI with CI Polygraph clearance.

• Demonstrated mastery of typography, layout, and color theory.

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

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present design concepts and creative rationale confidently.

• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with enterprise-wide stakeholders and senior leadership.

• Strong emotional intelligence and consultative skills for customer engagement.

• Experience translating complex data into clear, visually engaging graphics.

• Familiarity with project management principles and timeline management.

Preferred Skills:

• Hands-on experience with Workamajig project management software.

• Experience in digital press and large-format printing operations.

• Knowledge of emerging design tools and industry trends.

• Experience working within government contracting environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for an active TS/SCI with CI Polygraph clearance is a critical qualification for this role, indicating a need for candidates who can operate within secure government environments and handle classified information. This significantly narrows the candidate pool and emphasizes the sensitive nature of the design work. The inclusion of Workamajig as a desired skill points towards an operational focus on project management and workflow automation within the design team.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A robust professional portfolio demonstrating a wide range of graphic design capabilities, including complex problem-solving and a strong grasp of visual design principles (typography, layout, color theory).

• Examples showcasing the ability to translate complex, technical, or data-rich information into clear, high-impact digital and print artwork.

• Demonstrations of strategic consultation, illustrating how design solutions addressed specific customer needs or mission objectives.

• Evidence of project management skills, such as managing timelines, scope, and stakeholder expectations through project examples.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase examples of workflow design and optimization for creative projects, demonstrating an understanding of efficient production processes.

• Present case studies detailing the implementation of new design tools or methodologies to improve team efficiency and output.

• Include metrics or qualitative feedback demonstrating the impact of design work on communication effectiveness, stakeholder engagement, or mission success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio requirement is crucial, especially the need to demonstrate the translation of "complex, technical, or detail-rich data" into accessible graphics. This implies a need for candidates who understand process mapping for information synthesis and can present case studies that highlight not just aesthetic appeal but also operational clarity and impact. The mention of "security standards" and "classification guidelines" suggests that portfolio pieces should ideally reflect an understanding of these constraints.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $84,900 - $178,400 per year (USD)

Benefits:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage.

• Wellness programs designed to support employee health and well-being.

• Financial planning resources and guidance.

• Robust retirement benefits and savings plans.

• Family support services and benefits.

• Opportunities for continuing education and professional development.

• Flexible time off policy, allowing employees to balance work and personal life.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime depending on project demands and operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of $84,900 - $178,400 for a Senior Graphic Designer in Chantilly, VA, is competitive for the region and reflects the specialized nature of the role, particularly given the required TS/SCI with CI Polygraph clearance and the emphasis on complex, mission-critical design. This range aligns with industry benchmarks for senior-level creative roles in the government contracting sector. The "flexible time off" benefit is highlighted as a key differentiator for CACI, appealing to professionals seeking work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government Contracting / Information Technology & Defense Services. CACI International provides IT solutions and services to defense, intelligence, and federal civilian government agencies. This context means operations are heavily influenced by government regulations, security protocols, and mission objectives.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (typically 10,000+ employees). This scale suggests established processes, a structured corporate environment, and opportunities for diverse career paths within operations and beyond.

Founded: 1962. A long history indicates stability, experience, and a deeply ingrained corporate culture and operational framework.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Design team is part of the broader Communications department, likely comprising a mix of designers, writers, and communication specialists.

• This Senior role implies a leadership component, potentially involving mentorship of junior designers and collaboration with senior management within Communications and client-facing project teams.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Designs are expected to be data-informed, translating complex information into clear visuals that convey insights effectively.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: The use of Workamajig suggests a structured approach to project management, workflow automation, and resource allocation within the design team.

• Automation & Efficiency: Proactively researching and leveraging new tools and trends aims to drive innovation and improve operational efficiency in design production.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: CACI's focus on government contracting means the company culture and operational practices are deeply intertwined with national security and mission success. The "culture of integrity" and "environment of trust" emphasized in the job description are critical for roles requiring security clearances and handling sensitive information. The emphasis on data-driven decision-making and efficiency directly impacts how design operations are managed.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Individual Contributor. This role is positioned as a senior-level designer with leadership responsibilities, including mentorship and strategic consultation. It requires a high degree of autonomy and expertise in graphic design, project management, and stakeholder communication within a complex operational environment.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Graphic Designer likely reports to a Communications Manager or Director. They will also work closely with project managers and potentially program leads who require their visual support.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on CACI's ability to communicate complex solutions, proposals, and mission outcomes to government clients and internal stakeholders. High-quality, accurate, and secure visual assets are critical for winning contracts, supporting operations, and maintaining brand reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to specialize in specific areas like data visualization for intelligence, secure document design, or environmental graphics for secure facilities. Opportunity to deepen expertise in Workamajig for enhanced project management operations.

• Industry Specialization: Deepen understanding of government contracting, defense, and intelligence sectors, becoming a subject matter expert in visual communications for these critical areas.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into a Lead Designer role, managing a team of designers, or transition into broader project management or communications leadership roles within CACI's operational structure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior Graphic Designer" title, coupled with responsibilities like mentorship and strategic consultation, indicates a role that serves as a stepping stone to further leadership within CACI's operational framework. The emphasis on government contracting and security clearance suggests that career growth will likely remain within this specialized sector, offering deep expertise and potentially higher-level security access.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site in Chantilly, VA. This indicates a collaborative office setting that requires physical presence, likely due to security requirements and the need for direct team interaction.

Office Location(s): Chantilly, Virginia, United States. This location is a hub for government contracting and technology firms, offering proximity to clients and industry partners.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative office environment designed to foster teamwork, creative brainstorming, and direct interaction with colleagues and stakeholders.

• Access to necessary design tools and technology, including a secure workstation environment capable of running Adobe Creative Cloud and potentially specialized government-approved software.

• Opportunities for frequent interaction with project managers, fellow designers, technical experts, and potentially government client representatives to ensure design solutions meet specific operational and security needs.

Work Schedule: Primarily a standard 40-hour work week, but the nature of government contracting and mission-critical projects may require flexibility to meet deadlines, including potential overtime or adjusted hours as dictated by operational demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site work requirement in Chantilly, VA, is likely driven by the need for secure facilities and direct collaboration essential for handling classified information and sensitive project details. This work environment is typical for roles within government contracting, where physical presence is often mandated for security and operational continuity.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application, focusing on the required TS/SCI with CI Polygraph clearance, educational background, and years of relevant experience. Your portfolio link or attachment will be a critical component.

• Portfolio Presentation & Technical Interview: A session where you will present your portfolio, discussing your design process, problem-solving approach, and how you translate complex information into visuals. Expect questions on typography, layout, color theory, and your proficiency with Adobe Creative Cloud.

• Project Management & Customer Service Assessment: Questions will probe your experience in managing project timelines, scope, and stakeholder expectations (potentially using Workamajig examples). Your ability to act as a strategic consultant and handle customer requirements will be assessed.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Questions will focus on your ability to mentor, collaborate, and work within a mission-driven, secure environment. Your understanding of CACI's values and your approach to teamwork will be evaluated.

• Security Clearance Verification: Formal verification of your active TS/SCI with CI Polygraph clearance will be a necessary step.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 5-7 of your strongest projects that best demonstrate your ability to handle complex data, adhere to strict requirements (security, brand), and showcase your strategic consultation skills.

• Structure for Impact: For each project, clearly define the problem/mission objective, your role and process, the challenges faced (especially regarding data complexity or security), your design solution, and the impact/outcome.

• Highlight Operations: Emphasize how your design process facilitated operational efficiency, met security protocols, or successfully translated intricate information for specific audiences.

• Quantify Results: Where possible, use metrics or qualitative feedback to demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs. For instance, "Reduced information processing time for X report by Y% through clearer infographics."

• Showcase Tool Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss your workflow within Adobe Creative Cloud and how you leverage its features for efficiency and quality. If you have Workamajig experience, highlight it.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for a potential design challenge that involves translating a piece of complex, de-identified technical information into a clear visual representation.

• Practice articulating your design rationale concisely and persuasively, focusing on how your choices support the mission and operational objectives.

• Prepare to discuss how you would manage competing priorities or scope creep on a high-stakes project.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process strongly emphasizes the candidate's ability to operate within a secure, government-contracting environment. The portfolio review is not just about aesthetics but about demonstrating operational rigor, problem-solving capability for complex data, and strategic consultation within defined constraints. The mention of Workamajig suggests that familiarity with project management software is a significant advantage.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud: Master proficiency required in Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop for all aspects of graphic design, layout, and image manipulation.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Word, PowerPoint, and Excel for document creation, presentations, and general office productivity.

• Workamajig: Hands-on experience is desired for project management, workflow tracking, resource allocation, and client communication within the design team's operational framework.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• No specific CRM or automation tools are listed as primary requirements for the designer role, but understanding how visual assets integrate into broader marketing or communication platforms may be beneficial. The focus is on design production and project management tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technology stack is heavily weighted towards Adobe Creative Cloud, underscoring the technical demands of the graphic design function. The inclusion of Workamajig as a desired skill highlights the operational aspect of project management within the team, indicating that efficiency and structured workflows are valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Central to CACI's ethos, this means honesty, ethical conduct, and adherence to security protocols in all design and communication activities, especially with classified information.

• Innovation: A drive to research and implement the latest design tools and industry trends to enhance creative output and team efficiency.

• Mission-Driven: A commitment to understanding and supporting the critical missions of CACI's clients, ensuring all visual outputs directly contribute to mission success.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, knowledge sharing, and constructive feedback to elevate the collective output of the design team.

• Excellence: A dedication to delivering high-grade accuracy, polished products, and building trusted partnerships through exceptional design work.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Designers will work closely with project managers, technical experts, and communications specialists to ensure visual assets are accurate, secure, and meet diverse stakeholder needs.

• Process Review & Feedback: A culture of constructive creative critiques is encouraged, providing opportunities to share knowledge, improve designs, and elevate the team's overall visual quality.

• Knowledge Sharing: A willingness to share expertise, mentor junior team members, and contribute to a learning environment that fosters continuous improvement in design operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "integrity," "mission-driven," and "excellence" reflects the high-stakes environment of government contracting. Operations within this context demand meticulous attention to detail, adherence to strict protocols, and a deep understanding of the impact of one's work on national security objectives.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complex Data: A primary challenge will be distilling highly technical or sensitive information into clear, engaging, and accurate visuals while adhering to strict security and classification guidelines.

• Balancing Creativity with Constraints: Meeting creative objectives while working within stringent brand standards, security protocols, and client-specific requirements demands innovative problem-solving.

• Stakeholder Management: Effectively managing expectations and providing strategic design consultation to diverse stakeholders, including senior leadership and government clients, requires strong communication and diplomacy.

• Evolving Technologies & Security: Staying abreast of emerging design tools and adapting to evolving security requirements within the government contracting landscape.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized design areas relevant to defense and intelligence, such as classified information visualization or secure document design.

• Industry Certifications & Training: Access to training on new design software, project management methodologies (e.g., Workamajig), and potentially security-related protocols.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders and to mentor junior designers, developing leadership and strategic planning skills within a CACI operational context.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Working on diverse projects across different government missions provides broad exposure to various operational challenges and communication needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are directly tied to the operational realities of government contracting, emphasizing the need for designers to be not just creative but also highly disciplined, secure, and adept at handling complex information. Growth opportunities are framed within this specialized operational context.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate highly technical or complex data into a clear visual for a non-technical audience. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and impact).

• "How do you approach managing competing design requests or project timelines from multiple stakeholders, especially when facing scope creep?" (Highlight project management skills, diplomacy, and Workamajig experience if applicable).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "CACI emphasizes integrity and mission-driven work. How do these values influence your approach to graphic design, particularly when dealing with sensitive information?" (Connect personal values to CACI's operational ethos).

• "Describe your experience working in a collaborative team environment. How do you contribute to a team's overall success and mentor junior members?" (Showcase teamwork, mentorship, and collaborative process).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: Structure your portfolio presentation with a clear beginning (problem/mission), middle (your process, challenges, solutions), and end (impact/results).

• Focus on Process & Rationale: For each project, explain why you made specific design choices, linking them to project objectives, data insights, or operational requirements.

• Highlight Security & Data Handling: If possible, showcase projects that demonstrate your ability to handle sensitive information or complex data visualization with accuracy and discretion.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics or tangible outcomes to illustrate the effectiveness of your design solutions.

• Engage and Discuss: Be prepared for interactive discussion. Anticipate questions about your workflow, challenges, and how you would approach new scenarios.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored to the specific demands of a Senior Graphic Designer role within a government contracting environment, emphasizing the need to demonstrate not only creative skill but also operational discipline, security awareness, and strategic thinking.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the CACI careers portal, ensuring you include a link to or attachment of your professional portfolio.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating complex data visualization, adherence to strict brand/security guidelines, and strategic consultation for government or enterprise clients. Showcase your process for translating intricate information into clear, impactful graphics.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your years of experience in graphic design, project management, and customer service, specifically mentioning any government sector experience. Highlight proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud and any experience with Workamajig. Emphasize your active TS/SCI with CI Polygraph clearance.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving methodologies, and how you handle complex data and stakeholder management. Prepare specific examples for behavioral questions related to teamwork, integrity, and mission focus.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with CACI's mission, values, and recent projects, particularly within the defense and intelligence sectors. Understand how CACI's operational objectives align with the role of a Senior Graphic Designer.

⚠️ 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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