Senior Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Graphic Designer

Company: CACI

Location: Chantilly, Virginia, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Government & Public Sector

Date Posted: 2026-08-31

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design, develop, and execute compelling visual concepts for mission-critical communications, translating complex information into high-impact digital and print artwork.

• Serve as a strategic design consultant, adept at understanding customer requirements, identifying optimal visual solutions, and articulating design rationale to build trusted partnerships.

• Proactively manage project timelines and scope within Workamajig, ensuring deliverables remain on track while diplomatically managing stakeholder expectations.

• Foster a collaborative team environment by sharing knowledge, providing constructive critiques, and contributing to the overall efficiency and visual output of the design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically tailored for a Senior Graphic Designer within a government contracting environment, emphasizing the need for high security clearance (TS/SCI with Polygraph) and the ability to handle mission-critical, detail-rich projects. The operations aspect lies in the meticulous process management, stakeholder consultation, and efficient execution required for sensitive government contracts.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Masterfully execute typography, layout, and color theory to create polished, high-quality visual assets that convey trust and professionalism.

• Translate complex, technical, or detail-rich data into clear, digestible, and visually engaging graphics across print, digital, and environmental mediums, ensuring high-grade accuracy and compliance with classification guidelines.

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

• Conduct basic digital press and large-format printing functions, including pre-flight checks and safe operation of production equipment within secure facility guidelines.

• Provide strategic design consultation by actively listening to customer requirements, identifying root needs, and confidently presenting design choices to build long-term partnerships.

• Proactively manage assigned workload and project timelines within Workamajig, identifying scope creep early and realigning stakeholder expectations to keep deliverables on track.

• Foster a collaborative, team-first mentality by sharing knowledge, providing constructive creative critiques, and elevating the overall visual output and efficiency of the design team.

• Ensure all design products meet strict quality and security standards, recognizing the critical nature of accuracy for the customer's mission.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative execution and rigorous operational adherence, common in defense and intelligence sector roles. The emphasis on "mission-driven creative execution" and "security standards" points to a need for designers who understand the implications of their work in sensitive environments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

• Master’s Degree or higher in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, Interactive Design, or a related field is desired. Experience:

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

• 10+ years of relevant experience in the graphic design field is desired.

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

• 5+ years of relevant customer service experience is desired.

• 3+ years of relevant project management experience.

• 5+ years of relevant project management experience is desired. Required Skills:

• Active TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance.

• Highly skilled in Adobe Creative Cloud (specifically Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop).

• Proficient in Microsoft Office products.

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

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

• Strong understanding of typography, layout, and color theory.

• Experience with project management, including scope management and timeline adherence. Preferred Skills:

• Hands-on experience with Workamajig project management software.

• Experience working within government contracting environments.

• Familiarity with digital press and large-format printing operations.

• Demonstrated ability to research and leverage emerging design tools and industry trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for an active TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance is a critical qualification. The portfolio requirement is also crucial, serving as a practical demonstration of the candidate's ability to meet the role's demanding creative and technical standards, especially in translating complex data.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A robust professional portfolio demonstrating a wide range of graphic design capabilities, with a focus on complex problem-solving.

• Showcase a strong grasp of typography, layout, and color theory through diverse project examples.

• Include case studies that highlight the translation of complex or technical information into clear, visually engaging graphics.

• Demonstrate experience with both digital and print mediums, reflecting the diverse output requirements of the role.

• Evidence of effective stakeholder management and the ability to articulate design rationale through project examples. Process Documentation:

• Showcase examples of project management within the portfolio, ideally highlighting the use of tools like Workamajig or similar systems for timeline and scope management.

• Include project examples that illustrate a structured approach to design strategy and conceptualization, from initial brief to final delivery.

• Demonstrate a process for ensuring high-grade accuracy and compliance with brand standards, classification guidelines, and customer requirements.

• Present examples of collaborative processes, such as creative critiques and knowledge sharing, that contributed to successful project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "Senior" title and the nature of government contracting, the portfolio is expected to be more than just a collection of pretty pictures. It needs to demonstrate a mature design process, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage complex projects with strict adherence to security and client requirements.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $70,800 - $148,600 per year

Benefits:

• Healthcare coverage

• Wellness programs

• Financial planning resources

• Retirement plans

• Family support services

• Continuing education opportunities

• Flexible time off

Working Hours: 40 hours per week (Full-time)

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of $70,800 - $148,600 for a Senior Graphic Designer in Chantilly, VA, reflects the specialized nature of the role, particularly given the required TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance and the government contracting industry. This range is competitive for senior-level creative roles in high-security environments in the Northern Virginia tech corridor. The benefits package is comprehensive, emphasizing work-life balance and professional development, which are attractive to experienced professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government Contracting / Information Technology / Professional Services

Company Size: Large (10,000+ employees)

Founded: 1962 (CACI has a long-standing history in supporting government missions.)

Team Structure:

• The graphic design team likely operates within a larger Communications or Marketing department, supporting various internal and external client projects.

• As a Senior Designer, you may be expected to mentor junior designers and collaborate closely with project managers, technical writers, and client liaisons.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, working with diverse teams across different CACI divisions to understand mission requirements and develop tailored visual solutions. Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Translating complex data into clear visual narratives is a core function, requiring analytical thinking to distill information effectively.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Managing projects within Workamajig and adhering to strict timelines and security protocols necessitates a structured and optimized workflow.

• Automation & Efficiency: Proactive research into new tools and trends aims to drive creative innovation and enhance team efficiency, indicating a forward-thinking approach to operations.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: CACI's extensive history in government contracting suggests a culture that values integrity, mission focus, and security. The "culture of integrity" and "environment of trust" mentioned in the job description indicate a workplace that prioritizes ethical conduct and employee well-being, while the "focus on continuous growth" points to opportunities for professional development within a stable, mission-driven organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Individual Contributor / Potential Team Lead

This role represents a senior-level position in the graphic design discipline, requiring significant autonomy and expertise. It involves not only high-level design execution but also strategic consultation, project management, and mentorship. The "Senior" designation implies leadership potential and the ability to guide projects and influence design direction.

Reporting Structure:

The Senior Graphic Designer will likely report to a Creative Director, Communications Manager, or a similar leadership role within a department focused on delivering visual support for CACI's government contracts. Collaboration will be extensive with project managers, technical subject matter experts, and client-facing teams.

Operations Impact:

The impact of this role is significant, directly contributing to the clarity, effectiveness, and professionalism of CACI's communications, which are vital for securing and executing government contracts. High-quality visual assets can enhance understanding of complex proposals, improve client engagement, and bolster CACI's brand reputation within the defense and intelligence communities. The ability to translate sensitive data into secure, compliant visuals is paramount to mission success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to move into a Lead Graphic Designer or Creative Lead role, managing a team and overseeing larger design initiatives.

• Industry Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like data visualization for intelligence, environmental graphics for secure facilities, or advanced digital media design within the government sector.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to take on more strategic responsibilities, contribute to proposal development, and influence design strategy for major contracts.

• Continuous Learning: Access to CACI's learning resources and potential for certifications in project management or specialized design software to further enhance professional capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Senior Graphic Designer in a company like CACI often involves advancing into leadership roles or specializing in niche, high-demand areas like intelligence visualization or secure facility design, directly impacting the operational success of government contracts.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site, likely within a secure government contracting facility.

The role requires the employee to be physically present at the Chantilly, VA location, indicating a traditional office-based work environment. Given the TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance requirement, the workspace will adhere to strict security protocols.

Office Location(s): Chantilly, Virginia. This location is part of the Northern Virginia technology corridor, known for its concentration of government contractors and federal agencies.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: While on-site, the role emphasizes collaboration with stakeholders and team members, suggesting a dynamic office setting conducive to communication and feedback.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to high-performance workstations equipped with the full Adobe Creative Cloud suite and Microsoft Office products will be standard. Secure network access and potential specialized software for government work are also expected.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with colleagues, project teams, and potentially clients, fostering a sense of shared mission and purpose.

Work Schedule:

The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, full-time. While the job is on-site, the mention of "flexible time off" as a benefit suggests a company culture that values employee well-being and work-life balance within the structured framework of a government contract.

📝 Enhancement Note: Working on-site in Chantilly, VA, for a company like CACI, especially with a TS/SCI clearance, implies a secure facility environment. This means strict adherence to access controls, potentially limited personal electronic device usage, and a focus on professional conduct within a mission-oriented setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio link/attachment for technical skills, experience, and clearance verification.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focusing on design principles, software proficiency (Adobe Creative Suite), project management experience, and problem-solving scenarios. Candidates may be asked to walk through portfolio pieces and explain their design process and rationale.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Assessment of communication skills, ability to collaborate, handle feedback, manage stakeholders, and adapt to complex requirements. Questions will likely probe experience with government clients or similar environments.

• Security Clearance Verification: Confirmation of active TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to assess cultural fit and strategic alignment with CACI's mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best demonstrate your ability to translate complex information into clear visuals, your mastery of typography and layout, and your experience with relevant mediums (print, digital, environmental).

• Showcase Problem-Solving: For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your approach, the tools used, and the measurable impact or outcome. Highlight how you met specific client requirements or overcame design hurdles.

• Emphasize Security & Accuracy: If possible, include examples that touch upon handling sensitive data or adhering to strict brand/classification guidelines, demonstrating an understanding of the government contracting context.

• Prepare to Discuss Process: Be ready to discuss your workflow, how you manage projects in Workamajig (or similar), how you handle feedback, and your collaborative style.

• High-Quality Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate, whether it's a PDF or an online link.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Exercise: You may be given a hypothetical design challenge (e.g., creating a graphic for a complex technical concept, designing a presentation slide) and asked to present your solution and rationale. Focus on clarity, accuracy, and strategic thinking.

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions about how you would handle conflicting stakeholder feedback, manage scope creep on a tight deadline, or ensure accuracy in a high-stakes project.

• Articulate Rationale: Practice clearly explaining the "why" behind your design choices, linking them back to the project's objectives and the client's mission.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "robust professional portfolio" and "complex problem-solving" suggests that candidates will be evaluated not just on aesthetic skills but on their strategic thinking, process management, and ability to deliver under strict requirements, typical for senior roles in specialized industries.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud: Expert proficiency required in Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop. These are the core tools for creating a wide range of graphic assets.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency expected for integration with documents, presentations, and general office tasks.

• Workamajig: Hands-on experience is desired for project management, workflow tracking, and scope management. This system is crucial for operational efficiency in managing multiple projects and client demands.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary analytics role, understanding how to visualize data effectively is key. Familiarity with dashboarding concepts or tools that CACI might use for internal reporting or client presentations could be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core graphic design function, but an understanding of how design assets integrate into broader marketing or sales processes within CACI's client-facing operations might be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. The strong preference for Workamajig highlights the operational aspect of this role, where project management and workflow efficiency are as critical as design skill. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with these tools and how they leverage them for effective project delivery.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards and ensuring the accuracy and security of all design work, especially within a government contracting context.

• Mission Focus: Dedication to supporting CACI's customer missions through high-quality, impactful visual communications.

• Innovation: Proactively seeking out and applying new design tools, techniques, and industry trends to enhance creative output and efficiency.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-first environment, sharing knowledge, and providing constructive feedback to elevate the collective capabilities of the design team.

• Excellence: Commitment to delivering polished, high-grade designs that meet stringent quality and classification standards.

Collaboration Style:

• Consultative: Acting as a strategic design consultant, actively listening to customer needs and providing expert recommendations.

• Team-Oriented: Willingness to mentor junior designers, participate in constructive critiques, and contribute to shared team goals.

• Cross-Functional: Engaging effectively with project managers, technical experts, and other stakeholders to ensure design solutions align with broader project objectives.

• Feedback-Driven: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to continuously improve design quality and team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: CACI's stated values of "integrity," "trust," and "continuous growth" are reflected in the operational expectations for this role. The emphasis on mission-driven work and collaborative problem-solving suggests a culture where designers are integral to client success and are encouraged to develop professionally.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complex Data: The primary challenge is distilling intricate, technical, or classified information into clear, accurate, and visually compelling graphics.

• Security & Compliance: Adhering to strict security protocols, classification guidelines, and brand standards within a government contracting environment requires meticulous attention to detail.

• Stakeholder Management: Balancing diverse stakeholder expectations and feedback while maintaining design integrity and project timelines can be demanding.

• Pace & Volume: Managing a high workload of diverse projects within tight deadlines, as often experienced in government support roles.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in project management software (Workamajig), workflow optimization, and secure production processes.

• Industry Specialization: Gaining specialized knowledge in areas like intelligence visualization, data storytelling for government clients, or advanced digital media production for defense applications.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Developing leadership skills through mentoring junior designers and potentially leading design efforts on key projects.

• Continuing Education: Access to CACI's learning resources for professional development, including potential certifications in design software, project management, or relevant industry topics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in this role, particularly regarding security and complexity, present significant opportunities for skill development and career growth within the specialized field of government contracting design.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate highly technical or complex data into a visually understandable graphic. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your methodology, tools, and ability to distill information.)

• "How do you approach managing project scope and timelines when working with multiple stakeholders who have different priorities?" (Highlight your project management skills, diplomacy, and use of tools like Workamajig.)

• "Walk me through a design project in your portfolio that you are particularly proud of. What were the objectives, challenges, your role, and the final impact?" (Be prepared to articulate your design rationale, problem-solving approach, and results.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for CACI, specifically in supporting government missions?" (Research CACI's mission, values, and recent projects in the government sector.)

• "How do you approach creative collaboration and receive constructive criticism from team members or clients?" (Emphasize your team-first mentality and ability to incorporate feedback.)

• "How do you ensure accuracy and compliance with strict guidelines in your design work?" (Connect this to your attention to detail and understanding of security protocols.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each portfolio piece as a mini-story – the problem, your solution, and the result. Clearly articulate your role and contributions.

• Metrics & Impact: Whenever possible, quantify the impact of your designs. Did they improve engagement, clarity, or efficiency?

• Process Focus: Be ready to discuss your design process, from initial brief to final production, including your use of software and project management tools.

• Tailor to CACI: Select examples that best align with the type of work CACI does (government contracting, complex data visualization, high-security environments).

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only creative talent but also operational discipline, strong communication skills, and an understanding of the unique demands of working within a government contracting environment, especially with high-level security clearances.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the CACI careers portal, ensuring you provide a link to or attach your robust professional portfolio.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating complex data visualization, strong typography/layout skills, and experience with print and digital media. Include examples that showcase problem-solving in challenging design scenarios.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your 5+ years of graphic design experience, proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud, project management experience, and any customer service experience within government sectors. Highlight your active TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance prominently.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, rationale, and project management approach. Be ready to discuss your experience with Workamajig and your ability to handle sensitive information and strict security protocols.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with CACI's mission, values, and the types of projects they undertake in the government contracting space to better align your responses with their operational 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.