Senior Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Graphic Designer

Company: Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Location: Oak Ridge, TN

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Science & Research Operations

Date Posted: 2026-05-01T00:00:00

Experience Level: 8+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Supports the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility (OLCF) by producing timely and visually effective communication tools for internal and external stakeholders.

• Manages workflow, prioritizes requests, and coordinates with vendors to ensure cost-effective and timely production of various communication materials.

• Collaborates closely with leadership and internal customers to translate complex scientific information into accessible visual formats.

• Ensures all design outputs comply with organizational standards, including safety, health, and quality program requirements.

• Contributes to a collaborative team environment within the Graphics Group, Creative Services Division, and Communications and Community Engagement Directorate.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a national laboratory environment, suggesting a focus on scientific and technical communication. The "Senior" title implies a need for independent work, project leadership, and potentially mentoring junior designers. The emphasis on OLCF means a deep understanding of high-performance computing and related scientific research communication is highly advantageous.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce a wide range of communication materials, including annual reports, brochures, digital and physical signage, posters, infographics, presentations, and R&D achievement sheets.

• Proficiently utilize core design software: Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and Microsoft PowerPoint for all creative outputs.

• Manage the end-to-end production process for design projects, from initial concept and client consultation through to final delivery and vendor coordination.

• Prioritize and schedule design requests effectively, ensuring timely completion of deliverables for high-profile visits and ongoing communication needs.

• Collaborate with scientists, researchers, and leadership to conceptualize and execute visual strategies that clearly communicate complex scientific achievements and facility information.

• Oversee production timelines and facilitate communication with printers and other vendors, ensuring cost-effectiveness and adherence to quality standards.

• Maintain strict compliance with environmental, safety, health, and quality program requirements in all design and production activities.

• Participate actively in internal review processes to guarantee the highest quality and accuracy of all design products.

• Engage with team members across various communication disciplines to foster a holistic approach to project execution and contribute to the overall mission of the directorate.

• Uphold and embody the laboratory's core values: Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service in all professional interactions and work outputs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for end-to-end project management for design deliverables, from concept to vendor coordination. The emphasis on "timely and visually effective communications tools" for diverse stakeholders (industry, academia, public) points to a strong requirement for clarity and impact in scientific visualization.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in professional graphic design.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe Photoshop.

• Expertise in Microsoft PowerPoint for creating compelling presentations.

• Proven ability to design and produce multi-page layouts effectively.

• Strong understanding of visual communication principles and their application to complex information.

• Experience in managing design project workflows from conception to completion.

• Skill in prioritizing multiple assignments and managing demanding deadlines.

• Ability to coordinate with external vendors (e.g., printers) for production.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in electronic newsletter design and implementation.

• Proficiency in creating infographics to simplify complex data and research findings.

• Demonstrated ability to understand and implement complex instructions from technical or scientific personnel.

• Excellent organizational and time management skills for handling multiple concurrent projects.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders, including researchers and leadership.

• Aptitude for problem-solving and developing innovative design solutions.

• Ability to maintain a professional and collaborative demeanor in a fast-paced research environment.

• Self-starter mentality with the capacity for both independent work and creative contributions to team projects.

• Adaptability to changing needs and priorities in a dynamic research setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" designation, coupled with an 8-year minimum experience requirement, suggests that candidates should present a strong portfolio showcasing complex projects, client management, and strategic design thinking, not just execution. The preferred skills like infographics and newsletter design indicate a need for modern, digital-first communication strategies, alongside traditional print design.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio demonstrating a wide range of graphic design capabilities, including print, digital, and presentation design.

• Specific examples of work that translate complex or technical information into clear, visually compelling graphics (e.g., infographics, data visualizations, scientific illustrations).

• Evidence of experience with multi-page layout design, such as annual reports, brochures, or technical publications.

• Case studies or examples showcasing project management skills, including workflow coordination, vendor interaction, and deadline adherence.

• A clear demonstration of proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) and Microsoft PowerPoint.

Process Documentation:

• While formal process documentation is not explicitly requested, candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal design process, including:

  • Workflow stages from client brief to final asset delivery.

  • Strategies for client consultation and feedback incorporation.

  • Methods for ensuring brand consistency and adherence to organizational guidelines.

  • Quality assurance steps for design accuracy and technical specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mandatory portfolio requirement is critical. Candidates must showcase their ability to handle scientific communication and complex information. The request for "applicable work" implies that relevance to a research institution's needs (e.g., scientific reports, facility-related graphics) will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical Plan

• Prescription Drug Plan

• Dental Plan

• Vision Plan

• Retirement Plan (including 401(k) and Contributory Pension Plan)

• Life Insurance

• Disability Benefits

• Generous Vacation and Holidays

• Parental Leave

• Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection

• Employee Assistance Plan

• Flexible Spending Accounts

• Health Savings Accounts

• Wellness Programs

• Educational Assistance

• Relocation Assistance

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work hours are typically 40 hours per week. The laboratory offers flexible work hours, which can assist in managing personal needs and project deadlines, provided operational requirements and project timelines are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The listed benefits are extensive and typical for a large, established research institution. The mention of "flexible work hours" is a key aspect for an operations-focused role, allowing for better management of demanding project schedules typical in creative services. Salary is an estimate based on role, experience, and location.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Science & Research / Government & Public Sector / Advanced Computing

Company Size: Over 7,000 employees. As a large national laboratory, ORNL operates with a significant scale, implying robust infrastructure, established processes, and a diverse workforce. This size offers opportunities for collaboration with a wide array of experts but may also involve navigating complex organizational structures.

Founded: 1943. With an 80-year legacy, ORNL has a deep-rooted history in scientific exploration and national service. This longevity suggests a culture that values sustained impact, innovation, and a commitment to long-term research goals.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Graphic Designer will be part of the Graphics Group within the Creative Services Division.

• This division is housed under the Communications and Community Engagement Directorate.

• The role involves close collaboration with leadership and internal customers across the laboratory, particularly supporting the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility (OLCF).

Methodology:

• Design work is expected to be data-driven, translating complex scientific concepts into clear, impactful visuals.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, as evidenced by the need to prioritize requests, coordinate with vendors, and meet tight deadlines.

• Automation and efficiency practices are implied through the use of industry-standard software and the need to manage production effectively.

• Emphasis on quality assurance and adherence to safety and compliance standards is paramount in a national laboratory setting.

Company Website: https://www.ornl.gov/

📝 Enhancement Note: The organizational structure indicates a specialized communications function supporting a large-scale research mission. The emphasis on "Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service" suggests a culture that values professionalism, collaboration, and a strong sense of purpose tied to national scientific advancement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior-level position, indicating a high degree of autonomy, expertise, and responsibility. It suggests a role where the individual is expected to lead design projects, mentor others, and contribute strategically to visual communications efforts for the OLCF.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Graphic Designer will report to leadership within the Graphics Group, which is part of the Creative Services Division. This division operates under the Communications and Community Engagement Directorate. The role requires significant interaction with internal customers, including leadership and researchers, across various directorates.

Operations Impact: The graphic design function is critical for translating complex scientific research and facility information into accessible formats for diverse audiences. The impact is measured by the clarity, effectiveness, and reach of communication materials, contributing to stakeholder engagement, funding support, public understanding, and the overall mission success of ORNL and the OLCF.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like scientific infographics, data visualization, or digital media design for research institutions.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into a Lead Designer role, managing projects or a small team, or taking on more strategic communication planning responsibilities.

• Cross-Functional Projects: Opportunities to collaborate on high-profile initiatives, potentially involving national or international scientific collaborations, offering exposure to cutting-edge research.

• Professional Development: Access to training, workshops, and potentially conference attendance to stay abreast of design trends and technologies relevant to scientific communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities highlight a path for specialization within scientific communication design and potential leadership development within a large, mission-driven organization. The "Senior" level suggests that candidates should be looking for a role where they can make a significant individual contribution and potentially guide others.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site position at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. This implies a professional, campus-like environment typical of a major research institution.

Office Location(s): Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

• The laboratory is a sprawling campus, and specific work locations within the Graphics Group will be assigned.

Workspace Context:

• The role is within the Graphics Group, Creative Services Division, suggesting a dedicated creative workspace.

• This environment likely includes access to high-end design workstations and software.

• Collaboration is a key aspect, so the workspace will support interaction with team members and potentially with internal clients.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week.

• The "flexible work hours" benefit indicates some degree of autonomy in scheduling, provided project deadlines and operational needs are met. This flexibility is crucial for managing demanding design projects and ensuring consistent output.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is firm. The environment is professional and collaborative, with a focus on supporting scientific endeavors. The mention of "flexible work hours" is a significant operational benefit for managing workload.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit resume, cover letter (if applicable), and portfolio. The portfolio is mandatory.

• Initial Screening: HR and hiring managers will review applications and portfolios for required qualifications and experience.

• Technical/Skills Interview: Candidates may be asked to discuss their design process, software proficiency, and approach to specific design challenges. This could involve a creative exercise or a detailed portfolio review.

• Portfolio Presentation: A key component will likely involve presenting selected works from the portfolio, discussing design choices, problem-solving strategies, and the impact of their designs.

• Behavioral/Situational Interviews: Questions will assess problem-solving abilities, teamwork, communication skills, adaptability, and alignment with ORNL's core values.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership or key stakeholders from the OLCF.

• Background Check: A federal background investigation is mandatory for facility access.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 5-7 of your strongest, most relevant projects. Prioritize work that demonstrates experience with technical/scientific communication, multi-page layouts, infographics, and presentations.

• Showcase Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the objective, your role, the design process, the tools used, and the outcome or impact (e.g., increased engagement, improved clarity). Quantify results where possible.

• Detail Your Process: Be ready to walk through your design process for selected projects. Explain your rationale behind color choices, typography, layout, and imagery.

• Highlight Software Proficiency: Ensure examples clearly show your mastery of Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, and PowerPoint.

• Accessibility: Ensure your portfolio link is active and easily navigable, or that attached files are within the specified size limits and format.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: Be prepared for a potential design challenge that requires you to conceptualize or sketch solutions for a given communication problem, possibly related to scientific research.

• Problem-Solving: Practice articulating how you would approach a new design request, especially one involving complex subject matter or tight constraints. Think about how you gather information, brainstorm, and refine concepts.

• Stakeholder Management: Prepare examples of how you have managed feedback or conflicting requirements from different stakeholders in past projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is the most critical element of the application. Candidates should tailor their portfolio to the specific needs of a national laboratory supporting advanced computing and scientific research. The background check is a significant procedural step.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:

  • Adobe InDesign: Essential for multi-page layouts, reports, brochures, and publications.
  • Adobe Illustrator: Critical for creating vector graphics, logos, icons, and complex illustrations.
  • Adobe Photoshop: Used for image editing, manipulation, and creating digital assets.

• Microsoft PowerPoint: Frequently used for presentations, reports, and internal communications.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but understanding how design assets are managed and distributed within an organization's systems (e.g., DAM - Digital Asset Management) could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core requirement is mastery of the Adobe Creative Suite for graphic design. Proficiency in PowerPoint is also explicitly mentioned. Experience with digital asset management or understanding of how design assets are integrated into broader communication workflows would be a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Impact: Designing materials that effectively communicate complex science and contribute to the laboratory's mission and visibility.

• Integrity: Ensuring accuracy, professionalism, and ethical representation in all design work, especially when dealing with scientific data.

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues in the Graphics Group, Creative Services, and across the laboratory, including researchers and leadership.

• Safety: Adhering to all safety, health, and quality program requirements in the design and production process.

• Service: Providing excellent service to internal clients by understanding their needs and delivering high-quality visual solutions on time.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with scientists, researchers, and communication specialists to understand project requirements and translate them into compelling visuals.

• Process Review Culture: Participating in design reviews, providing constructive feedback, and being open to receiving and incorporating feedback on one's own work.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to a team environment where best practices, new techniques, and design trends are shared to elevate the overall quality of work produced by the Graphics Group.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open lines of communication with project managers, clients, and vendors to ensure alignment and smooth project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values are deeply integrated into the work expectations. A Senior Graphic Designer is expected not just to execute tasks but to embody these values, particularly in how they collaborate, ensure quality, and contribute to the overall mission through their design work.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Complex Science: The primary challenge will be to effectively visualize highly technical and abstract scientific concepts for diverse audiences, ensuring accuracy without oversimplification.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Balancing the needs and expectations of various internal clients (leadership, researchers, different departments) with potentially competing priorities and feedback.

• Fast-Paced Environment: Adapting to the dynamic nature of a research institution, where project needs can shift rapidly, requiring flexibility and efficient prioritization.

• Adhering to Standards: Ensuring all designs meet stringent organizational, safety, and compliance requirements while maintaining creative integrity.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Design Training: Opportunities to attend workshops or courses focused on scientific visualization, data visualization, or advanced techniques in Adobe Creative Suite.

• Industry Engagement: Potential to attend relevant design or science communication conferences to stay current with trends and network with peers.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced colleagues within the Graphics Group and Communications Directorate, and potentially mentoring junior designers as the role progresses.

• Exposure to Cutting-Edge Research: Gaining a deeper understanding of advanced computing and scientific breakthroughs through the projects undertaken for OLCF and other ORNL initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to working in a scientific research environment. The growth opportunities are geared towards enhancing specialized design skills relevant to this niche and developing within a large, established organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for designing an infographic for a complex scientific topic. How do you ensure accuracy and clarity?" (Focus on information gathering, simplification, visual hierarchy, and stakeholder review).

• "How do you manage conflicting feedback from multiple stakeholders on a single design project?" (Highlight your communication, negotiation, and prioritization skills).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility?" (Showcase your research into the organization and its mission).

• "How do you align your work with organizational values like Impact, Integrity, and Teamwork?" (Provide specific examples of how you've demonstrated these values in past roles).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each project as a narrative—the problem, your solution, and the outcome.

• Focus on Relevance: Emphasize projects that showcase your ability to work with technical content, create multi-page documents, and design for different media (print, digital).

• Showcase Technical Skills: Be ready to discuss the specific tools and techniques you used in Adobe Creative Suite to achieve your design goals.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics or concrete examples to demonstrate the success of your designs.

• Engage and Discuss: Treat the portfolio review as a collaborative discussion, inviting questions and demonstrating your enthusiasm and expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily emphasize the candidate's ability to handle scientific communication, manage complex projects within a structured environment, and demonstrate alignment with the laboratory's values. The portfolio presentation is a key opportunity to prove these capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the official Oak Ridge National Laboratory job portal, ensuring all required fields are completed accurately.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your design portfolio to prominently feature projects that demonstrate your experience with technical/scientific communication, multi-page layouts, infographics, and presentations. Ensure it's easily accessible via a link or attachment.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 8+ years of graphic design experience, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) and PowerPoint, and any experience relevant to research institutions or complex information design.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving approaches, and how you manage stakeholder feedback. Prepare to present your portfolio with a focus on impact and relevance to ORNL's mission.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Oak Ridge National Laboratory, its mission, and the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility (OLCF). Understand their core values and how your skills can contribute to their scientific communication goals.

⚠️ 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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