Senior Graphic Designer - #2955

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Graphic Designer - #2955

Company: Wade Trim

Location: Orlando, FL; Tampa, FL

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Services

Date Posted: May 29, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: Hybrid (potential for flexible remote work after 90 days)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in shaping the visual communication strategy for business development efforts, focusing on the design of proposal documents, presentations, and marketing collateral.

• It requires a blend of artistic creativity and analytical thinking to translate complex technical engineering concepts into easily understandable and visually appealing graphics.

• The Senior Graphic Designer will lead the charge in maintaining brand consistency and elevating the overall quality of design output across various marketing materials.

• This position involves guiding visual strategy, providing direction on graphic approaches, and serving as a key resource for marketing and technical teams, especially under tight deadlines inherent in a proposal-driven environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the primary title is "Senior Graphic Designer," the responsibilities described, particularly those related to proposal document design, brand standards adherence, and supporting business development efforts within an engineering firm, strongly indicate a role that interfaces heavily with operations and marketing functions. Therefore, it's categorized under Marketing Operations / Creative Services to reflect this GTM alignment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design a wide range of graphics, including maps, flow charts, timelines, organizational charts, and tables, utilizing Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.

• Manage and maintain graphics within Creative Cloud Libraries and the OpenAsset management software, ensuring organized and accessible design assets.

• Stay current with evolving graphic design trends to ensure Wade Trim's visual materials remain modern and impactful.

• Create and edit templates for InDesign and PowerPoint to streamline document production and ensure brand consistency.

• Develop comprehensive layouts for proposals, prioritizing readability, visual appeal, and clear communication of the intended message.

• Provide technical support and training to marketing staff on Adobe Creative Suite applications and Microsoft PowerPoint.

• Prepare finalized, bookmarked PDFs for print and digital distribution, coordinating binding and final print deliverables as required.

• Collaborate closely with Proposal Specialists to ensure all documents strictly adhere to client requirements (RFPs) and Wade Trim’s established brand standards.

• Adapt work approach dynamically to meet the unique needs and expectations of each project within a team-oriented, proposal-driven context.

• Uphold a safe and productive working environment, contributing to overall team and company well-being.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on proposal document design, adherence to RFPs and brand standards, and collaboration with Proposal Specialists points to a strong connection with GTM operations. The responsibility for creating and managing templates, providing technical support, and preparing final deliverables highlights the operational aspects of the design function.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 10+ years of progressive experience in graphic design, with a significant portion focused on long-form document design and marketing collateral.

Required Skills:

• Mastery of Adobe InDesign: Subject matter expert in creating, managing, and troubleshooting InDesign templates, including parent pages, styles, tables, page numbering, Table of Contents, Links panel, and bookmarking. GREP knowledge is a significant advantage.

• Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop: Strong understanding of image formats, color spaces, color correction, and resizing for both print and digital production.

• Competency in Adobe Illustrator: Ability to create and edit vector illustrations, with a solid understanding of layers and vector graphics principles.

• Template Design & Management: Experience in developing and maintaining reusable design templates for various document types and platforms.

• Visual Strategy & Information Design: Ability to translate complex technical information (e.g., engineering data, processes) into clear, compelling, and accurate visual graphics such as maps, flow charts, and timelines.

• Brand Consistency Management: Demonstrated ability to enforce and maintain brand standards across all design outputs.

• Leadership & Mentorship: Proven experience guiding junior designers and non-designers in design concepts, providing direction, and fostering skill development.

• Technical Communication: Ability to clearly articulate design concepts and provide technical support for design software to team members.

• Organizational Skills: Excellent ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks effectively, and meet tight deadlines in a high-pressure environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Photography Experience: Basic understanding of photography principles, image capture, and editing.

• Asset Management Software: Experience with OpenAsset or similar digital asset management (DAM) systems.

• Creative Cloud Libraries: Proficiency in utilizing and managing Creative Cloud Libraries for shared assets.

• Proposal Environment Experience: Direct experience working within an architecture, engineering, or construction (AEC) firm's proposal development process.

• Windows Environment Proficiency: Comfortable and proficient working within a Windows operating system.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on InDesign expertise, template creation, and the ability to translate technical information into graphics are critical for this role's operational output. Leadership and mentorship are key indicators of a senior-level position impacting team efficiency and quality.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio is mandatory, showcasing a diverse range of graphic design work with a strong emphasis on long-form documents, proposal layouts, and information graphics.

• The portfolio should demonstrate mastery of Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator, with specific examples of complex template creation and application.

• Include case studies or examples that highlight the ability to translate technical information into clear and impactful visuals.

• Showcase examples of maintaining brand consistency across various collateral types and projects.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of creating and maintaining design templates (InDesign, PowerPoint) that streamline workflows and ensure brand consistency.

• Examples of how design processes were adapted to meet specific client requirements (RFP) or tight deadlines.

• Documentation or description of how design assets are managed and organized (e.g., use of Creative Cloud Libraries, DAM systems like OpenAsset).

• Case studies detailing the process of collaborating with technical teams and proposal specialists to deliver final graphics and documents.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a senior design role supporting business development and operations, a portfolio is crucial to validate technical skills and the ability to deliver high-quality, operationally sound design assets. The focus on templates, asset management, and process adaptation aligns with operational efficiency requirements.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance; life insurance; short and long-term disability coverage.

• Financial Growth & Security: 401(k) plan, performance bonuses, and an employee stock ownership program, reflecting Wade Trim's 100% employee-owned structure.

• Professional Development: Education reimbursement, professional development programs, and leadership development opportunities.

• Employee Engagement: Employee Resource Groups (Young Professionals Group, Women at Wade Trim, TIE), sustainability programs, and wellness programs.

• Work-Life Balance: Potential for a flexible hybrid remote work schedule after initial onboarding.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week. The role requires flexibility to meet project deadlines, especially during proposal cycles, which may involve occasional extended hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on market research for senior-level creative roles in major Florida metropolitan areas, considering the specified experience level and the nature of the work within a professional services firm. The extensive benefits package, particularly the employee stock program, reflects the company's ownership structure and commitment to employee well-being and growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Architecture, and Construction (AEC) Services. Wade Trim specializes in providing engineering solutions to maximize infrastructure investment value.

Company Size: The provided data from LinkedIn indicates a company size between 201-500 employees, suggesting a mid-sized firm with established processes but also potential for agility and direct impact.

Founded: Wade Trim has a century of experience, founded in 1923. This long history signifies stability, deep industry knowledge, and a proven track record of client service and project delivery.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Graphic Designer will likely be part of the marketing or business development team, working closely with Proposal Specialists and technical staff from various engineering disciplines.

• Reporting structure likely involves a Marketing Director or Business Development Manager, with direct leadership and mentorship responsibilities over junior design staff or non-designers needing design assistance.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: While a creative role, the output must be data-informed, translating complex technical information accurately and efficiently.

• Collaborative Workflow: The company emphasizes a collaborative, friendly style, suggesting an open environment for idea exchange and problem-solving.

• Innovation Focus: Wade Trim encourages seeking new technologies and innovative processes, particularly through its Office of Applied Technology (OAT), indicating a culture that values continuous improvement and forward-thinking.

Company Website: http://www.wadetrim.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's century-long history and 100% employee ownership are significant cultural indicators. They suggest a stable, employee-centric environment where long-term thinking, collaboration, and individual contribution are highly valued, impacting how operations and creative functions are approached.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Senior Individual Contributor with leadership responsibilities. It represents a significant step beyond a standard graphic designer role, requiring strategic input, mentorship, and the ability to manage complex projects independently within an operational context.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Graphic Designer will report to a marketing or business development lead and will be expected to guide and mentor junior designers and provide design direction to non-designers. This indicates a role that bridges creative execution with operational team support and leadership.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts the company's business development success by enhancing the clarity, persuasiveness, and professionalism of proposals and marketing materials. High-quality graphics and well-designed documents are critical for winning bids and strengthening client relationships, directly influencing revenue generation and project acquisition.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into a Design Manager or Creative Lead role, overseeing a larger design team or shaping the overall visual strategy for the firm.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas such as information design for technical industries, proposal graphics, or advanced template systems.

• Cross-Functional Expertise: Develop a stronger understanding of the engineering business and proposal processes, potentially leading to roles with broader operational or business development responsibilities.

• Mentorship & Training: Formalize leadership skills through mentoring junior staff and developing training programs for marketing and technical teams on design best practices and software usage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title combined with leadership, mentorship, and strategic visual guidance responsibilities signifies a clear growth path. The role is not just about execution but about influencing process and quality within the GTM operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company offers a hybrid work schedule, indicating a blend of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility. This suggests a modern work environment designed to foster both teamwork and individual productivity.

Office Location(s): The position is available in Orlando, FL, and Tampa, FL, providing candidates in these regions with opportunities to join a well-established engineering firm.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Encourages frequent interaction among staff, with easily accessible leadership, supporting a culture where ideas are shared and contributions are recognized.

• Technology & Tools: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite), asset management systems (OpenAsset), and other necessary hardware and office equipment.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to work closely with diverse teams, including engineers, proposal specialists, and marketing staff, fostering a dynamic and engaging work experience.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours with a hybrid arrangement will be available after 90 days. This allows for dedicated in-office time (at least three days a week) for collaboration and team connection, balanced with remote work for focused tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model and emphasis on collaboration and accessible leadership suggest a work environment that balances operational efficiency with employee well-being and team cohesion, crucial for roles requiring close interdepartmental work.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and design capabilities.

• Technical Assessment/Portfolio Review: A deeper dive into the candidate's portfolio, potentially with a discussion about specific projects, design choices, and problem-solving approaches. This stage will focus on InDesign mastery, template design, and information graphics.

• Skills-Based Interview: Discussion focused on experience with proposal environments, leadership capabilities, technical support skills, and organizational abilities. Behavioral questions may assess how candidates handle pressure and collaborate.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members and leadership to assess alignment with Wade Trim's collaborative and innovative culture.

• Final Interview: Potential discussion with senior leadership to confirm fit and discuss overall role expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight InDesign Expertise: Showcase complex InDesign template projects, demonstrating proficiency with parent pages, styles, TOC, and bookmarking.

• Showcase Technical to Visual Translation: Include examples where complex engineering or technical data was effectively visualized through graphics like flow charts, maps, or diagrams.

• Demonstrate Proposal Design: If possible, include examples of proposal documents, highlighting layout, readability, and adherence to brand/RFP guidelines.

• Illustrate Leadership/Mentorship: If applicable, include projects where you guided other designers or non-designers, or examples of training materials you've created.

• Quality over Quantity: Select your strongest, most relevant pieces that align with the requirements of this Senior Graphic Designer role. Ensure high-resolution, professional presentation.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your process for creating InDesign templates and managing them.

• Anticipate questions about how you handle tight deadlines and manage multiple competing priorities in a proposal environment.

• Consider how you would approach training or guiding less experienced colleagues on design principles or software.

• Research Wade Trim's current projects and brand identity to discuss how your design approach can enhance their GTM materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on InDesign, template creation, and the proposal environment means candidates must demonstrate deep technical skill and operational understanding of these specific areas within their portfolio and interview responses.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe InDesign: Essential for document layout, template creation, and proposal design. Mastery is critical.

• Adobe Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, and preparation for print and digital use.

• Adobe Illustrator: For creating vector graphics, maps, flow charts, and custom illustrations.

Analytics & Reporting: (Indirectly relevant through client-facing document effectiveness)

• While not direct analytics tools, the effectiveness of the designed materials will be measured by their contribution to winning proposals and client engagement.

CRM & Automation: (Indirectly relevant through proposal submission process)

Other Relevant Software/Systems:

• Microsoft PowerPoint: For creating presentations and supporting marketing staff.

• OpenAsset: Wade Trim's asset management software; familiarity or ability to learn quickly is required.

• Creative Cloud Libraries: For efficient asset sharing and management within the Adobe ecosystem.

• Windows Environment: Proficiency in operating within a Windows-based computer system.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technology stack is heavily focused on the Adobe Creative Suite, with a particular emphasis on InDesign. Proficiency in OpenAsset and Creative Cloud Libraries are also key operational tools for this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Accuracy: A strong commitment to producing high-quality, error-free design work that accurately represents technical information and client requirements.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing open communication, mutual support, and collective problem-solving to achieve shared goals, particularly in a proposal-driven environment.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, ensuring that design output effectively supports business development objectives and client satisfaction.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: An openness to exploring new design trends, technologies, and processes to enhance efficiency and creative output, aligning with the company's OAT initiative.

• Ownership Mindset: As part of an employee-owned firm, a sense of responsibility and pride in contributing to the company's success and project outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively working with Proposal Specialists, engineers, and marketing staff to gather information, provide design direction, and ensure cohesive project delivery.

• Feedback & Iteration: A willingness to receive and provide constructive feedback on designs throughout the project lifecycle to refine outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of design expertise, software tips, and best practices with marketing staff and other team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values of client focus, innovation, and ownership directly influence how operations and creative functions are performed, emphasizing efficiency, quality, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Technical Complexity: Effectively conveying intricate engineering concepts visually for a non-technical or mixed audience is a core challenge.

• Managing High-Pressure Deadlines: The proposal-driven nature of the work necessitates consistently performing under tight deadlines without compromising quality.

• Balancing Creativity with Brand/RFP Constraints: Integrating creative vision while strictly adhering to established brand guidelines and specific client requirements (RFPs).

• Leading Non-Designers: Guiding technical staff or Proposal Specialists who may have limited design experience requires strong communication and patience.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced InDesign Techniques: Opportunities to master GREP, scripting, or advanced automation within InDesign for enhanced efficiency.

• Information Design Specialization: Developing deeper skills in data visualization and complex information graphics relevant to the AEC industry.

• Leadership Development: Formal programs or on-the-job training in team management, mentorship, and strategic planning.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the engineering and infrastructure sectors, which can inform design decisions and career trajectory.

• Employee Ownership Culture: Learning to leverage the benefits and responsibilities associated with being a 100% employee-owned company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to supporting a technical, business-development-focused organization, requiring a blend of creative problem-solving and operational execution. Growth opportunities are tied to deepening technical design skills and developing leadership capabilities within the company structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for creating and managing InDesign templates for long-form documents like proposals. How do you ensure consistency and troubleshoot issues?" (Focus on template architecture, styles, parent pages, and problem-solving.)

• "Walk us through a time you had to translate complex technical information into a clear and compelling visual graphic. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight information design skills, client communication, and impact.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your research, how do you see your design approach aligning with Wade Trim's commitment to innovation and client value?" (Showcase understanding of the company's mission and values.)

• "Describe your experience leading or mentoring junior designers or non-designers. How do you ensure your guidance is effective and fosters growth?" (Assess leadership and communication skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Curate for Relevance: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your InDesign mastery, information graphics creation, and experience with proposal-style documents.

• Tell the Story: For each project, clearly articulate the objective, your role, the challenges, your creative/technical process, and the measurable impact or outcome.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Be ready to discuss specific software features used (e.g., GREP in InDesign, advanced Photoshop techniques) and your problem-solving approach.

• Demonstrate Operational Understanding: Explain how your design process contributes to efficiency, brand consistency, and supports business development goals.

• Prepare for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, how you handle feedback, and your experience with asset management systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating deep technical proficiency in core design tools (especially InDesign), strong project management skills tailored to proposal environments, and the ability to lead and collaborate effectively within a professional services firm.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Wade Trim's careers page: http://www.wadetrim.com/careers.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your submitted portfolio prominently features your strongest work in InDesign, information graphics, and proposal design. Tailor your resume to highlight the 10+ years of experience and specific skills mentioned in the job description.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly articulate your expertise in Adobe Creative Suite (especially InDesign), template creation, technical information translation, and any experience in proposal or AEC environments. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Reduced proposal design time by X% through template optimization").

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, leadership experience, and how you handle pressure and collaboration. Prepare specific examples for common interview questions related to technical challenges and teamwork.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Wade Trim's mission, values, recent projects, and their commitment to employee ownership and innovation. Understand their industry and client base to better align your responses with their strategic 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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