Visual Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Visual Designer

Company: Odys Aviation

Location: Long Beach, California, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Design / Marketing

Date Posted: 2026-05-01

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on visual storytelling for complex aerospace technology, translating technical concepts into compelling narratives for investor and business development materials.

• The Visual Designer will own the visual and strategic narrative of critical external-facing assets, collaborating closely with the executive team.

• Key responsibilities include crafting visually compelling slides, diagrams, infographics, and data visualizations that are easily understood by non-technical audiences.

• The role requires developing and maintaining a scalable design system for presentations and owning the Odys Aviation presentation template to ensure a consistent, premium visual identity.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Visual Designer," the core responsibilities and required skills strongly indicate a specialization in Presentation Design and Visual Storytelling for high-stakes business communication, particularly within a deep tech/aerospace context. This is not a general graphic design role but one requiring strategic narrative development through visual mediums.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Translate complex aircraft systems, VTOL technology, and mission profiles into visually compelling and easily understandable slides and decks for non-technical audiences.

• Collaborate directly with the leadership team to shape the narrative arc, slide sequencing, and visual hierarchy of presentations for specific investor and business development targets.

• Craft impactful diagrams, infographics, and data visualizations that effectively communicate technical and market data.

• Develop and maintain a scalable design system for presentations, including master slides, type scales, color palettes, and iconography, to enable rapid team iteration without sacrificing quality.

• Own and evolve the Odys Aviation presentation template and slide library to ensure a consistent, premium visual identity across all external decks.

• Utilize 3D and visualization programs to integrate renderings, animations, and product imagery into presentations, ensuring they are both aesthetically pleasing and on-message.

• Create custom graphics, renders, diagrams, and layout assets for use in presentations, one-pagers, and other marketing collateral.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "translating complex aerospace technology" and "shaping narrative arc" points to a strategic design function, not just aesthetic execution. The responsibility for a "scalable design system" and "presentation template ownership" highlights the need for efficiency and brand consistency in a fast-paced environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong portfolio demonstrating relevant skills is paramount. A background in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a related field is advantageous.

Experience: 3+ years of experience designing pitch decks, investor presentations, or high-stakes business development materials. Experience in a startup, venture capital, or agency setting is preferred.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in designing strategic pitch decks and investor presentations.

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint, including building production-ready, templated decks and managing complex slide libraries.

• Strong command of visual hierarchy, typography, and layout principles.

• Expertise in translating complex data and technical information into clear, accessible visuals.

• Experience with design software such as Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and Figma.

• Proficiency in 3D visualization tools like Rhino and Keyshot for creating custom graphics and integrating renderings/animations.

Preferred Skills:

• Technical literacy or a strong interest in deep tech, aerospace, hardware, or mobility sectors.

• Experience with AI tools for graphic creation and asset generation.

• Familiarity with information architecture principles.

• Background in visual storytelling and narrative development.

• Experience creating diagrams and infographics for technical subjects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for advanced PowerPoint skills alongside other design tools is notable. The preference for technical literacy in aerospace/deep tech suggests that understanding the subject matter will significantly enhance the candidate's ability to translate complex information effectively. The mention of "AI tools" indicates a forward-looking approach to design asset creation.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A strategic portfolio showcasing work that serves a clear argument and objective, not just aesthetic appeal.

• Demonstrated ability to translate complex technical or business concepts into clear, compelling visual narratives for critical external audiences.

• Examples of high-impact investor presentations, pitch decks, or business development materials that have achieved specific outcomes.

• Case studies or project examples highlighting the design process, problem-solving approach, and the impact of the visual assets created.

Process Documentation:

• Examples demonstrating the development and application of a design system for presentations (master slides, color palettes, typography, iconography).

• Evidence of maintaining and evolving presentation templates to ensure brand consistency and visual identity.

• Work samples that showcase the ability to craft custom graphics, diagrams, and data visualizations from raw technical or market data.

• Documentation of how design solutions were developed in close partnership with leadership or subject matter experts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis is on a strategic portfolio, meaning candidates must demonstrate not just design skill but also an understanding of how visuals support business objectives and narrative. The ability to document and articulate the process behind creating these assets, especially a design system, is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on typical mid-level Visual Designer roles in Long Beach, California, with a specialization in presentation and strategic design for a deep tech/aerospace startup, the estimated annual salary range is $90,000 - $125,000. This estimate accounts for the specialized skill set, required tools, and the strategic impact of the role.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Stock options or equity grants, common in early-stage startups.

• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development and training in design software and aerospace technology.

• Direct exposure to leadership and involvement in high-impact strategic projects.

• Potential for growth within a rapidly scaling company.

Working Hours: This is a full-time position, typically requiring 40 hours per week. Given the startup environment and the nature of presentation design, flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines, especially around investor meetings or critical business development milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the specified location and industry, considering the specialized nature of presentation design for deep tech. Benefits are typical for a full-time role at a growth-stage startup.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Aerospace, Deep Tech, Aviation (VTOL Technology, Electric Aviation). Odys Aviation operates at the intersection of advanced engineering and sustainable transportation, aiming to revolutionize air travel for shorter distances. The company is focused on developing and deploying uncrewed aircraft (UAVs) for logistics and later passenger transport, emphasizing safety, sustainability, and efficiency.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the mention of "fast iteration loops," "completed transition flight faster than our peers," and having "firm orders for aircraft under contract" suggests a growth-stage startup, likely in the range of 50-200 employees. This size implies a dynamic, agile environment where individual contributions have a significant impact.

Founded: The founding date is not provided, but the company's progress (transition flight completion, partner collaborations) indicates it has been operational for several years, likely established in the mid-to-late 2010s or early 2020s to reach its current stage.

Team Structure:

• The Visual Designer will work very closely with the executive team (CEO, CTO, etc.) on critical investor and business development materials, indicating a high level of direct interaction and influence.

• The design function is likely integrated within a broader marketing, communications, or potentially a dedicated GTM (Go-To-Market) team, though the role's primary collaboration is with leadership.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: The role emphasizes translating data (technical and market) into clear visualizations, suggesting a data-informed approach to design.

• Agile Development & Iteration: The company highlights "fast iteration loops" in its engineering process, which likely extends to its design and communication efforts. Rapid prototyping and refinement of visual materials are expected.

• Strategic Narrative Building: The core of the role is to build a compelling visual story that supports business objectives, indicating a strategic rather than purely aesthetic methodology.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on "cutting travel time in half," "sustainable aircraft," and "skipping big-airport hassle" provides context for the type of narrative the Visual Designer will be crafting. The emphasis on "fast iterations" and "mastery of aircraft certification" suggests a culture of rigorous execution and continuous improvement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level Visual Designer with a specialization in strategic presentation and business communication. It requires independent execution and a proactive approach to shaping visual narratives, going beyond standard graphic design tasks. The level implies a need for someone who can take ownership and drive outcomes with minimal supervision on day-to-day tasks, while still reporting to and collaborating with senior leadership.

Reporting Structure: The Visual Designer will report to a senior member of the leadership team (likely CEO or Head of Marketing/GTM), given the direct collaboration on investor and business development materials. This indicates a high-visibility role with direct access to decision-makers.

Operations Impact: The visual materials produced by this role will have a direct and significant impact on Odys Aviation's ability to secure funding, forge strategic partnerships, and win new business. The quality and clarity of investor decks, one-pagers, and other high-stakes collateral are critical for conveying the company's vision, technology, and market potential to external stakeholders.

Growth Opportunities:

• Deepen Aerospace/Tech Expertise: Gain in-depth knowledge of VTOL technology, aviation certification, and the sustainable aviation market, becoming a valuable specialist in a cutting-edge industry.

• Expand Design Strategy Skills: Progress from executing visual narratives to contributing more significantly to the overall GTM strategy and messaging frameworks.

• Leadership in Design: As the company scales, there's potential to build and lead a design team, establishing design standards and processes for a growing organization.

• Broader GTM Contribution: Develop a holistic understanding of business development and investor relations, potentially transitioning into related roles focused on strategic communications or marketing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Why This Role" section strongly suggests that this is an opportunity for significant impact and visibility. The growth potential lies in specializing within a high-growth, high-impact industry and potentially taking on leadership responsibilities as the company matures.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is listed as "On-site," indicating a need for the designer to work from Odys Aviation's physical office in Long Beach, California. This environment is likely designed to foster collaboration and rapid iteration.

Office Location(s): Long Beach, California, United States. This location is within a hub for aerospace and technology companies, offering potential for networking and industry engagement.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The emphasis on working "directly with our leadership team" and the general startup culture suggests a highly collaborative workspace where ideas are shared freely and quickly.

• Tools and Technology: Expect access to industry-standard design software and potentially advanced visualization tools required for the role, such as powerful workstations capable of running 3D rendering software.

• Team Interaction: While the role is focused on executive collaboration, there will also be opportunities to interact with engineering and business development teams to gather information and ensure accuracy in visual representations.

Work Schedule: This is a full-time, on-site role. While a standard 40-hour work week is typical, the nature of securing investment and closing deals can lead to periods requiring extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines. The company's emphasis on "fast iteration loops" suggests a dynamic schedule that prioritizes project completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" requirement is significant for a design role and implies a preference for in-person collaboration and integration within the company's core operations and culture, especially when working so closely with leadership.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and experience against the role requirements.

• Portfolio Presentation & Discussion: A session where you present your portfolio, focusing on strategic presentation design, visual storytelling, and how you've translated complex information for business outcomes. Be prepared to discuss your process, design rationale, and impact.

• Skills Assessment/Case Study: You may be given a design challenge or a case study to assess your ability to translate complex technical information into compelling visuals under a time constraint, likely using PowerPoint or another required tool.

• Team/Leadership Interviews: Meetings with key stakeholders, including executive leadership, to evaluate your cultural fit, strategic thinking, and ability to collaborate effectively.

• Final Interview: Potentially with the CEO or other top executives to discuss vision, impact, and alignment with company goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best demonstrate your ability to design investor decks, business development materials, and translate complex aerospace/tech concepts. Prioritize quality and relevance over quantity.

• Showcase the "Why": For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your strategic approach, the design process, the tools used, and the measurable impact or outcome of your work. Focus on how your design served the business objective.

• Highlight PowerPoint Proficiency: Include examples of complex, production-ready PowerPoint decks. Be ready to discuss your mastery of master slides, templates, and advanced formatting.

• Demonstrate Technical Translation: Showcase examples of diagrams, infographics, and data visualizations that simplify complex technical or market data. If you have aerospace or deep tech examples, they are highly valuable.

• Visual Identity & Design Systems: If possible, include examples of developing or adhering to design systems and brand guidelines to maintain consistency.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Narrative: If given a challenge, focus on understanding the core message Odys Aviation wants to convey about its technology, mission, or market position.

• Prioritize Clarity & Impact: Your visuals should simplify complexity and drive home key points. Focus on visual hierarchy, clear data representation, and compelling storytelling.

• Embrace PowerPoint: Prepare to demonstrate proficiency in PowerPoint for creating polished, professional presentations.

• Think Strategically: Consider the audience (investors, partners) and what information is critical for them to understand and be persuaded by.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process heavily emphasizes strategic thinking and the ability to translate complex technical information visually for business outcomes. The portfolio is the primary tool for demonstrating this, so candidates must curate it to highlight these specific skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Presentation Software: Microsoft PowerPoint (advanced proficiency required), potentially Google Slides.

• Graphic Design Software: Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Figma.

• 3D Visualization & Rendering: Rhino, Keyshot. These are crucial for integrating sophisticated product imagery and animations into presentations.

• AI Tools: Mentioned as a potential asset, suggesting familiarity with AI-powered design tools for asset creation or workflow enhancement.

Analytics & Reporting: While not directly a design tool, understanding how to visualize data from analytics platforms (e.g., performance metrics for presentations) might be beneficial.

CRM & Automation: Not directly relevant to this design role, but understanding the context of sales and business development materials means awareness of CRM outputs or sales enablement collateral can be helpful.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific mention of Rhino and Keyshot indicates a need for advanced 3D visualization skills, which is uncommon for a general visual designer and points to the specialized nature of this role in aerospace. Advanced PowerPoint mastery is also a strong requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Disruption: Odys Aviation is building the future of aviation, valuing bold ideas and novel solutions to complex problems.

• Speed & Agility: The company emphasizes "fast iteration loops" and rapid execution, requiring a team that can adapt quickly and deliver results efficiently.

• Excellence & Rigor: Mastery of aircraft certification and complex engineering demands a commitment to high standards, accuracy, and meticulous attention to detail.

• Sustainability & Impact: A core mission is to create sustainable aircraft that reduce CO2 emissions, driving a purpose-led culture focused on positive global impact.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: While individual contribution is key, close partnership with leadership and cross-functional teams is essential for success.

Collaboration Style:

• Executive Partnership: The role requires a highly collaborative style with senior leadership, acting as a trusted advisor on visual communication strategy.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Designers will need to collaborate effectively with engineers, product managers, and business development teams to gather technical information and ensure message alignment.

• Feedback-Driven Improvement: In a fast-paced environment, a culture of open feedback and iterative design is likely encouraged to continuously refine materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values lean towards a high-performance, mission-driven startup culture. The emphasis on "fast iterations" and "rigor" suggests a demanding but rewarding environment where impactful work is highly valued.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Extreme Complexity: Effectively simplifying highly technical aerospace systems and VTOL concepts into universally understandable visuals for diverse audiences (from engineers to investors).

• Balancing Speed and Quality: Meeting aggressive deadlines common in startup fundraising and business development while maintaining a high standard of visual design and brand consistency.

• Evolving Design System: Developing and scaling a design system for presentations in a rapidly growing company, ensuring it remains flexible yet robust.

• Staying Current: Keeping pace with advancements in design tools, visualization techniques, and the rapidly evolving aerospace/VTOL industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into Aerospace: Gain unparalleled insight into the cutting-edge of aviation technology, sustainable transport, and the aircraft certification process.

• Strategic Design Mastery: Hone skills in visual storytelling, narrative development, and strategic communication for high-stakes business environments.

• Leadership and Mentorship: Potential to grow into a design leadership role, guiding a team and shaping the visual brand of a pioneering company.

• Exposure to Venture Capital & Business Development: Understand the nuances of investor relations and strategic partnership development from a design perspective.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge is bridging the gap between highly technical content and clear, persuasive visual communication for business objectives. Growth opportunities are significant for those who can master this translation and contribute strategically.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate a highly technical concept into a clear visual for a non-technical executive or investor. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a specific case study focusing on impact and clarity.)

• "How would you approach building a scalable design system for presentations in a fast-growing aerospace startup like Odys Aviation? What are the key components and considerations?" (Focus on process, efficiency, and brand consistency.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about Odys Aviation's mission and the future of VTOL technology? How does your design philosophy align with our company values?" (Research the company's mission, values, and recent news thoroughly.)

• "How do you handle tight deadlines and shifting priorities in a startup environment? Describe a situation where you had to adapt quickly to a changing project scope." (Highlight adaptability, prioritization skills, and resilience.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with the "Why": For each project, begin by stating the objective and the audience. Then, explain the strategic rationale behind your design choices.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify results whenever possible (e.g., "This deck was used in a successful Series A funding round," or "These visuals helped clarify our value proposition, leading to X new partnership discussions").

• Highlight Technical Translation: Specifically point out how you simplified complex aerospace or technical data into accessible diagrams, infographics, or visualizations.

• Showcase PowerPoint Mastery: Be prepared to briefly demonstrate advanced features you used in your PowerPoint examples, such as custom animations, master slides, or complex data integration.

• Tell a Story: Weave a narrative around your projects, showcasing your problem-solving skills and your ability to act as a strategic partner, not just a visual executor.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a blend of strong design execution, strategic thinking, and a genuine interest in the aerospace/deep tech sector. Candidates must demonstrate an ability to be both a creative force and a reliable strategic partner to leadership.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Visual Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Ashby.

• Tailor your resume: Highlight experience in presentation design, visual storytelling, and working with complex technical subject matter. Use keywords like "Pitch Decks," "Investor Relations," "Aerospace," "VTOL," "PowerPoint," "Rhino," "Keyshot," "Figma," and "Data Visualization."

• Curate your portfolio: Select 3-5 of your most relevant projects that showcase your ability to design impactful investor presentations and translate complex technical information. Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates your strategic approach and the outcomes of your work.

• Prepare your presentation narrative: Be ready to walk through your portfolio, focusing on your process, strategic decisions, and the impact of your designs, particularly those involving complex technical subjects or high-stakes business communication.

• Research Odys Aviation: Understand their mission, technology (Alta, Laila), recent partnerships (Fiji Airways, Honeywell, Aramex), and market positioning to better articulate your interest and how your skills align with their specific needs.

⚠️ 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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