Graphics Specialist (Entry Level to SME) TS/SCI with Poly REQUIRED
The Graphics Specialist at Confidential Client supports the national security mission by creating and managing visual assets across digital and print media, ensuring strict brand consistency and high-quality design execution. This role spans from entry-level to subject matter expert, involving tasks from basic graphic production to advanced visual strategy, project management, and team leadership within a collaborative, hybrid work environment requiring an active TS/SCI with Poly clearance.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Defense & Intelligence — Government IT / National Security.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is seeking Graphics Specialists at multiple seniority levels (Entry → SME) to support mission-focused creative work within an intelligence/defense environment. You will produce, refine, and deliver visual assets for digital and print channels while ensuring strict brand, security, and production standards are met.
- Create and format graphics for social media, websites, email campaigns, presentations, and print collateral.
- Edit and retouch images (resize, crop, color correct, remove backgrounds).
- Apply and enforce brand guidelines (fonts, colors, logos, layouts).
- Prepare files for digital delivery and print (bleeds, color profiles, accessibility).
- Maintain organized asset libraries, naming conventions, and version control.
- Implement feedback from senior designers, project managers, or stakeholders.
- For mid-to-senior levels: lead concept development, wireframes, motion graphics, QA, vendor coordination, and mentor junior staff.
- For SME level: define standards, integrate cross-media workflows (3D, UI/UX, motion), and act as a technical lead.
Responsibilities by Level
Entry Level
- Asset production for digital channels and presentations.
- Basic image editing and file organization.
- Follow brand rules and implement feedback quickly.
Junior
- Produce both digital and print assets under direction.
- Prepare files for print/digital output and maintain asset databases.
- Support cross-functional teams (marketing, communications).
Mid-Level
- Translate briefs into visual concepts, infographics, and UX/UI layouts.
- Produce motion graphics and interactive assets; manage timelines and specs.
- Advanced image retouching and quality assurance.
Senior
- Lead visual strategy across multiple media, produce complex campaigns.
- Manage large projects and vendor/pre-press relationships.
- Provide art direction, final quality checks, and cross-team leadership.
SME
- Expert technical contributor across Adobe Suite, motion, 3D, and UX/UI.
- Define process improvements, templates, and enterprise-wide brand governance.
- Mentor teams and consult on high-impact, data-heavy visualizations.
Required Qualifications
All roles require an active TS/SCI with Polygraph.
- Employment type: Full Time. Location: Arlington, VA (hybrid model acceptable).
- Education & experience vary by level (examples):
- Entry: HS Diploma/GED + 4 yrs relevant OR Associate + 2 yrs OR Bachelor’s + 0 yrs.
- Junior to SME: progressively greater experience or advanced degrees (details depend on level).
- Software: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign). Mid/Senior/SME require After Effects, Premiere, Figma, or equivalent.
- Technical: Mid+/SME — motion graphics, UX/UI principles, HTML/CSS basics, pre-press production, or 3D tools as applicable.
- Visual skills: strong typography, color theory, composition, and visual storytelling.
- Soft skills: collaboration, clear communication, time management, and ability to incorporate feedback.
Preferred / Nice-to-Have
- Portfolio demonstrating a range of digital, print, motion, and data-visualization work.
- Experience working in cleared government/intelligence environments.
- Familiarity with accessibility standards, responsive design, and production pipelines.
- Experience mentoring or leading small creative teams.
Compensation & Benefits
Confidential Client provides a competitive compensation package and benefits. Estimated U.S. pay range for this role: $89,600 — $204,000 per year (range reflects varying seniority and responsibilities). Actual pay will be based on skills, experience, level, and location.
- Benefits typically include comprehensive insurance, 401(k) matching, paid time off, parental leave, professional development, and wellness programs.
- All offers contingent on successful background investigation and clearance verification.
What We Value
- Ownership, collaboration, respect, and a commitment to mission-focused outcomes.
- Continuous learning and a willingness to adapt to emerging tools and media.
- A strong eye for detail and the ability to translate complex information into clear visuals.
Notes on Hiring & Accommodations
Careertakes and our client comply with federal, state, and local hiring laws. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities — please contact Careertakes directly if you need an accommodation during the application process.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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