Graphics Design Specialist III

Job Description

Job Description

ARES Technical Services is seeking a Graphic Design Specialist III to conceptualize and produce high‑quality visual assets across multiple mediums for the NASA Headquarters Office of Communications, in support of the NASA Enterprise Multimedia and Integrated Technical Services (eMITS) contract. Each day brings new and varied creative challenges, requiring a designer who approaches their work as an active, strategic problem‑solving process.

eMITS is the Agency’s enterprise-level contract creating and delivering multimedia and technical communications through the use of the internet, digital platforms, and IT management for NASA’s Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) and Office of Communications (OCOMM). From photographing rocket launches and recoveries, to producing engaging videos, to information technology management, to using social media to share NASA’s message, eMITS integrates services for NASA IT and provides NASA’s communication to the outside world. Come join us in support of NASA’s mission to inspire the world through information and discovery.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop graphics, illustrations, branding materials, presentations, templates, and environmental/exhibit graphics. 
• Interpret dense or complex information and translate it into clear, visually engaging layouts and communication pieces. 
• Create and maintain visual identity systems, including brand guidelines and style guides.
• Collaborate with clients and team members to clarify project goals, present concepts, and execute final deliverables.
• Demonstrate strong independent judgment and adaptability, successfully balancing concurrent projects and evolving priorities.
• Provide creative recommendations, propose design solutions, and iterate based on stakeholder feedback.
• Stay current on design trends, tools, and practices to continually refine and elevate project outcomes.

EDUCATION & WORK REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Multimedia Design, or a related field is preferred. 
• A minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience in graphic design or multidisciplinary visual communication. 
• Demonstrated success producing high‑quality work across multiple mediums and formats

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Core Design Skills: Expert with Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop). Proven experience building brand identities, choosing type, creating layouts, and prepping complex multi-page reports and marketing materials for print.
• Large-Format & Exhibit Design: Experience designing graphics for large spaces, events, and trade shows. Understanding of how to design for human scale, sightlines, and viewing distances, and how to set up large files for clean print production.
• Portfolio: A strong portfolio showing how you solve design challenges. Please include 2–3 specific examples of your work, such as a visual identity/brand guideline, large-format environmental graphics, or a complex executive presentation. 
• Standards & Accessibility: Diligent about following and protecting brand guidelines. Familiar with federal Section 508 accessibility standards for print and digital files.
• Explaining Complex Ideas Visually: Skilled at turning dense, technical, or mission-driven information into clear graphics and polished presentations. 
• Time Management and Communication: Comfortable managing your time across several tight deadlines. Clear, professional communicator who works well directly with agency clients. 
• Comfortable using Microsoft tools for everyday collaboration and communication including Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Industry Background: Experience with prominent consumer brands, creative agencies, entertainment companies, or tech leaders known for storytelling and visual quality.
• Design as Problem-Solving: A portfolio showing you treat design as an active verb: identifying the core challenge and building the right solution. This could include working across different mediums or turning dense, messy information into clear, structured communication.
• Motion & Screen Experience: Comfort with basic motion graphics or video tools (like After Effects) to bring static artwork to life on screens and digital displays. 

ARES BENEFITS:

ARES offers a competitive compensation and benefit package. Full time employees may participate in:

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• HSA/FSA Accounts
• Life & Disability Insurance
• Critical Illness & Accident Insurance
• ESOP
• 401(k) Plan
• Paid Time Off & Holidays

  ARES is an equal opportunity employer and complies with E-Verify. We believe in hiring a diverse workforce and fostering an inclusive culture. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, such as disability and veteran status, or any other basis covered under applicable law. ARES shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a).