Graphic Design Specialist jobs in Gaithersburg, MD

About Us

The National Democratic Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization working to support and strengthen democratic institutions worldwide through citizen participation, openness, and accountability in government.  Help support democracy worldwide by joining our team! 

About the Role

This position will be responsible for contributing to and implementing graphic design for NDI teams, including the creation of the full range of design products, under the direction of the Digital Communications Director. The Graphic Design Specialist will have a strong knowledge of the Adobe suite and current design software and have input to every step of the design process from concept to final deliverables. This position is based in Washington, DC.

When you apply, please include your portfolio.

Your Purpose and Impact: 

• Manage on a wide range of projects and media, using various computer software to visualize and develop innovative graphic designs  
• Ensure designs meet organizational standards, accessibility standards, brand expectations, and the expression ideas accurately 
• Coordinate with teams across the organization to translate programmatic goals into a wide range of materials, including but not limited to presentations, programming reports, event invitations, newsletters and marketing materials
• Develop concepts by hand or with software, and execute original content determining ideal usage of color, text, font style, imagery and layout 
• Provide training and consultation for teams across the Institute on the latest digital design trends and best practices
• Manage the design and uploading process of all project material, understanding best practices for using a content management system 
• In collaboration with the Government Relations and Communications team, ensure a common look and feel to all NDI products, including publications, web content and print products. This includes contributing to the development of a brand style guide and working across the Institute to ensure broad understanding of branding guidelines
• Participate in cross-functional initiatives as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in graphic design, art, or similar discipline, or equivalent experience
• Minimum of three years of experience in professional graphic design, preferably with a creative or marketing agency 
• Portfolio of successful graphic design content, branding, and social media design campaigns required
• Professional experience with design software, including the Adobe suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, etc )
• Understanding of branding and marketing, with the ability to vary style and layouts depending on the project 
• Creative and innovative design skills and ability to translate conceptual ideas into compelling visual representations, in print and electronic media, and across diverse digital platforms.  
• Oral and written communications skills, including the ability to communicate effectively and project a professional image when giving and taking information in writing, in person and through various communications media 
• Knowledge of Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram and other social media platforms’ content design specifications and requirements 
• Demonstrated critical thinking and analytical skills, particularly with audience and stakeholders data and the ability to draw conclusions, determine options, and recommend next steps 
• Nuanced understanding of audience, and experience working on complex, politically sensitive issues in dynamic environments  
• Basic proficiency in Google Suite tools preferred as well as Microsoft Office 
• Ability to multitask and manage time to meet deadlines in a a fast-paced environment
• Attention to detail and creating accurate work products with a focus on quality is a must 
• A high level of confidence, integrity, interpersonal skills, and a professional presence for effectively interacting with others, internal and external to the organization. 
• Capacity to work effectively both independently and as a member of a team required 

What We Offer:

We offer an environment committed to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging as a core part of our culture. We strive to foster empowerment and belonging as these values are central to our mission and to our impact. We believe that diversity in thought helps us solve the complex problems we face around the globe. 

We offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes health, dental, vision, a generous PTO policy, flexible schedules, and a 10% employer contribution to the retirement pension.

This position offers an anticipated salary range of approximately $62,800 - $78,500. 

Additional Information: 

While there may be flexibility for remote/hybrid work environment and to comply with tax and legal obligations, successful candidates must be residents of MD, DC, or VA, or relocate prior to the start of employment at NDI. 

This is a union position to be represented by the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU) Local 2. 

Candidates must be legally eligible to work in the U.S. NDI does not provide sponsorship.

NDI is an equal opportunity employer (EEO). As such, NDI makes employment decisions and provides equal employment opportunity without regard to an applicant’s or employee’s race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state and local laws. As an equal opportunity employer, NDI encourages individuals with disabilities, including disabled veterans or veterans with service-connected disabilities, to apply. 

If you need reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please notify NDI’s Human Resources department at Human_Resources_team@ndi.org.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.