Junior Scientific Graphic Designer

Spire Communications is hiring a full‑time, junior graphic designer with demonstrated expertise designing print and digital media to support visual communications for the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). This role focuses on executing established design direction accurately and efficiently across a range of NSF products, from presentations to event materials, while building toward more independent design work. This position offers the opportunity to support NSF’s mission by transforming complex scientific information into accessible and engaging visual communications.

Spire Communications is a woman‑owned strategic communications and creative firm based in Alexandria, VA that supports science, technology, and engineering organizations within the government and private sectors.

This position is hybrid, with potential to be fully onsite, based at the client site in Alexandria, VA.

DESIGN PORTFOLIO IS REQUIRED WITH APPLICATION.

• Create graphic designs, layouts, and visual assets for print, digital, events, exhibits, video, web, and social media channels.
• Design and edit presentations, including editable graphics and diagrams.
• Follow NSF’s branding guidelines.
• Incorporate stakeholder feedback to refine and improve designs.
• Leverage AI‑assisted design tools to support efficient production of graphics and layouts.
• Ensure content meets current Section 508/WCAG accessibility requirements.

• Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in graphic design or related discipline.
• 3+ years of professional experience in graphic design.
• Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud applications.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team on assigned projects.
• Proficiency in PowerPoint and Word.

• 508 compliance expertise.
• Experience using AI tools to create design assets.
• Demonstrated experience communicating scientific/technical subject matter, with expertise in one or more NSF focus or technology areas (e.g., Biology, Engineering, Computing, AI, Cybersecurity); federal or federally funded research experience a plus.

Medical (United Healthcare), dental (Care First Blue Cross Blue Shield), and vision (United Concordia) plans paid at 100% (employee premium) plus 30% contribution to family premium

Monthly $50 “wellness” stipend for gym memberships, spa services, etc.

Life and disability insurance (short- and long-term)

18 days PTO and 8 federal holidays per year (+Veterans Day for those who have served)

Home office expense reimbursement

401(k) plan with automatic 3% of salary employer contribution

Annual stipend for employee and/or job‑related training

Spire Communications is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, gender, age, color, religion, disability, veterans’ status, sexual orientation, or any other protected factor.