Graphics Arts Specialist

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

At Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration – to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.

Job Summary

The Corporate Affairs and Communications Division is seeking a full-time Graphic Arts Specialist to join our Creative Communications team. The team is responsible for creating and delivering engaging content that communicates our strategic priorities to all intended audiences. They will display a fresh, creative approach to each assignment – internal- and external-facing – combined with demonstrating leadership, initiative, flawless business acumen and an enthusiasm for the aerospace industry by producing dynamic and visually compelling work to elevate Aerospace’s corporate brand as the nation’s trusted partner across the space enterprise.

Work Model

This position is based in El Segundo, CA, offering a hybrid work model that combines 3+ regular onsite workdays and remote flexibility as the business needs allow. 

What You’ll Be Doing

• Develops and designs high-quality, high impact illustrated graphic solutions that convey complex business messages in a simple, clear, and compelling ways through a variety of high-profile marketing and communications media, both in digital and print format.
• Demonstrates above average expertise in isometric and perspective illustrations using CAD drawing, photographs, models, or rough sketches to illustrate graphics of launch vehicles, prototypes, environments, used in two- and three-dimensions for OV-1 charts, Con Ops charts, publication covers, proposals, etc. for print, power point, web, and video.
• Creates, develops, and refines visual concepts based on creative briefs or work orders for design direction given by project leaders for various applications such as event materials, tradeshow displays, posters, brochures, publications, corporate reports, digital graphics for social media and front-end web design.  
• Demonstrates knowledge of illustrations, graphic layout and design, branding, color theory, typography, story boarding, photography usage, retouching, and Power Point presentations.
• Collaborates with other designers to assist management and technical staff throughout all phases of the creative and production process which includes meeting with points of contact and managers to determine the best and most practical design solutions for a project.
• Stays informed of digital trends, awareness of social and cultural trends for illustrations and graphics, understanding how online media responds and what the market is brining.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements for the Graphics Arts Specialist III:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 5 - 7 years of experience in related field 
• Expertise in Adobe Suite
• Expertise in Microsoft Office (Master of Powerpoint and Word)
• Experience in 3D illustrator software, specializing in technical illustrations.
• Willingness and ability to travel to remote Aerospace locations, as needed  

In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the Graphic Arts Specialist IV:

• 8 or more years of experience in related field 

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

• Displays expert knowledge in aerospace and engineering
• Bachelor’s Degree, or school of design degree, in graphics design or related field  
• 10+ years of relevant experience
• Previous experience in a military, agency, or corporate environment, ideally supporting C-Suite executives or equivalent
• Portfolio demonstrating vast experience and high proficiency in 3D illustrations using Modo, Blender, Maya, Adobe 3D products: Dimension, Substance

We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.  The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below.  Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills. 

(Min - Max)

$36.72 - $67.20

Pay Basis: Hourly

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change   
• Engage with Impact   
• Foster Innovation   
• Deliver Results  

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type.  A few highlights include:

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

• 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

• Flexible spending accounts

• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

• Relocation assistance

• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

• Education assistance programs

• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We believe that a diverse workforce creates an environment in which unique ideas are developed and differing perspectives are valued, producing superior customer solutions. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you’re an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at ieo.mailbox@aero.org. You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.