Project Overview

The Purple Line is a 16-mile light rail line extending from Bethesda in Montgomery County to New Carrollton in Prince George's County, providing direct connections to Metrorail Red, Green, and Orange Lines, as well as MARC, Amtrak, and local bus services. The Purple Line is owned by the Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration (MDOT MTA) and delivered through a public-private partnership, Purple Line Transit Partners (PLTP), responsible for designing, building, operating, and maintaining the system for 35 years.

Position Overview

We are seeking a motivated Graphic Design & Production Assistant to join our Communications & Outreach Team. This hybrid role combines graphic design and production experience to support the growing creative needs of the Purple Line project. The ideal candidate will have a proven ability to create engaging visual content, prepare production-ready materials, support digital campaigns, and ensure consistency with the Purple Line visual brand identity.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as Production Assistant to the Visual Content Manager, supporting the development and delivery of production-ready visual communications materials
• Create and update print and digital collateral including PowerPoint presentations, brochures, maps, social media graphics, outreach materials, and internal communications
• Translate complex project information, data, neighborhoods, bike trails, and Purple Line amenities into clear and engaging visual content and infographics
• Assist in the development and design of passenger-focused outreach campaigns and public safety campaigns
• Support the creation of branded materials that adhere to Purple Line visual and messaging standards
• Manage and maintain digital asset libraries, including design files, photography, templates, and graphics on Egnyte and Dropbox platforms
• Assist with image editing, graphic updates, and content preparation for public-facing presentations and communications
• Coordinate with the Content Development/Copywriter to ensure visual content aligns with overall project messaging and communications goals
• Support social media planning and the creation of visual assets for digital platforms
• Prepare press-ready files and production materials for print and digital distribution
• Review and proof design materials to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance with brand standards
• Coordinate with print vendors regarding production specifications, proofing, paper selection, and finishing recommendations
• Maintain organized file naming conventions and asset management systems to ensure accessibility for project team members and leadership
• Collaborate with communications staff, consultants, and project stakeholders to support outreach and marketing initiatives
• Assist with special projects and other communications-related assignments as needed

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design or related field
• 2–4 years of professional graphic design experience
• Portfolio demonstrating creative design and production experience
• High proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, including InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop
• Experience with layout design, graphics creation, and basic typography
• Strong understanding of print production specifications, including bleeds, margins, and color profiles (CMYK and RGB)
• Excellent organizational and file management skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Experience collaborating with clients, art directors, brand managers, and cross-functional teams
• Positive attitude, self-motivated, and able to work both independently and collaboratively

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive pay including annual bonus opportunities
• Generous paid time off with annual increases
• Mileage reimbursement and cell phone stipend
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with generous employer contributions
• Life, AD&D, Short-Term, and Long-Term Disability insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with 4% match

Our Values

• Work-life balance is key
• Happy employees make happy clients
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
• Safety, Health & Well-Being