Freelance Designer (Part-Time)

PowerLines • Washington, DC

3d • Remote

About The Position

PowerLines is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to modernizing the utility regulatory system to benefit American energy consumers by lowering utility bills and stimulating economic growth. The organization focuses on state public utilities commissions (PUCs), which significantly influence utility spending, energy investments, and the development of new energy projects. With utility rate increase requests reaching record highs, PowerLines is emerging as a key voice in the national discourse, with its insights featured in prominent media outlets. PowerLines is seeking a part-time Freelance Designer (Contract) to contribute to its design and branding initiatives. This remote role, based in Washington, DC, is expected to be 20-30 hours per week, initially for a 3-6 month contract. As an early-stage nonprofit, PowerLines is developing its communication systems and creative processes, meaning workloads and hours may vary. The ideal candidate is a skilled visual communicator proficient in both print and digital design, with strong organizational and time management abilities, and the flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and deadlines. The Freelance Designer will collaborate with policy and communications teams to produce engaging graphics and materials that advance PowerLines' mission and public engagement efforts, aiming to simplify complex utility regulatory information for consumers.

Requirements

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or related field and at least 3 years of relevant professional experience (in lieu of a degree, 5 years of relevant experience may be considered)
• Strong portfolio showcasing work in print and digital design
• Highly proficient in: Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop
• Experience designing long-form documents or publication layouts
• Experience creating data visualizations and complex graphics
• Excellent organizational, communication, and project management skills
• Ability to adapt to evolving priorities and shifting deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Collaborative mindset and ability to work well with designers and non-designers alike
• Strong problem-solving and ideation skills

Nice To Haves

• Experience with video editing, web design, and/or experience working with nonprofit, policy, or mission-driven organizations is a bonus but not required.

Responsibilities

• Design and produce a variety of materials, including: Multi-page reports and publications, Event materials (flyers, handouts, banners), Data visualizations (charts, infographics, diagrams), Social media graphics, Web graphics, Templates (documents, PowerPoint presentations, social graphics)
• Collaborate with a variety of people to translate complex policy into clear and engaging materials
• Support the existing PowerLines brand identity
• Help establish and refine the internal design workflow and organizational best practices
• Manage multiple projects and deadlines while maintaining quality and consistent communication

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree