APS-3: Illustrator I

KBR•Charleston, SC

About The Position

The Illustrator I position is responsible for supporting the creation and preparation of visual illustrations that meet customer and program requirements. This role requires foundational artistic skills, the ability to follow creative and technical direction, and proficiency with both traditional and digital illustration tools. The Illustrator I will use latex printers, plotters, engravers, and like equipment. The Illustrator I works under general supervision and supports lower‑level illustrators by completing detail work, revisions, and production‑ready artwork for print and digital use.

Requirements

Artistic Skills: Demonstrated foundational skills in drawing, sketching, painting, color theory, and composition.
Software Proficiency: Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Illustrator and Photoshop; experience with digital illustration tools.
Communication: Ability to interpret creative briefs and visually communicate ideas clearly and effectively.
Portfolio: Professional portfolio demonstrating a range of illustration styles and techniques.
Education: Bachelor’s degree in graphic design, Fine Arts, or a related field preferred; equivalent professional experience may be considered.
Experience: Minimum of five (5) years of professional experience as an illustrator.
Creativity: Ability to balance customer requirements with creative problem‑solving and visual design principles.
U.S. Citizenship required.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Common Access Card (CAC).
Ability to obtain and maintain local base access.
Valid state driver’s license required.
High school diploma required; college coursework or degree completion preferred.

Nice To Haves

Working knowledge of lift equipment is a plus.
CorelDRAW
Flexi Print & RIP
Engraving equipment and processes
EZCAD
Heat press operations
Vinyl application
Microsoft PowerPoint, Word, and Excel

Responsibilities

Assist in the development of two‑dimensional illustrations based on customer or program requirements.
Copy drawings by tracing or freehand methods and apply color, wash, or shading to line drawings.
Perform background and detailed work on illustrations prepared by senior‑level illustrators.
Letter artwork by hand or using templates and digital tools.
Produce sketches, rough drafts, and revised artwork based on creative briefs and feedback.
Utilize traditional media (e.g., tempera, oils, pen‑and‑ink, pencil) with average proficiency.
Use digital illustration software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop), Procreate, CAD tools, or equivalent to create, scan, edit, and refine artwork.
Prepare final, technically accurate files for print or digital production.
Acquire basic subject‑matter knowledge when illustrating technical, scientific, or equipment‑related content.
Manage multiple assignments simultaneously while meeting established deadlines.
Collaborate with customers, art directors, writers, and internal stakeholders to ensure project requirements are met.