Senior Graphic Designer - Creative Services Job at Populous in Kansas City

We design the places where people love to be together — and we can’t do it without you.

Populous is all about people — it’s in our name. Attracting and retaining talented people who are passionate about their work is what makes us thrive. As a global firm, we have established roots in cities across the world, uncovering the very best local talent. The diversity of our team is our greatest strength and one of the most powerful sources of our creativity. We believe in supporting each other, coming together as a team to make sure everyone is fulfilled professionally, creatively, and personally.

Why Work With Us

Culture

Populous is built around the core values of integrity, entrepreneurial creativity, excellence and enjoyment. There are many milestones and celebrations along the way — yours and ours — and we share in these special moments together. We also reach beyond our offices to help make our local communities stronger, from engaging with university students and taking part in urban clean‑up projects, to partnering with sports charities and promoting sustainable design.

Understanding people is what Populous is all about — and that begins with the people in our team. That’s why we have designed a comprehensive benefits program to support your employee experience at Populous and your life outside of work, including flexible work environments. From CrossFit in London, to the Noosa Triathlon in Australia to mental health check‑ins in the Americas, we have all kinds of initiatives to help you keep mind and body in top condition.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion + Belonging

With more than 1,600 colleagues in 33 offices spanning four continents, we value the incredible range of talents, beliefs, experiences and perspectives of every person that makes up our team. You bring your authentic self and we’ll set the stage for you to succeed.

Professional Development

Populous is a team of people that are emotionally connected to their work. We wouldn’t have it any other way. From mentor programs and cross‑disciplinary design charettes to global conferences, you will have a wealth of opportunities to innovate and learn, shaping your career to meet your personal goals.

Our commitment to innovative design has earned us the top spot in architecture on Fast Company’s list of the world’s 50 most innovative companies.

“We are a team of fans, dreamers, thinkers and doers. We come together to amplify the magic of fandom and break barriers for the future of sports and entertainment.”

Position Overview

Position: Senior Graphic Designer – Creative Services

Location: Kansas City, MO

Job Id: 2899

# of Openings: 1

Senior Graphic Designer – Creative Services

Who We Are:

We design places where people love to be together. Populous is a global design firm that began with a singular focus: to draw people together around the things they love, through experiences that capture all the senses, amplifying the atmosphere of excitement and pure joy shared in human moments.

We’ve designed and delivered some of the world’s most memorable civic, sports and entertainment buildings, from iconic stadia to ground‑breaking live music venues. Populous is where architects and designers of all kinds create moments bigger than ourselves. We offer the best of both worlds: the resources and impact of the design giants and the tightly knit atmosphere and growth opportunities of smaller firms.

What We Offer:

Professional & Personal Development Programs + Summer Hours + Hybrid Schedule + On‑Site Gym (Dallas/KC) + Paid Architect Licensure & Certifications Exams + Wedding Pay + Charitable Match Program + Market Leading Wellness Health and Welfare Benefits.

Who We Are Looking For:

We are seeking a Senior Graphic Designer to join our Creative Services Team. They will play a lead role in developing compelling brand and marketing visuals that represent Populous’ identity across platforms.

Our preferred candidate will have prior experience in the AEC industry, and an interest in working in a dynamic global design environment with a diverse range of public assembly building types, including sports venues, convention centers, and transportation facilities.

What Your Day Could Consist Of:

• Leading visual development for high‑profile pursuits, brand initiatives, and digital campaigns.
• Creating page layouts, graphics, infographics, and illustrations with minimal supervision.
• Presenting concepts and visuals to senior stakeholders and clients.
• Collaborating closely with manager, architects, business development teams, and marketing staff.
• Ensuring quality and consistency of designing deliverables align with brand guidelines.
• Managing production timelines, vendors, and deliverables independently.
• Mentoring junior designers and contributing to team creative direction.
• Guiding the development and maintenance of brand templates and design systems.

Requirements For Success:

• Proficiency in layout design, visual hierarchy, and storytelling through graphics.
• High level of proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat) and Microsoft Office Suite; working knowledge in Figma, Miro, motion, or web design tools is a plus.
• Comprehensive understanding of standard print and digital production processes.
• Expertise in brand systems, design strategy, and storytelling across digital and print mediums.
• Ability to lead high‑impact projects and guide junior staff through feedback and mentorship.
• Strategic approach to visual communication with deep understanding of audience and message alignment.
• Excellent time management and project prioritization skills.
• Outstanding communication skills and team‑oriented mindset that encourages effective collaboration.

Essential Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in graphic design, visual communication or related field.
• 7–12 years of professional graphic design experience.
• Experience working in architecture, engineering, or construction industries is preferred.
• Travel may be required.

Populous offers a competitive salary and bonus packages. We strive to offer our staff the best benefits package in the industry, at the lowest cost to employees, including medical, dental and vision coverage, 401k, FSA/HSA, paid time off and continuing education benefits. Populous is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.

No. 1 Most Innovative Company in Architecture by Fast Company

No. 1 Firm in Cultural on Interior Design magazine’s Top 100 Giants

No. 1 Architecture Firm in Cultural Facilities by BD+C

No. 1 Architecture Firm in Convention Centers by BD+C

No. 1 Architecture Firm in Performing Arts and Concert Venues by BD+C