Launch Your Career as a Visual Information Specialist with the U.S. Census Bureau
Are you a designer who loves data? The U.S. Census Bureau is currently seeking a talented Visual Information Specialist to join our team in Suitland, Maryland. This role is a unique intersection of creative design and critical national data, providing you with the platform to influence how the American public understands our economy and population.
Job Responsibilities
As a Visual Information Specialist, your daily contributions will be vital to our mission. You will:
- Design and produce economic and statistical content for diverse audiences.
- Develop graphics, flyers, social media assets, charts, and diagrams that adhere to federal branding and style guidelines.
- Ensure all visual materials are accessible and meet government-wide standards.
- Collaborate with internal departments to translate dense statistical concepts into intuitive visual stories.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Feature | GS-09 | GS-11 | GS-12 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | 1 Year at GS-07 level | 1 Year at GS-09 level | 1 Year at GS-11 level |
| Primary Focus | Design Support | Platform Development | Strategic Production |
| Leadership | Individual Contributor | Independent Project Lead | Mentor/Coordinator |
Requirements
To be successful, candidates must demonstrate relevant specialized experience or a strong educational background in fields such as visual communication, graphic design, or photography. You must be prepared to submit a concise, two-page resume that clearly outlines your work history and technical competencies.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $70,623 to $133,142 per year, commensurate with your qualifications and experience level. Beyond the salary, federal employees enjoy:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Flexible work arrangements and telework options.
- Extensive federal retirement benefits.
- Opportunities for continuous professional development.
Application Tips
- Respect the Resume Limit: The two-page restriction is absolute. If your resume is longer, your application will be disqualified.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure your SF-50 forms and transcripts are current and accurate.
- Prepare for the Assessment: The USA Hire assessment is a critical component of your application. Set aside two hours of uninterrupted time once you receive the link.
This is more than just a design role; it is an opportunity to contribute to the nation's transparency and data accessibility. If you are ready to apply your creative skills in a meaningful, mission-driven environment, we encourage you to start your application today.
Why This Visual Information Specialist Job Matters
Transform complex economic data into compelling visual stories with the U.S. Census Bureau—where your design skills impact the nation's future.
Visual Information Specialist Job Overview
The U.S. Census Bureau is seeking a creative and detail-oriented Visual Information Specialist to join the Communications Directorate in Suitland, Maryland. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in shaping how the nation perceives vital economic and statistical data. You will design, develop, and produce high-impact visual content, including infographics, digital media, and presentation materials, ensuring that complex information is accessible, accurate, and engaging for a wide range of audiences.
Requirements for Visual Information Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship eligibility.
- Completion of specialized experience or relevant graduate-level education as defined by grade level (GS-09, GS-11, or GS-12).
- Submission of a professional resume (maximum 2 pages).
- Successful completion of required USA Hire Competency-Based Assessments.
- Ability to provide transcripts if qualifying via education.
- Adherence to strict formatting and documentation requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Visual Information Specialist
- Experience in translating complex, data-heavy statistical concepts into accessible visual information.
- Proven proficiency in professional design software suites.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple high-visibility projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
- Experience ensuring content meets government accessibility standards.
- Strong technical leadership and ability to coordinate across cross-functional teams.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Flexible work arrangements and telework eligibility
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
- ✓Paid holidays and generous leave policies
💡 How to Apply Visual Information Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Visual Information Specialist Job
- Review the full announcement on USAJOBS carefully to determine your eligibility.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, including specific hours worked per week and employment dates.
- Create an account on USAJOBS and follow the online application link to submit your questionnaire.
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire Competency-Based Assessments within 48 hours of notification.
- Ensure all supporting documents, such as SF-50s or transcripts, are uploaded before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Do not exceed the two-page resume limit, or you will be automatically disqualified.
- Preview the application questionnaire on the agency website before beginning your formal application.
- Ensure your resume includes clear dates (mm/yy) and the number of hours worked per week for all listed experience.
- If you require a reasonable accommodation for the assessment, request it early in the process before starting the test.
- Monitor your email closely for the unique USA Hire assessment link after submitting your initial application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, this position is telework eligible, reflecting the Census Bureau's commitment to flexible work arrangements.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
Your application will be deemed disqualified, and you will be removed from consideration. Stick strictly to the two-page limit.
Do I need to submit official transcripts immediately?
At the application stage, unofficial transcripts or a detailed list of coursework is sufficient.
How do I know if I qualify?
Review the educational and specialized experience requirements listed in the official announcement for the GS-09, GS-11, and GS-12 levels.
What is the primary location for this job?
The position is located at the U.S. Census Bureau Headquarters in Suitland, Maryland, with convenient access to the Metro Rail Green Line.
Job from U.S. Census Bureau
The U.S. Census Bureau is the heartbeat of data for the United States. We serve as the nation’s leading provider of quality data about its people and economy. Our mission is fueled by scientific objectivity, rigorous research, and a commitment to innovation. By joining the Communications Directorate, you become part of a professional workforce dedicated to making complex information clear, accessible, and impactful.