VISUAL INFORMATION SPECIALIST

In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Administrative and Management Positions, Visual Information series. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-09, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes knowledge of a wide range of visual information, illustration, design, layout principles, scripting, equipment, personnel and concepts for the conception, planning, and execution of a variety of complex projects. Knowledge of developing production schedules, coordinating staff activities, and making administrative and logistical arrangements for all phases of audiovisual production. Knowledge of graphic arts and media, perspective, layout, balance and contrast, color science, mixing and application, standard drawing practices, instruments numerous sources of audiovisual resources and special effects, such as casting lists, shot lists, music libraries, stock footage and postproduction services. Knowledge of the operations, products, services, needs, and goals of programs and other organizations serviced, and related customers, functions, resources, and users. Knowledge of methods and procedures for operating a variety of computer systems and visual information equipment in the production and reproduction of artwork, photos, and typography. Knowledge of concepts, principles, and practices of a public affairs program and written and oral communication principles, methods, and techniques to conduct and coordinate public affairs activities to develop intercommunication between the agency and a variety of audiences. Ability to present subject matter information in a visual form to convey an intended message or to achieve a desired effect upon specific publics or stakeholders and to communicate ideas concerning visual information with tact and diplomacy. Ability to produce and direct an audiovisual production; edit films, video, and scripts; and create computer images for audiovisual products using various production techniques, directing the actions of production crews and casts, and in composing complex live or prerecorded programs with multiple visual or audio elements. OR EDUCATION: Successfully completed a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree, or 3 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree, or LL.M., if related, with a major study in commercial art, fine arts, art history, industrial design, architecture, drafting, interior design, photography, visual communication, or other fields related to the position. This education must have been obtained in an accredited business, college or university. NOTE: You must submit a copy of your transcript with your application. OR COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION: A combination of education and experience may be used to qualify for this position as long as the computed percentage of the requirements is at least 100%. NOTE: You must submit a copy of your transcript with your application. FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year at the GS-09 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-11 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks. NOTE: Applicants applying as VEOA candidates who are current GS civil service employees or are prior GS civil service employees within the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: Knowledge of a wide range of visual information, illustration, design, layout principles, and concepts for the conception, planning, and execution of a variety of complex projects. Knowledge of graphic arts and media, perspective, layout, balance and contrast, color science, mixing and application, standard drawing practices and instruments. Knowledge of the operations, products, services, needs, and goals of programs and other organizations serviced, and related customers, functions, resources, and users. Knowledge of methods and procedures for operating a variety of computer systems and visual information equipment in the production and reproduction of artwork, photos, and typography. Knowledge of concepts, principles, and practices of a public affairs program and written and oral communication principles, methods, and techniques to conduct and coordinate public affairs activities to develop intercommunication between the agency and a variety of audiences. Ability to present subject matter information in a visual form to convey an intended message or to achieve a desired effect upon specific publics or stakeholders and to communicate ideas concerning visual information with tact and diplomacy. PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week. VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Click on “Learn more about this agency” button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information. The primary purpose of this position is to serve as a Visual Information Specialist, responsible for original design & production of a variety of images for printed/ web- based material, exhibits, & briefings to maintain mutual communication with internal & external publics. Work requires a broad knowledge of the principles & techniques of visual design & public affairs.