Print Desk Designer (Contract)

The Washington Post is seeking a creative, collaborative, and deadline-driven Print Desk Designer for a contract role through Nov. 30. This position can be based in our Washington, D.C. newsroom or performed remotely from another U.S. location.

About Our Team

The Washington Post is powered by the passion and talent of our people. Beyond our award-winning Newsroom and Opinions teams, we work across departments including Brand & Events, Communications, Customer Care, Engineering & Product, Finance, Human Resources, Legal, Marketing & Advertising, Print Operations, and Sales.

Why This Role Matters

This contract role is an opportunity to help produce visually compelling print journalism at one of the world’s leading news organizations. Print Desk Designers work across news and features products, including themed sections and standalone special editions, helping bring stories to life through thoughtful layout, strong visual hierarchy, and sharp presentation. We are looking for a designer with excellent news judgment, a sophisticated eye for typography and layout, and the ability to work quickly and collaboratively under deadline pressure.

Responsibilities

• Use The Post’s content management systems and design tools to adapt edited text, photography, and graphics across print products.
• Design visually compelling pages and story packages for daily and weekly print editions, as well as special sections.
• Collaborate with print editors and fellow designers to execute strong, cohesive visual storytelling.
• Maintain high standards for accuracy, tone, and brand consistency across all print products.
• Contribute ideas for improving workflows, presentation, and the overall print experience.
• Work efficiently under tight deadlines while balancing multiple assignments.

Requirements

• A portfolio demonstrating excellence in print news or magazine design.
• Typography, layout, and visual storytelling skills.
• Strong news judgment and an understanding of how design shapes the reader experience.
• Ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively in a deadline-driven work environment.
• Comfort learning and adapting to new technologies and production workflows.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Prior experience with Méthode, Roxen, and Adobe Creative Suite are big plusses.

Schedule

Print Desk Designers work 37.5 hours per week; schedules typically include some Eastern Time evening shifts and at least one weekend day.

Pay

This role pays between $7,200 and $9,500 per month, depending on individual skills, experience, and qualifications as they relate to specific job requirements and the duration of the contract assignment.