KAIA - Senior Art Director / Senior Designer (Freelance)

Client: KAIA

Location: Remote

Contract: Contract

Job Description

KAIA is looking for a senior art director or designer who has built a career running their own projects. The ideal candidate is comfortable leading client calls, storyboarding concepts, and delivering final assets within tight deadlines. You will work directly with KAIA’s creative leadership and clients, including federal agencies, research institutions, and engineering organizations, to transform complex technical subjects into clear and compelling visual communication. The work will involve 3D animation, motion graphics, video production, UX design, and interactive media on a project basis.

Requirements

• A proven freelancer or independent creative. Experience in managing your own projects and scoping effort against deadlines.
• Client-facing and articulate. Ability to present creative concepts confidently to engineers and program managers.
• A design thinker. Capacity to define problems and make strategic communication decisions before execution.
• A visual storyteller. Strong skills in storyboarding, scripting, and developing narratives that make technical content engaging.
• Self-directed and reliable. Experience with remote work and ability to set personal structure and communicate proactively.

Bonus Points

• Experience with federal government clients or contracting environments.
• Familiarity with 3D animation tools like 3ds Max or Maya.
• Background in UX/UI design, interactive media, or web development.
• Knowledge of Section 508 accessibility compliance for media.

About KAIA

KAIA is an Emmy Award-winning creative production and strategic communications firm with nearly 30 years of experience helping technical teams at organizations like NASA, DARPA, and Fortune 100 brands turn complex work into impactful communication. The team is small, senior, and fully remote, with a strong emphasis on meaningful client relationships and creative judgment.

How to Apply

Submit your resume, a link to your portfolio or reel, and a brief note expressing your interest in the role. Applications without a portfolio will not be considered.

Compensation

Pay starts from $70,000.00 per year.

Work Location

This role is remote.