Graphic Designer & Production Assistant

FASTSIGNS International. Inc; Waukegan (IL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job description

About Us:
FASTSIGNS of Gurnee is a leader in custom signage and visual communication solutions, providing top-quality designs and products to a wide range of businesses. We are seeking a Graphic Designer & Production Assistant to join our dynamic team. This role combines creative graphic design work with hands-on production tasks, offering a diverse and engaging work environment.

What You’ll Do:

Graphic Design:

• Create computer-generated full-color graphics and/or vinyl output for signage, banners, and other media applications.
• Modify or finalize designs based on customer-provided files, ensuring they meet production requirements and client specifications.
• Select style, size, and arrangement of type and illustrations based on available space, design aesthetics, and production constraints.
• Inspect and proof designs for accuracy before output, ensuring correct material usage and that output device settings are accurate.
• Manage and maintain the customer logo library and convert graphic files as needed.

Production Support:

• Prepare substrates for vinyl application, including cutting, laminating, and cleaning materials for final production.
• Operate and maintain printers, plotters, and other production equipment to ensure accurate and timely output.
• Perform finishing tasks such as weeding vinyl, laminating, mounting, and trimming printed pieces.
• Assist with inventory management, keeping production supplies stocked and organized.
• Conduct quality control checks, verifying that work meets both customer expectations and internal quality standards.
• Utilize light power equipment to cut materials to specified sizes and shapes for production.

Collaboration & Consultation:

• Work closely with the sales and production teams to ensure a smooth process from initial design to final product delivery.
• Provide expert advice to clients regarding design, materials, and production techniques, ensuring their needs are met with the best solutions.

Skills & Qualifications:

• 1-2 years of experience in graphic design or a related production role.
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator is required; experience with other design software is a plus.
• Hands-on experience with sign production or similar tasks is highly desirable.
• Strong attention to detail and an ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay plus bonus
• Paid holidays, paid time off, and 401k matching
• Ongoing training and professional development
• A supportive and collaborative team environment
• The opportunity to see the tangible results of your work through client success

If you’re passionate about production and signage, thrive in a hands-on role, and are eager to learn and grow, we want to hear from you!