Production Artist [AQ-22894]

Aquent; Beaverton (OR); On-site; USD 70,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Aquent is seeking an experienced graphic production artist to craft production-ready apparel graphics for iconic products. You will create detailed schematics, ensure compliance with brand standards, and lead production efforts across multiple categories.

Collaborating with Apparel Design, Graphic Design, Product Management, and Technical Development, you will mentor peers in cutting-edge tools and optimize workflows to drive efficiency and precision throughout the product lifecycle.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in graphic design or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years in design/production art for apparel.
• Portfolio showing licensed product work and technical specs.
• Strong knowledge of Adobe Illustrator and Creative Suite.

Responsibilities

• Deliver production-ready artwork for apparel graphics with precision.
• Create detailed graphic schematics and ensure brand standards are met.
• Lead production art efforts and coordinate with cross-functional teams.
• Mentor peers in new tools and efficient workflows.
• Manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

Skills

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Creative Suite

Licensed apparel

Process ownership

Mentor peers

Education

Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design

Tools

Adobe Photoshop

2D/3D tools

Job description

Aquent, a leading talent solutions partner, is thrilled to connect you with an exceptional opportunity at a globally recognized leader in athletic apparel and footwear. This company is renowned for pushing the boundaries of innovation, inspiring athletes worldwide, and creating products that define performance and style. Joining their team means contributing to a legacy of excellence and making a tangible impact on highly visible, iconic products.

Imagine shaping the aesthetic and functional integrity of athletic apparel graphics for iconic products that inspire athletes globally! This is your chance to be a pivotal resource within a dynamic design team, refining graphic details and delivering impeccable, production-ready files that set new industry standards. Your expertise will directly bring innovative designs to life, particularly within the exciting realm of team sports, influencing the future of athletic apparel. You’ll navigate complex projects, champion new methodologies, and maintain an unwavering focus on detail, driving innovation and efficiency throughout the product creation lifecycle.

What You’ll Do

• Elevate graphic design by delivering flawless, production-ready files for apparel.
• Craft detailed and accurate graphic schematics, ensuring precision and strict adherence to brand standards.
• Act as a primary graphic production resource, leading production art efforts within assigned categories, actively participating in meetings, and identifying critical action items.
• Mentor and guide peers in adopting cutting‑edge tools and efficient workflows.
• Oversee multiple projects concurrently in a fast-paced environment, maintaining momentum and accuracy.
• Engage in close collaboration with cross‑functional partners including Apparel Design, Graphic Design, Product Management, Technical Development, and Material Development.
• Utilize 2D and 3D tools to create and finalize graphic details across various product levels.
• Develop comprehensive documentation for downstream partners and conduct thorough reviews of strike‑offs.
• Track and maintain updates on all relevant files to ensure accuracy through final approval.
• Champion and implement efficiencies across the entire product creation lifecycle.

What You’ll Bring

Must-Have Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 5+ years of experience in a design and/or production art environment, specifically for apparel.
• Proven experience with licensed apparel, visual systems, and micro branding.
• A strong portfolio showcasing experience working on licensed products, including technical schematics for logos and trims, and clear examples of process ownership.
• Proficient knowledge of Adobe Illustrator and the broader Adobe Creative Suite.
• Advanced understanding of graphic applications, including ink types and trim substrates.
• Understanding of the product lifecycle and key deliverables.
• Expert‑level listening, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proven ability to support and lead peers in new tools and ways of working.
• Ability to navigate ambiguity effectively while maintaining strong collaboration.
• Exceptional attention to detail, with a laser focus on critical elements.
• Demonstrated ability to multi‑task and manage competing priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Curiosity for learning and a passion for building a strong design community.

Nice‑to‑Have Qualifications

• Experience or interest in athletic team sports, particularly understanding team and league demographics.
• Experience working on cut‑and‑sew apparel and T‑shirts.
• Experience in 3D apparel programs such as CLO or Lotta.
• Familiarity with project management and collaboration tools like Smartsheet, Airtable, and Miro.
• A passion for sports is a bonus, but a love for design is essential.
• Previous industry experience is a plus.

Client Description

Global leader in athletic footwear, apparel, and equipment. Our client focuses on innovation, performance, and marketing, partnering with top athletes and teams. The company emphasizes sustainability and digital advancements to enhance the sports experience.