Graphic Designer and Production Manager (for a Sign company)

Job title: Graphic Designer and Production Manager (for a Sign company)

Job type: Contract-to-hire full-time position (On-site)

About Us

We are a fast-growing, full-service sign company specializing in custom signage, large-format graphics, and creative branding solutions. We are seeking a Senior Graphic Designer with proven experience in the sign industry who can handle production efforts and bring both creative excellence and technical expertise to our team.

Position Summary

The Senior Graphic Designer will be responsible for creating visually compelling, cost-efficient designs for signage and print media while also taking an active role in the production process. This position requires a professional with hands-on experience in sign shop operations, sign compliance, and client interaction. The role also serves as a backup for the General Manager, helping oversee workshop and client-facing functions when needed. Candidate should be eligible to work legally in the US (without sponsorship).

· As a contractor: About 20 hours per week

· Once hired full-time: 40 hours per week

Key Responsibilities

Design & Creativity

• Develop top-in-class, innovative, brand-consistent signage and graphic designs using Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) and Flexi.
• Apply critical thinking to provide cost-optimized design solutions that balance creativity, durability, and budget.
• Prepare error-free print-ready files and layouts for production.
• Create detailed sign specification sheets designed to secure permits efficiently and gain client approvals with minimal revisions.

Industry Knowledge & Innovation

• Demonstrate strong knowledge of different kinds of signs (channel letters, monument signs, pylon signs, dimensional lettering, vinyl graphics, real estate signs, marine graphics, ADA signage, bulk stickers, etc.).
• Understand vehicle wrapping needs including design requirements, scaling, panel alignment, and production preparation.
• Stay up to date with the latest industry, graphics, materials, and technology trends, bringing forward new ideas and solutions that add value to the business and clients.

Production Support

• Operate and maintain sign shop equipment including commercial printers, laminators, and plotters.
• Conduct routine clean-ups, calibrations, and preventative maintenance to ensure maximum equipment performance and print quality.
• Maintain workshop technologies with diligence, smartness, and honesty to maximize reliability and lifespan.
• Collaborate with the production team to ensure design accuracy and quality in final output.

Compliance & Documentation

• Review sign permits, city ordinances, and zoning regulations to ensure all designs comply with legal requirements.
• Create accurate design specifications and documentation as per municipal codes and permitting rules.
• Partner with project managers and clients to prepare submittals for permitting authorities.

Client Engagement & Sales Support

• Work directly with clients to understand needs, present design concepts, and articulate creative rationale in a persuasive and professional manner.
• Provide consultative input to clients on design feasibility, materials, and production methods.
• Support the sales team by creating compelling mockups, proofs, and design presentations.

Backup General Management Support

• Serve as a backup for the General Manager (GM) as and when needed.
• Manage day-to-day workshop operations during GM absence, including scheduling, workflow, and prioritization.
• Attend to clients and vendors professionally via phone, email, or in-person meetings.
• Ensure smooth operations and uphold company standards in both workshop and client-facing interactions.
• Keeping track of material inventory and escalate what needs to be ordered/replenished

Technology & Content Creation

• Manage file organization, backups, and basic computer networking tasks related to design and production systems.
• Create and manage social media content, showcasing the company’s work and engaging potential customers.
• Support marketing efforts with digital assets for web, email, and social platforms.
• Utilize CRM and other collaborative tools (e.g., project management software, shared workspaces) to streamline workflows and client communications.

Qualifications

• Required: At least 1 year of graphic design experience in a sign company or large-format printing environment.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and MS Office.
• Strong knowledge of sign production methods, substrates, and finishing techniques.
• Hands-on experience with large-format printers, laminators, and plotters.
• Familiarity with basic computer networking and troubleshooting.
• Experience in social media management and content creation.
• Excellent communication skills with ability to explain and sell design concepts to clients.
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills for cost-effective design solutions.
• Professional, positive attitude with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.

Preferred Skills

• Knowledge of Flexi software.
• Knowledge of CRM systems and collaborative project management tools.
• Knowledge of color management, RIP software, and print calibration.
• Experience in vehicle wrap design and installation preparation.
• Familiarity with sign permitting requirements and ADA compliance design standards.

What We Offer

• Hourly rate par with industry standards in the location
• Contract to hire (based on overall performance, professionalism and complete understanding of the production process)
• Excellent growth opportunities in a dynamic and creative environment.
• A collaborative, professional team culture.
• PTO (once hired from contractor to full-time)

Application Question(s):

• Willing to demonstrate mock graphics (not for real client) as per interviewer's instructions?

Experience:

• Sign Industry: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Austin, TX 78734

Work Location: In person

Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Work Location: In person