Sign shop Early Employee (Design/PM/Production)

Overview
We are seeking a dynamic and proactive Design and Project Coordinator (Employee #1) to join our innovative team. This pivotal role combines creative design oversight with comprehensive project coordination, ensuring seamless execution from concept to completion. As a key member of our organization, you will drive program development, manage multiple projects within scope, and foster collaboration across teams. Your energetic approach and meticulous attention to detail will help propel our initiatives forward, delivering high-quality results that align with strategic objectives. This position offers an exciting opportunity to shape project success while developing your leadership skills in a fast-paced environment.

Duties

About the Opportunity
We are a newly launched, fast-paced signage startup looking for our very first dedicated team member - our "Employee #1."

We are looking for a unicorn: someone whose core strength is creating flawless, production-ready signage files, but who is also highly organized and comfortable stepping into project management and customer service roles. Because we are a startup, you will be wearing multiple hats. If you love variety, thrive with autonomy, and want to help build a company's foundation from the ground up, this role is for you.

The Role
You will be the operational bridge between our clients, our design process, and our production line. Your time will be split between hands-on design work, keeping projects moving on time, and communicating with our customers.

1. Production Design (Approx. 50%)

Prepare, format, and preflight files for large-format printing and signage production.

Set up accurate cut paths, bleeds, margins, and CMYK color profiles.

Adapt existing brand assets into various signage dimensions and templates.

Ensure all final files meet exact manufacturer and printer specifications to avoid costly production errors.

2. Project Management (Approx. 25%)

Manage the lifecycle of a signage order from initial intake to final delivery.

Maintain and update our project management software/trackers so we always know the status of an order.

Coordinate with print vendors and internal stakeholders to ensure timelines are met.

Organize and maintain a clean digital filing system for all client assets and production files.

3. Customer Service & Account Support (Approx. 25%)

Serve as a friendly, professional point of contact for clients via email or chat.

Send design proofs to clients, gather feedback, and execute necessary revisions.

Answer basic client questions regarding order status, material specs, or timelines.

What We’re Looking For
Signage/Print Expertise: You have a portfolio showing direct experience with large-format print and signage production. You know your way around vector graphics, RIP software prep, and bleed margins in your sleep.

Software Mastery: Expert-level proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.

Organization: You love a good spreadsheet, Kanban board, or PM tool (Asana, Trello, Monday, etc.) and naturally keep things organized.

Communication: Excellent written English skills. You know how to be warm and professional with clients while being clear and concise with vendors.

Startup Mentality: You are a self-starter. You don't need to be micromanaged, and you have a "no task is too small" attitude.

Why Join Us?
Ground Floor Opportunity: As Employee #1, your voice matters. You will help shape our processes and have massive room for growth as the company scales.

Consistent Work: This will grow into long-term role with steady, reliable hours.

This is a contract to Hire Opportunity

We are looking for self starters who are willing to learn sign making production skills. Graphic design skills are the start; learning how to take them and convert them into real physical world signs is the next step.

Pay: From $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person