Creative Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Creative Graphic Designer

Company: The Imagine Group

Location: 8335 Classic Dr, Charlotte, NC 28262, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Manufacturing / Marketing

Date Posted: 2026-08-19

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develops and executes innovative, high-quality graphic designs across various mediums to meet client expectations and enhance visual communications.

• Collaborates with internal teams and external clients to understand project scope, conduct creative research, and deliver world-class visual and user-interaction solutions.

• Manages design projects from concept to delivery, ensuring adherence to timelines, quality standards, and brand consistency.

• Leverages in-depth knowledge of design software, production processes, and marketing trends to produce effective and impactful visual assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the manufacturing and visual communications sector, requiring a blend of creative design skills and an understanding of production logistics. The emphasis on "game-changing visual communications" and "delivering high-quality marketing solutions" suggests a focus on impactful, client-facing design work that directly supports business objectives.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Client & Staff Collaboration: Advise, create, and develop graphic designs, layouts, and print/web-ready solutions, partnering with sales and clients to understand needs and set realistic schedules.

• Project Management & Execution: Compile information, work within established timelines, provide feedback to the Creative Manager, and maintain organized project files, emails, and conversations.

• Quality Assurance & Optimization: Review projects, sales feedback, and customer input; conduct audits of design production to ensure quality and consistency, and identify areas for improvement.

• Market & Trend Analysis: Evaluate marketing trends, anticipate requirements, and conduct creative research to align designs with client goals and marketing strategies, developing innovative concepts and presentations.

• Process Improvement: Contribute to operational efficiency and quality by recommending and adhering to new and existing procedures for graphics, business technology, and logistics of distribution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on design role with significant client interaction and project ownership. The mention of "logistics of distribution" and "manufacturing" indicates that the designer will need to consider the practicalities of producing and delivering visual communications, not just the creative ideation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree preferred, or an Associate's degree with two years of related experience, or a High School diploma with 3+ years of relevant experience. Experience:

• 2-5 years of experience in graphic design, with a strong portfolio demonstrating creative output.

• Experience with ERP systems is preferred.

• Previous experience working in a manufacturing and/or print environment is highly desirable. Required Skills:

• Design Software Proficiency: In-depth knowledge of all Adobe Creative Cloud products (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) for print production.

• Print Production Knowledge: Solid understanding of graphics processes, color calibration, and preflight procedures.

• Layout & Design Skills: Ability to implement page layout and basic design principles effectively.

• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address design challenges and make informed decisions.

• Project Management: Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, pivot quickly as needed, and work within established timelines.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Excel).

• Experience using an ERP system.

• Understanding of visual communication principles and marketing strategy alignment.

• Familiarity with business technology and logistics related to distribution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Operations skills in graphics, business technology and logistics of distribution" requirement is a key differentiator. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how their design work integrates with broader operational processes, especially in a manufacturing context.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of graphic design projects, emphasizing visual communication and user-interaction solutions across print and digital mediums.

• Include examples demonstrating creative research, concept development, and final execution aligned with client goals and marketing strategies.

• Provide evidence of understanding and applying design principles, including layout, color theory, and typography.

• Highlight projects where you collaborated with internal teams (e.g., sales) or external clients, illustrating your communication and project management capabilities.

• Include work that shows an understanding of production processes, such as print-ready files, preflighting, and color calibration. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate experience in organizing and maintaining design files, project documentation, and communication records in a standardized system.

• Illustrate your approach to verifying creative results, conducting audits, and incorporating feedback to ensure product quality and project consistency.

• Showcase examples of how you've contributed to improving operational efficiency and quality by recommending or following established procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio should go beyond aesthetic appeal to demonstrate an understanding of the entire design lifecycle within a business context, including client collaboration, production considerations, and process adherence, especially within a manufacturing or print environment.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $55,000 - $65,000 per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage.

• Paid Time Off (PTO).

• Disability Insurance.

• 401(k) plan with employer match.

• Life Insurance.

• Voluntary Supplemental Insurance options.

• Tuition Assistance programs.

• Caregiver Leave and Adoption Assistance.

• Employer and partner discounts.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is a national average. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, specific skills, experience level, performance, and shift. The comprehensive benefits package is standard for full-time roles and includes several family-supportive and professional development benefits.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Visual Communications / Manufacturing / Print Solutions. The Imagine Group operates in an industry focused on creating impactful visual experiences for clients, going beyond traditional print to offer comprehensive marketing solutions. This involves a blend of creative innovation and manufacturing expertise.

Company Size: The provided LinkedIn data indicates The Imagine Group has between 1,001-5,000 employees, placing it in the mid-to-large enterprise category. This suggests a structured environment with established processes, opportunities for specialization, and potential for cross-departmental collaboration.

Founded: Founded over 30 years ago, The Imagine Group has a long-standing history and a deep understanding of the visual communications industry. This longevity implies stability, a proven track record, and a mature approach to business operations and client relationships.

Team Structure:

• The role reports to a Creative Manager, indicating a hierarchical creative department structure.

• Collaboration is expected with sales teams and directly with clients, requiring strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• The team likely comprises other creative professionals, production specialists, and potentially project managers, working towards unified visual communication goals. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: While creativity is key, the role emphasizes aligning designs with client goals and marketing strategies, suggesting a data-informed approach to creative output.

• Process Optimization: Contribution to "operating efficiency and quality" by recommending and following procedures indicates a focus on refining workflows and best practices.

• Client-Centric Solutions: The core mission is to "deliver game-changing visual communications" and "high-quality marketing solutions," meaning client needs and satisfaction are paramount.

Company Website: https://www.theimaginegroup.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's emphasis on "game-changing visual communications" and "innovation" suggests a culture that values creative problem-solving and pushing boundaries, while its history and industry position imply a strong foundation in execution and reliability.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is typically considered an entry-to-mid-level position within a creative department. It requires foundational design skills and a growing understanding of production and client management. The scope involves executing designs based on established creative direction and client briefs, with opportunities to contribute to concept development.

Reporting Structure: The Creative Graphic Designer reports directly to a Creative Manager. This implies a clear line of accountability and a structured feedback loop for creative work and professional development. The manager will likely provide direction, review work, and guide career growth.

Operations Impact: The graphic designer's work directly impacts the company's ability to deliver high-quality marketing solutions and visual communications. Their designs are crucial for client acquisition, brand representation, and overall client satisfaction, thereby contributing to revenue generation and client retention.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific design areas (e.g., large-format printing, digital design, branding) or gain advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud.

• Project Leadership: Potential to lead design aspects of smaller projects or take on more complex client briefs as experience grows.

• Process Improvement Contribution: Develop a deeper understanding of manufacturing and logistics processes, potentially leading to roles focused on design for production efficiency.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain insights into sales, marketing, and production workflows, opening doors to roles that bridge creative and operational functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth within this role would likely involve taking on more complex projects, increasing client-facing responsibilities, and potentially mentoring junior designers. Understanding the operational side of the business can pave the way for specialized roles within visual communications production.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site at the company's Charlotte, NC location. This suggests a collaborative office environment where designers work alongside colleagues and have access to necessary equipment and resources.

Office Location(s): The primary office is located at 8335 Classic Dr, Charlotte, NC 28262. This location is within Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, and is accessible within the Charlotte metropolitan area.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The on-site nature fosters direct interaction with the Creative Manager, sales teams, and potentially production staff, facilitating real-time feedback and idea exchange.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Cloud) and necessary hardware is expected. The mention of ERP systems suggests integration with broader company operational software.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily collaboration, team meetings, and brainstorming sessions are inherent to an on-site role.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. While specific daily hours are not detailed, typical office hours apply, with potential for occasional overtime depending on project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement suggests a preference for face-to-face collaboration and direct access to company resources and production facilities, which can be beneficial for a designer working in a manufacturing context.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and creative fit.

• Portfolio Presentation: A session where you present your best work, explaining your design process, creative rationale, and the impact of your designs. Be prepared to discuss how your work aligns with client goals and production requirements.

• Skills Assessment: Potential technical test or challenge involving design tasks, software proficiency, or problem-solving scenarios relevant to print production and visual communications.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit: Interviews with the Creative Manager and potentially other team members to evaluate your problem-solving abilities, collaboration style, and alignment with The Imagine Group's culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 5-7 of your strongest projects that best represent the skills required for this role (print production, web-ready solutions, client collaboration, problem-solving).

• Showcase Process: For each project, explain your thought process, the challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and the final outcome. Use visuals to illustrate your journey.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, include metrics or client testimonials that demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., increased engagement, positive client feedback, successful campaign execution).

• Highlight Production Awareness: Include examples that demonstrate your understanding of print processes, color calibration, and creating print-ready files. Mention any experience with logistics or manufacturing considerations in your design choices.

• Tailor to Imagine Group: Research The Imagine Group's work and clients. Highlight projects that show similar style or industry relevance.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Brief Simulation: Practice responding to hypothetical design briefs, outlining your approach, proposed concepts, and timeline.

• Software Proficiency: Ensure you are comfortable with core Adobe Creative Cloud functions, particularly those used for print layout and file preparation.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would handle common design challenges, such as tight deadlines, difficult client feedback, or technical production issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is critical. Focus on demonstrating not just creative talent but also an understanding of the practical application of design within a business and manufacturing context. Be ready to articulate the "why" behind your design decisions.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud: Essential for all design work, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Proficiency in these is non-negotiable for print production and layout.

• ERP System: Experience with an Enterprise Resource Planning system is preferred, indicating a need to understand how design integrates with broader business operations, inventory, and order management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly mentioned for the designer, understanding how designs perform (e.g., through client feedback, campaign results) is implied. Familiarity with basic analytics concepts or reporting tools used by marketing teams could be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Experience in a CRM or marketing automation platform is not a primary requirement but understanding how visual assets are utilized within marketing campaigns managed through such systems is advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Adobe Creative Cloud and ERP systems highlights the technical requirements. Candidates should be ready to discuss their experience and comfort level with these specific tools and their integration within a business workflow.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: The company's slogan "Imagine a better way together" and focus on "game-changing visual communications" underscore a value for creative thinking and pushing industry standards.

• Quality & Excellence: Commitment to "delivering high-quality marketing solutions" and "world-class visual and user-interaction solutions" indicates a strong focus on craftsmanship and attention to detail in all outputs.

• Collaboration: The emphasis on working with staff and clients, and partnering with sales, points to a culture that values teamwork and open communication.

• Client Focus: The mission to help clients "capture the heart, minds, and loyalty of their customers" highlights a dedication to understanding and meeting client needs effectively.

• Efficiency: Contributing to "operating efficiency and quality" suggests an appreciation for streamlined processes and effective resource management.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The designer will need to collaborate closely with sales (to identify client needs and set schedules) and potentially with production teams (to ensure designs are feasible for manufacturing).

• Feedback-Driven Improvement: The role involves reviewing projects and incorporating feedback from Creative Managers, sales, and clients, indicating a culture that embraces constructive criticism for continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Recommending and following new procedures suggests an environment where sharing best practices and process improvements is encouraged.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they embody these values in their daily work, particularly how they balance creative vision with the practical demands of production and client service.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Production Constraints: Adapting innovative design ideas to fit manufacturing capabilities, material costs, and logistical requirements. This requires understanding the limitations and possibilities of the production process.

• Managing Multiple Client Projects: Juggling diverse client needs, timelines, and feedback simultaneously, requiring strong organizational and time-management skills.

• Translating Client Vision: Effectively interpreting client briefs and marketing strategies into compelling visual designs that meet their objectives and resonate with their target audience.

• Staying Current with Technology & Trends: Keeping up-to-date with the latest design software updates, digital design trends, and visual communication technologies while maintaining expertise in print production.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to master new features or specialized applications within Adobe Creative Cloud.

• Print Production & Materials Expertise: Deepen knowledge of printing techniques, substrates, and finishing processes relevant to visual communications.

• Client Relationship Management: Develop skills in client communication, presentation, and strategic consultation through direct client interaction.

• Operations & Logistics Understanding: Gain a more comprehensive understanding of the manufacturing and distribution side of the business, potentially leading to roles focused on design for operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Successfully navigating the challenges of this role will require a proactive approach to learning and a willingness to collaborate across departments, particularly with production and sales teams.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex graphic design project you managed from concept to completion. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure quality and client satisfaction?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and outcomes).

• "How do you balance creative innovation with the practical constraints of print production and manufacturing logistics?" (Highlight your understanding of industry specifics).

• "Walk us through your process for creating print-ready files. What steps do you take to ensure accurate color calibration and preflighting?" (Demonstrate technical knowledge).

• "How do you collaborate with sales teams or clients to understand their needs and translate them into effective visual communication strategies?" (Showcase communication and client management skills). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to The Imagine Group and our focus on 'game-changing visual communications'?" (Research the company's mission and recent work).

• "How do you contribute to a collaborative team environment, especially when working with non-designers like sales or production staff?" (Emphasize teamwork and communication).

• "Describe a time you had to adapt your design based on feedback or production limitations. How did you handle it?" (Assess adaptability and problem-solving). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly state the client, objective, your role, the solution, and the results. Use a storytelling approach.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Point out specific design choices related to print production, color, and layout. Mention any challenges overcome regarding file preparation or material selection.

• Quantify Success: If possible, use data or client feedback to demonstrate the impact of your designs.

• Showcase Versatility: Present a range of work that demonstrates your ability to handle different project types and styles.

• Be Prepared for Live Critiques: Practice discussing your work in detail and be open to constructive feedback during the interview.

📝 Enhancement Note: Emphasize how your design approach considers the entire lifecycle of a visual communication, from initial concept to final production and client impact, especially within a manufacturing context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Creative Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Paylocity recruiting portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud, print production, layout design, and client collaboration. Prioritize work relevant to visual communications and manufacturing.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your experience with graphic design, relevant software (Adobe Creative Suite, ERP systems, Microsoft Office), and any manufacturing or print industry background. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving skills, and how you collaborate with teams. Be ready to present your portfolio and discuss specific projects in detail.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with The Imagine Group's mission, values, and recent work to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment during the interview process.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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