Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: ABC Imaging

Location: New York, New York, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Graphic Production Operations / Print Production Specialist

Date Posted: 2026-09-02

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a hybrid position focusing on the technical aspects of graphic production, file preparation, and workflow optimization within a large-format printing environment.

• The Graphic Designer will be instrumental in ensuring the smooth transition of client artwork from digital files to high-quality physical outputs, with a strong emphasis on print accuracy and efficiency.

• It involves direct client interaction for customer service, alongside deep collaboration with production teams to manage complex projects like vehicle wraps and environmental branding.

• The position requires a robust understanding of printing processes, color management, and the technical specifications necessary for large-scale graphic installations.

📝 Enhancement Note: While titled "Graphic Designer," the core responsibilities and required skills heavily lean towards a Print Production Specialist or Graphic Operations role, emphasizing technical prepress, workflow management, and equipment calibration over pure creative design. The customer service component suggests a client-facing aspect within the production context.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Receive, meticulously review, and process incoming artwork and digital production files, ensuring they meet all technical requirements for print output.

• Conduct comprehensive preflight checks on all incoming files to guarantee adherence to production standards, client specifications, and large-format printing needs.

• Prepare and optimize digital files specifically for large-format printing applications, including intricate vehicle wraps, multi-panel graphics, and expansive environmental branding projects.

• Continuously analyze and propose improvements to existing prepress and production workflows to enhance efficiency, reduce errors, and maintain high-quality output.

• Operate and maintain digital printing equipment, including the calibration of printers using RIP software and advanced color management tools.

• Ensure absolute color accuracy and consistency across all printed materials through rigorous calibration, profiling, and gamut control processes.

• Actively collaborate with production, scheduling, and finishing teams to ensure seamless project execution and adherence to stringent project deadlines.

• Perform thorough proofing of all final artwork to verify accuracy in color, scale, layout, content, and specific production requirements before printing.

• Provide technical support and expertise to the broader graphics and production teams on complex or high-volume projects, sharing knowledge on best practices.

• Utilize advanced functionalities within Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) for file manipulation and optimization.

• Work proficiently with print management and RIP software, with a preference for platforms like Caldera or similar industry-standard solutions.

• Implement and maintain robust color management practices, including the creation and application of ICC profiles, precise color gamut control, and regular press calibration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical prepress, production support, and customer service, indicating a need for someone who can bridge the gap between client expectations and manufacturing realities in a high-volume, large-format print environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: [While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Print Production, or a related field is often preferred for roles requiring this level of technical expertise. However, equivalent practical experience will likely be considered.]

Experience: 2–5 years of demonstrated experience in a printing, prepress, graphic production, or digital graphics environment, with a focus on large-format applications.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) is essential for file manipulation and preparation.

• Strong experience in file preparation, preflighting, and print production correction techniques (e.g., layering, trapping, knockouts, overprints).

• Proven ability to manage and execute complex large-format projects, such as vehicle wraps and multi-panel installations, from digital file to finished product.

• Solid understanding of color management principles, including ICC profiling, color gamut control, and industry color standards.

• Experience with RIP software and color calibration tools; familiarity with Caldera or equivalent platforms is highly advantageous.

• Exceptional attention to detail and a strong commitment to print accuracy and quality control in all aspects of work.

• Demonstrated ability to work efficiently and effectively within a fast-paced, deadline-driven production environment.

• Strong organizational and multitasking skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with customer service interactions in a production or technical environment.

• Familiarity with environmental branding and large-scale retail display production processes.

• Knowledge of different printing technologies and their specific file requirements.

• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to file preparation and printing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are highly technical and specific to print production operations, indicating that candidates with hands-on experience in managing production workflows and ensuring output quality will be most successful.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of complex large-format projects, demonstrating your ability to manage file preparation from concept to completion.

• Include case studies or examples of vehicle wraps, environmental branding, or large-scale retail displays, highlighting your role in the production process.

• Provide evidence of your preflighting capabilities, perhaps through annotated file examples or explanations of how you identify and resolve potential production issues.

• Demonstrate your understanding of color management by including examples of color-accurate prints or explanations of your profiling and calibration processes.

• Highlight any examples of workflow optimization or process improvements you have implemented in previous roles. Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your systematic approach to receiving, reviewing, and preparing incoming artwork for production.

• Articulate your methodology for conducting preflight checks and ensuring files meet stringent technical specifications for large-format output.

• Explain your process for color management, including how you ensure consistency and accuracy from digital file to printed piece.

• Describe your approach to collaborating with cross-functional teams (production, scheduling, finishing) to manage project timelines and deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating practical application of technical skills in large-format print production is crucial. Candidates should prepare to walk through specific examples of their work, detailing their process, challenges, and solutions, particularly concerning file preparation, color accuracy, and workflow efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $23 - $27 per hour. This range is competitive for a mid-level Graphic Production Specialist in the New York City metropolitan area, considering the specialized skills in large-format printing, color management, and prepress operations. The specific rate will depend on the candidate's experience, demonstrated proficiencies, and interview performance.

Benefits:

• Full-time employment status, offering stability and comprehensive benefits.

• Health, dental, and vision insurance plans are typically provided for full-time employees.

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays, to support work-life balance.

• Opportunities for professional development and training in advanced printing technologies and software.

• Potential for overtime work, which may be compensated at a higher rate, given the fast-paced production environment.

• Access to cutting-edge large-format printing equipment and technology.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours are expected, likely 40 hours per week. Given the production environment and client demands, flexibility may be required, including potential for overtime during peak periods or to meet urgent project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range of $23-$27/hour for a Graphic Designer in New York City aligns with mid-level roles that require specialized technical skills in print production and prepress, rather than purely creative design. The emphasis on large-format printing, color management, and RIP software justifies this rate.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Printing and Imaging Services, specializing in large-format graphics for media, retail, and commercial clients. This industry demands precision, speed, and a deep understanding of materials and production processes.

Company Size: [Assuming based on typical Breezy HR ATS usage and the nature of the role, ABC Imaging likely falls into the Small to Medium-sized Business (SMB) category, potentially 50-250 employees. This size often allows for close-knit teams and direct impact.] This size means operations professionals can often see the direct impact of their work and may have broader responsibilities.

Founded: [Founding date not provided, but ABC Imaging's focus on diverse large-format applications suggests a company that has evolved with printing technology, likely established to meet growing demands for visual merchandising and branding solutions.]

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Production team likely comprises individuals with specialized skills in design, prepress, color management, and equipment operation.

• Reporting structure would likely involve a Production Manager or Operations Lead, with close collaboration between graphic specialists, press operators, and finishing teams.

• Cross-functional collaboration is key, involving interaction with sales/account management for client briefs, scheduling for project timelines, and potentially installation teams for large-scale projects. Methodology:

• Data analysis is critical for optimizing print runs, managing color profiles, and tracking production efficiency.

• Workflow planning and optimization are central to ensuring timely and accurate delivery of large-format graphics.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely employed through RIP software and streamlined file preparation processes to handle high volumes.

Company Website: https://abc-imaging.breezy.hr

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's specialization in large-format graphics implies a production-heavy environment where operational efficiency, technical accuracy, and timely execution are paramount. The culture likely values precision, problem-solving, and a commitment to quality output.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-level position for a Graphic Production Specialist. It requires a solid foundation of technical skills (2-5 years experience) and the ability to independently manage complex production tasks, including file preparation, color management, and equipment calibration. It bridges the gap between entry-level prepress work and senior production management.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Production Manager or Operations Supervisor who oversees the entire print production workflow. This role requires close coordination with other members of the production team, including press operators, finishing specialists, and potentially customer service liaisons.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts ABC Imaging's ability to deliver high-quality, visually impactful graphics to its clients. Efficient file preparation, accurate color reproduction, and timely output are critical for client satisfaction, repeat business, and the company's reputation in the competitive large-format printing market. The operations specialist's work is foundational to the final product's success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Production Specialist: Advance to a role with more responsibility for complex projects, workflow design, or specialized equipment operation.

• Color Management Specialist: Develop deeper expertise in color science, profiling, and calibration, becoming a go-to expert for color accuracy across the organization.

• Production Supervisor/Manager: Progress into leadership roles, overseeing a team of production staff, managing schedules, and contributing to strategic operational planning.

• Technical Support/Training: Transition into a role focused on training new hires, troubleshooting technical issues, or evaluating new printing technologies and software.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for this role is strongly tied to developing deeper technical expertise in print production, color science, and workflow management within the large-format printing sector. Opportunities often lead into specialized technical roles or supervisory positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, situated within a production facility that houses large-format printing equipment, prepress workstations, and potentially a client-facing service area. The environment will be dynamic and production-focused.

Office Location(s): New York, New York. This provides access to a major metropolitan market with a high density of potential clients in media, retail, and commercial sectors.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely involve a dedicated workstation equipped with powerful computers running Adobe Creative Suite and RIP software, alongside access to proofing devices and potentially calibration tools.

• Expect a production-oriented atmosphere with the sounds and activity of large-format printers, potentially dust from materials, and a focus on efficiency.

• Opportunities for interaction will be frequent with colleagues in the production department, fostering a collaborative environment where problem-solving and knowledge sharing are encouraged.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is likely Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week. However, the demands of a production environment may necessitate flexibility, with potential for overtime, early starts, or late finishes to meet client deadlines and project timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared for a hands-on, production-focused environment. The workspace will be functional and geared towards efficiency, with a strong emphasis on collaborative problem-solving among the production team.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A brief call or video interview to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Technical Assessment/Skills Test: Candidates may be asked to perform a practical test, such as preflighting a file, optimizing an image for large-format print, or answering technical questions about color management and RIP software. This is a critical stage for evaluating hands-on abilities.

• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the hiring manager and potentially team members. This will cover experience, problem-solving skills, and how you handle specific production challenges. Be prepared to discuss your portfolio in detail.

• Portfolio Review: Expect to present and discuss your portfolio, focusing on your technical contributions to projects, your understanding of production workflows, and your problem-solving approach.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Technical Prowess: Focus on projects where you managed complex file preparation, ensured color accuracy, or overcame technical production challenges.

• Demonstrate Workflow Understanding: Show examples of your preflighting process, how you prepare files for specific output devices (e.g., vehicle wraps), and your approach to color management.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, discuss how your work contributed to efficiency, reduced errors, or improved client satisfaction.

• Explain Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, especially in team-based projects.

• Be Ready for Technical Questions: Prepare to discuss the specifics of the software and processes you used.

Challenge Preparation:

• File Analysis: Be ready to analyze a problematic design file and explain how you would fix it for large-format printing.

• Color Management Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would handle color discrepancies or ensure consistency across different print runs or materials.

• Workflow Optimization: Think about common bottlenecks in graphic production and propose solutions.

• Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare for questions about how you would handle client requests or address issues related to artwork or production timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily emphasize technical skills and practical problem-solving. A well-prepared portfolio that showcases direct experience with large-format production, color accuracy, and efficient file preparation is essential. Be ready for hands-on assessments.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Advanced proficiency required in Photoshop (raster image editing, color correction), Illustrator (vector graphics, layout, file preparation), and InDesign (layout, multi-page documents, print-ready file creation).

• RIP Software: Experience with print management and Raster Image Processor (RIP) software is crucial. Caldera is specifically mentioned as preferred, but familiarity with similar platforms (e.g., Onyx, SAi Flexi, Fiery) is highly valuable for processing files, managing print queues, and calibrating output.

• Color Management Tools: Proficiency in using color calibration devices (e.g., spectrophotometers, colorimeters) and associated software for creating and applying ICC profiles to ensure accurate color reproduction.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus, understanding how production data (e.g., job throughput, material usage, error rates) is tracked can be beneficial for workflow optimization discussions. CRM & Automation:

• Experience with CRM systems might be helpful for understanding client needs and project history, though not a core requirement for this technical role. Automation is primarily utilized through the RIP software for efficient file processing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Strong technical proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and RIP software, coupled with a solid understanding of color management principles and tools, are the cornerstones of this role's technology stack.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision and Accuracy: A core value in print production, ensuring that every file is prepared correctly and every print meets exact specifications.

• Efficiency and Speed: The ability to manage high volumes and meet tight deadlines without compromising quality is paramount.

• Problem-Solving: A proactive approach to identifying and resolving technical challenges related to files, color, or equipment.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with team members across different production functions to ensure seamless project delivery.

• Quality Focus: A commitment to delivering superior print output that meets or exceeds client expectations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Regular interaction with sales, production, scheduling, and finishing teams to ensure projects flow smoothly from order to completion.

• Process Review Culture: An environment where workflows are discussed, and feedback is shared to continuously improve efficiency and quality.

• Knowledge Sharing: A willingness to share expertise on software, color management, and production techniques to uplift the entire team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture likely emphasizes a results-driven, collaborative approach where technical expertise and a commitment to quality output are highly valued. Effective communication and problem-solving are key to success in this production-centric environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse File Types and Specifications: Each client and project may have unique requirements, demanding adaptability in file preparation and output settings.

• Ensuring Consistent Color Across Different Media/Printers: Maintaining exact color fidelity across various substrates and printing technologies can be technically demanding.

• Meeting Extremely Tight Deadlines: The fast-paced nature of large-format graphics often requires working under pressure and prioritizing tasks effectively.

• Troubleshooting Technical Issues: Unexpected problems with software, hardware, or files can arise, requiring quick and effective problem-solving skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Color Management Training: Deepen expertise in ICC profiling, G7 calibration, and advanced color science.

• New Software & Technology Adoption: Opportunities to learn and implement new RIP software features, design tools, or printing technologies as they emerge.

• Specialization in Large-Format Applications: Become an expert in specific areas like vehicle wraps, wall graphics, or retail displays.

• Process Improvement Initiatives: Contribute to projects aimed at streamlining workflows, reducing waste, and enhancing overall production efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for growth in specialized technical areas within the large-format printing industry. Overcoming challenges often leads to skill development and increased responsibility.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• File Preparation & Preflight: "Describe your process for preflighting a complex large-format file. What are the most common issues you encounter, and how do you resolve them?" (Focus on demonstrating a systematic approach and technical knowledge.)

• Color Management: "How do you ensure color accuracy and consistency for a large-format project, especially when printing on different materials or using different devices?" (Prepare to discuss ICC profiles, calibration, and your understanding of color theory.)

• Workflow Optimization: "If you were tasked with improving the efficiency of our file preparation process, where would you start, and what steps would you take?" (Think about common bottlenecks and potential solutions.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about ABC Imaging and our focus on large-format graphics?" (Research the company's portfolio and client types.)

• "How do you handle working under tight deadlines and managing multiple projects simultaneously?" (Provide specific examples of your time management and prioritization skills.)

• "Describe a time you had to collaborate with a production or finishing team to achieve a specific project outcome." (Highlight your teamwork and communication skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type (e.g., vehicle wraps, retail displays) or by skill demonstrated (e.g., complex file prep, color accuracy).

• Storytelling: For each project, explain the client's objective, your role, the technical challenges faced, the solutions you implemented, and the final outcome.

• Visuals: Use high-quality images of the final printed product. If possible, include screenshots of key file preparation steps or color profiles used.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the specific software, settings, and processes you used, especially regarding color management and RIP software.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to discuss their technical expertise in depth, using their portfolio as concrete evidence of their skills in large-format print production, color management, and efficient file preparation. Practical problem-solving scenarios are likely.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Breezy HR.

• Tailor your resume: Emphasize keywords related to large-format printing, prepress, file preparation, color management, Adobe Creative Suite, and RIP software. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g