Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Arbor Memorial Inc (Kelly Funeral Home - Barrhaven Chapel)

Location: Ottawa, ON, CA

Job Type: Part-Time, Permanent (20-24 hours/week)

Category: Creative & Design / Administrative Support

Date Posted: May 08, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level to Junior (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Responsible for the operation of a funeral home's print centre, ensuring timely and accurate production of memorial print materials essential for client families.

• Key contributor to creating a meaningful and professional experience for families through high-quality graphic design and print collateral.

• Involves operating and maintaining print equipment, managing inventory, and providing direct client interaction upon entry to the funeral home.

• Leverages advanced graphic design software and general print design knowledge to produce a variety of commemorative items.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Graphic Designer," the core responsibilities are heavily weighted towards print production and direct client service within a funeral home context. This role requires a blend of creative design skills and operational efficiency, with a strong emphasis on empathy and customer care, aligning with Arbor Memorial's mission. The indicated hours (20-24/week) confirm the part-time nature.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Create and produce a diverse range of funeral home-related print media, including but not limited to prayer cards, register books, and price lists, adhering to specific family requests and company standards.

• Operate and maintain multifunctional printers and other print centre equipment, ensuring optimal performance and quality output.

• Manage print centre supplies by monitoring inventory levels and placing timely orders for necessary materials to prevent production delays.

• Perform photo and video editing tasks to create slideshows and visual tributes for memorial services, ensuring sensitivity and professionalism.

• Scan documents and images, ensuring high-quality digital reproductions for various memorial materials.

• Administer the logistics and delivery of all print centre items, ensuring they are prepared and dispatched accurately and on schedule.

• Greet client families as they enter the funeral home, providing a welcoming and supportive first point of contact.

• Collaborate with funeral directors and other staff to understand client needs and ensure the accurate and timely fulfillment of print material requests.

• Maintain a clean and organized print centre environment, adhering to company safety and operational guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities strongly indicate a "Print Production Specialist" or "Memorial Design Coordinator" role rather than a typical graphic designer role focused on marketing or branding. The direct client interaction and operational duties are significant.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Graphic Design Diploma or equivalent educational background demonstrating foundational design principles and software proficiency.

Experience:

• Entry-level to junior experience (0-2 years) in graphic design or print production.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Photoshop, Illustrator, Quark, and InDesign, for creating and manipulating design elements.

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint, Outlook) for document creation, data management, and communication.

• Familiarity with video editing or slideshow creation software for producing visual tributes.

• General knowledge of print design principles, including layout, typography, and color theory as applied to print media.

• Ability to operate and troubleshoot multifunctional printers and other print production equipment.

• Exceptional organizational skills with a proven ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.

• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining a consistently high level of accuracy in all work produced.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, encompassing verbal, written, and presentation abilities.

• Demonstrated strong customer service skills with the capacity to interact respectfully and professionally with clients and colleagues.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous experience in a funeral home or related service industry.

• Familiarity with digital asset management systems.

• Basic understanding of printing processes and paper types.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific Adobe Suite programs and Microsoft Office, along with print knowledge, points towards a candidate who can immediately contribute to production. The "customer service" aspect is critical given the client-facing nature of the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a range of graphic design work, with a particular emphasis on print collateral (e.g., brochures, cards, invitations, memorial materials if available).

• Demonstrate proficiency in typography, layout, and color application across different print mediums.

• Include examples of photo editing and, if possible, video or slideshow creation projects.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to articulate their design process, from initial concept to final print-ready file.

• Be prepared to discuss how they manage multiple design requests and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.

• Demonstrate an understanding of preparing files for print production, including considerations for bleeds, crop marks, and color modes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio should lean heavily towards practical application in print and memorialization, showcasing technical skill with design software and an understanding of production workflows, rather than purely conceptual or digital marketing design.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $19 - $22 CAD per hour.

Benefits:

• Competitive Compensation Package: Offering a competitive hourly wage within the specified range.

• Health and Wellness Resources: Access to resources designed to support the health and well-being of employees.

• Pension Plan: A robust pension plan to support long-term financial planning and stability for employees.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services for employees and their families.

Working Hours:

• Part-Time, Permanent position requiring approximately 20-24 hours per week.

• Specific daily schedule to be determined based on funeral home operational needs and candidate availability, likely including weekdays with potential for some weekend coverage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range of $19-$22 CAD per hour is consistent with entry-level to junior graphic design and print production roles in Ottawa, considering the part-time nature. The provided benefits (health, wellness, pension) are standard for a company like Arbor Memorial and are valuable additions to a part-time role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Funeral Services / Death Care. Arbor Memorial is a significant player in this industry, focusing on providing compassionate and personalized end-of-life services.

Company Size: Large. Arbor Memorial operates numerous funeral homes and cemeteries across Canada, indicating a substantial organizational structure with a significant employee base.

Founded: Arbor Memorial was founded in 1947, bringing decades of experience and a long-standing commitment to its mission.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of the local team at Kelly Funeral Home - Barrhaven Chapel, reporting directly to the Funeral Home Manager.

• This role requires collaboration with funeral directors, administrative staff, and potentially other Arbor Memorial service providers.

Methodology:

• Arbor Memorial's methodology revolves around providing a high level of personalized care and support to grieving families.

• This involves meticulous attention to detail in service delivery, from funeral arrangements to commemorative materials.

• Emphasis is placed on integrity, trust, teamwork, belonging, and excellence in all aspects of operations.

Company Website: https://www.arbormemorial.ca/

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding the sensitive nature of the funeral industry is crucial. The company culture prioritizes empathy, compassion, and meticulous service delivery, which will directly influence the expectations for the Graphic Designer's role and interactions.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level to junior operational support level within the funeral service industry. It requires specific technical design and print production skills integrated into a service-oriented environment.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer reports directly to the Funeral Home Manager, indicating a clear line of accountability within the local branch operations.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work has a direct and profound impact on the client family's experience during a difficult time. High-quality, personalized memorial materials contribute to a dignified remembrance and can be cherished keepsakes, reflecting positively on the Arbor Memorial brand and the specific funeral home.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Potential to become a subject matter expert in memorial design and print production within Arbor Memorial.

• Cross-Functional Experience: Opportunities to learn about other aspects of funeral home operations and client service.

• Leadership Potential: With proven performance and dedication, opportunities to take on more responsibility within branch operations or potentially within Arbor Memorial's broader creative or administrative departments.

• Industry Certification: Pursuing certifications related to print production or grief support services could enhance career progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is part-time and entry-level, Arbor Memorial's commitment to learning and development suggests potential for growth for dedicated individuals who demonstrate strong performance and alignment with company values.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role within a funeral home setting (Kelly Funeral Home - Barrhaven Chapel). The workspace will include an operational print centre.

Office Location(s): Barrhaven Chapel, Ottawa, ON. This location serves the Nepean and surrounding Barrhaven communities.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is professional, empathetic, and service-oriented, requiring a calm and composed demeanor.

• The print centre will be equipped with multifunctional printers and design software. It may be a dedicated space or integrated within administrative areas.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time, 20-24 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be required to meet operational demands, particularly around service dates. The schedule will be discussed and agreed upon during the hiring process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be comfortable working in a funeral home setting, which is inherently different from a typical corporate office. The environment requires sensitivity, discretion, and a professional appearance.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and cover letter, with a focus on relevant design software proficiency and customer service experience.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will be asked to submit a portfolio showcasing their graphic design and print production capabilities. This is a critical step.

• Interview(s): Likely includes an interview with the Funeral Home Manager and potentially a senior team member. Questions will assess technical skills, problem-solving abilities, understanding of the role's sensitivities, and cultural fit.

• Practical Assessment: A potential hands-on assessment or design challenge related to creating memorial print materials may be part of the process.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase your best work, prioritizing print design and any relevant memorial or sensitive material creation.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Clearly demonstrate your proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite and other relevant software.

• Explain Your Process: Briefly describe your approach to design projects, especially those requiring attention to detail and adherence to specific guidelines.

• Include Case Studies (Briefly): For key projects, explain the objective, your role, the outcome, and any challenges overcome.

• Ensure Professionalism: The portfolio itself should be well-organized, easy to navigate, and professionally presented.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss how you would approach designing a prayer card or memorial service booklet given specific client information and requests.

• Think about how you would manage conflicting design requests or tight deadlines in a sensitive environment.

• Understand the importance of accuracy and consistency when producing memorial materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount for this role. It needs to demonstrate not just creative flair but also the technical ability to produce professional, print-ready materials accurately and efficiently.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Advanced proficiency required in Photoshop, Illustrator, Quark, and InDesign. These are the core tools for creating all print collateral.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint, and Outlook are essential for document creation, data handling, communication, and presentations.

• Multifunctional Printers: Experience operating and maintaining office printers, scanners, and copiers.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Basic CRM understanding may be beneficial for managing client requests and details, though not explicitly stated as a requirement.

• Familiarity with any print management software or workflow tools used by Arbor Memorial would be an asset.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis is heavily on design and print production software. Candidates should be comfortable with these specific tools as they are central to daily tasks.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding honesty and ethical standards in all interactions and work produced, especially given the sensitive nature of the services.

• Trust: Building and maintaining trust with client families and colleagues through reliable service and professional conduct.

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with funeral home staff to ensure seamless service delivery and a supportive work environment.

• Belonging: Contributing to an inclusive atmosphere where all team members feel valued and respected.

• Excellence: Striving for the highest quality in all design and print production, ensuring that commemorative materials are accurate and professionally executed.

Collaboration Style:

• A collaborative approach is essential, working closely with funeral directors to understand client needs and preferences for memorial materials.

• Open communication and a willingness to support colleagues are key.

• The team fosters an environment of mutual respect and shared commitment to serving families during their time of grief.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values are deeply embedded in the culture and directly inform the expected behaviors and work ethic of every employee, particularly those interacting with clients.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Emotional Sensitivity: Working with grieving families requires a high degree of empathy, patience, and discretion.

• Balancing Creativity and Production: Meeting specific client requests while adhering to brand standards and production deadlines can be challenging.

• Technical Issues: Troubleshooting printer malfunctions or software glitches under time pressure.

• Managing Multiple Requests: Effectively prioritizing and managing various print jobs simultaneously to ensure all deadlines are met.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Design Skills: Deepen expertise in memorial design elements, typography, and layout for sensitive occasions.

• Print Production Expertise: Gain hands-on experience with industrial-grade printing and finishing processes.

• Customer Service Excellence: Develop advanced skills in client interaction within a compassionate service context.

• Industry Insight: Learn about the funeral service industry and the integral role of commemorative materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge lies in the emotional context of the work. Growth opportunities are tied to mastering the specific skills required for memorial design and production within the funeral service sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience with Adobe Creative Suite, focusing on Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Quark. How have you used these tools to create print materials?"

• "Walk me through your process for designing a prayer card or memorial booklet, from receiving client information to delivering the final print-ready file."

• "How do you ensure accuracy and attention to detail when producing materials that will be used for significant life events?"

• "Describe a time you had to manage multiple design requests with competing deadlines. How did you prioritize and ensure all tasks were completed successfully?"

• "How would you handle a situation where a client has a specific, perhaps unusual, request for their memorial print materials?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Arbor Memorial and our commitment to serving families?"

• "How do you embody values such as integrity, trust, and excellence in your work?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Be prepared to walk through 2-3 key pieces from your portfolio, explaining your design choices, the software used, and the intended outcome.

• If you have examples of print collateral or projects requiring high accuracy, highlight these.

• Be ready to discuss your approach to file preparation for print.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will likely focus on assessing both technical design skills and the candidate's interpersonal abilities, empathy, and understanding of the funeral service context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your resume and cover letter through the provided application link by May 22, 2026.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features print design examples, particularly any work that demonstrates attention to detail, accuracy, and sensitivity. If you have experience with memorial or commemorative materials, make sure this is highlighted.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize advanced skills in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Quark) and Microsoft Office Suite. Quantify achievements where possible, such as "produced X number of print pieces per week" or "reduced print errors by Y%."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, your understanding of print production, and your customer service philosophy. Be ready to discuss how you handle pressure and detail-oriented tasks.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Arbor Memorial's mission, values, and the specific services offered by Kelly Funeral Home. Understand the compassionate and client-focused nature of their operations.

⚠️ 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.