Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Production Designer

Company: Aston Carter

Location: Mukwonago, Wisconsin, USA

Job Type: CONTRACTOR

Category: Operations - Production Support / Graphic Operations

Date Posted: April 23, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level to Mid-Level (0-2 years implied)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for ensuring the smooth operation of a production plant by preparing and refining existing artwork into accurate, print-ready files.

• You will be responsible for converting supplied assets into final production files, directly impacting the efficiency and quality of output from multiple production and printing machines.

• The position demands a meticulous approach to detail, focusing on adherence to specifications, color consistency, and proper formatting to minimize errors in the production lifecycle.

• Collaboration with manufacturing and print teams is key to meeting operational timelines and supporting the ramp-up of new printing equipment, highlighting the integrated nature of this production support function.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Graphic Designer," the core responsibilities and required skills clearly indicate a "Graphic Production Designer" or "Prepress Operator" role focused on file preparation for manufacturing, rather than original creative design. This distinction is crucial for candidates targeting operations and production support roles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Receive and process job requests originating from sales orders, meticulously managing each unique reference ID.

• Adapt and format existing artwork to meet stringent production and printing machine specifications, without engaging in original design creation.

• Convert raw image files and assets into high-quality, print-ready PDFs and Photoshop files, ensuring they align with defined machine parameters.

• Verify and guarantee artwork accuracy, including correct sizing, resolution, color profiles, and overall print readiness before release to the production floor.

• Produce and manage a high volume of print-ready artwork suitable for deployment across a diverse range of production and printing machinery.

• Maintain exceptional organization and clear prioritization in a fast-paced, deadline-driven production environment.

• Foster close collaboration with manufacturing and print teams to ensure seamless integration and support for production schedules and operational timelines.

• Actively support ramp-up activities for newly installed printers by adapting files and workflows to evolving processes and specifications.

• Uphold an unwavering attention to detail to proactively minimize errors and subsequent rework within the production workflow.

• Demonstrate agility and adaptability in responding to changes in processes, specifications, and workflows as the operational environment grows and evolves.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "converting existing artwork" and "preparing files for production machines" strongly suggests this role is part of the manufacturing operations, not a creative marketing or design department. The responsibilities are heavily process-oriented and focused on output quality and efficiency.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a background in Graphic Design, Digital Graphics, or a related field is implied by the nature of the work. A certificate or associate's degree in Graphic Design or Print Production would be beneficial.

Experience: Proven experience in graphic production, print production, or prepress environments is a core requirement. This role is suited for individuals with 0-2 years of direct experience in these areas, looking to specialize in production workflows.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated experience in graphic production, print production, or prepress workflows.

• Strong working proficiency in Adobe Photoshop for file manipulation and preparation.

• Solid understanding and practical application of Adobe Acrobat for PDF creation and print-ready file preparation.

• Proven ability to transform existing artwork into finalized, print-ready files suitable for various production and printing machines.

• Meticulous attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy in file preparation and review processes.

• Comfort and capability in working within a high-volume, deadline-driven production setting.

• Excellent organizational and time-management skills to effectively manage multiple jobs and competing priorities.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Adobe Illustrator and the broader Adobe Creative Suite for enhanced file manipulation capabilities.

• Background in graphic design, rendering, or digital graphics, providing a foundational understanding of visual elements.

• Prior experience working with signage or similar large-format print applications, offering specialized production knowledge.

• Familiarity with 3D design or rendering software such as SketchUp, useful for complex graphic assets.

• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, particularly in production and manufacturing settings.

• A proactive motivation to grow within the graphic production and print industry, developing long-term specialized skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Additional Skills" section lists several preferred qualifications that would significantly enhance a candidate's application. These suggest a potential for growth within the company's production operations, moving beyond basic file conversion to more complex graphic asset management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase of at least 2-3 distinct projects demonstrating the conversion of existing artwork into print-ready files for different production machines.

• Examples of file preparation for large-format printing or signage, if available, to highlight relevant experience.

• Demonstrations of color correction, sizing adjustments, and resolution optimization within the provided artwork.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to articulate the workflow for receiving, processing, and releasing production files.

• Examples of how you've ensured accuracy and minimized errors in production file preparation.

• Description of how you've adapted to new equipment or process changes in previous roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio should focus on the process of file preparation and the output quality of print-ready files, rather than original design concepts. Candidates should emphasize their ability to follow specifications and troubleshoot production file issues.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour. This range reflects an entry-level to mid-level position in a skilled trade environment, considering the specific location in Mukwonago, Wisconsin, and the contract employment type.

Benefits: (Eligibility requirements apply and may depend on job classification and length of employment)

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital Insurance

• 401(k) Retirement Plan (Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available)

• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for employee and dependents)

• Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance

• Health Spending Account (HSA)

• Transportation Benefits

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Paid Time Off (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Working Hours: This is a full-time, contract position. Based on the industry standard for such roles and the mention of supporting production schedules, it is likely a 40-hour work week. Specific shifts will need to be confirmed with the hiring manager.

📝 Enhancement Note: The listed benefits are comprehensive for a contracted role, indicating that Aston Carter aims to provide a robust support system for its temporary workforce. The salary range is competitive for a production-focused graphic role in the specified region.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Staffing and Talent Solutions (Aston Carter) / Manufacturing and Print Production (Client Environment). Aston Carter is a global talent solutions provider specializing in corporate talent. The role itself is within a client's production plant, which is described as laid-back and easygoing.

Company Size: Aston Carter is a large organization with offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific, and Europe, serving many Fortune 500 companies. The client company's size is not specified but operates a production plant with multiple machines.

Founded: Aston Carter was founded in 1997. The client company's founding date is not provided.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within a production plant environment, collaborating closely with manufacturing and print teams.

• You will be part of a team responsible for the end-to-end production workflow, from receiving sales orders to releasing final print-ready files.

Methodology:

• The core methodology revolves around a standardized process for converting and preparing artwork for automated production machinery.

• Emphasis is placed on accuracy, efficiency, and adherence to predefined specifications to ensure consistent output quality.

• The team supports a "ramp-up" for new equipment, suggesting an environment open to process evolution and optimization.

Company Website: https://careers.astoncarter.com/us/en

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should understand they are applying through Aston Carter, a staffing firm, but will be working on-site at a client's manufacturing facility. The "laid-back and easygoing" culture description applies to the client's production plant.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level to mid-level within production operations, specifically in the graphic preparation domain. It's an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to gain hands-on experience in a manufacturing-focused graphic role.

Reporting Structure: The role likely reports to a Production Supervisor or a Graphics Production Lead within the client's manufacturing facility.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts production efficiency and output quality. Accurate and timely file preparation is crucial for preventing delays, reducing material waste, and ensuring client satisfaction with the final printed products.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop deep expertise in print production workflows, prepress techniques, and specific large-format printing technologies.

• Process Improvement: Contribute to optimizing the file preparation process, potentially leading to roles in workflow management or production coordination.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain experience working alongside manufacturing and machine operators, understanding the broader production lifecycle.

• Long-Term Potential: With demonstrated success and further skill development (e.g., in Adobe Illustrator, color management, or specific print technologies), opportunities may arise for Senior Production Designer roles or related positions within the print industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Motivation to grow within a graphic production and print environment" suggests a path for advancement for dedicated individuals. Candidates should express their interest in developing specialized production skills.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a production plant environment. While some roles in such facilities might have office-like spaces, this specific role involves working "closely with manufacturing and print teams," implying a hands-on presence on or near the production floor.

Office Location(s): Mukwonago, Wisconsin. Specific details about the accessibility or amenities of the plant location are not provided but would be relevant for local candidates.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is a "production plant environment," characterized by the operation of machinery and a focus on output.

• It's a deadline-driven setting where efficiency and accuracy are paramount for supporting multiple production and printing machines.

• The culture is described as "laid-back and easygoing," suggesting a supportive, less formal atmosphere within the production team itself.

Work Schedule: This is a full-time, contract position, typically implying a 40-hour work week. The exact shift schedule (e.g., first, second, or third shift) will need to be confirmed, but supporting production schedules may necessitate flexible hours or weekend work depending on operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared for a manufacturing plant setting, which may differ from a traditional office environment. The "laid-back" culture is a positive note for team interaction.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening (Aston Carter): Likely a phone or video call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and interest in contract roles.

• Client Interview: An on-site interview at the Mukwonago production plant. This may involve meeting with the hiring manager and potentially a brief tour of the production area.

• Technical Assessment: You may be asked to demonstrate your proficiency with Adobe Photoshop and Acrobat, possibly by completing a sample file preparation task or discussing your approach to common production challenges.

• Portfolio Review: Be prepared to walk through 2-3 key projects from your portfolio that best illustrate your ability to convert existing artwork into print-ready files for production.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Process: For each portfolio piece, clearly explain the initial artwork provided, the specific changes you made (resizing, color correction, file format conversion), and the final print-ready output.

• Highlight Production Relevance: Emphasize how your work directly supported production machines or met specific print specifications. If you have examples for large-format printing, make those prominent.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): While difficult for this role, any instances where your preparation directly led to reduced errors or faster turnaround times would be valuable.

• Showcase Technical Skills: Be ready to discuss your mastery of Photoshop and Acrobat features relevant to print production (e.g., color profiles, resolution settings, PDF export options).

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach a typical request: "Here is a logo file; please make it ready for our large-format roll printer."

• Prepare to talk about your problem-solving approach when artwork doesn't meet specifications (e.g., low resolution, incorrect color mode).

• Think about how you manage your time and prioritize tasks when receiving multiple urgent job requests simultaneously.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus heavily on practical skills and the ability to execute production tasks efficiently and accurately, rather than conceptual design thinking.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Photoshop: Essential for image manipulation, color correction, resolution adjustments, and saving files in appropriate formats. Expect to use it daily for core tasks.

• Adobe Acrobat: Crucial for creating, editing, and validating print-ready PDFs. Proficiency in setting up PDF presets for commercial printing is expected.

• Adobe Illustrator: Preferred for vector-based artwork manipulation, logo adjustments, and text formatting. While listed as preferred, strong familiarity is a significant advantage.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus, understanding how to interpret job order details and production specifications is key.

CRM & Automation:

• This role is not directly involved with CRM systems.

• Automation would primarily relate to efficient use of software features and potentially scripting for repetitive tasks, though this is unlikely for an entry-level role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Mastery of Adobe Photoshop and Acrobat for print production is non-negotiable. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their specific workflows and techniques using these tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Accuracy & Detail: A paramount value, ensuring all files are perfect for production to avoid costly errors.

• Efficiency & Speed: The ability to process a high volume of work quickly and meet deadlines is critical.

• Collaboration & Support: Working effectively with manufacturing and print teams to ensure smooth operations.

• Adaptability: Willingness to embrace changes in processes, software, and equipment as the production environment evolves.

• Process Adherence: Following established workflows and specifications to maintain quality standards.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: Working closely with colleagues in the production department to achieve shared output goals.

• Responsive Communication: Promptly addressing requests and feedback from manufacturing and print teams.

• Problem-Solving Focus: Collaborating to overcome technical challenges related to artwork and printing processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "laid-back and easygoing" culture implies a friendly and approachable team environment, but the core values are rooted in high-performance production standards.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• High Volume Production: Managing a constant influx of artwork requests while maintaining accuracy can be demanding.

• Technical Troubleshooting: Resolving issues with complex artwork files or encountering unexpected machine specifications.

• Adapting to Evolving Technology: Keeping pace with changes in printing equipment and software updates.

• Meeting Tight Deadlines: Consistently delivering print-ready files under pressure.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Software Proficiency: Deepen skills in Photoshop, Acrobat, and potentially Illustrator for advanced production tasks.

• Print Production Expertise: Gain in-depth knowledge of different printing technologies (large-format, digital), color management, and material substrates.

• Workflow Optimization: Learn how to identify bottlenecks and suggest improvements in the file preparation process.

• Industry Certifications: Potentially pursue certifications in graphic production or prepress if opportunities arise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is framed as an opportunity to "grow your experience" and "build long-term skills," indicating a focus on development within the production operations sphere.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for converting a raster image (like a JPEG) into a high-resolution, print-ready PDF for a large-format banner. What are the key considerations?"

• "Imagine you receive artwork that is the wrong color profile (e.g., RGB instead of CMYK) or too low in resolution. How would you address this with the sales order request or production team?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working in a production plant environment, specifically in graphic production?"

• "How do you handle feedback on your work, especially in a fast-paced production setting?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Case Study Approach: For each portfolio piece, frame it as a mini-case study: "Problem (Original artwork issues) -> Solution (Your file preparation steps) -> Result (Print-ready file delivered on time)."

• Technical Demonstration: Be prepared to briefly explain the specific tools and settings you used in Photoshop or Acrobat to achieve the desired outcome.

• Focus on Production Readiness: Emphasize how your final output met the requirements for the specific printing machine or application.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for practical problem-solving skills, technical proficiency, and a clear understanding of production workflows.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Production Designer position:

• Submit your application through the Aston Carter careers portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Highlight keywords from the job description such as "graphic production," "print production," "prepress," "Adobe Photoshop," "Adobe Acrobat," and "print-ready files." Quantify your experience where possible (e.g., "Processed an average of X files per day").

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 strongest examples that showcase your ability to convert existing artwork into production-ready files. Ensure they are easily accessible (e.g., cloud link, PDF).

• Practice Your Walkthrough: Be ready to articulate your process for each portfolio piece, focusing on problem-solving and technical execution relevant to print production.

• Research Aston Carter: Understand their role as a talent solutions provider, and be prepared to discuss your career goals within the production operations domain.

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

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