GRAPHIC DESIGNER

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: City of Dearborn Career Opportunities

Location: Dearborn, MI 48120

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Graphic Design / Public Sector Operations

Date Posted: August 18, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Responsible for the end-to-end design and production of various communication materials, with a specific focus on public works signage and departmental branding.

• Manages the ordering and inventory of department supplies, ensuring adequate stock levels for operational needs.

• Executes hands-on tasks involving hand and power tools for fabrication and assembly, contributing to the physical creation of signage.

• Requires consistent attendance and engagement in departmental meetings and workflows.

• Supports client departments by creating custom graphics and logos that align with their communication objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Graphic Designer," the inclusion of "Department of Public Works," "street signs," "ordering department supplies," and "hand and benchwork using appropriate hand and power tools" strongly indicates a role that blends creative design with operational, administrative, and light fabrication responsibilities within a municipal government setting. This is not a typical agency or corporate graphic design role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and develop visually compelling graphics for street signs, including determining appropriate color schemes, font sizes, and ensuring visual hierarchy for clarity and safety.

• Create and produce original logos, emblems, and other branding elements for various city departments, ensuring brand consistency and aesthetic appeal.

• Manage and maintain inventory levels for department supplies, including design materials, printing consumables, and office necessities, by placing orders as needed.

• Perform hand and benchwork tasks, utilizing appropriate hand and power tools for the assembly, modification, or repair of signage and related materials.

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders across different city departments to understand their design needs and translate them into effective visual communications.

• Ensure proper placement and application of graphics onto physical signage elements, potentially involving painting or other finishing techniques.

• Maintain regular and predictable attendance, including participation in required team meetings and departmental functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a practical, hands-on approach to graphic design within a public service context. The emphasis on physical signage production and inventory management suggests a need for candidates who are not only creative but also organized and capable of performing manual tasks.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required. Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, or a related field is preferred but not explicitly stated as mandatory.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in graphic design, with demonstrated experience in signage or public-facing visual communications being a strong asset. Experience with inventory management or supply ordering is beneficial.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite - Illustrator, Photoshop).

• Ability to determine appropriate color schemes and understand basic principles of visual design.

• Skill in typography and font selection for clear communication.

• Competency in using hand tools and power tools for basic fabrication and assembly.

• Basic inventory management and supply ordering skills.

• Ability to perform hand and benchwork tasks accurately.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Excellent attendance and punctuality. Preferred Skills:

• Experience designing street signage or wayfinding systems.

• Knowledge of printing processes and material specifications for outdoor signage.

• Familiarity with municipal government operations or public sector communication needs.

• Basic knowledge of paint application or finishing techniques for signage.

• Experience with logo creation and brand guideline development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level, coupled with the specific mention of hand tools and benchwork, suggests that this role is ideal for entry-level designers or those with some vocational training in design or fabrication. The emphasis is on foundational design skills combined with practical execution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 design projects demonstrating proficiency in graphic design software.

• Include examples of logo creation and branding materials, illustrating the ability to develop distinct visual identities.

• Feature at least one project involving signage design (e.g., conceptual street signs, informational graphics) to highlight relevant experience.

• Projects should reflect an understanding of color theory, typography, and layout principles.

• Demonstrate the ability to adapt designs for different applications and audiences. Process Documentation:

• Candidates may be asked to describe their design process from brief to final output, including concept development, iteration, and final delivery.

• Understanding of workflow for sign production, from digital design to physical application, is beneficial.

• Ability to articulate how inventory management processes are maintained and supplies are ordered efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: A portfolio is crucial for assessing design capabilities. The emphasis on signage and logo creation within a municipal context means projects that demonstrate clarity, public accessibility, and durability (even conceptually) will be highly regarded.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $54,750.00 per year.

This is a fixed annual salary for a full-time position, as stated in the job details.

Benefits:

• Full-time employment benefits are typically offered by municipal governments, which may include:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick Leave, Personal Days)

• Paid Holidays

• Retirement Plan (Pension or 401k/457b options)

• Life Insurance

• Potential for professional development or training opportunities.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week.

This is a standard full-time work schedule, implying a consistent presence during typical business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary of $54,750 annually for an entry-level position in Dearborn, MI, is competitive for municipal roles of this nature. Standard government benefits packages are generally robust and should be a significant draw for candidates.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government / Public Sector / Municipal Services

The City of Dearborn operates as a municipal government, providing essential services to its residents. The Department of Public Works (DPW) specifically focuses on infrastructure, maintenance, and public safety communications. This context means a culture that prioritizes public service, efficiency, adherence to regulations, and community impact.

Company Size: Large (City Government Structure)

As a municipal entity, the City of Dearborn employs a substantial number of individuals across various departments, offering a stable and structured work environment.

Founded: The City of Dearborn was incorporated in 1925. This long history suggests established processes and a deep-rooted community presence.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of the Department of Public Works, possibly within an administrative or communications division.

• The team structure will be hierarchical, common in government organizations, with clear reporting lines.

• Collaboration will occur with DPW staff, other city department representatives requesting design services, and potentially external vendors for sign production. Methodology:

• Design processes will likely be guided by established brand guidelines, municipal standards, and accessibility requirements.

• Inventory management will follow procurement policies and budget constraints.

• Workflow optimization will focus on efficiency and cost-effectiveness in service delivery.

Company Website: https://www.dearborn.gov/

📝 Enhancement Note: Working for a municipality like the City of Dearborn offers stability and the opportunity to directly impact the local community. The culture is typically more formal and process-driven than in the private sector, with an emphasis on public accountability.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level to junior designer capacity within a municipal operations framework. It offers foundational experience in design application within a public service context, including practical production and administrative tasks.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a supervisor or manager within the Department of Public Works, likely overseeing design and administrative functions.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts public safety and community engagement through clear, effective signage and communication materials. Accurate and well-designed signs are critical for traffic management, public information, and departmental branding, contributing to the overall efficiency and professional image of city services.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Potential to deepen expertise in signage design, municipal branding, or specific design software.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Opportunity to work on diverse design projects for various city departments, broadening exposure to different operational needs.

• Advancement: With significant experience and demonstrated performance, potential for promotion to Senior Graphic Designer or related roles within city government, though specific paths may be limited.

• Training: Access to internal training or external workshops relevant to design or municipal operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in municipal government can be structured and may involve navigating civil service processes. While direct "promotions" might be less frequent than in private industry, the accumulation of experience and specialized knowledge can lead to greater responsibility and influence.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This position is based in an office environment within the Department of Public Works, but also involves hands-on work that may extend to a workshop or storage area where tools and materials are kept.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is at the Department of Public Works, 2951 Greenfield, Dearborn, MI 48120. This is a physical, on-site role.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely include a standard office setup with a computer and design software.

• Access to a workshop area equipped with hand and power tools for sign creation and modification will be necessary.

• The environment is expected to be collaborative, involving interaction with DPW colleagues and other city staff.

• Emphasis will be on functional design and practical application rather than purely aesthetic or conceptual work.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week. While typically predictable, occasional needs for project deadlines might require flexibility, though this is less common in public sector roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The blend of office work and hands-on workshop activities requires a candidate comfortable with both digital creation and physical tasks, which is a unique aspect of this role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit resume, cover letter (if requested), and a link to your online portfolio.

• Portfolio Review: Initial screening will heavily rely on portfolio content to assess design skills, especially in relevant areas like signage and logo design.

• Initial Interview: May involve HR and the hiring manager to discuss qualifications, experience, and cultural fit. Expect questions about your design process and problem-solving approach.

• Skills Assessment/Practical Exercise: A potential step could involve a short design challenge or a hands-on demonstration with tools, assessing practical application of skills.

• Final Interview: May involve a panel or senior leadership to discuss the role's impact on departmental operations and community service.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Highlight 3-5 of your strongest design projects, with a focus on logo design, branding, and any signage or informational graphics.

• Showcase Process: Briefly explain your design process for key projects – concept, ideation, execution, and final output.

• Clarity is Key: Ensure your designs are clear, legible, and effectively communicate their intended message, especially for signage examples.

• Tool Proficiency: Mention the software used for each project.

• Tailor to Role: If possible, include any municipal or public-facing design examples to demonstrate understanding of the context.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Fundamentals: Be ready to discuss core design principles (color theory, typography, layout) and how they apply to public communication.

• Problem-Solving: Prepare to explain how you would approach designing a sign for a specific public service or department, considering factors like visibility, durability, and audience.

• Tool Familiarity: Be prepared to discuss your experience with hand and power tools if a practical assessment is anticipated.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess both creative talent and practical capability. A portfolio that demonstrates an understanding of functional design and the ability to execute physically will be highly advantageous.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Graphic Design Software: Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator is essential for vector graphics like logos and signs; Photoshop for image manipulation).

• Signage Design Software: Potentially specialized software for sign creation or large-format printing, though standard vector editors are often sufficient.

• Office Productivity Suite: Microsoft Office (Word, Excel for inventory/ordering) or Google Workspace.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Not a primary focus for this role, but basic reporting on supply inventory and usage might be required. CRM & Automation:

• Not applicable in a traditional sense for this design and operations role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator is paramount for this role, given the emphasis on vector-based graphics for signage and logos. Experience with Photoshop is also expected. Familiarity with inventory management systems or basic spreadsheet use for ordering is a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Public Service: Commitment to serving the community through effective and accessible design.

• Efficiency: Focus on timely delivery of design projects and accurate management of supplies to support departmental operations.

• Accuracy & Clarity: Ensuring all visual communications are precise, legible, and convey the intended message without ambiguity.

• Reliability: Consistent attendance and dependable execution of duties are critical in a municipal setting.

• Collaboration: Willingness to work cooperatively with colleagues across various city departments to meet design needs.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: Working closely with DPW staff and other departmental stakeholders.

• Responsive: Addressing design requests and supply needs in a timely manner.

• Process-Driven: Adhering to established municipal procedures for design approvals, procurement, and implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values reflect a public service ethos, emphasizing community benefit, operational effectiveness, and clear communication. Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of these principles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative and Operational Demands: Juggling design projects with the practicalities of supply ordering and physical fabrication tasks.

• Adhering to Municipal Standards: Working within established brand guidelines, budgets, and procurement regulations.

• Meeting Diverse Departmental Needs: Adapting design style and approach to suit the varied requirements of different city departments.

• Technical Limitations: Potentially working with older equipment or software versions common in some municipal settings.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to refine graphic design skills, particularly in vector illustration for signage.

• Public Sector Understanding: Gaining insight into the unique communication needs and operational constraints of municipal government.

• Project Variety: Exposure to a wide range of design projects that contribute to the City of Dearborn's infrastructure and community services.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a unique challenge of integrating creative design with practical, operational duties. Success will depend on adaptability and a willingness to engage with both aspects of the job.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for designing a street sign that needs to be highly visible and informative to drivers." (Assesses understanding of public safety design principles.)

• "How would you approach creating a new logo for a city department, considering its mission and target audience?" (Evaluates branding and conceptualization skills.)

• "You need to order supplies for the department. Walk me through how you would manage inventory and ensure we don't run out of essential items." (Tests organizational and supply chain awareness.)

• "Describe your experience using hand and power tools. What types of projects have you used them for?" (Gauges practical, hands-on capability.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in a graphic design role specifically within a municipal government setting like the City of Dearborn?" (Assesses motivation and understanding of public service.)

• "How do you ensure your designs are accessible and understandable to a diverse public audience?" (Probes for inclusivity and clarity in design.)

• "How do you handle feedback or revisions on your designs, especially from stakeholders with different priorities?" (Evaluates collaboration and adaptability.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Project Selection: Choose projects that best represent your ability to create clear, impactful graphics suitable for public use.

• Narrative: For each project, briefly explain the objective, your role, the design process, and the outcome.

• Focus on Function: Emphasize how your design choices contribute to the effectiveness and clarity of the communication, especially for signage.

• Tool Showcase: Clearly state the software used for each piece.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to discuss not only your design aesthetic but also your practical skills and understanding of public service. Demonstrating a methodical approach to both creative work and operational tasks will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Paycom link.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features relevant work, such as logo design, branding, and any examples of signage or informational graphics. Tailor your portfolio to highlight clarity, legibility, and functional design.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to emphasize graphic design software proficiency (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop), any experience with supply management or inventory, and any practical skills involving hand tools or fabrication. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, your approach to public-facing communication, and your understanding of the operational aspects of the role (inventory, tool use). Prepare to discuss your portfolio in detail.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with the City of Dearborn's services and departments, particularly the Department of Public Works, to understand their communication needs and operational context.

⚠️ 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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