Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Ellet Neon Sales and Service Inc

Location: Akron, OH

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-14

Experience Level: 2-5 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and produce production-ready artwork for a wide range of commercial signage, including ADA signs, window graphics, wall murals, dimensional lettering, and exterior building signage.

• Utilize industry-standard design software such as Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and Corel Draw to translate client needs into visually compelling and technically feasible sign designs.

• Prepare comprehensive submittal packages for contractors, ensuring all necessary technical specifications and design elements are clearly communicated.

• Support large-format printing operations as needed, ensuring accurate color reproduction and material handling for various signage products.

• Collaborate effectively with sales, fabrication, and installation teams to ensure seamless project execution from design concept to final installation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is for a Graphic Designer, its emphasis on "sign industry experience," "large format production, fabrication, and installation," and preparing "submittal packages to send to contractors" positions it within a specialized niche of design operations. This role requires not just creative design skills but also a strong understanding of production workflows and technical specifications relevant to the physical creation of signage. The "Graphic Designer" title here is a proxy for a role that bridges creative output with tangible product realization within a manufacturing and service context.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Create detailed, production-ready artwork for commercial electrical and non-electrical signage, adhering to client specifications and company production standards.

• Develop designs for diverse signage products including, but not limited to, ADA signs, window graphics, wall murals, dimensional lettering, vinyl lettering, freestanding monument signage, and interior/exterior building signage.

• Translate conceptual designs into technical drawings and specifications suitable for fabrication and installation teams.

• Assist in operating and maintaining large-format printers, ensuring quality control and efficient material usage during production runs.

• Prepare and organize submittal packages, including design proofs, technical specifications, and relevant documentation, for review by contractors and clients.

• Review and proofread all created artwork and documentation for accuracy, clarity, and adherence to project requirements before submission or production.

• Maintain a high level of organization and meticulous attention to detail in managing multiple design projects and deadlines simultaneously.

• Communicate effectively with internal teams (sales, production, installation) and external clients or contractors to clarify project scope, gather feedback, and ensure alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design and production-oriented tasks. The emphasis on "production-ready artwork," "large format production, fabrication, and installation," and "submittal packages" indicates a need for designers who can think critically about the manufacturing and installation process, not just aesthetics. This is crucial for operations professionals aiming to understand the full lifecycle of a project.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a strong portfolio demonstrating proficiency in graphic design principles and software is paramount. Relevant coursework or certifications in graphic design, digital media, or a related field are beneficial.

Experience: A minimum of two years of graphic design experience is required, with a strong preference for candidates with prior experience in the sign industry or a closely related field (e.g., large-format printing, manufacturing design).

Required Skills:

• Proven proficiency in graphic design software, specifically Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and Corel Draw.

• Demonstrated ability to create production-ready artwork for various applications, with a focus on signage.

• Experience in designing for large-format production, understanding material constraints and printing capabilities.

• Excellent communication and active listening skills to effectively interpret client needs and internal feedback.

• Strong attention to detail and exceptional proofreading abilities to ensure accuracy in design and documentation.

• Proven ability to manage multiple deadlines, prioritize tasks, and multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment.

• A positive attitude, strong work ethic, and a commitment to reliable attendance and stable work history.

• Outstanding organizational and time management skills. Preferred Skills:

• Specific experience designing ADA signs, window graphics, wall murals, dimensional lettering, and monument signage.

• Familiarity with the fabrication and installation processes for various types of commercial signage.

• Experience preparing submittal packages for contractors or project managers.

• Basic understanding of large-format printer operation and maintenance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize practical, production-focused design skills over purely conceptual artistry. The specific software mentions (Illustrator, Photoshop, Corel Draw) are critical keywords for ATS systems and for candidates to highlight. The preference for sign industry experience is a key differentiator for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase at least 2-3 distinct projects demonstrating proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and/or Corel Draw.

• Include examples of artwork specifically created for signage applications (e.g., vehicle wraps, banners, building signs, window graphics).

• Present projects that highlight your ability to translate client briefs or conceptual ideas into production-ready files, detailing the process from initial concept to final output.

• Demonstrate experience with large-format design considerations, such as bleed, resolution, color profiles, and material suitability.

• Include examples of projects where you managed multiple revisions or incorporated constructive feedback, showcasing adaptability and problem-solving. Process Documentation:

• Clearly articulate your design process for a typical signage project, from initial client consultation or brief to final file delivery.

• Highlight how you ensure artwork is "production-ready," including steps taken for pre-flighting, color correction, and format conversion.

• Explain your approach to managing project timelines and prioritizing tasks when working on multiple design assignments.

• Detail how you incorporate feedback from sales, production, or installation teams to refine designs and ensure feasibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio is more than just a showcase; it's a demonstration of process and problem-solving. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their workflow, explaining decisions made and how they addressed technical or client-specific challenges in their design projects. This is crucial for assessing operational efficiency and technical acumen.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The stated wage is $18.00 - $23.00 per hour. Based on industry benchmarks for experienced Graphic Designers in the Akron, OH area with specialized signage experience, this range is competitive for a full-time, on-site role with the listed responsibilities.

Benefits:

• 401(k) plan (available after 12 months of employment).

• Health insurance (available after 90 days of employment).

• Life insurance (available after 90 days of employment).

• Paid vacations (available after 12 months of employment).

• Employee position, not contract work.

Working Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, with a 30-minute lunch break. This totals 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range aligns with typical hourly rates for experienced graphic designers in manufacturing or trade environments. The staggered benefit eligibility (90 days for health/life, 12 months for vacation/401k) is a common practice and important for candidates to note in their financial planning. The explicit mention of "employee position" and "not contract work and not remote" clarifies the employment status.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Ellet Neon Sales and Service Inc operates within the Signage and Manufacturing industry, focusing on commercial electrical and non-electrical signage. This sector demands a blend of creative design, technical understanding of materials and fabrication, and a strong customer service orientation.

Company Size: Ellet Neon Sales and Service Inc is likely a small to medium-sized business (SMB) based on the typical structure of specialized sign companies. This often translates to a more close-knit team environment where employees may wear multiple hats and have direct interaction with various departments.

Founded: Information about the founding date is not provided, but the company's established presence in the sign industry suggests a history of expertise and client relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of a design or production team, working closely with sales representatives who bring in client projects and fabrication/installation crews who bring designs to life.

• Reporting structure is likely to a Design Manager, Production Manager, or potentially directly to ownership in a smaller organization.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, requiring regular interaction with sales to understand project requirements and with production to ensure designs are feasible for manufacturing and installation. Methodology:

• Design projects are driven by client requests and contractor submittals, requiring a structured approach to artwork creation and revision.

• Emphasis on accuracy and adherence to specifications is critical for minimizing errors in fabrication and installation, thereby impacting project timelines and costs.

• Large-format production workflows will guide the technical aspects of design, including file preparation and material considerations.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding the industry and likely company size helps operations professionals gauge the pace, structure, and collaborative dynamics. SMBs often offer more direct impact and visibility for individuals, while larger organizations might provide more structured career paths and specialized roles.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at an intermediate level for a Graphic Designer, requiring 2+ years of experience and specialized industry knowledge. It's a hands-on production role within the broader operations of a signage company.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Production Manager or a similar operational lead responsible for overseeing the creation and delivery of signage products. This role is integral to the production pipeline.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts operational efficiency and client satisfaction by ensuring accurate, production-ready designs. Errors in design can lead to costly mistakes in fabrication and installation, while well-executed designs contribute to timely project completion and positive client reviews. This role bridges the gap between sales/client requirements and the physical manufacturing process.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific signage types (e.g., ADA compliance, illuminated signage, dimensional lettering) or advanced design software features relevant to the industry.

• Production Workflow Optimization: Transition into roles focused on improving design-to-production workflows, potentially working more closely with fabrication teams to provide design support or troubleshoot production challenges.

• Project Management: Develop skills in managing design projects end-to-end, including client communication, timeline management, and coordination with other departments, potentially leading to a Project Coordinator or Junior Project Manager role.

• Sales Support: Evolve into a role that provides more direct pre-sales design consultation or technical support to the sales team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in this type of role often involves deepening technical expertise within the specific industry niche rather than solely climbing a traditional design hierarchy. The ability to understand and optimize operational processes is a key differentiator for advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role within the company's office and potentially adjacent production facility. The workspace will likely involve a dedicated design area with necessary computer hardware and software, and potential exposure to a manufacturing environment.

Office Location(s): Akron, OH (specific office address not provided, but within the 44312 zip code).

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be equipped with industry-standard design software and hardware necessary for large-format graphic design.

• Expect a collaborative environment where interaction with sales, production, and potentially fabrication staff is frequent and necessary for project success.

• The work environment may include elements of a manufacturing floor, such as noise and dust, depending on proximity to fabrication areas, though the primary design workspace is expected to be office-based.

Work Schedule: A structured Monday through Friday schedule from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, with a 30-minute lunch, ensures consistent availability for project work and team collaboration. This schedule is typical for roles supporting manufacturing operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature and potential proximity to manufacturing are important considerations for candidates regarding comfort and daily work experience. Understanding the need for cross-departmental interaction is key to succeeding in this collaborative environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess relevant experience and technical skills.

• Technical Interview: Likely involves a discussion about your design process, software proficiency, and experience with signage or large-format production. You may be asked to walk through specific portfolio pieces.

• Practical Exercise/Challenge: A potential design task or problem-solving scenario related to creating signage artwork, assessing your approach to briefs, technical execution, and time management.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members or supervisors to evaluate your communication style, ability to take direction, and fit within the company culture.

• Final Interview: Potentially with management to discuss the role in detail, compensation, and answer any final questions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Signage Projects: Prioritize and clearly label any projects specifically related to signage, large-format printing, or manufacturing design.

• Showcase Production Readiness: For each relevant project, explain how you ensured the artwork was suitable for production (e.g., correct color modes, resolution, bleed, file formats).

• Detail Your Process: Be prepared to discuss your workflow for each project, including how you interpreted briefs, incorporated feedback, and solved design challenges.

• Demonstrate Software Proficiency: Be ready to speak to your specific skills in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Corel Draw.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If you can, mention the outcome of your designs, e.g., "successful installation," "positive client feedback," or "efficient production run."

Challenge Preparation:

• Familiarize yourself with common signage types and their typical design considerations (e.g., visibility, materials, installation constraints).

• Practice creating quick mock-ups or concept sketches based on hypothetical briefs.

• Be ready to articulate your design rationale clearly and concisely, especially regarding technical specifications.

• Prepare questions about the company's design standards, production capabilities, and typical project workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential design challenge underscores the practical, skill-based nature of this role. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not just creativity but also technical proficiency and an understanding of production realities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Illustrator: Essential for vector-based design, logo creation, and intricate signage artwork. Proficiency in path manipulation, typography, and color management is key.

• Adobe Photoshop: Crucial for raster image editing, photo manipulation, creating textures, and preparing artwork for large-format printing. Understanding resolution, color spaces (CMYK), and file optimization is vital.

• Corel Draw: Another primary vector graphics editor, often used in the signage industry for its specific tools and compatibility with certain production equipment. Experience with its layout and design features is highly valued.

Analytics & Reporting: While not a primary focus for this creative role, understanding how designs translate to production metrics (e.g., material waste, print time) can be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot - hypothetical): While the designer may not directly use a CRM, understanding how client information and project briefs flow from sales into the design process is helpful.

• Project Management Software (e.g., Asana, Trello, or internal systems): Likely used to track design project status, deadlines, and assignments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Corel Draw are non-negotiable technical requirements. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience level and specific applications of these tools in a signage context.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Precision: A strong emphasis on accuracy in design and production to ensure high-quality, durable signage.

• Reliability & Dependability: Consistent attendance and a stable work history are highlighted, indicating a value placed on team members who can be counted on.

• Attention to Detail: Critical for ensuring designs meet specifications and for proofreading artwork, minimizing costly errors.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: The need to work effectively with sales, fabrication, and installation teams suggests a culture that values mutual support and communication.

• Customer Focus: Ultimately, the designs serve to meet client needs and contribute to the company's reputation for service and product delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Expect a direct, practical approach to collaboration, where information is exchanged to facilitate the design and production process.

• Open communication regarding project requirements, feedback, and potential production challenges is likely encouraged.

• The team likely values individuals who can take direction professionally and contribute positively to a shared goal of successful project completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The stated values of reliability, attention to detail, and collaboration are core to any successful operations or production team. For a designer in this environment, it means being responsive, accurate, and a good team player.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Technical Constraints: Meeting client aesthetic desires while adhering to strict production limitations, material properties, and fabrication capabilities.

• Managing Competing Deadlines: Juggling multiple design projects for different clients and internal teams, each with its own urgency.

• Interpreting Ambiguous Client Briefs: Translating potentially vague client requests into clear, actionable design specifications.

• Adapting to New Technologies/Materials: Staying current with advancements in printing technology, materials, and design software relevant to the signage industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Signage Design Techniques: Deepening expertise in specialized areas like illuminated signage, channel letters, or complex dimensional fabrication.

• Production Process Immersion: Gaining a deeper understanding of the fabrication and installation processes to inform design decisions and improve collaboration.

• Software Proficiency Development: Mastering advanced features within Adobe Creative Suite and Corel Draw, or learning new design tools.

• Project Management Skills: Developing capabilities in managing project timelines, client communication, and cross-functional coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: Recognizing these challenges and growth areas allows candidates to prepare for potential hurdles and to articulate their interest in developing specific skills relevant to the company's operational needs.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Walk me through your typical design process for a commercial signage project, from receiving a brief to delivering final artwork." (Prepare to detail steps, software used, and how you ensure production readiness).

• Software Proficiency: "Describe your experience level with Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Corel Draw, and how you've used them specifically for signage design." (Be ready with specific examples and features you commonly use).

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a client wants a complex design that might be difficult or costly to fabricate. How would you approach this situation?" (Focus on communication, suggesting alternatives, and balancing client needs with production realities).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Industry Knowledge: "What interests you about working in the signage industry, and what do you see as the key challenges for designers in this field?" (Show you've thought about the specifics of this sector).

• Teamwork: "Describe a time you had to collaborate closely with a production or installation team. What was your role, and how did you ensure successful outcomes?" (Highlight communication and adaptability).

• Feedback: "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your designs?" (Emphasize professionalism, willingness to learn, and focus on project goals).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or chronologically.

• Highlight Key Projects: Focus on 2-3 of your strongest, most relevant signage or large-format design projects.

• Explain Your Role & Process: For each highlighted project, clearly articulate your specific contributions, the problem you were solving, your design decisions, and the software used.

• Showcase Production Readiness: Explain how you prepared the files for production, detailing any specific technical considerations.

• Be Concise: Be prepared to present your key projects within a reasonable timeframe, allowing for questions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical skills, an understanding of the production lifecycle, and a collaborative attitude, in addition to creative talent.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Ellet Neon Sales and Service Inc career portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience with Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Corel Draw, and any specific signage or large-format design projects. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Designed 50+ unique exterior signage projects").

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select your strongest, most relevant design projects, focusing on those demonstrating production-ready artwork for signage or similar applications. Ensure it's easily accessible online (e.g., personal website, Behance, PDF).

• Prepare Your Portfolio Walkthrough: Be ready to discuss your process, technical choices, and problem-solving for 2-3 key portfolio pieces during an interview.

• Research Ellet Neon: Familiarize yourself with the company's website (elletneon.com) to understand their product offerings, client base, and general aesthetic. This will help you tailor your answers and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ 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.