Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Kehoe Designs Inc

Location: Chicago, IL, US

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Creative & Design

Date Posted: 2026-04-13T22:02:00

Experience Level: Mid-Level (3-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop impactful visual designs for live events, including custom signage, décor graphics, and branding elements, to elevate client experiences and support sales initiatives.

• Utilize the full Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) within a Mac environment to translate client visions into cohesive, production-ready designs.

• Collaborate closely with sales, production, and cross-functional design teams to ensure seamless execution from concept through installation.

• Manage multiple design projects concurrently in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, maintaining high standards of creativity and precision.

• Support departmental organization by maintaining project files, supplies, and equipment to ensure efficient workflow and seamless creative processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically tailored for an individual with a strong background in event and environmental design, emphasizing the creation of tangible, large-scale visual experiences rather than solely digital assets. The "Onsite" requirement is critical, indicating a need for hands-on involvement in a studio or production environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design impactful event graphics, including custom signage, décor graphics, branding elements, and visual assets for a diverse portfolio of live events such as weddings, mitzvahs, galas, fundraisers, corporate events, and private celebrations.

• Translate client visions and event concepts into cohesive, high-quality visual designs that align with brand aesthetics and project objectives.

• Collaborate effectively with sales, design, and production teams throughout the project lifecycle, from initial concept development to final installation.

• Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks and adhering to strict deadlines in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

• Prepare comprehensive production-ready files, layouts, pull sheets, and detailed installation instructions for internal teams and external vendors.

• Maintain meticulous organization of project files, design assets, and departmental workflows to ensure efficiency and accessibility.

• Participate actively in creative brainstorming sessions and meetings for concept development and event planning, contributing innovative design ideas.

• Assist with the organization and maintenance of department supplies, equipment, and creative resources to support operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design execution and operational support, emphasizing the need for a designer who can not only create visually stunning graphics but also manage the practical aspects of production and workflow. The mention of "large-scale or environmental/event design" as a plus suggests a preference for candidates experienced in physical installations and spatial design.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design (BFA/BS) or a related field.

Experience: 3-5 years of professional graphic design experience, with a strong preference for experience in event or environmental design.

Required Skills:

• Expert proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, within a Mac environment.

• Exceptional eye for layout, typography, color theory, and visual composition.

• Proven ability to translate abstract concepts and client visions into compelling visual designs.

• Strong project management skills, with the capacity to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, enabling effective collaboration with cross-functional teams and clients.

• Detail-oriented approach with a commitment to producing high-quality, error-free work.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with large-scale event design, environmental graphics, or spatial design.

• Familiarity with large-format printing processes and materials.

• Basic understanding of production workflows for physical installations.

• Ability to create detailed technical drawings or mock-ups for production.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "3-5 years" experience level, combined with a Bachelor's degree, points to a mid-level designer role. The emphasis on specific Adobe Suite tools and a Mac environment is critical for technical qualification. The preference for event/environmental design experience is a key differentiator for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a diverse range of graphic design projects, with a strong emphasis on event-related graphics, signage, and custom décor.

• Demonstrations of proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, highlighting complex projects created in Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.

• Examples of how design concepts were translated from initial brief to final production-ready assets.

• Visual evidence of understanding layout, typography, and visual storytelling applied to physical or large-scale formats.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of production-ready file preparation, including specifications for print, fabrication, or installation.

• Documentation of workflow management, showcasing how multiple projects were organized and tracked to meet deadlines.

• Visuals or descriptions of how design concepts were adapted for different event types and client requirements.

• Evidence of contributing to concept development and creative problem-solving within a team environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a graphic design role in event production, a portfolio that vividly demonstrates the creation of physical design elements and their application in a live event context is paramount. This includes not just the aesthetic but also the technical feasibility and production-ready nature of the designs.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $60,000 - $70,000 per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Paid Time Off (PTO) for rest and rejuvenation.

• Training and ongoing professional development opportunities to enhance design skills.

• Flexible scheduling options to accommodate project needs and work-life balance.

• A safe, supportive, and creative work environment that fosters innovation.

Working Hours: This is a full-time position, likely requiring approximately 40 hours per week, with the flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as dictated by event schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of $60,000-$70,000 is typical for a mid-level Graphic Designer in a major metropolitan area like Chicago, especially within a specialized industry like event design. The benefits listed are standard for full-time employment, with a particular emphasis on professional development, aligning with a creative role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Event Design & Production. Kehoe Designs operates at the intersection of creative arts, hospitality, and event management, positioning itself as a leader in transforming concepts into immersive experiences for a high-profile clientele. The industry demands creativity, meticulous planning, and flawless execution under pressure.

Company Size: The provided information does not specify company size, but the mention of "full in-house capabilities" and a "collective of passionate event architects, artists, craftsmen, and creatives" suggests a substantial, multi-disciplinary team.

Founded: Information on the founding date is not provided, but the company's established presence and comprehensive services imply a history of growth and expertise in the event design sector.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of a creative department that likely includes other designers, production specialists, and potentially event planners.

• Collaboration is emphasized, with close working relationships expected with the sales team for client briefs and the production team for execution.

Methodology:

• The company's approach is centered on "creativity, precision, and collaboration," translating client visions into high-impact visual moments.

• Designs are developed with "full in-house capabilities," suggesting a streamlined process from concept to execution.

• There's a strong focus on turning "bold ideas into unforgettable experiences," indicating a culture that embraces innovation and creativity.

Company Website: https://kehoedesigns.com/ (Inferred from domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: Kehoe Designs operates in a dynamic and demanding industry where creativity, client satisfaction, and operational efficiency are paramount. The company's "full in-house capabilities" suggest a strong emphasis on internal collaboration and process control.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level Graphic Designer. It requires a solid foundation in design principles and software, coupled with practical experience in managing projects and collaborating within a team. The responsibilities suggest a designer who can work independently on assigned tasks while also contributing to broader creative strategies.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Creative Director, Design Manager, or Head of Design within the company's creative department. They will work closely with sales and production teams, indicating a collaborative, project-based reporting dynamic.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the success of client events by creating the visual identity and atmosphere that defines the experience. Their designs contribute to client satisfaction, brand perception, and the overall aesthetic appeal of the events Kehoe Designs produces. Precision in design and production-ready files is crucial for smooth event execution.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization in event and environmental design, becoming an expert in large-scale installations and experiential graphics.

• Advancement to senior designer or lead designer roles, potentially managing junior designers or overseeing specific project types.

• Development of project management skills, leading to roles focused on design project coordination or operations within the creative department.

• Opportunities to contribute to more complex and high-profile client events, expanding the designer's portfolio and industry recognition.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth trajectory for this role leans towards specialization within the event design niche, emphasizing the development of skills crucial for large-scale, physical design applications rather than purely digital marketing design.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role in Chicago, IL. Given the company's focus on event design and production, the workspace likely includes a design studio, possibly with access to fabrication or production areas, and collaborative office spaces.

Office Location(s): Chicago, IL. Specific office details are not provided, but it's expected to be a professional studio environment conducive to creative work and team collaboration.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative studio environment where designers work together on projects and share ideas.

• Access to necessary design software (Adobe Creative Suite on Mac) and potentially large-format printers or other production equipment.

• Opportunities for interaction with sales, production, and event planning teams to gain a holistic understanding of event execution.

• The environment is described as "creative, fast-paced, and highly collaborative," suggesting a dynamic and energetic atmosphere.

Work Schedule: The position is full-time, requiring approximately 40 hours per week, but will involve flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed to meet event demands. This is common in the event industry where installations and live events often occur outside standard business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" nature of the role is key. It implies a hands-on, studio-based position where team collaboration and access to physical resources are integral to the design process, especially for event and environmental graphics.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of resume and portfolio to assess fundamental design skills, relevant experience, and alignment with the company's aesthetic.

• Portfolio Review & Skills Assessment: A more in-depth review of the candidate's portfolio, likely including a discussion about specific projects, design process, and problem-solving approaches. This may involve a practical design exercise or a case study presentation.

• Team Interviews: Interviews with potential team members and hiring managers to evaluate collaboration skills, cultural fit, and understanding of the event design industry.

• Final Interview: A concluding interview to discuss role expectations, compensation, and answer any remaining questions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Event Design: Prioritize projects that demonstrate experience with signage, environmental graphics, large-scale event décor, and branding for live events.

• Highlight Adobe Suite Proficiency: Clearly showcase your mastery of Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, detailing the specific applications and techniques used in your projects.

• Detail Your Process: For each project, explain your design thinking, the client brief, concept development, iterations, and how you prepared files for production.

• Demonstrate Collaboration: If possible, include projects where you collaborated with sales, production, or other teams, explaining your role and contribution.

• Technical Considerations: For event design, include examples that show an understanding of scale, materials, and installation feasibility.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your creative process and how you approach translating client needs into visual designs.

• Review common event design elements (e.g., stage backdrops, entrance signage, thematic décor) and be ready to discuss design considerations for these.

• Practice articulating your design rationale and problem-solving skills, especially concerning project constraints and client feedback.

• Understand Kehoe Designs' aesthetic and be ready to discuss how your style aligns with or complements their existing work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is the most critical component for this role. Candidates should curate it specifically to highlight their ability to design for physical spaces and events, showcasing both creativity and technical competence in production-ready design.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite (Mac Environment):

  • Adobe Illustrator: Essential for vector graphics, logos, signage, and intricate design elements.
  • Adobe Photoshop: Crucial for image manipulation, texture creation, and mock-up development.
  • Adobe InDesign: Key for layout design, brochures, pull sheets, and production-ready documentation.

• Operating System: Mac OS.

Analytics & Reporting: (Not directly applicable to this design role, but may be used indirectly for tracking project status or client feedback.)

CRM & Automation: (While not a primary tool for the designer, they will likely interact with systems used by sales or project management for receiving briefs and tracking project status.)

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the specified Adobe Creative Suite applications on a Mac platform is non-negotiable for this role. Familiarity with large-format printing workflows or design for physical spaces would be a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A core value, driving the creation of unique and memorable event experiences. Designers are expected to push creative boundaries.

• Precision & Quality: High standards for design accuracy, attention to detail, and flawless execution from concept to installation.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on working effectively with sales, production, and other creative team members to achieve shared goals.

• Client-Centricity: A strong focus on understanding and translating client visions into stunning visual realities.

• Passion & Dedication: A collective enthusiasm for event design and a commitment to delivering exceptional results.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Designers work closely with sales to understand client needs and with production to ensure designs are feasible and executable.

• Open Communication: A culture that encourages sharing ideas, providing constructive feedback, and problem-solving collaboratively.

• Fast-Paced Environment: The team operates efficiently, adapting quickly to project demands and client changes common in the events industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be a blend of high-octane creativity and meticulous execution, driven by a passion for creating exceptional events. Teamwork and client focus are essential pillars.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing High-Volume, Diverse Projects: The role involves designing for a wide array of events, requiring adaptability and the ability to switch creative gears quickly.

• Translating Abstract Concepts: Effectively interpreting client visions, which can sometimes be vague, into concrete, visually compelling designs.

• Meeting Tight Deadlines: The fast-paced event industry demands rapid turnaround times, requiring strong time management and prioritization skills.

• Ensuring Production Feasibility: Designing with an awareness of material limitations, fabrication processes, and installation constraints for large-scale elements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Event Design Skill Development: Gaining expertise in areas like large-format graphics, custom fabrication design, and experiential installations.

• Industry Trends and Techniques: Staying current with evolving trends in event design, visual aesthetics, and relevant technologies.

• Advanced Software Proficiency: Deepening skills within Adobe Creative Suite or exploring new design tools relevant to the industry.

• Project Leadership: Potential to grow into roles with more responsibility for design project oversight and client interaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges revolve around the dynamic nature of event design and the need for both creative flair and practical execution. Growth opportunities are geared towards specialization and increased responsibility within the event design niche.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for taking a client's abstract event concept and translating it into a tangible design." (Focus on your methodology, client communication, and iterative design steps.)

• "How do you manage your workload when faced with multiple, competing design deadlines for different types of events?" (Highlight your organizational skills, prioritization techniques, and ability to stay calm under pressure.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you specifically about Kehoe Designs and the event design industry?" (Research their portfolio, recent projects, and company mission to articulate a genuine connection.)

• "How do you approach collaboration within a creative team and with non-design departments like sales and production?" (Emphasize your communication style, willingness to share ideas, and understanding of different functional roles.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Curate for Relevance: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best showcase your event and environmental design capabilities.

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the client brief, your design process, the challenges you faced, and the successful outcome.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Clearly demonstrate your proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, explaining how you used specific tools to achieve your design goals.

• Showcase Production Readiness: If possible, include examples of production files or mock-ups that illustrate your understanding of print specifications, scale, and installation needs.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, software techniques, and how you handle project constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on demonstrating not just design talent but also project management skills, collaborative spirit, and a genuine understanding of the event production lifecycle and Kehoe Designs' specific market niche.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your resume and a link to your online portfolio through the ADP application portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features event design, signage, and environmental graphics projects. Tailor your presentation to highlight your skills in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) on a Mac.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly articulate your 3-5 years of relevant experience, emphasizing project management capabilities and successful collaborations. Use keywords from the job description such as "event graphics," "signage design," and "Adobe Creative Suite."

• Interview Preparation: Practice discussing your design process, problem-solving approaches, and how you handle multiple projects under tight deadlines. Be ready to present specific case studies from your portfolio.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Kehoe Designs' work, client base, and overall aesthetic. Understand their market position and be prepared to articulate why you are a good fit for their creative culture.

⚠️ 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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