Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Molson Coors (Coors Distributing Company - CDC)

Location: Denver, CO

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Marketing & Creative Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-05

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and produce eye-catching print and digital signage and creative assets to support sales initiatives, customer engagement, and brand visibility within the Denver market.

• Ensure all creative materials strictly adhere to supplier brand standards, Coors Distributing Company (CDC) guidelines, and relevant liquor advertising regulations.

• Operate and maintain specialized printing equipment, including HP R2000, HP Latex, and Xerox Small Format printers, along with associated production software.

• Serve as a brand standards expert for assigned supplier partners, maintaining up-to-date files, fonts, and brand guidelines for accurate representation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is crucial for the visual communication of Molson Coors' brands at the point of sale and within marketing campaigns. The emphasis on print production and brand compliance suggests a need for meticulous attention to detail and a strong understanding of design for commercial applications, rather than purely conceptual creative work. The integration of operational tasks like equipment maintenance and inventory reporting highlights the "operations" aspect of this creative role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop creative signage, point-of-sale (POS) materials, and digital assets utilizing CorelDRAW and Adobe Creative Suite.

• Produce print and digital layouts that maintain brand consistency and uphold design excellence across all deliverables.

• Design signage that complies with Colorado liquor laws, specific supplier brand guidelines, and CDC internal standards.

• Collaborate with the Marketing Activation team to conceptualize and create display enhancers, contest signage, and promotional assets.

• Effectively prioritize and manage multiple design projects to meet established timelines and production schedules.

• Conduct thorough reviews and proofreading of designs prior to production to minimize errors, reduce reprints, and conserve material resources.

• Create custom designs for large-scale events, special promotions, and unique customer requirements.

• Design large-format projects and coordinate with Sales Representatives for necessary approvals.

• Stay current with advancements in creative software, emerging design trends, supplier brand standards, and relevant industry regulations.

• Generate original creative concepts to support locally developed marketing initiatives.

• Operate and provide support for printing equipment, including HP R2000, HP Latex, Xerox Small Format printers, and related production software.

• Meet standard turnaround expectations for sign completion and production requests, ensuring timely delivery.

• Track completed designs, monitor production output, and contribute to inventory reporting.

• Act as the primary brand standards expert for designated supplier partners, ensuring accurate representation.

• Maintain organized and current files for suppliers, including fonts, creative assets, and brand guidelines.

• Educate team members on supplier branding requirements and approved creative standards to foster consistency.

• Cultivate productive relationships with supplier representatives and actively participate in planning discussions.

• Attend sales, marketing, and team meetings to stay informed about products, promotions, and business priorities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a dual role: creative design and production operations. The emphasis on compliance, brand guardianship, and equipment operation suggests a need for someone who can balance artistic talent with a meticulous, process-driven approach. The volume of signage produced (150,000 annually) underscores the operational scale and the need for efficiency and accuracy.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Degree in Graphic Design or a related field preferred. Experience:

• 1-2 years of experience in graphic design, signage production, or printing operations preferred. Required Skills:

• Strong proficiency in graphic design principles and creative problem-solving methodologies.

• Demonstrated experience with CorelDRAW and Adobe Creative Suite.

• Excellent organizational skills with a proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a high-volume environment.

• High level of personal accountability and a results-oriented mindset.

• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to collaborate effectively across different departments and with external supplier partners.

• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to quality control in all design and production outputs.

• Capacity to work effectively in a fast-paced environment while consistently meeting deadlines. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with HP printers (e.g., HP R2000, HP Latex), Onyx Production House, and HP Flexi Print software.

• Familiarity with inventory reporting and tracking systems.

• Understanding of Colorado liquor laws and their implications for advertising.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a degree is preferred, the 1-2 years of experience requirement and the emphasis on specific software (CorelDRAW, Adobe Creative Suite) and printing equipment suggest that hands-on practical experience and technical proficiency are highly valued. The "preferred" skills point towards candidates who can quickly adapt to the specific production environment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a strong portfolio showcasing a range of print and digital design projects, with a focus on signage and POS materials.

• Include examples that highlight adherence to brand guidelines and compliance with regulatory requirements.

• Showcase projects that illustrate creative problem-solving and adaptability to different brand aesthetics.

• Present work that reflects an understanding of production considerations for print and large-format applications. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of creating and following design workflows that ensure quality control and efficiency.

• Examples of managing project timelines and prioritizing tasks effectively within a production environment.

• Documentation or examples of how you ensure brand consistency across multiple assets.

• Understanding of how to track production output and contribute to inventory management reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description explicitly mentions a "Portfolio link included on resume is preferred." This indicates that a visual representation of past work is critical. The emphasis on signage production and brand compliance means the portfolio should highlight practical design skills relevant to commercial printing and marketing collateral, not just abstract creative concepts.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for Graphic Designers with 0-2 years of experience in Denver, CO, the estimated hourly rate would typically fall between $18 - $25 per hour. This range accounts for the specialized nature of signage production and the required software proficiency.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits starting on day 1.

• Participation in the Total Rewards program.

• Parental leave.

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Opportunities for quarterly, annual, and summer bonus programs.

• Access to professional development opportunities and career growth within CDC.

• Access to an on-site gym.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

• Discount plans.

• Gratis beer.

• On-site bar and employee hospitality events for networking. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time position, likely around 40 hours per week. The fast-paced environment and production demands may occasionally require flexibility to meet deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided job posting notes a placeholder for "Job Posting Hourly Rate: [[custPayRate]]". As this is not specified, an estimated range has been provided based on typical market rates for similar roles in Denver, CO. The benefits package is quite comprehensive, with a notable perk being "gratis beer," which aligns with the company's industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food & Beverage (Beer Distribution)

Company Size: Coors Distributing Company (CDC) is a significant player in beer distribution, employing roughly 400 people. Molson Coors, the parent company, is a global entity. This size indicates a structured environment with established processes, but still potentially agile enough for a design role to have a tangible impact.

Founded: CDC was founded in 1971, with a history as a company-owned distributor for Molson Coors. This long-standing presence suggests stability and deep roots within the industry.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will report to the Sign Shop Supervisor, indicating a direct reporting line within the production or marketing operations team.

• Close collaboration is expected with the Marketing Activation Team, Sales Team, Supplier Representatives, and other members of the Marketing department. This cross-functional interaction is key to understanding campaign needs and brand requirements.

• The role is part of the CDC's Sign Shop, which produces a high volume of signage, suggesting a team focused on efficiency and output. Methodology:

• Data-driven design decisions, informed by sales initiatives, customer engagement goals, and brand performance metrics.

• Emphasis on process optimization for signage production, aiming for efficiency, minimal waste, and timely delivery.

• Adherence to strict brand guidelines and regulatory compliance, ensuring all creative output is accurate and legal.

• Collaborative approach to creative development, working closely with marketing and sales to align visual assets with business objectives.

Company Website: https://www.molsoncoors.com/ (Molson Coors Beverage Company)

📝 Enhancement Note: CDC's position as a company-owned distributor for Molson Coors means it operates with the brand integrity and standards of a major beverage producer while maintaining the operational focus of a distribution company. This blend suggests a culture that values both creative excellence and operational efficiency.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an entry-level to junior Graphic Designer, focused on production and brand compliance within a specific operational unit (the Sign Shop). It offers foundational experience in commercial design and print production.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer reports to the Sign Shop Supervisor, who likely manages the daily operations, workflow, and quality control of the sign production team. This structure provides direct oversight and guidance.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly influences:

• Sales Effectiveness: Through compelling POS materials and signage that drive purchasing decisions.

• Brand Perception: By ensuring consistent and high-quality visual representation of supplier brands.

• Operational Efficiency: By minimizing errors in production, managing workflows, and optimizing material usage.

• Compliance: By adhering to legal and brand standards, mitigating risk for the company and its partners.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in large-format printing, specific design software (CorelDRAW, Adobe Suite), and brand management for the beverage industry.

• Process Improvement: Contribute to optimizing the sign production workflow, potentially leading to roles with greater responsibility in production management.

• Marketing Integration: Transition into broader marketing roles by leveraging a strong understanding of brand promotion and campaign support gained through design.

• Leadership Potential: With significant experience and demonstrated leadership in production and brand advocacy, potential for advancement to Senior Graphic Designer or Sign Shop Supervisor roles could exist.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path here is likely within operations-heavy creative roles. While it's a Graphic Designer position, the operational aspects (equipment, volume, compliance) mean that career progression might lean towards production management or specialized brand guardianship rather than pure creative direction typical in agency settings.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, requiring physical presence at the Coors Distributing Company facility in Denver, CO. The work environment will include an office setting for design tasks and a production/sign shop area for operating printing equipment.

Office Location(s): Denver, CO (80002) - this location is specified for the role.

Workspace Context:

• A dedicated workspace for design tasks, likely equipped with necessary computers and software.

• Access to a production floor environment where printing equipment is operated. This may involve exposure to machinery and materials common in printing operations.

• Opportunities for interaction with the Marketing Activation Team, Sales Team, and other CDC employees during meetings and cross-functional collaborations.

• The environment is described as fast-paced and innovative, suggesting a dynamic and busy workplace. Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours are expected, likely Monday through Friday. Given the production nature of the role and the volume of signage produced, occasional flexibility may be required to meet urgent deadlines or production demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The combination of office and production floor work means candidates should be comfortable in both settings. The "fast-paced" and "innovative" descriptions suggest a dynamic environment where quick adaptation and efficient work are valued.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio link to assess basic qualifications and design aesthetic.

• Skills Assessment/Technical Interview: May include a design challenge or technical questions related to CorelDRAW, Adobe Creative Suite, and printing processes. A review of the candidate's portfolio will be central to this stage.

• Behavioral/Team Interview: Discussion focused on collaboration, problem-solving, handling pressure, and cultural fit with the CDC team. Questions may explore how candidates ensure brand compliance and manage multiple projects.

• Final Interview: Potentially with the Sign Shop Supervisor or a Marketing Manager to discuss role expectations, career growth, and finalize the decision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 5-7 of your strongest projects, ensuring they are relevant to signage, POS, and brand-compliant design. Include both print and digital examples if possible.

• Highlight Process: For each project, briefly explain the objective, your role, the tools used, the challenges faced, and the final outcome/impact.

• Showcase Compliance: If possible, include examples where you had to strictly adhere to brand guidelines or specific regulations. This is a key requirement for this role.

• Demonstrate Production Understanding: Include work that shows an awareness of print production considerations (e.g., bleed, color modes, file preparation).

• Link Clearly: Ensure the portfolio link on your resume is active and easy to access.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Challenge: Be prepared for a task that might involve creating a piece of signage or POS material for a hypothetical beer promotion, requiring adherence to brand elements and a quick turnaround. Focus on clarity, brand consistency, and design impact.

• Software Proficiency: Brush up on CorelDRAW and Adobe Creative Suite, particularly features relevant to large-format printing and vector graphics.

• Brand Interpretation: Practice interpreting and applying brand guidelines for well-known beverage companies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and specific software proficiency means candidates should prepare to demonstrate their practical skills rigorously. The "preferred" status of a portfolio link suggests it's a significant factor in the evaluation.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CorelDRAW: Essential for vector graphics, signage design, and potentially large-format layout. Proficiency is expected.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Specifically Photoshop (for raster images, photo editing), Illustrator (for vector graphics, logos), and InDesign (for layout, multi-page documents).

• Printing Software: Onyx Production House, HP Flexi Print (preferred). These are crucial for managing print workflows, color profiles, and preparing files for large-format printers.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for the designer, understanding how designs contribute to sales metrics and campaign performance will be beneficial. Basic reporting on production output and inventory is required. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design functions, but understanding how marketing assets are used within sales processes could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on design and print production software. Candidates with experience in these specific tools, especially CorelDRAW and production RIP software like Onyx or FlexiPrint, will have a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Precision: A commitment to high-quality design and accurate production, minimizing errors and waste.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Driving high output in the sign shop, meeting deadlines consistently in a fast-paced environment.

• Brand Stewardship: Acting as a guardian of supplier brands, ensuring all creative adheres to established standards and regulations.

• Collaboration & Support: Working effectively with marketing, sales, and fellow production team members to achieve common goals.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of design projects from concept to completion, with a focus on results.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively partnering with Marketing Activation and Sales teams to translate campaign objectives into compelling visual assets.

• Supplier Partnership: Building strong relationships with supplier representatives to understand their brand needs and marketing strategies.

• Teamwork in Production: Collaborating closely within the Sign Shop to ensure smooth workflow, efficient equipment operation, and timely fulfillment of requests.

• Feedback and Improvement: Openness to feedback on designs and processes, contributing to continuous improvement in the creative and production cycles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely balances the creative demands of design with the operational rigor of a high-volume production environment. Team members are expected to be both creative problem-solvers and reliable executioners.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• High Volume Production: Managing a constant stream of requests and maintaining quality while producing a large quantity of signage (150,000 annually).

• Brand Compliance Complexity: Navigating diverse and sometimes strict brand guidelines from multiple supplier partners, alongside liquor advertising regulations.

• Balancing Creativity with Constraints: Developing imaginative designs that also strictly adhere to brand and legal requirements.

• Technical Proficiency: Mastering specialized printing equipment and production software in addition to core design skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Skills: Deepening expertise in CorelDRAW, Adobe Creative Suite, and potentially exploring new design tools.

• Print Production Mastery: Gaining in-depth knowledge of large-format printing technologies, materials, and finishing techniques.

• Brand Management: Developing expertise in managing and applying brand standards for major consumer brands in the beverage sector.

• Industry Knowledge: Learning about the beer distribution industry, marketing strategies, and relevant legal frameworks.

• Operational Efficiency: Contributing to process improvements within the sign shop, potentially leading to operational management skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique opportunity to blend creative talent with hands-on operational experience, providing a solid foundation for a career in commercial design and production within a dynamic industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance strict brand guidelines with a creative design request. How did you approach it?" (Focus on brand stewardship and problem-solving).

• "Walk us through a complex signage project you designed. What were the key considerations, and how did you ensure it was production-ready?" (Highlight process, technical understanding, and project management).

• "How do you prioritize multiple design requests with competing deadlines?" (Demonstrate organizational skills and time management).

• "Imagine you're given a new supplier brand to work with. What are the first steps you take to understand and apply their brand standards?" (Showcase research, attention to detail, and proactive approach). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Molson Coors and specifically within the Coors Distributing Company?" (Show enthusiasm for the brand and industry).

• "How do you stay updated on design trends and industry regulations relevant to the beverage alcohol industry?" (Demonstrate continuous learning).

• "Describe your experience working in a fast-paced production environment. How do you maintain quality under pressure?" (Highlight resilience and focus). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the challenge, your solution, and the outcome. Emphasize your role and the impact of your design.

• Quantify Results: If possible, mention any metrics related to the success of the signage or promotional materials (e.g., increased visibility, positive feedback).

• Showcase Technical Skills: Be ready to discuss the software and techniques used, especially those relevant to print production.

• Highlight Brand Compliance: Specifically point out how your designs adhered to brand guidelines and any regulations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of creative talent, technical proficiency in design and production software, and a strong understanding of brand compliance and operational efficiency. Practical examples and a well-curated portfolio are key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the Molson Coors careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your experience with CorelDRAW, Adobe Creative Suite, and any print production or signage experience. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio link is prominently displayed on your resume and showcases relevant print and digital design work, with an emphasis on brand compliance and production considerations.

• Research Molson Coors & CDC: Familiarize yourself with their brands, company history, and the beer distribution industry. Understand the importance of brand standards and regulations in this sector.

• Practice Your Pitch: Be ready to articulate your design process, problem-solving skills, and ability to work effectively in a production environment.

⚠️ 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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