Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: MSM Inc.

Location: Webster, NY

Job Type: Salaried Full-Time

Category: Creative & Design

Date Posted: 2026-08-11

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 Years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and execute large-format graphics for dynamic environments such as tradeshow exhibits, branded spaces, and event signage.

• Develop visually compelling assets, including booth graphics, wayfinding systems, banners, and environmental graphics, ensuring alignment with brand standards and event objectives.

• Collaborate closely with exhibit designers, project managers, and production partners to seamlessly integrate graphic elements into physical and 3D installations.

• Produce precise, print-ready artwork, meticulously setting up color profiles, bleeds, resolutions, dielines, and understanding large-scale output requirements for diverse substrates and fabrication methods.

• Adapt creative concepts to various spatial layouts, maintaining legibility, brand consistency, and engagement across all scales.

• Conduct thorough reviews of proofs, vendor samples, and production outputs for quality control, accuracy, and manufacturability.

• Stay abreast of emerging trends, materials, and advancements in tradeshow and environmental graphic production to drive innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Graphic Designer," the responsibilities and required skills heavily emphasize large-format graphics, exhibit design, and production-ready artwork. This suggests a specialized role within graphic design, focusing on the physical and experiential aspects of branding rather than purely digital or print media. The "agency, exhibit/tradeshow, or production-facing environments preferred" further solidifies this specialization.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and lay out large-format graphics for tradeshow exhibits, branded environments, event signage, and experiential installations.

• Prepare high-impact visuals, including booth graphics, wayfinding systems, banners, and environmental graphics, ensuring they align with brand standards and event goals.

• Collaborate with exhibit designers, project managers, and production partners to ensure seamless integration of graphics into 3D environments and physical assets.

• Produce precise, print-ready artwork, setting up correct color profiles, bleeds, resolutions, and dielines for large-scale output across various substrates and fabrication methods.

• Adapt creative concepts to diverse spatial layouts, ensuring visuals remain legible, on-brand, and engaging at any scale.

• Review proofs, vendor samples, and production outputs for quality control, accuracy, and manufacturability prior to event delivery.

• Research and stay current on trends, materials, and advances in tradeshow and environmental graphic production.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are highly specific to the physical production and integration of graphics into environments. This implies a need for a designer who understands the practicalities of large-scale printing, fabrication, and installation, not just aesthetic design.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Exhibit/Interior Design, Visual Communication, or a related field.

Experience: Experience or strong interest in agency, exhibit/tradeshow, or production-facing environments is preferred.

Required Skills:

• Expert proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign).

• Proven ability to design for large format, physical spaces, and digital/presentation media.

• Strong understanding of preparing print-ready artwork, including color profiles, bleeds, resolutions, and dielines.

• Excellent artistic, organizational, and communication skills.

• Ability to adapt creative concepts to various spatial layouts.

• Detail-oriented with a focus on quality control and accuracy. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with CAD/3D tools such as AutoCAD, Vectorworks, 3ds Max, or SketchUp.

• Portfolio showcasing creative, production-ready work, with a strong emphasis on exhibit/tradeshow design.

• Familiarity with different substrates and fabrication methods for large-format graphics.

• Understanding of brand standards and their application in experiential design.

• Experience in an agency, exhibit/tradeshow, or production-facing environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "production-ready work" and specific technical requirements like color profiles, bleeds, and dielines indicates a need for a designer with a strong technical foundation in print production, especially for large-scale applications. The preference for CAD/3D tools suggests an advantage for candidates who can visualize and prepare files for three-dimensional integration.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 projects demonstrating expertise in large-format graphic design for physical spaces.

• Include case studies or descriptions that highlight the design process from concept to print-ready artwork.

• Demonstrate an understanding of spatial design and how graphics integrate into environments (e.g., tradeshow booths, event signage).

• Feature examples of precise, production-ready files, potentially including mock-ups or final output images.

• Highlight projects that required adaptation of creative concepts to specific spatial constraints or brand guidelines. Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your workflow for preparing files for large-format printing and fabrication.

• Articulate your process for ensuring color accuracy, correct bleeds, and appropriate resolutions for various substrates.

• Explain your quality control methods for reviewing proofs and production outputs.

• Describe how you collaborate with project managers and production partners to ensure seamless execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core requirement for this role is a portfolio that proves practical, production-level design skills for large-scale physical applications. Candidates should be ready to walk through their process for creating and delivering these types of assets, emphasizing technical accuracy and collaboration.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $70,000 - $85,000 per year.

Benefits:

• Full-time salaried position.

• Opportunities for role development and compensation growth.

• [Specific benefits to be detailed by the hiring team, but typically include health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, etc., for full-time roles.]

Working Hours: Standard 40-hour work week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided and falls within the typical mid-level range for a specialized Graphic Designer in the Rochester, NY area. The note about initial compensation being potentially outside the range and offering growth opportunities suggests a performance-based or seniority-driven compensation structure is possible.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The company likely operates within the marketing services, event production, or exhibit design industry, given the focus on tradeshow exhibits and branded environments. MSM Inc. appears to specialize in creating immersive brand experiences.

Company Size: Based on the typical operations of such a company, MSM Inc. is likely a small to medium-sized enterprise (SME), possibly ranging from 50-250 employees, allowing for close-knit teams and direct impact.

Founded: Information on the founding date is not provided, but the company's focus suggests a mature understanding of the experiential marketing landscape.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of a "creative team," likely working alongside other designers, exhibit designers, and potentially project managers.

• Reporting structure is not specified but is likely to a Creative Director or a Senior Designer.

• Close cross-functional collaboration is expected with exhibit designers, project managers, and external production partners. Methodology:

• Emphasis on creating "unforgettable brand experiences" suggests a client-centric and results-oriented approach.

• The role requires a blend of creative vision and technical execution, with a focus on practical application in physical spaces.

• Data-driven insights might be used to inform design choices for maximum impact, though this is not explicitly stated.

Company Website: msmxp.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on "crafting unforgettable brand experiences" points to a culture that values creativity, client satisfaction, and high-quality execution in physical and experiential marketing.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level Graphic Designer, requiring a degree and some experience or strong interest in specialized areas like exhibit design and large-format graphics. It's not an entry-level position, nor is it senior management.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Creative Director or Lead Designer within the creative team. They will collaborate closely with project managers and exhibit designers.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the client's brand presentation at key events and physical locations. High-quality graphics contribute to brand perception, client engagement, and overall event success, thus playing a crucial role in the company's service delivery and client retention.

Growth Opportunities:

• Role Development: Opportunity to specialize further in tradeshow exhibit design, environmental graphics, or experiential installations.

• Skill Advancement: Potential to gain proficiency in CAD/3D software and advanced large-format production techniques.

• Compensation Growth: The company explicitly mentions opportunities for growth in compensation, likely tied to performance, skill acquisition, and increased responsibility.

• Leadership Potential: With demonstrated success and expanded expertise, potential to move into a Senior Graphic Designer role or a specialized project lead position.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of growth in role development and compensation suggests a clear path for ambitious designers to advance within MSM Inc., particularly by deepening their expertise in the company's core service areas.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is listed as "In-Office" in Rochester, NY, implying a traditional office or studio setting.

Office Location(s): Webster, NY (part of the Rochester metropolitan area).

Workspace Context:

• The environment is likely collaborative, with designers working closely with exhibit designers and project managers.

• Access to necessary design software (Adobe Creative Suite) and potentially 3D modeling tools is expected.

• The workspace should support the creation of large-format designs, possibly with large monitors and access to print proofing facilities or partnerships.

• Opportunities for team interaction and brainstorming are probable, given the nature of creative project development.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is indicated. While not explicitly stated, roles in creative environments often require flexibility during peak project deadlines or event preparations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "In-Office" requirement suggests a preference for in-person collaboration and access to physical resources, which is crucial for large-format design and production oversight.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and relevant experience.

• Portfolio Review & Discussion: Candidates will likely present their portfolio, discussing their creative process, technical skills, and experience with large-format and exhibit design. Expect questions about specific projects, design challenges, and problem-solving approaches.

• Technical Assessment: Potential for a design challenge or a discussion focused on print production readiness, color management, and file preparation for large-scale output.

• Team/Hiring Manager Interview: Assessment of cultural fit, communication skills, and understanding of the company's mission to create brand experiences.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your large-format graphic design, exhibit/tradeshow design, and production-ready artwork capabilities.

• Highlight Process: For each selected project, clearly articulate your design process, from initial concept to final file preparation. Explain your rationale behind design choices.

• Emphasize Technical Skills: Be ready to discuss your proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite and any experience with CAD/3D tools. Detail your understanding of color profiles, resolutions, bleeds, and dielines for large-scale applications.

• Showcase Collaboration: If possible, include projects where you collaborated with other teams or production partners, and be prepared to discuss that experience.

• Visual Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a design exercise that might involve adapting a concept for a specific spatial layout or preparing a file for a hypothetical large-format print job.

• Practice explaining your design decisions and technical specifications clearly and concisely.

• Understand common challenges in large-format printing and fabrication, such as color shifts, material limitations, and installation constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount for this role. Candidates must be able to demonstrate not just creative talent but also the technical expertise required for production-ready large-format graphics.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Expert proficiency required, specifically:

  • Adobe Illustrator (for vector graphics, layouts, dielines)
  • Adobe Photoshop (for image manipulation, texture, mock-ups)
  • Adobe InDesign (for layout and multi-page documents, though Illustrator is often primary for large-format)

• CAD/3D Tools (Preferred):

  • AutoCAD

  • Vectorworks

  • 3ds Max

  • SketchUp Analytics & Reporting: Not directly applicable to the core design function, but understanding how graphics contribute to event metrics might be beneficial.

CRM & Automation: Not directly applicable to the core design function.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Adobe Creative Suite and preferred CAD/3D tools highlights the technical requirements. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their proficiency and how they leverage these tools for large-format and spatial design.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Vision: A strong emphasis on artistic talent and the ability to translate client needs into compelling visual experiences.

• Precision & Quality: A commitment to producing accurate, production-ready artwork that meets high standards for print and fabrication.

• Collaboration: A team-oriented approach, working effectively with designers, project managers, and external partners.

• Client Focus: Dedication to crafting "unforgettable brand experiences" for clients, ensuring their goals are met.

• Innovation: Staying current with industry trends and advancements in graphic production and experiential design.

Collaboration Style:

• Expect a highly collaborative environment where ideas are shared freely among the creative team.

• Close partnerships with exhibit designers and project managers are essential for successful project execution.

• Communication with production partners will be key to ensuring manufacturability and quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture likely values both creative flair and meticulous execution. A collaborative spirit and strong communication skills are vital for success in this role, given the interdisciplinary nature of exhibit and environmental design.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Technical Precision: Ensuring absolute accuracy in files for large-scale output to avoid costly errors in production and installation.

• Spatial Adaptation: Translating 2D design concepts effectively into 3D physical spaces with varying dimensions and viewing angles.

• Production Constraints: Working within the limitations and requirements of different printing methods, substrates, and fabrication techniques.

• Brand Consistency: Maintaining strict brand guidelines while creatively designing for unique event or environmental contexts.

• Trend Integration: Balancing current design trends with timeless brand messaging and the practicalities of tradeshow environments.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in large-format printing, material science for graphics, and fabrication processes.

• Software Proficiency: Potential to become proficient in CAD/3D modeling software if not already skilled.

• Industry Exposure: Learning about the latest trends and technologies in tradeshow design, event marketing, and experiential installations.

• Portfolio Building: Contributing to high-profile client projects that enhance professional portfolios.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents an excellent opportunity for a graphic designer to specialize in a high-impact, tangible area of design. The challenges are directly tied to the practical application of design skills in real-world, large-scale projects.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a project where you designed large-format graphics for a physical space. What were the key considerations, and how did you ensure print readiness?"

• "How do you approach adapting a 2D design concept for a 3D environment like a tradeshow booth?"

• "Walk me through your process for setting up a file for large-scale vinyl graphics or fabric printing, focusing on color profiles, resolution, and bleeds."

• "How do you ensure quality control when reviewing proofs or vendor samples for large-format projects?"

• "Describe a time you had to collaborate with exhibit designers or production partners. What was your role, and how did you ensure successful integration of graphics?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about MSM Inc.'s focus on creating 'unforgettable brand experiences'?"

• "How do you stay current with trends in tradeshow and environmental graphic design?"

• "Describe your ideal team environment for a creative role." Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or by the impact of the work. Clearly label each project with its purpose and your role.

• Storytelling: For each key project, tell a story: the client's challenge, your creative approach, the technical specifications, the challenges faced, and the successful outcome.

• Technical Deep Dive: Be prepared to zoom in on specific files or details to explain your production-ready artwork process.

• Visuals: Use high-quality mock-ups or actual photos of the installed graphics to showcase the final impact.

• Conciseness: Focus on the most relevant projects and be ready to answer questions efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a blend of creative vision, strong technical execution, and collaborative skills. Be ready to articulate your design process and demonstrate a deep understanding of large-format production.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on rippling.com.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience and skills directly relevant to large-format graphics, exhibit design, and print production. Use keywords from the job description.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select your strongest projects that demonstrate expertise in tradeshow exhibits, environmental graphics, and print-ready artwork. Ensure it's easily accessible (e.g., PDF or professional online portfolio).

• Prepare Your Narrative: Be ready to discuss your portfolio projects in detail, focusing on your process, technical skills, and collaborative experiences.

• Research MSM Inc.: Understand their work, client base, and company mission to articulate your interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with MSM Inc. before making application decisions.