Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: NEW ERA CAP LLC

Location: Westwood, MA, US

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design

Date Posted: May 12, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Supports the creation of innovative graphic designs for apparel and headwear, aligning with brand DNA and market trends.

• Executes specific design tasks and conducts concept research under the guidance of senior design leadership.

• Develops a foundational understanding of manufacturing processes and design software to contribute to product development.

• Manages individual workload effectively with support from the Design Manager, ensuring timely delivery of design assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is for an Associate Graphic Designer, indicating an entry-level position focused on supporting senior designers and learning core brand and product development processes within the apparel and headwear industry. The emphasis on "brand DNA" and "market opportunities" suggests a strategic component to the design output, even at an associate level.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Assist Senior Designers in conceptualizing and executing new graphic designs for apparel and headwear collections, ensuring alignment with the overall '47 Brand product creative direction.

• Conduct concept research to identify emerging graphic style trends relevant to the apparel and headwear markets.

• Execute segmented design tasks as assigned by senior designers, contributing to the development of diverse design assets.

• Support the creation of industry-leading graphic designs that are on brief, on trend, on time, and embody the '47 Brand DNA.

• Develop a basic understanding of manufacturing processes, including apparel screen printing, apparel/headwear embroidery, headwear manufacturing, and apparel manufacturing, to inform design decisions.

• Utilize basic working knowledge of relevant design software to produce and refine graphic assets.

• Work towards understanding company processes related to product creation and production to enhance design integration.

• Manage personal workload effectively, with guidance from the Design Manager, to meet project deadlines.

• Begin developing relationships with cross-functional partners to foster effective collaboration.

• Present design work confidently during internal reviews and critiques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are heavily focused on supporting senior design efforts, concept generation, and understanding manufacturing constraints. The role requires a blend of creative execution and foundational technical knowledge within the specific context of apparel and headwear.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, or a related creative field.

Experience: 0-2 years of relevant graphic design experience, with a focus on apparel and headwear preferred.

Required Skills:

• Basic proficiency in core graphic design principles and visual communication.

• Familiarity with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Ability to conduct basic concept research and trend analysis.

• Understanding of apparel and headwear manufacturing processes (e.g., screen printing, embroidery) is a plus.

• Strong visual presentation skills for internal reviews and critiques.

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize workload with guidance.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific design software relevant to apparel and headwear (e.g., CorelDRAW, specific CAD software).

• Knowledge of current fashion and streetwear graphic trends.

• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams (e.g., marketing, product development).

• Basic understanding of project management principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: While "0-2 Years" indicates an entry-level role, the "Associate Designer" title suggests a need for foundational design skills and a willingness to learn specific industry processes. The emphasis on "basic understanding" of manufacturing and software implies that extensive expertise is not required, but a proactive learning attitude is essential.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated selection of graphic design work, showcasing versatility in apparel and headwear graphics.

• Examples demonstrating concept research and trend application in design projects.

• Visuals of designs that have been conceptually applied to apparel or headwear mock-ups.

Process Documentation:

• While formal process documentation is not explicitly required at this level, candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal design process from concept to final artwork.

• Ability to articulate how they approach research, ideation, execution, and review stages of a design project.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an Associate Designer, the portfolio should emphasize raw creative talent, conceptual thinking, and an understanding of how designs translate to physical products, rather than complex process optimization or system implementation. The focus is on potential and foundational skills.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $55,000 - $60,000 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision)

• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick Leave, Holidays)

• 401(k) Retirement Plan

• Employee Discounts on '47 Brand Products

• Opportunities for Professional Development and Training

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, typical business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is typical for an entry-level Graphic Designer role in the Westwood, MA area, considering the experience level and industry. Benefits are standard for full-time positions in the US apparel and retail sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Apparel & Headwear, Retail, Sports Merchandise.

Company Size: NEW ERA CAP LLC is a significant player in the licensed sports apparel and headwear market. While specific employee numbers aren't provided, its scale suggests a robust operational structure and a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Founded: The '47 Brand (part of NEW ERA CAP LLC) has a long history, founded in 1947, bringing a legacy of quality and brand heritage.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will report to the Design Manager, indicating a clear hierarchy within the design department.

• The role involves collaboration with Senior Designers, suggesting a mentorship and support structure.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on creating "industry leading graphic designs" that are "on brief, on trend, on time."

• Designs must embody the specific '47 Brand DNA, implying a strong brand identity and creative direction.

• Focus on maximizing "market opportunities" through design, indicating a business-oriented approach to creativity.

Company Website: https://www.neweracap.com/ (Note: ADP URL provided is for application portal, general company info is typically on the corporate site.)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on licensed sports apparel suggests a culture that values brand authenticity, trend-awareness, and a connection to sports culture. The "47 Brand DNA" implies a need for designers to understand and contribute to a specific aesthetic and brand narrative.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Associate Designer. This role is designed for individuals early in their graphic design career, with a primary focus on learning, supporting, and executing tasks under guidance. It represents a foundational step into the apparel and headwear design industry.

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Design Manager, with day-to-day guidance and task assignment often coming from Senior Designers. This structure provides clear direction and opportunities for learning from experienced professionals.

Operations Impact: While direct operational process optimization is not the primary focus, the Associate Designer's work directly impacts product appeal, brand perception, and marketability. High-quality, on-trend designs contribute to sales performance and brand recognition.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to develop deep expertise in specific areas of apparel and headwear graphic design, such as screen printing techniques, embroidery digitization, or specific product categories.

• Career Progression: Potential to advance to a Graphic Designer, Senior Graphic Designer, or specialized roles (e.g., Technical Designer, Art Director) within the organization.

• Industry Knowledge: Gain comprehensive understanding of the licensed sports apparel market, design trends, manufacturing processes, and brand management.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Develop relationships and understanding of how design integrates with marketing, product development, and sales operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for an Associate Designer is typically through demonstrating design proficiency, understanding brand requirements, and contributing effectively to team projects. This role serves as a crucial stepping stone for aspiring designers in the competitive apparel sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site in Westwood, MA, suggesting a collaborative office environment typical for creative departments. This allows for direct interaction, brainstorming, and team synergy.

Office Location(s): Westwood, Massachusetts, US (Norfolk County). This location offers access to the greater Boston metropolitan area's talent pool and industry connections.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Design Studio: Expect a creative workspace where designers can share ideas, receive feedback, and work together on projects.

• Access to Tools & Technology: Likely equipped with industry-standard design software and hardware necessary for graphic creation.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily interaction with designers, managers, and potentially other departments involved in product development.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week, likely with some flexibility depending on project deadlines and team needs. The on-site nature supports real-time collaboration and immediate feedback loops crucial for design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: An on-site environment is beneficial for a junior designer, providing direct mentorship, immediate feedback, and organic learning opportunities through observation and collaboration, which are harder to replicate remotely.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio for basic qualifications and creative alignment.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to walk through selected design projects, discussing concepts, execution, and any understanding of manufacturing.

• Skills Assessment: Potential for a small design challenge or problem-solving exercise related to apparel graphics or brand application.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Discussion with the Design Manager and potentially other team members to assess work style, collaboration skills, and enthusiasm for the brand.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Effectively: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects. For this role, prioritize apparel/headwear graphics, concept-driven work, and designs that show an understanding of application.

• Tell a Story: For each project, be prepared to discuss: the brief/objective, your research and ideation process, the design choices you made, and the outcome or intended impact.

• Showcase Brand Awareness: If possible, include mock-ups or examples that demonstrate how your designs fit within a brand's aesthetic (like '47 Brand).

• Highlight Technical Skills: Briefly mention the software and techniques used. If you have experience with manufacturing considerations (print specs, embroidery details), highlight that.

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

Challenge Preparation:

• If a design challenge is given, focus on understanding the brief thoroughly, sketching initial ideas quickly, and then executing a clean, well-presented final concept that aligns with the brand's aesthetic.

• Be prepared to articulate your design decisions and rationale.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis for an Associate Designer's portfolio and interview will be on creative potential, foundational skills, and a demonstrated interest in the apparel and headwear industry, rather than deep operational or strategic experience.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Proficiency in Photoshop and Illustrator is essential for creating and manipulating graphics for apparel and headwear. InDesign may also be utilized for layout and presentation.

• Concept Research Tools: Web browsers, trend forecasting platforms (if accessible), and visual mood board creation tools.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is standard for graphic design roles, with a specific emphasis on tools used for vector graphics and raster image manipulation, crucial for apparel print and embroidery design.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A drive to produce fresh, industry-leading designs that resonate with target markets.

• Brand Integrity: Upholding and enhancing the '47 Brand DNA in all design outputs.

• Collaboration: Working effectively within the design team and with cross-functional partners.

• Timeliness & Efficiency: Delivering high-quality work on schedule to meet production and market demands.

• Trend Awareness: Staying current with market graphic style trends in apparel and headwear.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: Encouraging brainstorming sessions and peer feedback to refine designs.

• Mentorship-Driven: Senior designers will guide and support associate designers.

• Cross-Functional Communication: Building relationships with marketing, product development, and manufacturing to ensure designs are feasible and strategically aligned.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture likely fosters a creative and fast-paced environment, typical of the fashion and sports merchandise industry, valuing both individual talent and team contribution.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Brand Constraints: Learning to develop innovative designs that strictly adhere to the '47 Brand DNA and specific licensed property guidelines.

• Understanding Manufacturing Limitations: Gaining practical knowledge of screen printing, embroidery, and other production methods to ensure designs are manufacturable and cost-effective.

• Managing Workload and Deadlines: Effectively prioritizing tasks and managing personal time to meet project deadlines in a dynamic environment.

• Adapting to Evolving Trends: Continuously researching and integrating new graphic styles and market trends into designs.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mentorship from Senior Designers: Direct guidance and feedback from experienced professionals.

• Hands-on Product Design Experience: Learning the full lifecycle of apparel and headwear design from concept to production.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining insights into the licensed sports apparel market and the broader fashion industry.

• Software Proficiency Improvement: Deepening skills in Adobe Creative Suite and potentially learning new design tools or techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role provides an excellent entry point for overcoming initial career challenges by offering structured learning and support within a specialized industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a time you had to balance creative vision with specific brand guidelines." (Prepare an example showcasing adaptability and brand adherence.)

• "Describe your process for researching graphic design trends in the apparel industry." (Focus on your methods for staying current.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What appeals to you about the '47 Brand's aesthetic and market position?" (Research the brand's history, core products, and target audience.)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your designs?" (Emphasize your openness to feedback and willingness to iterate.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Relevance: Prioritize projects that showcase apparel/headwear graphics, concept development, and understanding of print/embroidery applications.

• Explain Your "Why": For each project, clearly articulate the objective, your design process (research, ideation, execution), and how your design solutions met the brief.

• Showcase Versatility: If you have diverse examples, briefly explain how you adapted your style for different projects or brands.

• Be Prepared for Technical Questions: Briefly discuss the software used and any considerations for manufacturing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating creativity, a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and a genuine interest in the '47 Brand and its specific market.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP link.

• Customize Your Resume: Highlight any experience with apparel graphics, trend research, or design software. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., contributed to X number of designs).

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Ensure your online or PDF portfolio is easily accessible and showcases relevant work. Organize it logically with clear project descriptions.

• Research '47 Brand: Familiarize yourself with their product lines, target audience, brand aesthetic, and recent marketing campaigns. Understand their "brand DNA."

• Practice Your Presentation: Be ready to confidently walk through your portfolio, explaining your design process and rationale for key projects.

⚠️ 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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