Artworx Lead Designer & Project Coordinator

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Artworx Lead Designer & Project Coordinator

Company: Aravaipa

Location: Phoenix, Arizona, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative Design & Operations Coordination

Date Posted: April 14, 2026

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

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead creative design initiatives for laser-engraved wooden awards and art pieces within the Artworx division.

• Act as the central point for project workflow management, ensuring efficient assignment and tracking of design tasks for the team.

• Collaborate extensively with clients and internal stakeholders to translate concepts into high-quality, manufacturable designs.

• Oversee the creation and refinement of digital models, adjusting designs to meet manufacturing specifications and price points.

• Drive the prototyping process and ensure seamless integration between design, client approval, and production readiness.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role combines core graphic design responsibilities with crucial project coordination and workflow management, indicating a need for individuals who can balance creative output with operational efficiency. The hybrid nature suggests a need for strong self-discipline and communication skills to maintain team cohesion and productivity.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Creative Design Execution: Transform conceptual ideas into detailed digital designs using industry-standard software, focusing on laser-engravable wooden products.

• Design Iteration & Refinement: Collaborate with the Artworx Production Manager and clients to incorporate feedback, revise designs, and ensure final product meets aesthetic and functional requirements.

• Client Engagement: Conduct meetings with internal Aravaipa Race Directors and external clients to clearly define project scope, understand creative needs, and manage expectations throughout the design process.

• Project Workflow Management: Serve as the primary "traffic controller" for design projects, assigning tasks to part-time designers based on their strengths, workload, and project deadlines to optimize team output.

• Prototyping & Production Liaison: Assist in bringing new design concepts through the prototype stage and conduct thorough design reviews for errors before releasing projects to production, ensuring manufacturability and quality.

• Team Communication: Facilitate weekly check-ins with the design team to monitor progress, address roadblocks, and ensure timely delivery of designs to meet production schedules.

• Quality Assurance: Review all final designs for accuracy, completeness, and adherence to manufacturing standards and company policies prior to production handover.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on individual creative contribution and team-level project oversight. The emphasis on "traffic control" and "weekly communication" points to a need for strong organizational and leadership skills within the design function.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a strong portfolio demonstrating design proficiency is paramount. Relevant coursework in Graphic Design, Industrial Design, or Digital Arts is beneficial.

Experience: 2-5 years of progressive experience in graphic design, with a focus on digital modeling and project coordination. Experience in a manufacturing or production environment, particularly with laser engraving or similar fabrication processes, is highly advantageous.

Required Skills:

• Digital Design Proficiency: Expert-level knowledge of Adobe Illustrator or equivalent vector graphics software for creating detailed designs.

• Project Coordination: Proven ability to manage multiple design projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and coordinate efforts within a team environment.

• Client Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for client consultations, feedback incorporation, and relationship building.

• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to design review, ensuring accuracy in dimensions, spelling, and visual elements before production.

• Adaptability & Problem-Solving: Ability to interpret creative direction, translate abstract concepts into tangible designs, and adjust designs based on manufacturing constraints and pricing.

• Team Collaboration: Demonstrated success in working effectively within a collaborative team, sharing ideas, and contributing to a positive work environment.

• Hybrid Work Readiness: Self-motivated and disciplined to manage workload effectively in a hybrid work setting, balancing remote and in-office responsibilities.

Preferred Skills:

• Laser Cutter Software: Familiarity with LightBurn software, specifically for wood engraving operations, is a significant advantage.

• Digital Modeling Software: Experience with 3D modeling software for complex design manipulation and visualization would be beneficial.

• Prototyping Experience: Hands-on experience with creating and testing prototypes to validate design concepts.

• Manufacturing Process Understanding: Basic understanding of material properties and manufacturing limitations for wood products.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "2-5 years" experience level suggests this role is suitable for professionals who have moved beyond entry-level design tasks and are ready to take on more responsibility in project management and client interaction. The specific mention of LightBurn highlights a key technical skill that will differentiate candidates.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Versatility: Showcase a range of designs, demonstrating ability to work with different aesthetic styles and project scopes.

• Digital Design Examples: Include examples of digital artwork created in Adobe Illustrator or similar software, highlighting precision and detail.

• Project Coordination Case Studies: Present examples of projects where you managed workflow, coordinated with team members, or acted as a central point of contact.

• Problem-Solving Demonstrations: Illustrate instances where designs were adapted to meet specific manufacturing, cost, or client requirements.

• Prototyping Samples: If possible, include images or descriptions of prototypes you have developed or contributed to.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Evidence of creating or optimizing design workflows to improve efficiency and ensure timely project completion.

• Collaboration Protocols: Examples of how you’ve structured team collaboration or client communication to facilitate smooth project progression.

• Design Review Checklists: Demonstrations of systematic approaches to reviewing designs for errors and manufacturability.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical for this role, not just for showcasing design talent but also for providing evidence of project coordination and workflow management capabilities. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their process for handling multiple projects and collaborating with diverse stakeholders.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $22 - $27 per Hour (Full-Time)

Benefits:

• Hybrid Work Model: Offers flexibility by allowing remote work for part of the week, alongside in-office collaboration.

• Creative Environment: Opportunity to work in a specialized division focused on artistic and commemorative products.

• Team Collaboration: Be part of a dedicated design and production team within a larger, established organization.

• Potential for Growth: As a lead role, there is potential for increased responsibility and influence within the Artworx division.

• Standard Benefits: (Details not provided, but typically include health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans for full-time employees).

Working Hours:

• Full-time position, with an estimated 40 hours per week.

• Hybrid arrangement requires 2-3 days per week in the Phoenix office, with the remainder of the week open to remote work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hourly pay rate of $22-$27 per hour aligns with mid-level designer and coordinator roles in areas with a moderate cost of living. The explicit mention of 40 hours/week and the hybrid requirement (2-3 days in office) provides clear expectations for the work schedule.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Sports & Outdoors (specifically Event Management and Commemorative Products)

Company Size: Aravaipa Running is a growing organization, with Artworx likely functioning as a specialized internal department or a closely integrated subsidiary. The size of the Artworx team is not specified but includes a Lead Designer, part-time designers, and a Production Manager.

Founded: Aravaipa Running has been established for some time, indicating a stable operational base for its divisions.

Team Structure:

• The Artworx division operates as a specialized creative and production unit.

• The Lead Designer & Project Coordinator will report to a Production Manager or a higher-level manager within the Artworx division.

Methodology:

• Design-Centric Approach: Emphasis on translating conceptual ideas into high-quality, tangible products.

• Client-Focused Service: Commitment to meeting client needs through effective communication and design adaptation.

• Efficiency & Deadline Adherence: Focus on managing workflow and production timelines to ensure timely delivery.

• Hybrid Collaboration: Utilizing a blend of in-office and remote work to foster both team cohesion and individual productivity.

Company Website: aravaiparunning.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The context of "Aravaipa Running" suggests a company culture that values achievement, dedication, and perhaps a passion for outdoor activities. The Artworx division's focus on celebrating accomplishments aligns with this ethos, implying a work environment that appreciates creativity and craftsmanship.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a mid-level role, suitable for individuals with 2-5 years of experience who are ready to take on lead responsibilities in design and project coordination. It's a step up from a pure designer role, requiring leadership and organizational acumen.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Designer & Project Coordinator will likely report to the Artworx Production Manager or a similar operational lead within the division. They will also manage and guide the work of part-time designers.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the quality and efficiency of product creation and client satisfaction. By ensuring timely and accurate design delivery, the Lead Designer contributes to the smooth operation of the Artworx division, directly influencing revenue through timely order fulfillment and customer retention.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Progression: Potential to advance into a full Production Manager role or a Senior Designer position within Artworx or Aravaipa.

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in laser engraving design, digital modeling, and workflow optimization.

• Process Improvement: Opportunity to lead initiatives for improving design processes, team collaboration, and client communication protocols.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain experience working with different departments within Aravaipa Running, potentially leading to broader career opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Lead" title signifies a growth path beyond individual contributor design work, emphasizing management and coordination. The role offers a blend of creative and operational development, appealing to those who want to grow in both areas.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model, requiring a mix of in-office collaboration and remote work. The office environment is likely designed to facilitate creative work and team interaction.

Office Location(s): Phoenix, Arizona. Specific office details are not provided, but candidates should anticipate a collaborative workspace.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office days will be crucial for team meetings, brainstorming sessions, client consultations, and hands-on work with production or prototyping equipment.

• Tools & Technology: Access to design software, potentially laser cutters or prototyping tools, and standard office technology.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with the Artworx design and production teams, fostering a supportive and communicative atmosphere.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time schedule (approx. 40 hours/week) with flexibility for remote days. This structure aims to balance focused individual work with essential team-based collaboration and communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid aspect is a key feature, suggesting the company values both focused, independent work and the synergy that comes from in-person collaboration. Candidates should be comfortable managing their time effectively across both settings.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess design skills, project coordination experience, and alignment with requirements.

• Design Challenge/Portfolio Review: Candidates may be asked to present their portfolio, discuss specific projects, and potentially complete a design task or case study related to laser engraving or project coordination.

• Team/Manager Interviews: Interviews with the hiring manager and potentially other team members to assess cultural fit, communication style, and problem-solving abilities.

• Final Interview: May involve a discussion about broader company vision, career aspirations, and final offer details.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Design & Coordination: Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates both your creative design capabilities (especially in vector graphics) and your project coordination experience (task management, client communication).

• Showcase Process: For each project, briefly explain your design process, the challenges faced, and how you collaborated with others or managed deadlines.

• Tailor to Laser Engraving: If possible, include projects that show an understanding of materials, depth, and precision, relevant to laser engraving. Mention any LightBurn experience.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate impact (e.g., "Reduced design turnaround time by X%", "Successfully managed Y projects concurrently").

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Task: Be prepared for a design task that might involve adapting an existing concept, creating a new design based on a brief, or solving a design constraint problem. Practice using your preferred design software under time pressure.

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions about how you would handle specific project coordination scenarios, manage a difficult client, or resolve a conflict within the design team.

• Company Research: Understand Aravaipa Running's mission and the Artworx division's role within it. Be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to their goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and potential design challenge indicates that practical skills and demonstrated experience are highly valued. Candidates should proactively prepare to showcase their ability to manage workflow and deliver quality designs.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Illustrator: Essential for vector graphics, logo design, and intricate detailing required for laser engraving.

• LightBurn Software: Highly desirable for direct operation of laser cutters, including layout, power settings, and engraving path optimization.

• Digital Modeling Software (e.g., Fusion 360, SolidWorks, Blender): Beneficial for manipulating 3D forms, adjusting designs for depth, and creating complex shapes for wooden art pieces.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly an "analytics" role, understanding how to track project progress and potentially client feedback metrics will be important.

• Project Management Tools: Familiarity with tools like Asana, Trello, or Jira for workflow visualization and task management would be advantageous.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot): Basic understanding of how client information is managed and how design requests are logged.

• Communication Platforms: Proficient use of email, Slack, Microsoft Teams, or similar for internal and external communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator is non-negotiable. LightBurn is a significant plus, indicating a specific technical need for this role. Experience with project management tools will directly support the "Project Coordinator" aspect of the job.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Craftsmanship: A strong emphasis on producing high-quality, aesthetically pleasing, and well-crafted products.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing open communication, shared responsibility, and mutual support within the design and production teams.

• Customer Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, ensuring satisfaction with the final product.

• Efficiency & Reliability: Commitment to meeting deadlines, managing workflows effectively, and delivering consistent quality.

• Adaptability: Willingness to incorporate feedback, adjust designs, and embrace new processes or technologies.

Collaboration Style:

• Hybrid Integration: A culture that blends independent work with scheduled in-office collaboration to maximize productivity and team synergy.

• Open Communication: Encouraging direct and constructive feedback between designers, production staff, and management.

• Process-Oriented: A focus on establishing and refining processes to ensure smooth project execution from concept to completion.

• Problem-Solving Together: A willingness to tackle challenges collectively, leveraging the diverse skills of the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company likely fosters a culture that balances a passion for creative output with the practical demands of production and customer service, common in businesses that produce physical goods for events or recognition.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Production Constraints: Successfully translating artistic concepts into designs that are manufacturable within cost and time limitations.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholders: Effectively coordinating design needs and feedback from internal race directors, external clients, and the production team.

• Optimizing Workflow for Part-Time Designers: Ensuring clear task delegation, consistent quality, and timely output from a team with potentially variable availability.

• Adapting to New Technologies: Staying current with design software updates and potentially new laser engraving techniques or materials.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Design Skills: Deepen expertise in vector graphics for laser engraving and potentially 3D modeling for complex designs.

• Project Management Acumen: Develop stronger skills in workflow optimization, resource allocation, and team leadership.

• Client Relationship Management: Enhance abilities in client consultation, needs assessment, and managing expectations.

• Production Process Integration: Gain a deeper understanding of manufacturing processes, material science, and quality control in a production environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents an excellent opportunity for a designer to develop project management and operational skills, making them more versatile and valuable in the GTM and operations fields.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate a complex client brief into a tangible design. What was your process, and what were the key challenges?" (Assesses design process, client management, problem-solving).

• "How would you prioritize design tasks if you had multiple urgent requests from different clients and internal teams?" (Evaluates project coordination, prioritization, and time management).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Aravaipa Artworx and the work we do?" (Assesses research, passion, and cultural fit).

• "How do you approach collaborating with team members who have different working styles or skill sets, especially in a hybrid environment?" (Explores teamwork, communication, and adaptability).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each portfolio piece, clearly state the objective, your role, the process, the tools used, the challenges, and the outcome.

• Emphasize Coordination: When discussing projects, highlight instances where you managed timelines, coordinated with others, or communicated with clients.

• Showcase Technical Skills: Be ready to discuss your proficiency with Adobe Illustrator and any experience with LightBurn or similar software.

• Quantify Impact: Use numbers where possible to demonstrate the success of your designs or your project management contributions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will likely probe for evidence of both creative talent and operational capability. Preparing specific examples that showcase your ability to manage projects and collaborate effectively is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Artworx Lead Designer & Project Coordinator position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Aravaipa BambooHR careers page.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight your experience in graphic design (especially vector-based), project coordination, client communication, and any relevant manufacturing/laser engraving experience. Showcase examples of workflow management and problem-solving.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and any knowledge of LightBurn or similar software. Use keywords from the job description such as "project coordination," "digital modeling," "workflow management," and "client communication."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, project management approach, and how you handle collaboration in a hybrid setting. Prepare specific examples for scenario-based questions.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Aravaipa Running's mission and the types of awards and art pieces Artworx produces. Understand their brand and how your creative contributions can align with it.

⚠️ 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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