Fashion Graphic Designer & CAD Artist – Juniors Apparel

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Fashion Graphic Designer & CAD Artist – Juniors Apparel Company: GOLDEN TOUCH IMPORTS INC. Location: New York, New York, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Operations Date Posted: September 10, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and execute visually compelling graphics and CADs specifically for the Juniors apparel market, aligning with current fashion trends and brand identity.
• Manage multiple design projects from concept to completion in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, demonstrating strong project management and organizational skills.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including product development, merchandising, and sales, to ensure cohesive brand messaging and product execution.
• Maintain brand consistency and accuracy through meticulous attention to detail, particularly in color matching using the Pantone system and in developing hangtag and label assets.
• Leverage proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop) to produce high-quality design assets that meet industry standards and market demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role title suggests "Graphic Designer & CAD Artist," the core responsibilities focus heavily on graphic design for the fashion market with an emphasis on Juniors apparel. The CAD (Computer-Aided Design) aspect is implied through the need for graphic execution in Adobe Illustrator, common in apparel design for creating technical flats or print placements. The role sits within the broader scope of creative operations, bridging marketing and product development.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and develop on-trend graphics tailored specifically for the Juniors fashion market, ensuring aesthetic appeal and commercial viability.
• Create and refine hangtag and label logos that accurately reflect the brand identity and enhance product presentation.
• Apply advanced knowledge of graphic design techniques, applications, and industry best practices to all creative output.
• Ensure accurate color matching and consistency across all designs using the Pantone color system, a critical element in apparel production.
• Conduct thorough research and stay current on fashion, market, and competitor trends to inform creative direction and maintain a competitive edge.
• Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks and ensuring deadlines are met from initial concept to final delivery.
• Collaborate closely with team members, including other designers, merchandisers, and product developers.
• Follow creative direction and feedback from senior team members to maintain brand standards and achieve project objectives.
• Prepare and export design files in formats suitable for various production methods, including print, digital, and apparel embellishments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for both creative flair and technical precision, essential for a role in fashion apparel design operations. The emphasis on "on-trend graphics" and "Juniors fashion market" indicates a specific niche requiring a deep understanding of youth fashion aesthetics. Managing multiple projects and collaborating cross-functionally are key operational demands.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, Fashion Design, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience: 2-5 years of proven experience in fashion graphic design, with a demonstrable focus on the Juniors apparel market.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator (AI) for vector graphics, logo design, and print preparation.
• Advanced skills in Adobe Photoshop (PS) for image manipulation, raster graphics, and digital mockups.
• Strong understanding of graphic design principles, including layout, typography, color theory, and visual hierarchy.
• Familiarity with the Pantone color system for accurate color selection and communication in apparel manufacturing.
• Excellent organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail in all aspects of design and project management.
• Ability to follow creative direction, work independently with minimal supervision, and collaborate effectively within a team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to research, interpret, and apply fashion and market trends to design concepts.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, for effective collaboration and feedback.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with CAD software or specialized apparel design software for creating technical flats or print placements.
• Knowledge of apparel production processes, including printing techniques, embroidery, and labeling.
• Experience working with private label brands for mass-market retailers.
• Understanding of e-commerce visual merchandising and digital asset creation for online platforms.
• Basic understanding of fabric types and their impact on print and design execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize core graphic design software proficiency and a specific understanding of the fashion industry, particularly the Juniors segment. The need for both independent work and team collaboration suggests a role that requires initiative and strong interpersonal skills. Familiarity with Pantone is a critical technical requirement for this industry.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a minimum of 2-3 years of professional graphic design work, with a significant emphasis on fashion graphics for the Juniors market.
• Demonstrated ability to create diverse graphic applications, including all-over prints, t-shirt graphics, embellishments, and branding elements (hangtags, labels).
• Case studies or examples that highlight the design process from concept development, trend research, and initial sketches to final execution and application on apparel.
• Visual evidence of color accuracy and proficiency in using the Pantone Matching System (PMS) in design projects.
• Examples of work that reflect an understanding of brand identity and the ability to maintain consistency across different design applications.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to clearly articulate the design process, from concept ideation and mood board creation to final artwork preparation and handoff for production.
• Documentation or examples of how feedback and revisions were incorporated into design projects, demonstrating adaptability and responsiveness to creative direction.
• Evidence of organized file management and preparation of design assets for various production requirements (e.g., print-ready files, digital assets).

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong, relevant portfolio is paramount for this role. It needs to showcase not just aesthetic skill but also a deep understanding of the fashion industry's specific design needs and processes, particularly for the Juniors market. The ability to demonstrate a structured design process and effective collaboration is key to understanding how the candidate operates within a team.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $50,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year (New York City Metro Area)

Benefits:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive coverage options to support employee well-being.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays, allowing for work-life balance.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan: With potential company match to aid in long-term financial planning.
• Hybrid Work Schedule: Offering flexibility with 4 days in the office and 1 day remote.
• Employee Discount: On company apparel products.
• Professional Development Opportunities: Access to training, workshops, and industry events to enhance skills.

Working Hours: Standard 40-hour work week, with flexibility to manage project deadlines. The hybrid schedule allows for 4 days in the office and 1 day of remote work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on industry standards for a mid-level Graphic Designer with 2-5 years of experience in New York City, considering the specified responsibilities and the company's focus on apparel manufacturing. Actual salaries can vary based on specific skills, interview performance, and internal equity. The hybrid work arrangement is a significant benefit for work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Wholesale Apparel Manufacturing & Private Label Brands. Golden Touch Imports Inc. specializes in creating trend-focused apparel for mass-market retailers, with a strong presence in children's, junior, missy, and women's wear. This industry context means a fast-paced, trend-driven environment where speed-to-market and responsiveness to retail demands are critical.

Company Size: Family-owned and operated for nearly 50 years. While the exact employee count isn't specified, being family-owned often implies a close-knit team, potentially flatter hierarchies, and a strong sense of shared mission. This can translate to opportunities for direct impact and visibility.

Founded: Nearly 50 years ago. This long history suggests stability, deep industry knowledge, and established relationships within the apparel retail sector. It also indicates a company that has successfully adapted to market changes over decades.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of a broader Creative or Design team, reporting to a Creative Director or Lead Designer.
• This team collaborates closely with Merchandising, Product Development, Production, and Sales departments.
• The structure may be less formal than in larger corporations, allowing for more direct interaction with decision-makers.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Creative: While creative, designs are informed by market trends, retailer feedback, and sales performance data to ensure commercial success.
• Agile Workflow: The fast-paced nature of fashion requires an agile approach to design, allowing for quick iterations and adaptation to new trends or retailer requests.
• Collaborative Development: Processes emphasize cross-functional collaboration to ensure designs translate effectively from concept to finished product.

Company Website: goldentouchgroup.com (inferred from domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and family-owned nature suggest a stable yet dynamic work environment. The focus on private label for mass-market retailers means the operations are geared towards high volume, trend responsiveness, and strong client relationships. Understanding this context is crucial for positioning oneself as a candidate who can contribute to these goals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level Designer. It requires independent execution of design tasks and contributes to broader creative strategies. It is a step up from an entry-level position, demanding a solid understanding of design principles, industry trends, and software proficiency.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Senior Designer, Art Director, or Creative Director. They will collaborate with teams across Merchandising, Product Development, and Sales. Understanding this reporting line helps in navigating internal communications and project workflows.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts brand perception, product appeal, and ultimately, sales performance for the Juniors apparel lines. By creating on-trend and on-brand graphics, they contribute to the commercial success of private label brands by meeting the aesthetic demands of mass-market retailers and their target consumers.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Graphic Designer/Art Director: Progression to leading design projects, mentoring junior designers, and contributing more significantly to strategic creative direction.
• Specialization: Developing expertise in specific areas like print design, branding, or digital design for fashion.
• Cross-functional Moves: Potential to move into roles within merchandising or product development, leveraging design insights for broader product strategy.
• Skill Development: Opportunities to attend industry trade shows, workshops, and online courses to stay abreast of new design techniques, software, and fashion trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a Graphic Designer in a fashion wholesale environment often involves deepening creative expertise, taking on more strategic responsibilities, and potentially moving into leadership or specialized roles within the design or merchandising functions. The emphasis on trend research and market understanding is key for career advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company operates with a hybrid work model, indicating an office presence is required for collaborative activities, while providing remote flexibility. This suggests a modern approach to workplace balance.

Office Location(s): The office is located at 500 7th Ave, New York, NY 10018, a central location in Manhattan's Garment District, known for its fashion industry hub. This proximity to other fashion businesses facilitates networking and staying connected with industry trends.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office environment likely includes shared workspaces, meeting rooms, and potentially a design studio area conducive to team collaboration and brainstorming.
• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite), potentially physical sample review areas, and common office technology.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily interaction with design colleagues, merchandisers, and product developers, fostering a dynamic and communicative work environment.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week, with the hybrid model allowing for 4 days in the office and 1 day of remote work, typically designated as Friday. This structure supports focused work and team connectivity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model and the office location in the heart of NYC's fashion district are key aspects of the work environment. The 4-day in-office requirement emphasizes the value placed on in-person collaboration and team synergy, which is common in creative roles where spontaneous idea exchange is beneficial.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio by HR or the hiring manager to assess basic qualifications and creative fit.
• Portfolio Presentation: An opportunity to present your portfolio, discuss your design process, and explain how your work aligns with the Juniors fashion market and Golden Touch's aesthetic. Be prepared to walk through 2-3 key projects in detail.
• Skills/Technical Assessment: Potential for a design test or a discussion on your proficiency with Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, color matching, and trend research methodologies.
• Manager/Team Interviews: Meetings with the Creative Director or relevant team members to assess your collaboration style, understanding of fashion trends, and cultural fit within the company.
• Final Interview: Possibly with senior leadership to discuss overall fit and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 4-6 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in fashion graphics for Juniors apparel. Ensure variety in your examples.
• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the brief, your thought process, design challenges, how you used specific tools (like Pantone), and the final outcome or impact.
• Highlight Process: Show mood boards, sketches, color palettes, and revisions to demonstrate your workflow and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrate Trend Awareness: Explicitly discuss how you researched and incorporated current fashion trends into your designs.
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate, whether digital or physical.

Challenge Preparation:

• Trend Analysis: Be ready to discuss current trends in Juniors fashion and how you would translate them into graphics.
• Color Theory: Prepare to discuss color palettes and your experience with the Pantone system.
• Software Proficiency: Be prepared for questions about your workflow in Illustrator and Photoshop, including file preparation for print.
• Brand Alignment: Think about how you would adapt your style to fit Golden Touch's brand aesthetic and the requirements of different mass-market retailers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process heavily relies on assessing your creative output through a portfolio. Candidates should prepare to articulate their design decisions, demonstrate technical proficiency, and show a clear understanding of the fashion market and the company's client base. The hybrid nature of the role suggests that communication and collaboration skills will be evaluated for both in-office and remote interactions.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Illustrator (AI): Essential for vector graphics, logo creation, print design, and preparing artwork for apparel production. Proficiency in creating clean vector lines, manipulating paths, and managing color profiles is crucial.
• Adobe Photoshop (PS): Necessary for raster image editing, creating digital mockups, photo manipulation, and preparing artwork for various applications. Expertise in layers, masks, and color correction is expected.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated, understanding how design choices impact sales or retailer feedback through reports could be beneficial. Familiarity with basic analytics dashboards might be helpful for understanding market reception.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to the core graphic design tasks, but understanding how design assets are managed and distributed within a company's systems (e.g., PDM, PLM, or digital asset management systems) could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is heavily focused on the Adobe Creative Suite. Proficiency in Illustrator and Photoshop is non-negotiable. While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with apparel-specific software for technical drawings or print placement could be a plus, indicating a broader understanding of the production lifecycle.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A drive to produce fresh, on-trend designs that capture the attention of the target demographic.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: A commitment to working effectively with colleagues across different departments to achieve shared goals.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulousness in design execution, color accuracy, and adherence to brand guidelines.
• Trend Responsiveness: A proactive approach to staying informed about fashion trends and translating them into commercially viable designs.
• Efficiency & Productivity: Ability to manage multiple projects effectively in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high-quality output.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Designers are expected to work closely with merchandising, product development, and sales teams, providing design input and incorporating feedback.
• Feedback-Driven Improvement: An open culture for receiving and giving constructive feedback to refine designs and processes.
• Shared Vision: Working towards a common goal of delivering successful apparel lines that meet retailer and consumer expectations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture likely values a blend of creative passion and operational efficiency, reflecting the demands of the wholesale apparel market. A collaborative approach is essential, as the designer's work is integrated into a larger product lifecycle.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Fast-Paced Environment: Keeping up with rapid trend cycles and tight deadlines inherent in the fashion industry.
• Balancing Creativity with Commerciality: Developing designs that are both aesthetically appealing and commercially successful for mass-market retailers.
• Managing Multiple Projects: Effectively juggling various design tasks, priorities, and stakeholder feedback simultaneously.
• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring all designs adhere to specific brand guidelines while also staying fresh and relevant.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Trend Forecasting: Opportunities to attend fashion trade shows, industry events, and utilize trend forecasting resources to deepen understanding of market dynamics.
• Software Proficiency: Potential for advanced training in Adobe Creative Suite or related design software.
• Industry Exposure: Gaining insights into the broader apparel supply chain, from design and manufacturing to retail distribution.
• Portfolio Growth: Continuously building a strong portfolio with diverse projects that showcase evolving skills and market relevance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges revolve around the dynamic nature of the fashion industry and the need for efficient execution. Growth opportunities are geared towards enhancing creative skills, expanding industry knowledge, and potentially taking on more responsibility within the design or product development process.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing graphics for a new Juniors apparel collection. How do you incorporate trends and brand identity?" (Focus on workflow, research, and brand alignment).
• "Walk me through a project in your portfolio where you had to meet tight deadlines or manage conflicting feedback. How did you handle it?" (Highlight project management, problem-solving, and collaboration).
• "How do you ensure color accuracy in your designs, especially when working with the Pantone system and preparing files for different printing methods?" (Demonstrate technical understanding and attention to detail).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Golden Touch Imports and the Juniors apparel market specifically?" (Show genuine interest and research into the company and its niche).
• "How do you stay updated on fashion trends, and how do you decide which trends are suitable for the Juniors market?" (Demonstrate proactive trend research and market insight).
• "Describe your experience working in a hybrid environment and collaborating with remote team members." (Prepare to discuss communication strategies and self-management).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project, clearly stating the objective, your role, the process, and the outcome for each.
• Key Projects: Select projects that best demonstrate your Juniors fashion graphic design skills, including print designs, logos, and any relevant CAD work.
• Narrative: For each project, tell a compelling story about your creative journey, problem-solving approach, and how you achieved the desired results.
• Technical Details: Be ready to discuss the software and techniques you used, especially your familiarity with Pantone.
• Conciseness: Be mindful of time and present your strongest work efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing both creative talent and operational readiness. Candidates need to articulate their design process, demonstrate market awareness, and highlight their ability to collaborate effectively within a hybrid, fast-paced environment. A strong, well-presented portfolio is the cornerstone of the application.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Paylocity.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your resume and portfolio are tailored to highlight your experience in fashion graphics, specifically for the Juniors market. Showcase relevant projects prominently.
• Resume Optimization: Clearly list your proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, along with any experience with the Pantone color system and fashion trend research. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Interview Preparation: Practice discussing your design process, elaborating on your portfolio pieces, and articulating how you handle collaboration and feedback in a fast-paced environment.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Golden Touch Imports' history, their client base (mass-market retailers), and current trends in Juniors fashion to demonstrate a strong understanding of their business and market.

⚠️ 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.