Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Breakaway

Location: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing

Date Posted: April 29, 2026

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

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and execute high-impact visual content for comprehensive marketing campaigns across digital, social, email, and web platforms.

• Design compelling festival branding elements, including onsite signage and stage visuals, to enhance the fan experience.

• Create professional sponsorship decks, sales materials, and internal presentations that align with brand strategy.

• Produce engaging merchandise and promotional assets to support event initiatives and brand visibility.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with Marketing, Brand, and Operations teams to translate creative briefs into impactful visual concepts.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Graphic Designer," the responsibilities heavily lean into marketing and brand design within the entertainment and live events sector. This role requires a designer who can not only execute visually but also understand brand strategy and how design contributes to business objectives like fan engagement and sponsorship acquisition. The hybrid nature suggests a need for strong self-management and clear communication.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce compelling creative assets for marketing campaigns, including digital ads, social media graphics, email templates, and website banners.

• Develop immersive festival branding elements, encompassing onsite signage, stage visuals, experiential activations, and wayfinding.

• Craft polished sponsorship decks, sales collateral, and internal presentations to support business development and operational needs.

• Conceptualize and execute designs for merchandise, promotional items, and event-specific collateral.

• Create internal materials such as one-pagers, company presentations, and communication graphics to maintain brand consistency across all touchpoints.

• Translate creative briefs and art direction into innovative visual concepts that resonate with target audiences.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams (Marketing, Brand, Operations) to bring campaigns and ideas to fruition, ensuring alignment with overall strategic goals.

• Develop graphics, mockups, and visual frameworks that effectively communicate brand messaging across multiple channels.

• Ensure strict adherence to and consistent application of Breakaway brand guidelines across all visual outputs.

• Source, select, and integrate appropriate photography, typography, and design elements that align with brand standards and project requirements.

• Conduct thorough reviews and quality checks of designs, artwork, and final assets before delivery to stakeholders.

• Present creative work and design concepts effectively to internal stakeholders, actively incorporating feedback to refine deliverables.

• Maintain meticulous file organization, adhere to naming conventions, and implement robust version control practices for all design assets.

• Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Stay abreast of current design trends, cultural movements, and digital innovations to ensure creative output remains fresh, relevant, and competitive.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for versatility, covering a broad spectrum of design applications from digital marketing to physical event branding and internal communications. The emphasis on "high-impact creative" and translating "creative briefs into compelling visual concepts" suggests the need for a designer who can think strategically and creatively, not just execute.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, Marketing, or a related field is typically expected for this level of experience.

Experience: 4–5 years of relevant graphic design experience, with a strong preference for experience within the music, entertainment, or live events industries.

Required Skills:

• Proven ability to concept and execute designs from initial ideation through final production-ready assets.

• Expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, for professional design output.

• Solid understanding of design best practices for digital platforms (web, social media, email), print media, and experiential events.

• Demonstrated knowledge of current design trends, pop culture, and visual aesthetics relevant to a young, festival-going audience.

• Ability to balance creative vision with data-driven insights and strategic marketing objectives.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills for effective stakeholder interaction and feedback incorporation.

• Exceptional organizational skills with a keen attention to detail for managing complex projects and assets.

• Proven ability to prioritize, multitask, and meet deadlines efficiently in a dynamic, fast-paced work environment.

• A collaborative and team-oriented mindset, fostering positive working relationships and a "team-first" attitude.

• Adaptability and comfort in navigating shifting priorities and quick-turnaround project demands.

• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with Canva for quick design tasks and broader team accessibility.

• Experience with motion graphics or video editing software (e.g., After Effects, Premiere Pro) is a plus for dynamic visual content.

• Understanding of UX/UI principles for web and app design elements.

• Experience in developing brand identity systems and style guides.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of 4-5 years, coupled with the need for a strong portfolio and proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, positions this as a mid-level role. The preference for music/entertainment industry experience and a passion for festivals suggests that candidates with relevant cultural understanding will have a distinct advantage.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A robust portfolio showcasing a minimum of 4-5 years of professional graphic design work, with a focus on creative concepting and execution.

• Demonstrations of real-world applications of designs, particularly those within marketing campaigns, branding, and event promotion.

• Examples of versatility across various mediums, including digital (social, web, email) and print.

• Case studies or examples that illustrate the ability to translate creative briefs into compelling visual outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• While not explicitly required, candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process, including:

  • Workflow for concept development from brief to final asset.

  • Methods for managing feedback and revisions from multiple stakeholders.

  • File organization and version control strategies.

  • Quality assurance processes for design deliverables.

  • How they ensure brand consistency across diverse projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Graphic Designer role, the portfolio is paramount. It serves as the primary evidence of skill, creativity, and experience. Candidates should curate their portfolio to highlight projects most relevant to Breakaway's industry and the specific responsibilities outlined, emphasizing strategic thinking behind their design choices.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for a mid-level Graphic Designer with 4-5 years of experience in Charlotte, North Carolina, the estimated salary range is $65,000 - $85,000 annually. This estimate considers the cost of living in Charlotte, the specific industry (entertainment/events), and the hybrid work arrangement.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical insurance coverage.

• Dental insurance plans.

• Vision insurance coverage.

• 401(k) retirement savings plan.

• Employer matching contributions to the 401(k) plan.

• Generous Paid Vacation Plans for work-life balance.

Working Hours: The role is expected to require approximately 40 hours per week, aligning with full-time employment. The hybrid work arrangement allows for flexibility, with specific on-site days to be determined in collaboration with the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided benefits are standard for full-time roles in the US. The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for a Graphic Designer with the specified experience level and location, aiming to provide a competitive benchmark.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Entertainment & Music Festivals (Multimedia Company)

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the description of "largest independent touring music festival in North America" and spanning "13 cities" suggests a company that is established and significant in its market, likely falling into the medium to large enterprise category as it grows.

Founded: The founding date is not provided, but the company is described as "premier" and having a substantial operational footprint, indicating maturity and a proven track record in the festival space.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of a Marketing or Creative department, working closely with Marketing Managers, Brand Specialists, and potentially other designers or content creators.

• Reporting structure will likely be to a Creative Director, Art Director, or Marketing Lead.

Methodology:

• Breakaway operates with a focus on bringing "premium 2-day EDM/Pop festival experience" to underserved markets, indicating a strategic approach to market penetration and audience engagement.

• The emphasis on "data-driven and strategic thinking" in design suggests that creative decisions are informed by marketing objectives and audience insights.

• The company's operational scale (13 cities, 9 months) implies a need for efficient processes, clear communication, and robust asset management.

Company Website: https://www.breakawayfestival.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is likely fast-paced, energetic, and collaborative, given its industry. The focus on music festivals implies a dynamic environment where creativity and adaptability are highly valued. The hybrid work model suggests a trust-based culture that values results.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a mid-level Graphic Designer role, requiring 4-5 years of experience. It offers a solid foundation for a career in design, particularly within the entertainment and events sector.

Reporting Structure: The role reports into a Creative Director, Art Director, or Marketing Lead, providing opportunities to learn from experienced design and marketing professionals.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts brand perception, fan engagement, and marketing campaign effectiveness. High-quality visuals are crucial for attracting attendees, securing sponsorships, and creating a memorable festival experience. The design output directly influences how the company is perceived in the market and by its stakeholders.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deeper expertise in specific areas like digital campaign design, experiential event design, or brand identity development.

• Leadership: Potential to advance to a Senior Graphic Designer or Art Director role, leading projects and mentoring junior designers.

• Cross-functional Mobility: Transition into related roles such as Brand Manager, Marketing Designer, or Digital Marketing Specialist, leveraging design skills within a broader marketing context.

• Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to learn new design software, explore motion graphics, or gain experience in event production design.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within the creative and marketing functions of the live events industry. The hybrid nature and emphasis on collaboration also provide opportunities to develop broader business acumen.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment, combining remote work with in-office collaboration. The specific office setup in Charlotte, NC, is likely a modern workspace designed to foster collaboration and creativity.

Office Location(s): Charlotte, North Carolina, United States.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model allows for focused individual work remotely and collaborative sessions, brainstorming, and team meetings in the office.

• Access to necessary design software and technology will be provided, whether for remote or on-site work.

• Opportunities for in-person interaction with marketing, brand, and operations teams will be crucial for understanding project needs and fostering team cohesion.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week offers a balance, with flexibility typical of hybrid roles. However, the nature of festival events may require occasional extended hours or weekend work during peak periods or near event dates to meet critical deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature suggests a modern company culture that values work-life balance while still recognizing the importance of in-person collaboration for creative and strategic initiatives. Candidates should be comfortable managing their time effectively across both environments.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit resume and a strong portfolio link.

• Initial Screening: HR or hiring manager reviews applications and portfolios for essential qualifications and creative fit.

• Design Challenge/Test: Candidates may be asked to complete a small design task or case study related to hypothetical festival marketing or branding scenarios to assess their creative thinking and execution skills under timed conditions.

• Interview Rounds:

  • Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion about experience, skills, understanding of the role, and cultural fit.
  • Team/Cross-functional Interview: Meeting with potential colleagues from marketing, brand, or operations to assess collaboration style and communication.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader, focusing on strategic thinking and long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate for Relevance: Showcase projects that align with Breakaway's brand, industry (music festivals, entertainment), and the specific responsibilities outlined (digital marketing, event branding, sponsorship materials).

• Highlight Process: Include brief explanations for your design choices, the problem you were solving, and the impact of your work. Demonstrate your thinking process, not just the final output.

• Showcase Versatility: Include a range of work demonstrating proficiency in different styles and mediums (digital, print, social).

• Quality Over Quantity: Present your strongest, most relevant pieces. Ensure all work is high-resolution and professionally presented.

• Clear Navigation: Make your portfolio easy to navigate, with clear project titles and descriptions. A personal website is preferred.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brand: Thoroughly research Breakaway's existing branding, past campaigns, and target audience.

• Think Strategically: For any hypothetical challenge, consider the business objectives, target audience, and how design can best achieve them.

• Focus on Impact: Be prepared to articulate how your design solutions will drive engagement, communicate messages effectively, and align with brand guidelines.

• Time Management: Practice completing design tasks within reasonable timeframes, as you may encounter timed exercises.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and potential design challenge indicates that practical design skills and creative problem-solving are key evaluation criteria. Candidates should prepare to articulate their design process and strategic rationale.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:

  • Photoshop: Essential for image manipulation, digital asset creation, and web graphics.
  • Illustrator: Crucial for vector graphics, logos, illustrations, and print layouts.
  • InDesign: Necessary for page layout, brochures, presentations, and multi-page documents.

• Microsoft Office Suite:

  • PowerPoint: For creating and presenting internal materials and sponsorship decks.
  • Word & Excel: For supporting documentation and data integration where needed.

Analytics & Reporting: While not a primary tool for a Graphic Designer, understanding how design impacts metrics (e.g., click-through rates on digital ads, engagement on social media) is beneficial. Familiarity with analytics dashboards (e.g., Google Analytics, social media insights) to see how designs perform is a plus.

CRM & Automation: Not directly applicable to the core design tasks, but understanding how marketing assets are deployed via CRM or marketing automation platforms (e.g., email marketing tools) can provide context.

Other Potential Tools:

• Canva: Mentioned as a plus, indicating potential use for quick edits or for less complex design tasks, or by other team members.

• Figma/Sketch: Increasingly common for digital design and prototyping, though not explicitly listed, familiarity could be an advantage.

• Project Management Tools: Familiarity with tools like Asana, Trello, or Monday.com for managing design tasks and deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. The mention of Canva as a plus suggests a pragmatic approach to design tools, valuing both professional-grade software and accessibility.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A drive to produce fresh, engaging, and relevant visual content that captures the energy of music festivals.

• Brand Consistency: A commitment to maintaining a strong, unified brand identity across all touchpoints and platforms.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A willingness to work closely with diverse teams, share ideas, and contribute to a positive, supportive work environment.

• Adaptability & Agility: The ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic industry, responding effectively to shifting priorities and tight deadlines.

• Data-Informed Creativity: Balancing artistic vision with an understanding of marketing objectives and audience engagement metrics.

• Passion for the Industry: A genuine enthusiasm for music, festivals, and live entertainment, which fuels dedication and creativity.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively partnering with Marketing, Brand, and Operations teams to ensure design solutions meet business needs and strategic goals.

• Feedback-Driven Improvement: Openness to receiving and incorporating feedback from stakeholders to refine designs and achieve optimal outcomes.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining clear and consistent communication regarding project status, potential roadblocks, and creative concepts.

• Shared Vision: Working towards a common goal of creating exceptional festival experiences that resonate with fans.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values likely revolve around creativity, collaboration, and a passion for the entertainment industry. The hybrid model reinforces a culture of trust and results-orientation.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Fast-Paced Environment: The live events industry is inherently demanding, with tight deadlines and the need for rapid iteration, especially during festival seasons.

• Balancing Brand Consistency with Project Needs: Ensuring all designs adhere to brand guidelines while also meeting the unique requirements of individual campaigns, sponsorships, or event activations.

• Translating Abstract Concepts: Effectively visualizing abstract ideas or emotions related to music and festival experiences into tangible graphic designs.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Feedback: Navigating feedback from various departments, each with potentially different priorities and perspectives.

• Staying Ahead of Trends: Continuously evolving design aesthetics and digital trends to keep Breakaway's visual identity fresh and appealing to a contemporary audience.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Exposure: Gain deep insights into the music festival and live entertainment industry.

• Skill Specialization: Develop expertise in areas such as experiential design, digital campaign creative, or merchandise design.

• Portfolio Expansion: Build a strong portfolio with high-profile projects in a dynamic industry.

• Cross-functional Learning: Understand marketing, branding, and operational aspects of event management.

• Mentorship: Potential to learn from senior creative professionals within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical of creative roles in dynamic industries. The opportunities focus on leveraging the unique context of live events for professional growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach designing a visual campaign for a new EDM festival in a city where Breakaway hasn't previously operated?" (Assesses strategic thinking, market understanding, and creative concepting).

• "Describe a time you had to balance conflicting feedback from multiple stakeholders on a design project. How did you resolve it?" (Evaluates problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder management).

• "How do you ensure brand consistency across a wide range of marketing materials, from social media ads to large-scale stage visuals?" (Tests understanding of brand guidelines and application across different mediums).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you most about Breakaway's mission and the music festival industry?" (Gauges passion and cultural fit).

• "How do you stay updated on design trends and pop culture relevant to our audience?" (Probes for industry awareness and continuous learning).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each portfolio piece, briefly explain the project's goals, your role, your creative process, the challenges you faced, and the outcome or impact.

• Highlight Relevance: Emphasize projects that directly relate to festivals, music, entertainment, or large-scale marketing campaigns.

• Showcase Technical Skills: Be prepared to discuss your proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite and other relevant tools.

• Demonstrate Strategic Thinking: Explain why you made certain design choices, linking them to objectives, audience, or brand.

• Conciseness: Present your portfolio efficiently, focusing on the most impactful and relevant pieces.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating creative problem-solving, strategic thinking, a deep understanding of design principles, and a passion for the entertainment industry. Be ready to back up your portfolio pieces with clear explanations of your process and impact.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your resume and a link to your online portfolio through the provided application link.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features work relevant to music festivals, live events, marketing campaigns, and brand development. Tailor your presentation to highlight your most impactful and strategic design projects.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly articulate your 4-5 years of graphic design experience, emphasizing your proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and any relevant industry experience (music, entertainment, events). Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Designed social media assets that increased engagement by X%").

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, explaining your creative decisions, and discussing how your work contributes to business objectives. Be ready to present specific portfolio pieces and discuss your approach to a potential design challenge.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Breakaway, including their past festivals, brand identity, target audience, and company values. Understand their position in the market and how your design skills can contribute to their success.

⚠️ 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.