Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Calumet

Location: Indianapolis, Indiana, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Marketing & Creative Operations

Date Posted: February 24, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develops and executes compelling visual concepts for a wide range of marketing collateral, including advertisements, brochures, corporate reports, and digital assets, ensuring brand consistency across all Calumet Specialty products.

• Creates production-ready graphics for product illustrations, logos, packaging, and websites, translating complex information into clear, visually appealing designs and data visualizations.

• Collaborates closely with marketing managers and analysts to support strategic marketing initiatives and enhance brand communication for branded, private label, and Calumet Specialty products.

• Maintains a strong understanding of the latest design trends and their application within a commercial and industrial B2B environment.

• Manages projects from concept to completion, coordinating with external vendors like printers and art services, while ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a "Marketing & Creative Operations" category, reflecting its critical function in translating marketing strategies into tangible visual assets. The emphasis on "production-ready designs" and collaboration with "marketing managers and analysts" highlights its operational importance in delivering marketing campaigns efficiently and effectively.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Illustrate design concepts by creating rough layouts that define the arrangement, size, type styling, and overall aesthetic appeal of art and copy.

• Determine and convey the core message of each design, ensuring it resonates with target audiences and aligns with brand objectives.

• Develop and produce high-quality graphics for product illustrations, logos, packaging, and website content, maintaining visual integrity and brand standards.

• Obtain necessary approvals for design concepts by presenting rough layouts to stakeholders, incorporating feedback efficiently.

• Coordinate with external agencies, art services, and printers to ensure seamless production and delivery of design assets, managing vendor relationships.

• Collaborate with printers on material selection, including paper type and ink, to achieve optimal print quality and cost-effectiveness.

• Stay current with industry best practices and emerging design trends by attending workshops, reviewing publications, and participating in professional societies to maintain technical knowledge.

• Contribute to team objectives by completing related tasks and projects as needed, fostering a collaborative work environment.

• Meet with internal clients (marketing managers, analysts) to understand project requirements and establish a clear vision for product or design outcomes.

• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the marketing and creative team's evolving needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed emphasize a blend of creative execution and project management, typical for a mid-level designer in a corporate setting. The need to coordinate with "printers" and "outside agencies" points to a strong project execution component, vital for GTM operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 3+ years of progressive experience in professional graphic design, with a proven track record of creating impactful visual assets.

• Demonstrated experience in developing and executing design layouts, working within creative services frameworks, and utilizing desktop publishing tools effectively.

Required Skills:

• Exceptional proficiency in design and photo-editing software, specifically the Adobe Creative Suite (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Strong command of Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) for communication, documentation, and presentation needs.

• Proven ability to develop compelling visual concepts that effectively communicate messages and inspire target audiences.

• Expertise in creating production-ready designs and layouts for a variety of print and digital media.

• Skill in graphic development for product illustrations, logos, packaging, and websites.

• Ability to interpret and transform complex information into clear, visually appealing graphics and data visualizations.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior experience in the Automotive or Petroleum Industry, with a preference for understanding of mechanical repair concepts.

• Specific experience or knowledge related to lubricants and their proper applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office proficiency is standard for design roles. The preferred experience in the Automotive/Petroleum industry and lubricants suggests a focus on B2B marketing within Calumet's specific sectors, indicating the need for industry-specific visual communication understanding.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a diverse range of design projects, demonstrating proficiency in both traditional and digital design mediums.

• Examples of production-ready designs for marketing collateral, including advertisements, brochures, corporate reports, and packaging, highlighting attention to detail and brand adherence.

• Visualizations of logos and branding elements, illustrating the ability to create memorable and impactful brand identities.

• Case studies or examples of transforming complex information into clear, engaging graphics and data visualizations.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of a structured design process, from concept development and client consultation to final production and delivery.

• Examples of how design projects were managed, including timelines, approvals, and coordination with external vendors (printers, agencies).

• Documentation or case studies that illustrate how design solutions addressed specific marketing objectives or business challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a graphic design role, a strong portfolio is paramount. The emphasis here is on demonstrating not just creative output, but also the candidate's ability to follow a structured process, manage projects, and deliver results that align with business objectives, which is crucial for operations efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans designed to support employee well-being.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)) with potential company matching contributions, aiding long-term financial security.

• Paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and company holidays, promoting work-life balance.

• Opportunities for professional development, including workshops, training, and potential support for further education or certifications in design.

• Access to company-sponsored employee assistance programs (EAP) offering confidential counseling and support services.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position, typically involving a standard 40-hour work week. Specific daily hours are expected to align with core business operational needs, likely within a Monday-Friday schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical mid-level graphic designer compensation in Indianapolis, IN, factoring in the provided experience requirements and the company's industry. Benefits are standard offerings for full-time roles in a corporate environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Specialty Products Manufacturing (Chemicals, Lubricants, etc.)

Company Size: Calumet operates with a significant presence, indicated by "numerous production locations in the US" and being headquartered in Indianapolis, suggesting a medium to large enterprise. This scale implies structured processes and a need for clear, consistent brand communication.

Founded: Calumet was founded to deliver innovative specialty products, indicating a history of market presence and evolution. This suggests a stable yet dynamic environment where established brands are crucial.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will work in "close partnership with marketing managers and marketing analysts across each Calumet product segment," implying a collaborative structure within the marketing department.

• This role likely reports to a Marketing Manager or Creative Director, with potential for interaction with product segment leaders and sales teams.

Methodology:

• Design processes will likely be data-informed, with insights from marketing analysts guiding visual strategy and campaign effectiveness.

• Workflow planning will focus on project management, ensuring designs meet deadlines and production requirements efficiently.

• Automation may be leveraged for routine tasks, but creativity and strategic thinking will drive core design output.

Company Website: Calumet.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's industry (specialty products) and size suggest a need for sophisticated B2B marketing materials. The emphasis on "collaboration" and "entrepreneurship" within the company values points to a culture that encourages initiative and teamwork, which is beneficial for operational roles.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a mid-level, requiring 3+ years of experience. It's a crucial contributor position within the marketing operations function, responsible for the execution of visual brand strategies.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Marketing Manager or a Creative Lead, operating within a marketing department that supports multiple product segments. This structure allows for specialized focus while contributing to broader company objectives.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts brand perception, marketing campaign effectiveness, and sales enablement. High-quality visuals are essential for communicating product value, building trust with B2B clients, and differentiating Calumet in a competitive market. Efficient design processes ensure timely delivery of marketing assets, supporting Go-To-Market strategies.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific design areas such as packaging design, digital marketing graphics, or data visualization.

• Project Leadership: Potential to lead design aspects of larger marketing campaigns or product launches, taking on more responsibility.

• Industry Expertise: Develop specialized knowledge of the automotive, petroleum, or lubricant industries, becoming a go-to designer for these segments.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior designers or interns as the team grows.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain broader understanding of marketing operations, sales enablement, and product management by collaborating across departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth for a graphic designer in a corporate setting often involves increasing project complexity, leadership opportunities, and specialization, all of which tie into the broader operational goal of enhancing marketing effectiveness and brand presence.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Indianapolis, at the company headquarters. This suggests a professional office environment designed for collaboration and productivity, likely featuring shared workspaces, meeting rooms, and access to necessary design resources.

Office Location(s): Indianapolis, Indiana, United States. This is a key operational hub for Calumet.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be equipped with industry-standard design software and hardware, providing the tools needed for high-quality output.

• Opportunities for collaboration with marketing managers, analysts, and potentially other creative team members will be readily available, fostering a dynamic and interactive work setting.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is full-time, 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. While core hours are expected, flexibility might be available depending on project deadlines and team needs, though the "on-site" requirement suggests a consistent presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" nature of the role in a headquarters environment points to a traditional corporate setting focused on in-person collaboration and access to company resources, which is typical for roles closely integrated with core business operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and creative output.

• First Interview (Hiring Manager/HR): Discussion about your experience, design philosophy, and fit with Calumet's values and team dynamics.

• Skills Assessment/Design Challenge: Candidates may be asked to complete a design task or case study related to Calumet's products or marketing needs, demonstrating practical application of skills.

• Portfolio Review with Team: A more in-depth session where you walk through your portfolio, explaining your process, design choices, and the impact of your work.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior marketing leadership, focusing on strategic thinking, collaboration, and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase a range of skills (logo design, marketing collateral, data viz).

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the challenge, your process, your role, the solution, and the measurable impact (if possible).

• Highlight B2B Relevance: If possible, include projects that demonstrate experience with B2B marketing or industrial products.

• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Clearly articulate the tools and techniques used.

• Demonstrate Process: Explain how you collaborate with stakeholders and manage projects from brief to completion.

Challenge Preparation:

• Research Calumet: Understand their products, target markets (B2B), and existing branding.

• Analyze Competitors: Familiarize yourself with the visual communication strategies of other companies in the specialty products, automotive, or petroleum industries.

• Practice Design Thinking: Be prepared to articulate your approach to solving a design problem under time constraints, focusing on clarity and brand alignment.

• Focus on Efficiency: Demonstrate an understanding of how design supports marketing goals and can be produced efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio and the ability to articulate design process and impact are critical. The potential for a design challenge underscores the need for practical, job-relevant skills demonstration, a common operational assessment tool.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign are essential. Proficiency in After Effects or Premiere Pro for motion graphics or video editing might be a plus but not explicitly required.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Excel for data handling, Word for copy integration, PowerPoint for presentations and internal client discussions.

• Desktop Publishing Software: Beyond InDesign, familiarity with related layout and pre-press tools is beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• No direct CRM or automation tools are specified for this role, but an understanding of how design assets are managed and distributed within a marketing automation platform or DAM (Digital Asset Management) system could be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office highlights the core technical requirements. Understanding how design assets fit into broader marketing workflows (e.g., DAM systems) is a valuable operational insight for candidates.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety, Environment & Social Responsibility: Demonstrating an awareness of these values in design choices, especially for industrial products, can be a plus.

• Teamwork: Ability to collaborate effectively with marketing managers, analysts, and potentially sales teams to achieve shared goals.

• Ownership: Taking responsibility for design projects from concept to completion, ensuring quality and timely delivery.

• Passion for Customers: Designing with the end-user and B2B client needs in mind, creating communications that resonate and build relationships.

• Excellence: Striving for high-quality design output that elevates the brand and supports business objectives.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with marketing and product teams to translate technical information and business needs into compelling visuals.

• Feedback Exchange: Openness to receiving and incorporating feedback from various stakeholders to refine designs.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to a team environment by sharing design insights, trends, and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: Aligning personal work style with Calumet's stated values is crucial for cultural fit. For an operations-minded candidate, demonstrating how design contributes to customer satisfaction and business excellence is key.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Technical Information: Effectively visualizing complex specialty product information for a B2B audience requires clear communication and understanding of the product's value proposition.

• Balancing Brand Consistency with Segment Needs: Ensuring all designs adhere to overarching brand guidelines while catering to the specific marketing objectives of different product segments.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholders and Deadlines: Juggling design requests from various departments and individuals, all with competing priorities and timelines.

• Staying Current with Evolving Design Trends and Technologies: Continuously learning to maintain relevance and deliver innovative design solutions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry-Specific Design: Gaining deeper expertise in designing for the chemical, automotive, or lubricant industries.

• Advanced Design Software: Expanding skills in specialized areas of the Adobe Suite or exploring new design technologies.

• Data Visualization Training: Enhancing abilities to create impactful data-driven graphics that support marketing analytics.

• Project Management Skills: Developing capabilities to manage larger, more complex design projects and potentially lead design initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding potential challenges allows candidates to prepare their interview responses and highlight how their skills and experience can address these specific hurdles, demonstrating proactive problem-solving relevant to operational roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for taking a design brief from a marketing manager to a final, production-ready asset. How do you ensure all requirements are met?" (Focus on workflow, stakeholder management, and quality control.)

• "How do you approach designing for a B2B audience, particularly in a technical industry like specialty chemicals or lubricants?" (Highlight understanding of target audience, value proposition communication, and industry nuances.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do Calumet's values (Safety, Teamwork, Excellence, etc.) resonate with your own work ethic and approach to design?" (Research the values and prepare examples of how you embody them.)

• "How do you handle feedback on your designs, especially if it comes from multiple stakeholders with differing opinions?" (Showcase your collaboration and diplomacy skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select for Impact: Choose projects that best illustrate your skills in layout, branding, data visualization, and B2B communication.

• Contextualize Each Project: For each piece, explain the objective, your role, the challenges, your design process, and the outcome. Quantify results if possible (e.g., increased engagement, improved clarity).

• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Be ready to briefly discuss the software and techniques used.

• Demonstrate Collaboration: Explain how you worked with clients or team members.

• Enthusiasm: Convey your passion for design and your interest in contributing to Calumet's success.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing for strategy and culture questions, along with a robust portfolio presentation, is key. Framing responses around operational efficiency, stakeholder management, and business impact will resonate well for this role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the Calumet careers portal via the provided Dayforce link.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating experience with B2B marketing, technical product visualization, and brand development for industrial sectors. Ensure it’s easily accessible and professionally presented.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your 3+ years of experience, focusing on achievements related to design execution, project management, and collaboration within a corporate or B2B environment. Use keywords like "Adobe Creative Suite," "layout design," "brand consistency," and "marketing collateral."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, your approach to client collaboration, and how your work directly supports marketing and business objectives. Prepare to discuss specific projects from your portfolio in detail.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Calumet's product lines, target markets, and company values to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment during the interview process.

⚠️ 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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