Graphic Designer

Catface
Full_timeAustin, United States

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer
Company: Catface
Location: Austin, Texas (Remote)
Job Type: Other
Category: Creative Operations / Marketing Operations
Date Posted: July 10, 2025
Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)
Remote Status: Remote

🚀 Role Summary

  • This role requires a versatile Graphic Designer with a strong foundation in visual identity development, focusing on merchandise packaging, digital assets, and brand consistency across various platforms.
  • The position emphasizes hands-on execution of creative concepts from ideation through to final production files, requiring a keen eye for detail and technical proficiency in print and digital design.
  • Successful candidates will collaborate closely with senior design and merchandising teams, contributing to a fast-paced, creative environment driven by internet culture and popular creator merchandise.
  • Key responsibilities include managing print production workflows, ensuring quality control for physical products, and creating engaging digital assets for e-commerce and web presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Graphic Designer," the responsibilities and required skills strongly lean into the "Operations" aspect of design, particularly in managing the production pipeline for physical merchandise and digital assets. This role bridges creative execution with operational efficiency and quality control, making it relevant for candidates with a background in creative operations or those looking to specialize in the operational side of design. The company's focus on merchandise and a popular YouTube channel suggests a need for highly organized and detail-oriented individuals who can manage multiple projects and stakeholders effectively.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with the Art Director and Senior Designers to conceptualize and produce high-quality artwork for a range of print and digital deliverables, ensuring alignment with brand guidelines and aesthetic direction.
  • Execute creative concepts from initial brief through to final production-ready files, meticulously managing all design iterations and approvals to maintain brand standards and visual integrity.
  • Design and develop merchandise packaging, demonstrating a thorough understanding of dielines, material properties, printing techniques (e.g., digital printing, die-cuts), specialty finishes, and functional product requirements.
  • Oversee and manage production design responsibilities, including reviewing vendor files, verifying technical specifications, and conducting quality control checks for all final print assets to ensure accuracy and adherence to standards.
  • Create and deliver web-optimized digital assets, such as product images, banners, and UI elements, with a focus on user experience (UX) and e-commerce best practices.
  • Ensure consistent brand application and visual continuity across all digital and physical products, paying meticulous attention to detail in color correction, retouching, and layout.
  • Facilitate effective communication and collaboration with internal teams (e.g., merchandising, marketing) and external partners (e.g., printers, manufacturers) to ensure accurate translation of design concepts into final products.
  • Stay abreast of emerging trends in graphic design, merchandising, internet culture, and creator/influencer-driven product markets to inform creative strategies and maintain a competitive edge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for a designer who can manage the end-to-end design process, with a significant emphasis on production readiness and quality assurance, particularly for physical goods. This implies a need for strong organizational skills and an understanding of manufacturing constraints, which are critical operational components within a creative field.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

  • A Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, or a related field is preferred, though equivalent practical experience will be strongly considered.

Experience:

  • A minimum of 3+ years of professional graphic design experience, with a demonstrable focus on branding, merchandise packaging, and digital/web design.
  • Proven experience in managing design projects from concept to completion, with a strong portfolio showcasing successful brand implementation and product design.

Required Skills:

  • Adobe Creative Suite Proficiency: Expert-level command of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign is mandatory for creating and preparing print and digital assets.
  • Print Production Expertise: Deep understanding of print production processes, including working with dielines, understanding various printing methods (digital printing, offset), die-cut packaging, and specialty finishes.
  • Digital Asset Creation: Proven ability to create and optimize digital assets for web and e-commerce, including graphics for websites, social media, and online advertising.
  • UI/UX Fundamentals: Working knowledge of UI/UX principles and web design, with the ability to create wireframes and user-friendly digital interfaces.
  • Visual Storytelling & Typography: Exceptional skills in visual communication, layout design, and typography to create compelling brand narratives and aesthetically pleasing designs.
  • Detail-Oriented & Organized: A meticulous approach to work, with strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and vendor specifications effectively.
  • Collaboration & Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and external partners.

Preferred Skills:

  • Kawaii/Chibi/Cute Aesthetics: Experience or a strong affinity for designing within kawaii, chibi, or generally cute aesthetic styles.
  • Creator Economy Familiarity: Understanding of merchandise design and promotional strategies relevant to YouTubers, influencers, and online creators.
  • Motion Graphics: Proficiency in Adobe After Effects for creating animated graphics or motion elements.
  • E-commerce Platforms: Familiarity with e-commerce platforms such as Shopify, including asset integration and management.
  • Illustration Skills: Basic to intermediate illustration capabilities to supplement design work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific Adobe Suite tools (especially Illustrator), print production knowledge, and digital asset optimization points towards a role that requires both creative flair and technical operational rigor. The "3+ years" requirement suggests a need for candidates who can hit the ground running with minimal supervision, particularly in production-related tasks.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • A comprehensive digital portfolio showcasing a minimum of 3-5 distinct projects that highlight expertise in branding, packaging design, and digital asset creation.
  • Each project within the portfolio should clearly demonstrate the design process, from initial concept and mood boards to final production-ready files and executed products.
  • Include examples of packaging designs with an explanation of the materials, finishes, and printing considerations.
  • Showcase digital assets created for web or e-commerce, with attention to optimization, user experience, and brand consistency.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in executing designs that align with specific brand aesthetics, particularly if showcasing work with similar "cute" or "kawaii" themes.

Process Documentation:

  • Candidates should be prepared to discuss their process for managing print production workflows, including file preparation, vendor communication, and quality control procedures.
  • Be ready to articulate your approach to ensuring brand consistency across diverse physical and digital touchpoints.
  • Explain your methodology for creating and optimizing digital assets for web performance and user engagement.
  • Ability to demonstrate understanding of how to work with dielines and prepare files for specific printing and manufacturing processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio that includes print production considerations, digital asset optimization, and brand consistency across physical and digital products indicates a need for candidates who can manage complex design workflows with operational precision. The ability to articulate process is as important as the final visual output.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

  • Based on industry standards for a mid-level Graphic Designer with 3+ years of experience in Austin, Texas, the estimated salary range is typically between $60,000 to $80,000 annually. This estimate considers the demand for skilled designers in the tech-centric Austin market and the specific skill set required for print production and digital asset management.

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Excellent Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.
  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with company contribution options.
  • Work-Life Balance: Flexible time off policy to encourage personal well-being.
  • On-site Amenities: Provided lunch, snacks, and drinks; access to an onsite fitness center.
  • Professional Development: A dedicated Learning Stipend to support continuous skill enhancement and industry knowledge acquisition.
  • Unique Perks: Opportunities for pets in the office once a month, fostering a fun and engaging work environment.

Working Hours:

  • The standard full-time working hours are expected to be approximately 40 hours per week. While the role is remote, maintaining consistent availability during core business hours for collaboration and project management is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided benefits are quite attractive and suggest a company culture that values employee well-being and professional growth. The "Learning Stipend" is particularly relevant for a design role that requires staying current with trends and software. The salary estimate is based on general market data for Austin, TX, for similar roles and experience levels.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Merchandise & Digital Entertainment, focused on YouTube creators and online content. Company Size: The provided data does not specify company size, but the mention of major retail partners (Walmart, Target, Amazon) suggests a growing and established business, likely mid-sized to large. Founded: Information on the founding date is not provided.

Team Structure:

  • The Graphic Designer will report to the Art Director and collaborate closely with Senior Designers and the Director of Merchandise.
  • Cross-functional collaboration is expected with marketing, product development, and potentially external manufacturing partners.
  • The team likely operates in a dynamic, fast-paced environment characteristic of the creator economy and merchandise production.

Methodology:

  • Design processes are expected to be collaborative, involving feedback loops with senior team members and stakeholders.
  • Emphasis on adhering to brand guidelines while also innovating and staying current with trends in internet culture and aesthetics.
  • A data-informed approach may be used, especially concerning digital asset performance and e-commerce trends.

Company Website: www.catface.me

📝 Enhancement Note: Catface operates at the intersection of digital entertainment and physical merchandise, a rapidly evolving space. The company's success with "Aphmau" indicates a strong understanding of creator-driven brands and their audience. This context implies a need for designers who are not only skilled but also adaptable and culturally aware.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level Graphic Designer. It requires a solid foundation of 3+ years of experience, indicating responsibility for executing projects with autonomy and contributing to team-wide design initiatives. Reporting Structure: The designer will report to the Art Director, working within a creative team that likely includes other designers and reports to higher-level management in merchandise and marketing. Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer plays a crucial role in translating brand identity into tangible products and digital experiences. Their work directly impacts product appeal, brand recognition, and consumer engagement, all of which are critical for revenue generation and market presence. Operational efficiency in their design and production processes directly contributes to timely product launches and cost-effective manufacturing.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas like packaging design, print production techniques, or digital UI/UX within the unique context of creator merchandise.
  • Creative Leadership: Potential to grow into a Senior Designer or Art Director role by consistently delivering high-quality work, demonstrating strong project management, and contributing to strategic design decisions.
  • Cross-functional Exposure: Gain experience working across different departments (e.g., marketing, product development), providing a broader understanding of the business operations.
  • Industry Trend Expertise: Become a specialist in the rapidly growing creator economy merchandise market, a niche with significant growth potential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth within a specialized industry. The emphasis on both creative execution and production management provides a unique skill set valuable for operations-focused creative roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The job listing indicates "Austin, Texas (Remote)," suggesting that the primary work environment is remote, with potential for occasional in-office collaboration or events if the company has a physical presence there. Office Location(s): While the role is remote, the company is associated with Austin, Texas. Specific office locations are not detailed.

Workspace Context:

  • Remote Collaboration: Expect to utilize digital collaboration tools for communication, file sharing, and project management.
  • Creative Tools Access: Will likely require a robust home workstation capable of running demanding design software like Adobe Creative Suite.
  • Team Interaction: Opportunities for virtual team meetings, critiques, and brainstorming sessions to foster creative synergy and operational alignment.

Work Schedule:

  • The role is expected to be full-time, with a standard 40-hour work week. Flexibility may be offered, but adherence to project deadlines and team availability for collaboration is essential.

📝 Enhancement Note: As a remote role, strong self-discipline, time management, and proficiency with remote collaboration tools are essential. The company's unique perks (pets in office, fitness center) suggest a positive, though potentially hybrid or intermittently in-office, culture that might be beneficial to be aware of for broader company context.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and creative fit.
  • Portfolio Review & Discussion: A deeper dive into your portfolio with the Art Director or Senior Designers, focusing on your design process, problem-solving skills, and understanding of print production and digital asset creation. Be prepared to discuss specific projects in detail.
  • Skills Assessment/Creative Challenge: Potentially a design exercise or case study to evaluate your ability to execute within brand guidelines and meet specific briefs, possibly simulating a real-world project scenario.
  • Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Interviews with team members or hiring managers to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with the company's fast-paced, creator-focused culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your skills in branding, packaging, and digital asset creation, aligning with Catface's aesthetic and product focus.
  • Showcase Process: For each project, explain the brief, your concept development, design iterations, and the final outcome. Highlight how you managed production requirements or digital optimizations.
  • Quantify Impact (if possible): If you have data on the success of your designs (e.g., improved conversion rates, positive customer feedback on packaging), include it.
  • Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize any experience with similar aesthetics (kawaii, cute) or within the creator/influencer merchandise space.
  • Production Readiness: Clearly demonstrate your understanding of print production requirements, dielines, and file preparation for manufacturing.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Understand the Brand: Familiarize yourself thoroughly with Catface, Aphmau, and MeeMeows aesthetics, tone, and target audience.
  • Practice Design Exercises: If a challenge is anticipated, practice executing design tasks under timed conditions, focusing on brand consistency and meeting specific project objectives.
  • Articulate Your Workflow: Be prepared to clearly explain your design process, decision-making rationale, and how you manage feedback and revisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus heavily on practical design skills, production understanding, and cultural fit with a creator-centric brand. A well-organized portfolio that tells a story about your process and problem-solving is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Adobe Creative Suite: Expert proficiency required in Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
  • Figma: Essential for UI/UX and web design asset creation.
  • Productivity Software: Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Jira) and cloud storage (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox) is beneficial for remote collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • While not explicitly stated for this role, understanding basic web analytics (e.g., Google Analytics) and e-commerce platform data (e.g., Shopify analytics) can be advantageous for optimizing digital asset performance.

CRM & Automation:

  • Shopify: Preferred experience with Shopify for e-commerce asset integration and understanding.
  • CRM Tools: General familiarity with CRM systems might be helpful for understanding how design assets integrate with customer-facing platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements are centered around the Adobe Creative Suite and Figma. Experience with e-commerce platforms like Shopify is a significant plus, indicating a need for designers who understand the commercial application of their work.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Creativity & Innovation: A passion for generating fresh ideas that resonate with the target audience and push creative boundaries within brand guidelines.
  • Detail-Oriented Excellence: A commitment to accuracy, quality, and meticulous execution in all design and production tasks.
  • Collaboration & Communication: Valuing teamwork, open communication, and constructive feedback to achieve collective goals.
  • Adaptability & Trend Awareness: Staying agile and informed about evolving design trends, internet culture, and the creator economy landscape.
  • Efficiency & Reliability: Delivering high-quality work on time and managing projects effectively to meet business objectives.

Collaboration Style:

  • Expect a highly collaborative environment where ideas are shared freely, and feedback is an integral part of the design process.
  • Cross-functional teamwork is essential, requiring clear communication and the ability to translate design concepts for different stakeholders.
  • A proactive approach to problem-solving and a willingness to contribute to a positive and productive team dynamic are highly valued.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on a popular YouTube channel and merchandise suggests a culture that is energetic, trend-conscious, and community-oriented. Designers who can thrive in such an environment, balancing creative output with operational demands, will be most successful.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring a cohesive visual identity across a wide range of merchandise and digital platforms while catering to a diverse audience.
  • Balancing Creative Vision with Production Constraints: Translating innovative design concepts into manufacturable products that meet technical and cost requirements.
  • Pace of Trends: Keeping up with the fast-moving trends in internet culture, social media, and aesthetic preferences to ensure content remains relevant.
  • Remote Collaboration Management: Effectively communicating and collaborating with team members and stakeholders in a remote setting, ensuring alignment and efficiency.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Specialized Design Training: Access to a Learning Stipend can be used for courses or workshops in advanced packaging design, specific print techniques, UI/UX, or motion graphics.
  • Industry Immersion: Gaining deep insights into the creator economy and merchandise licensing business models.
  • Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced Art Directors and Senior Designers, honing both creative and operational design skills.
  • Portfolio Expansion: Building a strong portfolio with diverse projects for a highly visible brand in a popular market.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a unique opportunity to develop specialized skills in a niche but growing industry. Overcoming the challenges will lead to significant professional development and career advancement potential.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • Brand Interpretation: "How would you adapt your design process to capture the 'kawaii/chibi/cute' aesthetic for a new merchandise line, and what specific tools or techniques would you use?" (Focus on demonstrating understanding of the brand's visual language and your creative approach.)
  • Print Production Scenario: "Describe a time you encountered a challenge with print production for packaging. How did you troubleshoot it, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a specific example showcasing your problem-solving skills and knowledge of print processes.)
  • Digital Asset Workflow: "Walk us through your process for creating and optimizing product images for an e-commerce website. What key factors do you consider?" (Detail your understanding of web standards, file types, and performance optimization.)
  • Collaboration Experience: "How do you approach collaborating with cross-functional teams, such as merchandising or marketing, to ensure design projects meet business objectives?" (Highlight your communication and stakeholder management skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What interests you most about Catface and the creator economy space?" (Research the company, its brands, and its audience thoroughly.)
  • "How do you stay current with design trends, particularly those relevant to internet culture and popular aesthetics?" (Showcase your passion for staying informed and adaptable.)
  • "Describe your ideal team environment and how you contribute to a collaborative workspace." (Align your response with the company's likely fast-paced and creative culture.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Storytelling: For each selected project, frame it as a narrative: the challenge, your solution, and the results. Emphasize your role and decision-making process.
  • Highlight Production Skills: Explicitly point out examples of packaging dielines, print finish considerations, and digital asset optimization techniques used in your work.
  • Showcase Versatility: Present a range of work that demonstrates your ability to handle different project types and styles, while maintaining overall brand cohesion.
  • Be Prepared for Technical Questions: Anticipate questions about software proficiency, file management, and design principles relevant to print and digital media.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of creative talent, technical production knowledge, and an understanding of the unique market Catface operates within. Highlighting process and problem-solving will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

  • Submit your application through the provided link on the Catface BambooHR careers portal.
  • Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating expertise in branding, packaging design (including dielines and print considerations), and digital asset creation for web and e-commerce. Ensure it reflects an understanding of fast-paced production environments.
  • Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly list your proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Figma) and any experience with print production processes or creator merchandise. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Designed packaging for X product lines," "Optimized web assets leading to Y improvement").
  • Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, especially concerning print production workflows and digital asset optimization. Prepare specific examples of how you've managed projects from concept to final delivery, and be ready to discuss your understanding of the Catface brand and its audience.
  • Company Research: Thoroughly research Catface, the "Aphmau" YouTube channel, and the "MeeMeows" merchandise. Understand their target audience, aesthetic, and market position to better articulate your interest and how your skills align with their operational and creative needs.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

The ideal candidate should have at least 3+ years of graphic design experience, particularly in branding, packaging, and web design. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and a strong understanding of print production techniques are essential.