Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer Company: FASTSIGNS #104201 Location: Tinley Park, IL 60477 Job Type: Full-Time Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design Date Posted: 2025-12-19 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Execute the creation of computer-generated, full-color graphics and vinyl outputs for a diverse range of visual communication products.
• Uphold and meticulously apply brand standards to ensure consistency and professional integrity across all design projects.
• Collaborate effectively within a team environment, contributing creative ideas and supporting project execution.
• Engage with customers to understand their needs and ensure complete satisfaction with the final visual solutions.
• Drive personal skill development and experience to new heights by embracing creative challenges and learning opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an entry-level graphic design position with a strong emphasis on production-oriented tasks, particularly in vinyl cutting, weeding, and application, alongside print mounting. The description highlights the need for both artistic creativity and adherence to structured brand guidelines, suggesting a balance between creative expression and practical execution within a commercial graphics environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce computer-generated full-color graphics for various applications, including signage, vehicle wraps, and building graphics.
• Prepare and output vinyl graphics, performing tasks such as cutting, weeding, and application to different substrates.
• Mount printed graphics onto various materials as required for finished products.
• Interpret customer needs and communicate design concepts to ensure project alignment and client satisfaction.
• Maintain a high standard of craftsmanship and attention to detail in all design and production work.
• Adhere strictly to established brand guidelines and design specifications for all client projects.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Contribute creative ideas and solutions to team projects and client consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of design creation and hands-on production, particularly with vinyl graphics. This suggests the role requires not only software proficiency but also practical skills in material handling and application, common in the visual communications industry.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific educational requirements are listed, a degree or certification in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, or a related field is typically expected for entry-level design roles. Experience: 0-2 years of experience in graphic design, with a focus on production or commercial design, is preferred. Experience with vinyl cutting, weeding, and application is highly advantageous.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite - Illustrator, Photoshop).
• Strong understanding of typography, color theory, and layout principles.
• Ability to create simple, clean, and eye-catching designs.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to craftsmanship.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for customer interaction and team collaboration.
• Adaptability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Passion for design and a drive for continuous learning and skill enhancement.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with vinyl cutting and weeding equipment.
• Familiarity with large-format printing processes.
• Knowledge of vehicle wrap design principles.
• Customer service experience, particularly in a client-facing design role.
• Understanding of brand standards and their application across different media.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "simple, clean, and eye-catching" designs, alongside the practical requirements of vinyl output, suggests that proficiency in vector-based design tools like Adobe Illustrator will be paramount. The "0-2 years" experience level indicates that the company is open to candidates with foundational skills and a strong willingness to learn production techniques.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of design projects demonstrating creativity and understanding of brand standards.
• Include examples of digital graphics suitable for printing and vinyl application.
• Highlight projects that required problem-solving or adaptation to specific client needs.
• Present any examples of work that involved direct client interaction or feedback incorporation.
• For candidates with production experience, include examples of vinyl work or final printed products.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to articulate their design process, from initial concept to final output.
• Be prepared to discuss how they ensure brand consistency and accuracy in their work.
• Demonstrate an understanding of file preparation for commercial printing and vinyl cutting.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role with a production component, the portfolio should emphasize foundational design skills and any practical experience. It's crucial for candidates to show they can translate creative concepts into tangible, production-ready artwork.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For Tinley Park, IL, an entry-level Graphic Designer with 0-2 years of experience typically earns between $35,000 and $48,000 annually. This range is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the Chicago metropolitan area, considering the cost of living and market demand for design and production skills.

Benefits:

• Competitive pay.
• Ongoing training opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Opportunity to see your work displayed throughout the city, offering visible impact.
• Potential for growth within the FASTSIGNS network.
• [Specific benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans are not detailed but are standard for full-time roles and should be inquired about during the interview process.]

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, consistent with a full-time position. The role operates on-site, requiring physical presence during standard business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on data from reputable job market analysis platforms for the Chicago suburban area, factoring in the entry-level experience requirement and the specific skill set mentioned. Benefits are inferred based on standard practices for full-time employment in the US.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Visual Communications / Signage and Graphics. FASTSIGNS is a prominent franchisor in the business-to-business (B2B) service industry, specializing in custom signs, graphics, and visual marketing solutions. Company Size: FASTSIGNS #104201 is a franchise location. Franchise locations typically range from small teams (3-10 employees) to medium-sized operations, depending on the volume of business and service offerings. This suggests a close-knit team environment. Founded: FASTSIGNS was founded in 1985. This indicates a well-established brand with proven business models and operational processes.

Team Structure:

• The team likely consists of a center manager, sales personnel, designers, and production staff.
• The Graphic Designer will report to a Center Manager or a Production Manager, depending on the specific structure of this independently owned franchise.
• Collaboration is key, with designers working closely with sales to understand client needs and with production to ensure designs are feasible and accurately executed.

Methodology:

• Focus on delivering high-quality visual solutions that meet client objectives and brand standards.
• Emphasis on customer satisfaction through collaborative design and efficient production.
• A balance between creative problem-solving and practical, deadline-driven execution.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: As a franchisee, the specific culture and team structure can vary. However, the FASTSIGNS brand emphasizes professionalism, customer service, and quality. The description suggests a culture that values creativity, teamwork, and a strong work ethic.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years experience). This role is foundational, providing hands-on experience in graphic design production within a commercial environment. Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Center Manager or Production Manager within the specific FASTSIGNS franchise location. This role is integrated into the daily operations of the center. Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts client satisfaction and the visual representation of businesses in the local community. High-quality designs and efficient production contribute to the center's reputation and revenue generation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become an expert in specific design software, production techniques (e.g., advanced vinyl application, large-format printing), or client industries.
• Production Expertise: Develop into a lead production artist or manager, overseeing the production workflow and quality control.
• Client Relations: Transition into a client-facing sales or project management role, leveraging design knowledge to assist customers.
• Franchise Network: Potential to move to other FASTSIGNS locations or take on broader responsibilities within the franchise system.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for this role is heavily tied to developing practical production skills and understanding the commercial applications of graphic design. The franchise model offers diverse opportunities for advancement within a structured system.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is an on-site commercial graphics production facility. This typically includes a design area with workstations and a production area with cutting machines, printers, and finishing equipment. Office Location(s): Tinley Park, IL 60477. This location is part of the greater Chicago metropolitan area, offering access to a broad client base.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative workspace where designers interact with sales and production teams.
• Access to industry-standard design software and production equipment.
• A dynamic environment with a variety of projects, from small decals to large-scale signage.
• Opportunities for hands-on learning and skill development in a production setting.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week), likely Monday through Friday, with potential for occasional weekend work during peak periods or for urgent client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment will be hands-on and production-focused. Designers must be comfortable working in a facility that may involve the noise and activity of machinery alongside creative tasks.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review and brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and interest.
• Portfolio Review: Candidates will be asked to present their design portfolio, showcasing relevant work. Be prepared to discuss your design process, creative choices, and how you approach specific types of projects.
• Skills Assessment: A practical design test or a discussion about design software proficiency and production considerations may be included.
• Team Interview: Meeting with the hiring manager and potentially other team members to assess cultural fit, collaboration skills, and enthusiasm.
• Final Decision: Offer extended based on overall assessment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate your portfolio to include 5-10 of your strongest and most relevant pieces. Prioritize work that demonstrates your ability to create clean, impactful designs and any experience with production-ready files.
• For each project, be ready to articulate the brief, your design process, any challenges you faced, and the final outcome.
• If you have production experience (vinyl cutting, print files), highlight this specifically. If not, be prepared to discuss your understanding of these processes.
• Ensure your digital portfolio is easily accessible and well-organized.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach designing a specific type of sign or graphic based on a hypothetical client brief.
• Prepare to answer questions about your understanding of brand consistency and how you ensure it.
• Think about how you would manage a tight deadline for a complex design project.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level production-focused role, the interview process will likely assess both creative potential and practical execution ability. The portfolio is key to demonstrating foundational design skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Graphic Design Software: Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop are essential; InDesign may be beneficial).
• Vinyl Cutting Software: Specific software associated with the vinyl cutters used (e.g., Roland CutStudio, Graphtec Studio).
• Plotter/Cutter Operation: Familiarity with operating and maintaining vinyl plotters.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for this role, understanding file output specifications and print requirements is crucial.

CRM & Automation:

• Basic familiarity with order management or project tracking systems within the FASTSIGNS software ecosystem might be utilized, though not explicitly stated as a requirement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator is critical for creating vector-based graphics suitable for vinyl cutting and large-format printing. Experience with specific vinyl cutter software is a significant plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Craftsmanship & Excellence: A commitment to producing high-quality work that reflects positively on the brand and the client.
• Creativity & Innovation: Encouraging new ideas and creative solutions within the framework of client needs and brand standards.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with colleagues to achieve common goals and support each other's success.
• Customer Focus: Prioritizing client satisfaction by understanding their needs and delivering exceptional service and products.
• Efficiency & Productivity: Striving for timely completion of tasks and optimizing workflows to meet demands.

Collaboration Style:

• Open communication between design, sales, and production teams to ensure project clarity and smooth execution.
• A supportive environment where team members can share knowledge and assist each other.
• Regular check-ins or brief meetings to discuss project status and address any roadblocks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to value a blend of artistic talent, practical execution, and strong interpersonal skills, reflecting the B2B service nature of the signage industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Constraints: Meeting client expectations and brand standards while still producing visually appealing designs.
• Fast-Paced Production Environment: Managing multiple projects with tight deadlines and varying requirements.
• Technical Production Skills: Developing proficiency in vinyl cutting, weeding, and application, which requires precision and patience.
• Adapting to New Technologies: Staying current with design software updates and new production equipment or techniques.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• On-the-Job Training: Hands-on experience with design software, vinyl plotters, and printing equipment.
• Skill Workshops: Potential for internal or external training on advanced design techniques or production processes.
• Industry Exposure: Working with a diverse range of clients and project types provides broad industry knowledge.
• Mentorship: Learning from experienced team members within the franchise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges revolve around the practical application of design skills in a production setting and managing the demands of a commercial graphics business. Growth will come from mastering these production aspects.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Be prepared to discuss your design process, focusing on how you translate a client's vision into a tangible design.
• Expect questions about your experience with Adobe Illustrator and how you ensure designs are "production-ready" (e.g., vector format, appropriate color modes).
• Discuss how you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your designs.
• Prepare to describe a project where you had to adhere strictly to brand guidelines.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research FASTSIGNS and understand their core business and values. Be ready to articulate why you are interested in working for a signage company.
• Think about how you contribute to a team environment and collaborate effectively.
• Prepare to discuss your understanding of "craftsmanship and excellence" in a design context.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Walk through your portfolio, explaining the context of each project, your role, the tools used, and the outcome.
• Clearly articulate any production-related aspects of your work (e.g., file preparation for print/vinyl).
• Be ready to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical design challenge for a local business.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will look for creativity, technical proficiency in design software, an understanding of production realities, and a strong work ethic. Highlighting any experience with vinyl or print production will be a significant advantage.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the FASTSIGNS #104201 career page.
• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a digital portfolio that showcases your best graphic design work, with a strong emphasis on vector graphics, clean layouts, and any experience with production-ready files for print or vinyl. If you have examples of vinyl cutting, weeding, or application, be sure to include them.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant skills such as Adobe Creative Suite proficiency, understanding of brand standards, creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and any production or customer service experience.
• Interview Preparation: Research FASTSIGNS and the signage industry. Prepare to discuss your design process, your approach to collaboration, and how you handle deadlines. Practice presenting your portfolio and be ready to answer questions about your technical skills.
• Company Culture Alignment: Consider how your personal values and work style align with the company's emphasis on craftsmanship, creativity, teamwork, and customer focus. Be prepared to articulate this alignment during the interview.

⚠️ 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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