Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: Godfrey Marine

Location: Elkhart, Indiana, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Marketing

Date Posted: May 01, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develops and produces a wide range of creative materials, including print collateral, digital assets, and social media graphics, to support marketing and sales initiatives.

• Manages and organizes a comprehensive digital asset library, ensuring easy access for internal teams, dealers, media, and vendors.

• Captures, edits, and produces high-quality photo and video content for various company needs, including product showcases, promotional campaigns, and event coverage.

• Collaborates with marketing teams to ensure all creative output adheres to established brand identity and guidelines, maintaining consistency across all platforms.

• Provides essential support for company events, photoshoots, and trade shows, contributing to successful execution and brand representation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is crucial for maintaining and elevating Godfrey Marine's visual brand identity across all marketing and sales channels. The emphasis on both print and digital production, coupled with photography and videography responsibilities, indicates a need for a versatile creative professional who can manage multiple facets of visual content creation and asset management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and produce major print and digital interactive assets, such as comprehensive product guides, brochures, and prospect kits, ensuring high visual appeal and informative content.

• Capture and edit high-quality photo and video assets for use in marketing campaigns, website content, social media, and internal communications.

• Create compelling promotional and advertising materials for significant company events, including dealer open houses, boat shows, consumer events, and press events.

• Manage marketing request forms efficiently, prioritizing and completing assigned tasks within established timelines to support ongoing marketing efforts.

• Distribute advertising materials to national and regional print and digital publications, coordinating with media outlets for timely placement.

• Assist in maintaining and updating website content, including creating assets for features like the "Build-A-Boat" tool and other promotional graphics.

• Film and edit various company videos, such as consumer event recaps, adventure series content, how-to guides, and detailed product walkthroughs.

• Maintain current drone certification to legally and safely operate company drones for aerial photography and videography needs.

• Ensure all brand materials meticulously align with established brand identity and guidelines, including logos, color palettes, typography, and overall visual style.

• Produce product/model videos using footage from photoshoots, integrating visual storytelling with product features.

• Monitor and maintain all electronic tools, cameras, drones, and related equipment, ensuring they are in optimal working condition.

• Manage and maintain company YouTube channels, including responding to comments, engaging with the audience, and regularly posting new video content.

• Provide comprehensive assistance during major company events, such as the annual Open House, photoshoots, training seminars, consumer events, and the Adventure Series.

• Support all marketing functions as needed, including brand/product development, marketing material creation, organization of image and video assets, inventory management of marketing materials, event support, sales promotions, digital advertising, and various administrative tasks.

• Maintain and update campus TV slides with relevant company information and promotional content.

• Supervise and guide the graphic design/marketing summer assistant, providing mentorship and task delegation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive list of responsibilities highlights a hands-on role requiring a broad skill set in graphic design, photography, videography, and asset management. The expectation to manage multiple projects, events, and even a junior assistant points towards a candidate who is highly organized, proactive, and capable of working with a degree of autonomy within the marketing department.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 1-3 years of professional experience in graphic design, with a strong portfolio showcasing print and digital design work.

Required Skills:

• Adobe Creative Suite Proficiency: Expert-level knowledge of InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator for creating sophisticated print and digital graphics.

• Video Editing Software: Strong command of Adobe Premiere Pro or similar video editing software for producing professional video content.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for general business tasks, documentation, and presentations.

• Photography & Videography: Demonstrated skill in capturing high-quality images and video footage, with an understanding of composition, lighting, and camera operation.

• Brand Guideline Adherence: Ability to strictly follow and apply established brand identity guidelines across all creative outputs.

• Project Management: Capacity to manage multiple design projects simultaneously from conception through completion, meeting deadlines.

• Layout Design: Strong understanding of layout principles for both print and digital media.

• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication abilities for collaborating with team members, vendors, and external partners.

• Organizational Skills: Superior organizational capabilities to manage digital assets, project files, and marketing materials effectively.

• Attention to Detail: Outstanding attention to detail to ensure accuracy and quality in all design work and asset management.

Preferred Skills:

• Drone Operation: Certified and experienced in operating drones for aerial photography and videography.

• Website Content Management: Familiarity with website content management systems or basic web design principles for updating web graphics.

• Social Media Graphics: Experience designing visually engaging graphics tailored for various social media platforms.

• Monday.com or Project Management Platforms: Familiarity with project management tools like Monday.com for tracking requests and project progress.

• Print Production Knowledge: Understanding of print processes, file preparation, and working with printers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for specific Adobe Creative Suite programs (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro) indicates a need for hands-on production skills rather than purely conceptual design. The mention of drone certification and familiarity with project management tools like Monday.com suggests the company values a proactive and technologically adept candidate who can handle diverse responsibilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated collection of design work demonstrating expertise in print collateral (brochures, guides) and digital assets (social media graphics, web banners).

• Case studies or examples of photo and video projects, showcasing skill in capturing and editing visual content for marketing purposes.

• Examples of how brand guidelines were applied to ensure visual consistency across different projects.

• Evidence of managing multiple projects, ideally with a brief explanation of the process and timeline involved.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase examples of workflow management, such as how marketing requests were handled from submission to completion.

• Demonstrate understanding of print production processes, including file preparation and considerations for different print methods.

• Illustrate how digital assets were organized and managed within a library or system.

• Provide examples of how brand consistency was maintained across various marketing materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a strong visual portfolio is paramount. Applicants should focus on showcasing their versatility across print, digital, photo, and video. Highlighting experience with asset management and adherence to brand guidelines will be critical. Demonstrating an understanding of project workflows and production processes will further strengthen their application.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with potential company match.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, sick leave, and paid holidays.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, workshops, and potential reimbursement for certifications (e.g., drone certification renewal).

• Employee Discounts: Potential discounts on Godfrey Marine products.

• Life Insurance: Company-provided life insurance coverage.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week, from Monday to Friday. Flexibility may be required during peak event periods or for specific project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on national averages for similar roles, adjusted for the cost of living in Elkhart, Indiana, and factoring in the specialized skills (photography, videography, drone operation) required. Benefits are standard for full-time positions in manufacturing and marine industries.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Marine Manufacturing (Boats)

Company Size: Godfrey Marine is part of a larger organization, indicating it likely operates within a mid-to-large enterprise structure. This suggests a blend of established processes and opportunities for growth within a stable company.

Founded: Founded in 1958, Godfrey Marine has a long-standing history in the marine industry, implying a culture that values experience, tradition, and potentially innovation built upon a solid foundation.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of the Marketing Department, reporting to a Marketing Manager or Director.

• This role involves collaboration with various internal departments, including Sales, Product Development, and potentially Engineering, to gather information and ensure cohesive messaging.

• The team structure may include other marketing specialists (e.g., digital marketers, content writers) with whom the designer will work closely.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Creativity: While creative, the role requires understanding how design impacts marketing goals and sales, suggesting a data-informed approach to visual communication.

• Process Optimization: The emphasis on managing requests, organizing assets, and improving workflows points to a focus on efficiency and streamlined operations within the marketing functions.

• Brand Consistency: A core methodology will be maintaining and enforcing strict brand identity standards across all creative outputs, ensuring a unified brand experience.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Godfrey Marine's long history suggests a stable work environment with established brand recognition. The role's integration into the marketing department and cross-functional collaboration needs highlight the importance of teamwork and understanding broader business objectives beyond just design creation.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is an entry-to-mid-level role within the creative and marketing operations function. It offers a strong foundation in visual content creation and asset management, serving as a stepping stone for more specialized or senior creative roles.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a Marketing Manager or Director, who oversees the broader marketing strategy and execution. This provides a clear line of management and mentorship.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts Godfrey Marine's brand perception, sales enablement, and customer engagement. High-quality visuals and effective marketing materials are critical for attracting customers, supporting the sales team, and differentiating the brand in the competitive marine industry. Their contributions are essential for translating product features into compelling visual narratives that drive interest and sales.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Graphic Designer: Progression to a senior role with increased responsibility for major campaigns, art direction, and potentially leading design projects.

• Specialization: Opportunity to specialize in areas like digital design, video production, or brand management.

• Marketing Management: With strong performance and additional business acumen, potential to move into broader marketing roles.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in new design software, video techniques, and emerging digital trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a solid career path within marketing operations for a creative professional. The emphasis on diverse responsibilities provides broad exposure, while the company's established nature offers stability. Growth potential is tied to developing a comprehensive skill set and demonstrating a strategic understanding of how design supports business objectives.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site, likely within a dedicated marketing department or creative studio space at Godfrey Marine's Elkhart, Indiana facility. This environment would foster direct collaboration and access to necessary equipment.

Office Location(s): The role is based at 4500 Middlebury Street, Elkhart, Indiana, 46516. Elkhart is known as the "Musical Instrument Capital of the World" and also has a significant presence in recreational vehicle manufacturing, indicating a strong industrial and manufacturing base.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace should facilitate interaction with marketing colleagues, sales teams, and potentially product managers to gather requirements and feedback.

• Tools & Technology: Access to high-performance computers, necessary software licenses (Adobe Creative Suite), cameras, drones, and editing equipment will be essential.

• Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, project reviews, and brainstorming sessions are expected, promoting a dynamic and interactive work atmosphere.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week (Monday-Friday) provides a structured schedule. However, flexibility may be needed to accommodate event preparations, photoshoots, or critical project deadlines, which is common in marketing and creative roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role is crucial for hands-on work with equipment, direct collaboration, and immersion in the company's brand and product environment. Elkhart's industrial setting provides context for a manufacturing-focused company culture.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of submitted resumes and portfolios to assess basic qualifications and creative output.

• First Interview (HR/Hiring Manager): Discussion of experience, skills, cultural fit, and understanding of the role's responsibilities. Expect questions about past projects and problem-solving approaches.

• Portfolio Review & Skills Assessment: A dedicated session to walk through the candidate's portfolio, discussing specific projects, design choices, and technical execution. May include a practical design or editing test.

• Final Interview: Meeting with senior marketing leadership or department heads to confirm suitability and discuss strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase your strongest and most relevant work. Prioritize pieces that demonstrate skills in print, digital, photography, and videography as required by the job description.

• Tell a Story: For each project, briefly explain the objective, your role, the challenges faced, your creative process, and the outcome or impact. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) if applicable.

• Highlight Versatility: Clearly demonstrate your proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, your photography/videography capabilities, and your ability to adhere to brand guidelines.

• Organize Logically: Group similar projects or present them chronologically. Ensure easy navigation and clear labeling of each piece.

• Include Process: Briefly touch upon your workflow for managing requests, creating assets, and collaborating with stakeholders.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Exercise: Be prepared for a timed design challenge. This might involve creating a social media graphic, editing a short video clip, or designing a small print ad based on a provided brief. Focus on meeting the brief's requirements and demonstrating your core skills efficiently.

• Asset Management Scenario: You might be asked how you would organize a large library of digital assets or manage incoming marketing requests.

• Brand Adherence: Prepare to discuss how you ensure consistency with brand guidelines, perhaps by analyzing existing company materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on evaluating the candidate's portfolio. Applicants should prepare to discuss not just the final product but also their thought process, problem-solving skills, and technical execution. A practical test is highly probable given the hands-on nature of the role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:

  • InDesign: Essential for layout and design of print materials like brochures, product guides, and prospect kits.
  • Photoshop: Crucial for image editing, manipulation, and creating digital graphics.
  • Illustrator: Necessary for vector graphics, logos, icons, and detailed illustrations.

• Adobe Premiere Pro: The primary tool for video editing, including cutting, sequencing, adding effects, and exporting final video content.

Analytics & Reporting:

• YouTube Analytics: Used to monitor performance of posted videos, engagement metrics, and audience interaction.

• Website Analytics (e.g., Google Analytics): While not a primary design tool, understanding how visual assets perform on the website can inform future design decisions.

CRM & Automation:

• Monday.com (or similar): Used for managing marketing requests, tracking project progress, and coordinating tasks within the marketing team.

• Digital Asset Management (DAM) System: While not explicitly mentioned, the requirement to organize and maintain a library of digital assets implies the use of a DAM system or a well-structured shared drive.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite, particularly InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere Pro, is non-negotiable for this role. Familiarity with project management software like Monday.com is also a key requirement for workflow management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: Valuing original ideas and fresh approaches to visual communication that stand out in the marine industry.

• Quality & Precision: A commitment to producing high-quality work with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting the craftsmanship of Godfrey Marine's products.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where team members work together to achieve common marketing goals.

• Efficiency & Effectiveness: Striving to deliver creative solutions that are not only visually appealing but also achieve specific marketing objectives and support sales.

• Brand Stewardship: A deep respect for and dedication to upholding the Godfrey Marine brand identity and ensuring consistency across all platforms.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The designer will need to collaborate closely with marketing colleagues, sales teams, and potentially product development to gather requirements, ensure accuracy, and align visual messaging with broader business strategies.

• Feedback-Driven Improvement: An open culture for providing and receiving constructive feedback on creative work to refine designs and improve outcomes.

• Proactive Communication: Encouraging clear and timely communication regarding project status, potential challenges, and creative ideas.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a blend of creative excellence and operational efficiency. The values suggest a team that is both innovative and detail-oriented, with a strong focus on brand integrity and collaborative problem-solving.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Diverse Responsibilities: Effectively managing simultaneous projects across graphic design, photography, videography, and asset organization requires strong time management and prioritization skills.

• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring that all visual output, across various mediums and for different audiences, maintains a cohesive brand identity can be demanding.

• Adapting to Evolving Trends: The creative field is constantly changing; staying current with design software updates, new visual trends, and emerging platforms (like new social media features or video formats) is an ongoing challenge.

• Meeting Tight Deadlines: In a fast-paced marketing environment, particularly around events and product launches, meeting demanding deadlines for creative deliverables can be stressful.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Adobe Creative Suite or explore new creative software.

• Photography & Videography Workshops: Skill enhancement in advanced shooting techniques, lighting, and editing.

• Drone Operation Certification/Renewal: Support for maintaining or obtaining advanced drone certifications.

• Brand Management Courses: Understanding brand strategy and how creative execution contributes to overall brand health.

• Industry Conferences: Attending marine or marketing industry events to gain insights into trends and network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge lies in the breadth of the role, requiring a versatile individual. Growth opportunities are geared towards enhancing existing skills and potentially specializing within the creative and marketing operations domain.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage multiple creative projects with competing deadlines. How did you prioritize and ensure quality?" (Assesses project management and prioritization skills).

• "How do you ensure your designs align with established brand guidelines, especially when working on diverse projects like brochures and social media posts?" (Evaluates understanding of brand stewardship and application).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Godfrey Marine and the marine industry?" (Tests interest and cultural fit).

• "How do you stay updated on the latest design trends and software advancements?" (Evaluates commitment to continuous learning).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Theme Your Presentation: If possible, group projects by type (e.g., Print, Digital, Photo/Video) or by campaign.

• Highlight Your Process: For each featured project, explain the brief, your creative thinking, technical execution, and how you achieved the desired outcome.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If any of your work led to measurable results (e.g., increased engagement on social media, successful event turnout), mention it.

• Be Ready for Critique: Anticipate questions about your design choices, color palettes, typography, and how you handled challenges. Be open to discussing alternative approaches.

• Showcase Technical Skills: Be prepared to briefly discuss the software and techniques you used for specific pieces, particularly video editing and photo manipulation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a candidate who is not only creatively skilled but also process-oriented, collaborative, and able to articulate their design decisions effectively. The portfolio presentation is a critical component of the interview process.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Godfrey Marine careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant experience in graphic design, photography, videography, and asset management. Use keywords from the job description (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Premiere Pro, brand identity, print production). Quantify achievements where possible.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio prominently features examples of print collateral, digital graphics, and photo/video work. Organize it logically and prepare a brief narrative for each piece.

• Prepare for a Skills Test: Be ready to complete a practical design or editing exercise during the interview process. Practice using your core software tools under timed conditions.

• Research Godfrey Marine: Understand their brand, product lines, and current marketing efforts. Prepare to discuss why you are a good fit for their company culture and industry.

⚠️ 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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