Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer

Company: GSP Marketing Technologies

Location: Madison, Wisconsin, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing / Administrative

Date Posted: April 24, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive visual concept development and execution across digital and print platforms, ensuring brand consistency and aesthetic excellence.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including strategy and design, to bring creative visions to life and achieve strategic marketing objectives.

• Manage the entire design production lifecycle, from initial research and conceptualization to final file preparation for printing and cutting departments.

• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to layouts, fonts, links, and resolution, ensuring high-quality output.

• Maintain meticulous organization of design files and adhere to established departmental and company standards for quality, throughput, and performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within a marketing technology company, suggesting a strong emphasis on data-driven design and the creation of visually compelling assets that directly support marketing campaigns and sales enablement. The requirement for weekend shifts and overtime indicates a dynamic, fast-paced environment common in agencies or companies with high-volume production needs.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design promotional materials that are on-brand and accurate for production, ensuring visual integrity across all assets.

• Collaborate effectively with Strategy & Design team members to conceptualize, develop, and execute creative projects from inception to completion.

• Proactively research and develop new ideas and product concepts that align with market trends and company objectives.

• Apply a structured creative process to solve design problems and present solutions for approval.

• Perform advanced image retouching, clipping, masking, and color correction on raster images to achieve desired visual outcomes.

• Analyze proof prints meticulously and identify necessary changes for optimal final output.

• Make informed suggestions to reduce costs and enhance quality and delivery timelines through efficient layout and file construction techniques.

• Troubleshoot and edit complex layouts and support files, resolving technical issues promptly.

• Ensure accurate visual color matching across diverse media types for consistent brand representation.

• Perform precise proportional math calculations for sizing, resolution, and scaling requirements.

• Conduct thorough proofreading and sign-off on final artwork before submission to print departments.

• Create impositioned files specifically tailored for printing and cutting departments, optimizing for production workflows.

• Clearly communicate technical issues and design considerations to coworkers with varying levels of expertise.

• Maintain a highly organized system for design files, strictly adhering to established procedures and guidelines.

• Follow all departmental and company standards and procedures, focusing on quality, throughput, administrative duties, and interpersonal skills.

• Perform other assigned duties as required to support team and company objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The detailed responsibilities highlight a need for end-to-end design ownership, from conceptualization to production-ready files. This goes beyond basic graphic design, requiring strong technical proficiency in print production workflows, color management, and file preparation, which are critical for a marketing technology company that likely produces physical marketing collateral or point-of-sale materials.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, or a related field is typically preferred, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience: 2-5 years of professional experience in graphic design, with a proven track record of creating impactful visual assets for both digital and print media.

Required Skills:

• Expertise in the full Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) for design and production.

• Strong foundation in graphic design principles, including typography, color theory, and layout composition.

• Proficiency in image retouching, masking, and color correction techniques.

• Ability to create and prepare print-ready files, including impositioning and understanding of print production processes.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, for effective collaboration and technical explanation.

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in all design and production tasks.

• Ability to manage a heavy, constantly changing workload and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex design and file issues (fonts, links, resolution).

• Capacity to work independently with minimal supervision and collaboratively in a team setting.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with CAD, 3D modeling software, Blender, or SketchUp for advanced visual development.

• Familiarity with file types and the implications of format conversions.

• Ability to perform proportional math for sizing and resolution adjustments.

• Skills in visual color matching across different media.

• Experience with proofreading copy and data for accuracy.

• Demonstrated ability to build effective internal and external relationships.

• Proven ability to develop creative solutions to client and internal problems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The inclusion of CAD, 3D modeling, Blender, and Sketchup as "plus" skills suggests that GSP Marketing Technologies may be involved in product design, prototyping, or creating complex visual assets that extend beyond traditional 2D graphic design. This indicates an opportunity for a designer looking to expand their technical skillset into more advanced visualization areas.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of design projects that demonstrate proficiency across digital and print media.

• Include examples of brand identity development, promotional materials, and problem-solving through design.

• Highlight projects that required meticulous file preparation, color accuracy, and adherence to production specifications.

• Present case studies that illustrate your ability to troubleshoot technical design issues and implement solutions.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of how you have documented design processes, workflows, or file management systems.

• Showcase instances where you have improved design processes for efficiency, cost savings, or quality enhancement.

• Illustrate your approach to color management and ensuring visual consistency across different output methods.

• Detail your method for troubleshooting and resolving technical file issues, including explanations of common problems and their solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the emphasis on production accuracy, print preparation, and technical troubleshooting, an ideal portfolio would feature specific examples of print-ready files, explanations of complex layout challenges overcome, and evidence of process optimization that led to tangible improvements in output quality or efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour. Based on an estimated 40-hour work week, this translates to an annual salary range of approximately $41,600 - $52,000.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage options.

• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO policy including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with company matching contributions.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, workshops, and skill enhancement.

• Employee Assistance Program: Confidential support services for personal and professional challenges.

• Potential for Overtime Pay: Compensation for weekend shifts and overtime hours worked.

Working Hours: Standard work week is 40 hours, with availability required for weekend shifts and overtime as needed to meet project demands and deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided hourly range ($20-$25) aligns with mid-level graphic designer roles in the Madison, Wisconsin area, considering the typical cost of living and market rates for creative professionals with 2-5 years of experience. Benefits listed are standard for full-time positions in the US, with specific details to be confirmed with the employer.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Marketing Technology / Retail Solutions. GSP Marketing Technologies specializes in providing innovative marketing solutions and technologies, likely to the retail sector, focusing on point-of-purchase displays, signage, and promotional materials. This industry demands creativity, speed, and precision in visual communications.

Company Size: The provided company size information is not available in the input data. However, the job posting originates from Paylocity, a common HR platform, and the description implies a structured team with established procedures, suggesting a medium to large-sized organization.

Founded: Founding date information is not available in the input data.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be part of a creative team, working closely with other Strategy & Design team members.

• There's an internal design team for collaboration and idea generation.

• The role involves collaboration with print production and cutting departments, indicating a direct line of communication and integration with manufacturing/production processes.

Methodology:

• Design work follows a structured creative process, involving research, conceptualization, and problem-solving.

• Emphasis on brand consistency and accuracy in production, suggesting a methodical approach to design execution.

• High importance placed on troubleshooting technical issues and ensuring file integrity for print and cutting.

• Adherence to established departmental and company standards and procedures for quality and performance.

Company Website: gspretail.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on marketing technology for retail implies a need for designers who understand how visuals impact consumer behavior and drive sales. The cross-functional collaboration with production departments suggests a hands-on approach where designers are involved in the physical realization of their work, not just digital assets.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Graphic Designer role is positioned as a Mid-Level position, typically requiring 2-5 years of experience. It involves significant responsibility for design execution, production accuracy, and technical problem-solving. The role requires independence in managing workload and contributing creatively, while also adhering to established processes.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Design Manager or a Creative Director within the Strategy & Design team. They will also collaborate closely with peers and production department staff.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the company's brand image, the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, and the quality of physical retail experiences. High-quality, on-brand visuals are crucial for driving sales, customer engagement, and reinforcing brand identity in the competitive retail market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop advanced expertise in specific areas such as 3D modeling, CAD, or specialized print production techniques.

• Project Leadership: Progress to leading design aspects of larger projects or campaigns, managing timelines and creative direction.

• Cross-Functional Learning: Gain deeper understanding of retail marketing technologies, production processes, and client needs.

• Senior Designer/Art Director Path: With demonstrated success and expanded skillsets, opportunities may arise for senior roles with greater creative oversight and strategic input.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "plus" skills in 3D modeling and CAD suggest a potential pathway for growth into more specialized design roles within the company, possibly involving product visualization or the design of complex retail displays. The emphasis on production accuracy also points to a career path focused on the technical aspects of design implementation.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a traditional office or studio environment within GSP Marketing Technologies' facilities. It suggests a collaborative physical workspace designed for creative teams.

Office Location(s): 5701 Manufacturers Dr, Madison, WI 53704. This location is likely in an industrial or business park area, providing access to necessary facilities for marketing technology and potentially production or distribution operations.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative environment with direct interaction with design team members and potentially other departments like strategy and production.

• Access to necessary design software and hardware, likely including the full Adobe Creative Suite.

• The workspace would support a fast-paced workflow, requiring focus amidst potential interruptions and deadlines.

• Opportunities for hands-on work with physical materials or in proximity to production processes, given the nature of the company's offerings.

Work Schedule: The primary work schedule is likely standard business hours, but the role explicitly requires availability for weekend shifts and overtime. This flexibility is essential to meet project demands and adhere to production timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and potential for weekend work suggest a hands-on, production-oriented environment where collaboration and immediate problem-solving are key. Designers can expect to be immersed in the company's workflow, working closely with colleagues who manage different stages of the marketing collateral lifecycle.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and design style.

• Skills Aptitude Test: Candidates may be required to complete an advanced skills aptitude test to evaluate proficiency in Adobe Suite and problem-solving capabilities.

• Technical/Creative Interview: Discussion with hiring manager and/or design team lead focusing on design process, technical skills, and past project experience. This may include a review of the candidate's portfolio.

• Practical Exercise/Case Study: A design challenge or case study may be given to assess problem-solving skills, creativity, and ability to meet specific project requirements within a given timeframe.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with GSP values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Production Readiness: Include examples of print-ready files, demonstrating your understanding of bleed, trim, color profiles (CMYK), and resolution requirements.

• Highlight Problem-Solving: Present case studies that detail a design challenge, your creative process, and the successful outcome, especially if it involved technical troubleshooting or production optimization.

• Demonstrate Versatility: Include a range of projects that showcase your ability to adapt your design style to different brands and media (digital, print, signage).

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, provide metrics or outcomes related to your designs (e.g., increased engagement, successful campaign launch).

• Organize Clearly: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and clearly labels each project with its objective and your role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: Carefully read and understand any design challenge brief, identifying key objectives, target audience, and constraints.

• Time Management: Practice working efficiently to complete design tasks within a set timeframe.

• Creative Strategy: Be prepared to articulate your design choices, explaining the rationale behind your creative decisions and how they address the project's goals.

• Technical Proficiency: Be ready to demonstrate your ability to execute designs using industry-standard software and prepare files for output.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "advanced skills aptitude test" and emphasis on troubleshooting suggest that the interview process will heavily scrutinize technical proficiency and problem-solving abilities, not just creative aesthetic. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their understanding of production-level design work.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Full proficiency required in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for all design and production tasks.

• Other Design Software: Experience or willingness to learn CAD, 3D modeling software (e.g., Blender, SketchUp) is a significant plus for advanced visualization needs.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Familiarity with how design assets are integrated into marketing automation platforms or CRM systems might be advantageous, though not a primary requirement for this specific role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for the "full Adobe suite" and the "plus" for 3D/CAD software indicates a technical focus. Proficiency in these tools is paramount, and candidates with experience in more advanced visualization software will have a competitive edge, suggesting GSP Marketing Technologies might be pushing the boundaries of traditional graphic design into more complex visual asset creation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Accuracy: A strong emphasis on producing high-quality, error-free work, particularly concerning brand consistency and production specifications.

• Efficiency & Throughput: A commitment to optimizing workflows and delivering work efficiently, especially given the fast-paced environment and potential for high volume.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing the ability to work effectively with internal teams, including design, strategy, and production departments.

• Problem-Solving & Innovation: Encouraging creative solutions to design and technical challenges, and a willingness to explore new ideas and approaches.

• Professionalism & Adherence to Standards: Following established procedures, maintaining professionalism in all interactions, and contributing to a positive team spirit.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Designers are expected to collaborate closely with Strategy & Design team members, as well as production departments, requiring clear communication and a shared understanding of project goals.

• Feedback Exchange: An environment where feedback is exchanged to refine designs and improve output quality.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging sharing of technical expertise and design insights among team members to foster collective growth and problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values likely lean towards a results-oriented, collaborative culture that prioritizes both creative excellence and production efficiency. Designers who can articulate how they contribute to team success and uphold company standards will be well-received.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing High-Volume Workload: Juggling multiple projects with competing deadlines in a fast-paced environment requires exceptional time management and prioritization skills.

• Technical Troubleshooting: Addressing complex file issues, color discrepancies, and production roadblocks demands strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

• Balancing Creativity with Production Constraints: Ensuring creative vision is aligned with practical production limitations and cost-effectiveness requires strategic thinking.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with design software, 3D modeling tools, and print production advancements is crucial for long-term success.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Adobe Creative Suite or learn new 3D/CAD software.

• Print Production Immersion: Gaining hands-on knowledge of printing and cutting processes, and how design impacts these stages.

• Retail Marketing Insights: Understanding the nuances of visual merchandising and point-of-purchase design within the retail sector.

• Project Management Skills: Developing skills in managing project timelines, resources, and stakeholder communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mention of "weekend work shifts & overtime as needed" points to a significant challenge in maintaining work-life balance, which candidates should consider. Growth opportunities are strongly tied to technical skill development and understanding the operational aspects of design.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for taking a design brief from concept to final production-ready files for print." (Focus on workflow, file prep, and troubleshooting).

• "How do you ensure brand consistency across multiple design assets and different media types?" (Highlight color management, brand guidelines, and attention to detail).

• "Tell me about a time you had to troubleshoot a complex design file issue. What was the problem, and how did you resolve it?" (Prepare a specific example showcasing technical skills).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about GSP Marketing Technologies and our role in the retail marketing industry?" (Research company, its products, and clients).

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment, especially during high-pressure periods?" (Highlight collaboration, communication, and problem-solving).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Showcase Technical Prowess: Select projects that demonstrate your mastery of Adobe Suite, file preparation for print, and any relevant 3D/CAD work.

• Tell the Story of Problem-Solving: For each project, explain not just the creative intent but also any technical challenges encountered and how you overcame them.

• Highlight Production-Specific Skills: Include examples that clearly show your understanding of bleed, trim, color profiles, and impositioning.

• Quantify Achievements: If possible, include data on how your designs contributed to campaign success or improved production efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expect questions that probe deeply into your technical capabilities and your ability to handle the demands of a production-focused environment. Be prepared to discuss specific software functionalities and production workflows.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the recruiting.paylocity.com platform.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience with the full Adobe Creative Suite, print production, troubleshooting technical design issues, and project management. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select diverse projects showcasing digital and print design, with a strong emphasis on production-ready files, color accuracy, and problem-solving case studies. Ensure it's easily accessible and well-organized.

• Prepare for the Skills Test: Familiarize yourself with advanced features of Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Practice file troubleshooting scenarios.

• Research GSP Marketing Technologies: Understand their market position, client base, and the types of visual solutions they provide. Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit for their specific 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.

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