Graphic Designer

Summit Truck Bodies
Full_timeSaint Joseph, United States

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer Company: Summit Truck Bodies (Operating as Yellow Frog Graphics) Location: St Joseph, Missouri, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design Date Posted: February 11, 2026 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • Primarily responsible for the overall layout and production design of custom vehicle graphics and wraps, ensuring high-quality products that satisfy customer expectations.
  • Develops design concepts and renderings, working collaboratively with customers to translate their vision into tangible graphic solutions.
  • Creates print-ready files that adhere to brand identity standards and utilize in-house production specifications.
  • Supports pre-production and production phases, contributing to the efficient delivery of tailored graphic applications.
  • Operates within a fast-paced production art environment, requiring meticulous attention to detail and accuracy.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input job title is "Graphic Designer," the description clearly indicates a specialization in "custom vehicle graphics and wraps" under the operating name "Yellow Frog Graphics." This role is therefore positioned within the specialized niche of large-format vehicle graphics, requiring specific skills in this area, which is crucial for operations professionals in this field to understand. The role involves direct customer interaction for design development, highlighting a GTM aspect often seen in operations roles that bridge creative services and client needs.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Design and produce large-format automotive graphics, vehicle wraps, interior graphics, and other specialized applications.
  • Translate customer requirements and brand guidelines into compelling and accurate design concepts and final artwork.
  • Create print-ready production files, ensuring proper color management (CMYK/RGB), resolution, and file formatting for large-scale printing.
  • Collaborate with customers to understand their needs, provide design mockups, and incorporate feedback throughout the design process.
  • Assist the production team with pre-production tasks, including file preparation, color correction, and output setup.
  • Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks to meet strict deadlines in a high-volume production environment.
  • Maintain brand consistency and adhere to internal design standards and workflows.
  • Support other design-related duties as assigned to ensure team success and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities have been expanded to detail the specific tasks involved in large-format vehicle graphics design, including file preparation, color management, and customer collaboration, which are critical operational aspects of a design service.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

  • While no specific degree is mandated, a strong portfolio demonstrating proficiency in graphic design principles and software is essential. Relevant certifications or coursework in graphic design, digital media, or visual communications are a plus.

Experience:

  • 2-5 years of professional graphic design experience, with a demonstrated focus on large-format graphics and vehicle wraps.
  • Proven experience in a production art environment, managing multiple projects and meeting tight deadlines.

Required Skills:

  • Expertise in the Adobe Creative Suite, with a strong emphasis on Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop.
  • Expert knowledge of vector and raster file types, understanding their applications in large-format printing.
  • Proficient in CMYK and RGB color spaces and the creation of print-ready production files.
  • Extreme attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy required for production art.
  • Ability to prioritize and manage multiple assignments simultaneously to meet deadlines effectively.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a strong focus on customer service and client interaction.
  • Strong work ethic, positive attitude, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Preferred Skills:

  • Direct experience with vehicle wrap design and large-format graphic creation.
  • Familiarity with Onyx Thrive RIP software.
  • Demonstrated professionalism and ability to interact effectively with customers over the phone and in person.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "AI Experience Level" was interpreted to "Mid-Level (2-5 years)" based on the explicit requirement for "Expertise" and the typical career progression for such specialized design roles. Preferred skills were highlighted to give candidates a competitive edge.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of design projects, with a significant emphasis on large-format graphics, vehicle wraps, and automotive-related designs.
  • Demonstrations of proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, including examples of vector illustration, photo manipulation, and layout design.
  • Case studies or project examples that illustrate the design process from concept to final production-ready file.
  • Evidence of attention to detail, accuracy in file preparation, and adherence to client specifications.
  • Examples that highlight successful customer collaboration and the ability to translate client needs into effective visual solutions.

Process Documentation:

  • While not explicitly stated as a requirement for submission, candidates are expected to articulate their design process during interviews, detailing how they approach project briefs, concept development, client feedback integration, and final file preparation for production.
  • Understanding of workflow optimization within a design and production environment, including how to manage assets and ensure efficient handover to production.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the nature of a graphic design role focused on production, a strong portfolio is paramount. This section emphasizes what a candidate should include to best represent their capabilities in large-format and vehicle graphics, aligning with operations' need for demonstrable skills and process understanding.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

  • Based on industry benchmarks for Graphic Designers with 2-5 years of experience in specialized large-format graphics in the Midwest United States, a salary range of $45,000 - $65,000 annually is estimated. This range can vary based on specific skill sets, portfolio strength, and final negotiation.

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance (Voluntary and Employer Paid)
  • Disability Insurance
  • 401(K) with company match (effective from first contribution)
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) and/or Flexible Spending Account (FSA), as applicable
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Company Paid Holidays
  • Employee Car Discount Program

Working Hours:

  • Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week. The role is on-site, implying a consistent daily schedule within business hours. The fast-paced production environment may occasionally require flexibility to meet urgent deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: A salary range was estimated using industry data for similar roles in the specified geographic region and experience level. Benefits were detailed, and working hours were clarified as on-site and standard full-time, with potential for occasional overtime due to production demands.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Manufacturing (Truck Bodies) & Commercial Services (Vehicle Graphics) Company Size: The input does not provide company size. However, the description of benefits and a structured application process suggests a medium to large organization. Yellow Frog Graphics operates as a distinct service provider, implying a specialized department or subsidiary. Founded: The input does not provide the founding date.

Team Structure:

  • The Graphic Designer will likely be part of a creative team within Yellow Frog Graphics, potentially reporting to a Design Lead or Production Manager.
  • Collaboration is expected with sales, customer service, and the production/installation teams to ensure seamless project execution from design to final application.
  • The role requires interaction with customers, indicating a customer-facing aspect within the operations of the graphics division.

Methodology:

  • Design processes are client-centric, focusing on translating customer specifications into high-quality visual products.
  • Emphasis on adhering to brand identity and using in-house standards for print-ready file creation.
  • A collaborative approach is used to integrate customer feedback and ensure satisfaction.
  • Production readiness is a key aspect, meaning designs must be technically sound for large-format printing and application.

Company Website: summitbodies.com (as per domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: Inferred company context based on the relationship between Summit Truck Bodies and Yellow Frog Graphics, and standard practices in manufacturing and specialized service divisions.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an individual contributor role at the mid-level, focusing on specialized design execution within the commercial graphics sector. It requires a strong technical skill set and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Design Manager, Production Manager, or a similar operational lead within the Yellow Frog Graphics division.

Operations Impact:

  • The Graphic Designer directly impacts the company's ability to deliver high-quality, customized visual products to clients, which is crucial for customer satisfaction and retention.
  • Effective designs contribute to the client's brand visibility and marketing efforts, indirectly supporting the sales pipeline and revenue generation for Summit Truck Bodies and Yellow Frog Graphics.
  • Efficiency in design and file preparation directly influences production timelines and the overall operational throughput of the graphics department.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced vehicle wrap design techniques, material applications, and specialized software.
  • Lead Designer/Art Director: With significant experience and demonstrated leadership, potential to move into a role overseeing design projects and mentoring junior designers.
  • Production Management: Transition into roles focused on managing the production workflow, quality control, and operational efficiency of the graphics department.
  • Client Relations/Sales Support: Leverage design expertise to assist sales teams with client consultations and custom solution presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth paths are outlined based on typical career progression for specialized design roles within a production-oriented company, focusing on both creative and operational aspects.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in an office setting, likely within a larger manufacturing or commercial facility. This environment will involve collaboration with both office-based teams (sales, customer service) and production floor personnel.

Office Location(s): St Joseph, Missouri, USA. This specific location is key for on-site work.

Workspace Context:

  • The workspace will require a robust workstation equipped with industry-standard design software and hardware (e.g., high-resolution monitors, potentially large-format plotters or printers for proofing).
  • Opportunities for interaction with the production team will be present, allowing for direct understanding of material capabilities and application constraints, which is vital for effective operational design.
  • The environment is described as fast-paced, suggesting a dynamic atmosphere where communication and quick adaptation are important.

Work Schedule:

  • On-site, full-time employment. Standard business hours are expected, but the demanding nature of production deadlines may necessitate occasional flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characterized as an on-site office role within a production context, emphasizing the need for collaboration with both creative and operational teams.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess technical skills, experience, and fit with the company's specialization in vehicle graphics.
  • Technical Interview: Discussion focused on Adobe Suite proficiency, understanding of print production, color management, and experience with large-format graphics. Candidates may be asked to walk through specific projects from their portfolio.
  • Skills Assessment/Design Challenge: A practical exercise may be given to evaluate design problem-solving abilities, speed, and accuracy under simulated production conditions. This could involve taking a brief and creating a design concept or preparing a file for output.
  • Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members and management to assess work ethic, communication style, customer service aptitude, and alignment with company values.
  • Final Offer: Based on successful completion of all previous stages, including background checks and screenings.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Highlight Relevant Work: Prioritize projects similar to vehicle wraps and large-format graphics. Showcase your ability to work with complex shapes, branding guidelines, and customer-specific requests.
  • Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Include examples that clearly show your understanding of vector vs. raster, color modes (CMYK/RGB), and file preparation for large-format printing.
  • Showcase the Process: For key projects, briefly explain your design thinking, client interaction, and problem-solving steps. This demonstrates your operational approach to design.
  • Accuracy is Key: Ensure all files in your portfolio are meticulously prepared and free of errors, reflecting the "extreme attention to detail" requirement.
  • Quantify Impact (If Possible): While difficult for design alone, if a design led to a successful client outcome or efficiency gain, mention it.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Familiarize Yourself with Large-Format: Review common vehicle wrap design principles, common pitfalls, and best practices for readability and installation.
  • Practice Adobe Suite: Be prepared to demonstrate your speed and efficiency in Illustrator and Photoshop, especially for tasks like tracing, creating outlines, and setting up bleed/trim.
  • Color Management: Understand CMYK profiles and how they differ from RGB, and be ready to explain your process for ensuring accurate color reproduction.
  • Customer Service Scenarios: Consider how you would handle design revisions or difficult client feedback professionally and constructively.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for candidates applying to this specific role, focusing on the critical elements of portfolio presentation and interview preparation relevant to specialized graphic design within an operations context.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Adobe Creative Suite: Essential expertise required, with a strong emphasis on:
    • Adobe Illustrator: For vector graphics, logo creation, and layout of large-format designs. Proficiency in path manipulation, typography, and artboard management is key.
    • Adobe Photoshop: For raster image editing, photo manipulation, and preparing textures or complex visual elements. Understanding of resolution, layers, and color correction is crucial.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • While not a primary focus for this role, understanding how design impacts production efficiency and client satisfaction could involve indirect use of reporting tools to gauge project turnaround times or client feedback trends.

CRM & Automation:

  • Experience with CRM systems might be beneficial for understanding client project history and communication logs, though direct use is unlikely. Familiarity with project management or ticketing systems used by the company could be a plus for workflow integration.
  • Onyx Thrive RIP Software (Preferred): Familiarity with Raster Image Processor (RIP) software is advantageous for understanding how designs are processed for large-format printing, including color management, tiling, and output settings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on the core design software, with a specific mention of preferred RIP software, highlighting the technical requirements for this operational role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Quality & Accuracy: A core value, emphasized by the "extreme attention to detail" requirement and the need for "print ready files." This translates to delivering flawless designs that meet precise production standards.
  • Customer Focus: The role involves direct customer interaction, highlighting a value for understanding and satisfying client needs through design.
  • Efficiency & Timeliness: The "high-paced production art environment" and requirement to "meet deadlines" underscore the importance of efficient workflows and timely project completion.
  • Collaboration: The need to "assist team with pre-production and production" and interact with customers points to a value for teamwork and cross-functional communication.
  • Professionalism: Demonstrated through customer interactions and the requirement to pass various screenings, indicating a value for integrity and professional conduct.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-Functional Integration: Designers are expected to work closely with sales (understanding client briefs) and production (ensuring designs are feasible and optimized for output).
  • Feedback-Driven: The design process includes customer interaction for concept development and revisions, indicating a culture that values and incorporates feedback.
  • Proactive Support: Willingness to "assist team with pre-production and production as needed" suggests a supportive and team-oriented approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: Values and culture are inferred from the explicit requirements and responsibilities, framing them within an operational context of quality, efficiency, and customer service.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • High-Volume Production Demands: Consistently meeting tight deadlines for multiple complex projects in a fast-paced environment.
  • Balancing Creative Vision with Technical Constraints: Designing visually appealing graphics that are also technically feasible for large-format printing and vehicle application.
  • Managing Diverse Customer Expectations: Translating varied client ideas and feedback into cohesive, on-brand designs.
  • Staying Current with Technology: Keeping up-to-date with the latest Adobe Suite features and large-format printing technologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Illustrator and Photoshop, or learn complementary design software.
  • Specialized Large-Format Certifications: Pursuing certifications in vehicle wrapping or large-format graphic production.
  • Mentorship: Learning from experienced designers or production managers within the team.
  • Exposure to New Projects: Working on a diverse range of vehicle types and graphic applications to broaden experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are directly derived from the job description's emphasis on speed, detail, and customer interaction. Growth opportunities are aligned with specialization and advancement within the graphics and operations field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe your experience designing for large-format applications, specifically vehicle wraps. What are the key considerations?" (Focus on demonstrating knowledge of material, installation, and visual impact at scale).
  • "Walk me through a complex design project from your portfolio. How did you approach the client brief, develop concepts, and prepare the final files for production?" (Highlight your process, problem-solving, and attention to detail).
  • "How do you ensure accuracy and minimize errors in your design files, especially under tight deadlines?" (Emphasize your quality control measures and meticulous approach).
  • "Imagine a client requests a design that is technically challenging or not feasible for vehicle application. How would you handle this?" (Demonstrate your communication skills, ability to offer alternatives, and customer service orientation).

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What interests you about working for Yellow Frog Graphics and Summit Truck Bodies?" (Research the company's reputation, types of projects, and integrate your skills with their needs).
  • "How do you collaborate with production teams to ensure your designs are optimized for manufacturing and installation?" (Show your understanding of the operational flow and importance of cross-functional communication).
  • "Describe your experience working in a fast-paced production art environment." (Highlight your ability to manage time, prioritize, and remain productive under pressure).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Curate for Relevance: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best showcase your skills in large-format and vehicle graphics.
  • Tell a Story: For each project, briefly explain the client's objective, your creative approach, the challenges you faced, and how you delivered a successful outcome.
  • Highlight Technical Aspects: Point out specific details in your files that demonstrate your understanding of print-ready formats, color modes, and vector/raster applications.
  • Be Prepared for Live Software Demos: If a design challenge is given, be ready to demonstrate your proficiency in Illustrator or Photoshop efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored to the specific requirements of a large-format graphic designer, focusing on technical skills, process, and customer interaction within an operational context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

  • Submit your application through the provided application link on the recruiting portal.
  • Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio is easily accessible (e.g., a link to an online portfolio) and prominently features your best work in large-format graphics and vehicle wraps. Tailor the highlighted projects to align with the company's specialization.
  • Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your expertise in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, your experience with CMYK/RGB, vector/raster files, and any specific large-format or vehicle wrap projects. Use keywords from the job description such as "large format graphics," "vehicle wraps," "print ready files," and "Adobe Suite."
  • Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, your approach to client collaboration, and how you ensure accuracy and efficiency in your work. Be ready to discuss your portfolio and potentially complete a design challenge.
  • Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Summit Truck Bodies and Yellow Frog Graphics. Understand their market, the types of vehicles they serve, and their commitment to quality and customer service. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ 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

Candidates should have expertise in the Adobe Suite, particularly Illustrator and Photoshop, and possess strong attention to detail in a fast-paced environment. Excellent communication skills and the ability to manage multiple assignments are also essential.