Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer
Company: The Hangout
Location: Gulf Shores, AL, US
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Marketing & Creative Operations
Date Posted: 2026-02-16T21:42:00
Experience Level: Entry-Level to Junior (0-2 years)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is centered on executing visual design strategies to enhance brand presence across both print and digital channels, ensuring alignment with marketing objectives.
• The Graphic Designer will be instrumental in creating engaging content for a variety of assets, from advertisements and signage to social media graphics and menu updates.
• A unique aspect of this position is the dedicated "Special Projects" day each week, fostering creative innovation, skill development, and exploration of new technologies like AI in design.
• The position requires strong collaboration with marketing, operations, and product teams to deliver visually compelling solutions that support business goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Special Projects" day suggests a company culture that values innovation and continuous learning within its creative team, offering a unique opportunity for professional development beyond standard design tasks. The "0-2 years" experience level indicates this is an entry-level or junior role, likely suitable for recent graduates or those with limited professional design experience.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute high-quality visual designs for a diverse range of assets, including advertisements, flyers, posters, banners, signage, merchandise, and presentations.
• Create and update menu designs, ensuring seasonal changes and promotional inserts are incorporated effectively and align with brand aesthetics.
• Design and schedule engaging social media graphics to drive audience interaction and brand awareness across various platforms.
• Collaborate with the content team to produce visually appealing assets for online campaigns, promotions, and special events.
• Assist in video creation and editing, including the development of motion graphics, reels, and stories to enhance digital storytelling.
• Dedicate time each Wednesday to "Special Projects," focusing on creative innovation, exploring new design trends, skill enhancement, and AI-driven tools.
• Maintain consistent brand identity across all visual output, adhering strictly to brand guidelines regarding tone, color, typography, and messaging.
• Work closely with marketing, operations, and product teams to understand project requirements and deliver design solutions that meet strategic objectives.
• Participate actively in creative brainstorming sessions, campaign planning, and strategy discussions to contribute innovative design ideas.
• Share design knowledge and best practices through cross-training and informal teaching sessions, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The detailed breakdown of responsibilities highlights a role that requires both strong execution skills for day-to-day design needs and a proactive, innovative mindset for special projects and skill development. The emphasis on collaboration and knowledge sharing points to a team-oriented environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, Communications, or a related field is typically expected for this level of role. Candidates with equivalent practical experience and a strong portfolio will also be considered.

Experience: 0-2 years of professional graphic design experience, with a demonstrated ability to produce high-quality work across print and digital media. Internships and significant academic projects may be considered.

Required Skills:

• A strong and diverse portfolio showcasing a range of graphic design work across print and digital formats.
• Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
• Familiarity with modern design tools such as Canva, Figma, or similar platforms.
• Understanding of current design trends, digital platforms, and fundamental branding principles.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• A collaborative and proactive "can-do" attitude.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in video editing and motion graphics, including the use of Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects.
• Familiarity or a keen interest in AI tools and automation within the creative process.
• Experience with menu design or other hospitality-related design collateral.
• Basic understanding of marketing campaign principles and content strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The preference for video editing and AI tool familiarity suggests the company is looking to evolve its digital content strategy and leverage technology for efficiency and innovation.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive digital portfolio is essential, showcasing a variety of design projects that demonstrate creativity, technical skill, and an understanding of branding.
• Projects should span both print (e.g., advertisements, flyers, signage) and digital (e.g., social media graphics, web banners) mediums.
• Include case studies or brief explanations for key projects, detailing the problem, your creative process, and the outcome or impact.
• Showcase your ability to maintain brand consistency across different assets and platforms.

Process Documentation:

• While formal process documentation is not explicitly mentioned for this role, candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal design workflow and project management approach.
• Be ready to articulate how you manage feedback, iterate on designs, and ensure projects are delivered on time and to specification.
• Demonstrate an understanding of how design processes integrate with marketing and content creation workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the portfolio is the primary indicator of process capability. Highlighting the ability to follow brand guidelines and manage project timelines will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Graphic Designers with 0-2 years of experience in the Gulf Shores, AL area, the estimated salary range is $38,000 - $50,000 annually. This estimate considers the cost of living in the region and the entry-level nature of the role.

Benefits:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for employee well-being.
• Paid Time Off: Including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.
• Retirement Savings Plan: Such as a 401(k) with potential company match.
• Employee Discounts: On company products/services or at affiliated venues.
• Professional Development Opportunities: Including access to training, workshops, and potentially covering costs for courses related to AI and design tools.
• Dedicated "Special Projects" Time: A unique benefit allowing for creative exploration and skill development.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday. While the core hours are standard, flexibility may be available depending on project needs and team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on available market data for similar roles and locations. Actual compensation will be determined by the hiring organization. The inclusion of professional development and "Special Projects" time as benefits highlights the company's investment in employee growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Hospitality & Entertainment (The Hangout is a well-known entertainment and dining venue). This industry often demands vibrant, engaging, and constantly updated visual content to attract and retain customers.

Company Size: The Hangout is likely a medium to large-sized organization given its prominent presence and diverse offerings. This implies a structured environment with established departments and processes, but also potential for cross-functional interaction.

Founded: While the exact founding date isn't provided, The Hangout has a history as a popular destination, suggesting a stable company with established brand recognition and a culture that likely values customer experience and lively atmosphere.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will likely be part of a Marketing or Creative team.
• This team will collaborate closely with other departments such as Operations, Sales, and potentially Events.
• Reporting lines will likely be to a Marketing Manager or Creative Director, with direct collaboration with content creators and marketing specialists.
• The emphasis on collaboration suggests a team that works together to achieve common goals, sharing responsibilities and supporting one another.

Methodology:

• The company likely employs a mix of traditional marketing strategies and modern digital engagement tactics.
• Design work will need to be adaptable to various platforms and customer touchpoints.
• The "Special Projects" day indicates a methodology that encourages experimentation and forward-thinking, integrating new technologies and creative exploration into the workflow.
• Data-driven insights from marketing campaigns will likely inform design decisions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding The Hangout's position as a vibrant entertainment venue in the hospitality industry is crucial for a designer. The visual style should reflect fun, energetic experiences. The "Special Projects" day is a strong indicator of a progressive company culture.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level to junior Graphic Designer position. It is designed for individuals beginning their careers in graphic design, focusing on foundational skills and executing designs under guidance.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report to a Marketing Manager or Creative Director. They will work closely with other members of the marketing and creative team, as well as stakeholders from operations and product departments.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's impact is measured through the effectiveness of visual communications in driving customer engagement, brand recognition, and supporting marketing and sales initiatives. High-quality, on-brand designs contribute directly to customer perception and appeal, influencing foot traffic and sales for a venue like The Hangout.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas like motion graphics, UI/UX design, or digital marketing design.
• Leadership Potential: As experience grows, potential to take on lead roles on design projects, mentor junior designers, or specialize in brand management.
• Industry Exposure: Gaining experience in the fast-paced hospitality and entertainment sector provides unique insights and portfolio pieces.
• Technology Adoption: Opportunities to become proficient in emerging design tools, including AI-powered creative technologies, positioning the candidate for future roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for this role likely involves becoming a more senior designer within The Hangout or leveraging the acquired experience and specialized skills to move into related creative or marketing roles elsewhere.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, implying the Graphic Designer will work from The Hangout's corporate office or a designated creative workspace within the venue's premises.

Office Location(s): Gulf Shores, AL. This location is known for its tourist appeal, suggesting a dynamic and potentially lively work environment influenced by seasonal activity.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is likely collaborative, with opportunities to interact with marketing colleagues and potentially other teams within the organization.
• Access to necessary design software and hardware will be provided.
• The environment may be fast-paced, especially during peak seasons or before major events.
• Opportunities for inspiration may come from the venue itself and its vibrant atmosphere.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week, likely with some flexibility required during critical project phases or for events. The dedicated "Special Projects" day offers a structured approach to creative exploration within the work week.

📝 Enhancement Note: Working on-site at a popular venue like The Hangout offers unique environmental and collaborative opportunities, distinct from a remote or purely corporate setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio. Be prepared to highlight your most relevant design projects and your proficiency with the required software.
• First Interview: Likely with the hiring manager or a senior member of the marketing/creative team. Focus on your design philosophy, experience, and understanding of brand consistency. Discuss your portfolio pieces in detail.
• Skills Assessment/Design Challenge: You may be asked to complete a short design task or a more involved creative challenge related to The Hangout's brand or a specific marketing need. This will assess your practical skills, problem-solving abilities, and speed.
• Final Interview: Potentially with higher-level management. This interview will focus on cultural fit, long-term career aspirations, and how you can contribute to the company's broader goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Wisely: Select 5-8 of your strongest, most relevant projects. Ensure a good mix of print and digital work, and highlight any experience with video or motion graphics if applicable.
• Tell a Story: For each project, briefly explain the objective, your role, your creative process, the tools used, and the outcome. Quantify results where possible (e.g., "increased engagement by X%").
• Brand Alignment: Showcase your ability to adhere to and adapt existing brand guidelines, as well as your creativity in developing new visual concepts.
• Technical Proficiency: Ensure your portfolio demonstrates mastery of Adobe Creative Suite and familiarity with other relevant tools.
• Professional Presentation: Organize your portfolio digitally (e.g., PDF, personal website) in a clean, easy-to-navigate format.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brand: Thoroughly research The Hangout's current branding, marketing campaigns, and target audience.
• Practice with Tools: Brush up on your skills in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. If video or motion graphics are preferred skills, practice with Premiere Pro and After Effects.
• Think Strategically: For any design challenge, consider the business objectives behind the creative request. How will your design solve a problem or achieve a goal?
• Time Management: Practice completing design tasks within a set timeframe, simulating the pressure of a professional environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "Special Projects" day and potential AI interest suggests that demonstrating adaptability and a forward-thinking approach during the interview process will be highly valued.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:
  • Photoshop: For raster image editing, manipulation, and digital asset creation.
  • Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, icons, and illustrations.
  • InDesign: For layout design of print materials like menus, flyers, and presentations.
• Canva: For quick creation of social media graphics and other digital assets, particularly for team members who may not have deep Adobe expertise.
• Figma: For collaborative design, prototyping, and potentially UI/UX elements for digital platforms.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary design tool, understanding how design impacts engagement metrics (e.g., social media likes, shares, click-through rates) is beneficial. Familiarity with basic analytics dashboards (e.g., social media platform analytics) is a plus.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design function, but awareness of how marketing automation platforms are used to deploy digital assets may be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. Familiarity with Canva and Figma indicates a need for versatility and efficiency in digital content creation, potentially for broader team access or quicker turnarounds. The mention of AI tools suggests an openness to exploring new technologies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A drive to explore new ideas, push creative boundaries, and experiment with design solutions. The "Special Projects" day embodies this value.
• Brand Stewardship: A commitment to maintaining and enhancing the company's brand identity through consistent, high-quality visual execution.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with colleagues across departments, sharing knowledge, and supporting collective goals.
• Customer Focus: Designing with the end-user in mind, creating visuals that resonate with The Hangout's audience and enhance their experience.
• Adaptability & Continuous Learning: Embracing change, staying current with design trends and technologies, and actively seeking to improve skills.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires close collaboration with marketing, operations, and product teams, necessitating clear communication and understanding of diverse project needs.
• Feedback Loop: An open environment for constructive feedback on designs, fostering iterative improvement and shared ownership of creative output.
• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages team members to share their expertise, learn from each other, and collectively elevate the team's capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values suggest a dynamic and supportive environment where creativity is encouraged, and team members are expected to contribute actively to both design execution and overall team development.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Brand Consistency with Creative Innovation: Ensuring all designs adhere to established brand guidelines while still pushing creative boundaries and introducing fresh concepts.
• Managing Multiple Project Deadlines: Juggling various design requests from different departments with competing priorities and tight turnaround times.
• Adapting to Evolving Trends and Technologies: Staying current with the rapid pace of design trends, software updates, and emerging technologies like AI, and integrating them effectively.
• Translating Abstract Concepts into Visuals: Effectively capturing the essence of marketing messages or brand identity in compelling visual designs.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly in areas like motion graphics and video editing.
• Technology Exploration: Opportunities to experiment with and master new AI-powered design tools and automation techniques.
• Industry Exposure: Gain valuable experience in the hospitality and entertainment sector, understanding its unique visual communication needs.
• Creative Exploration: The dedicated "Special Projects" day provides a structured opportunity for self-directed learning and creative experimentation, directly contributing to professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Special Projects" day is a significant growth opportunity, allowing the designer to proactively develop skills and explore innovative design approaches that can benefit both their career and the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Philosophy: "Describe your approach to graphic design. How do you balance creativity with client objectives and brand guidelines?" (Prepare to discuss your process from brief to final output, emphasizing problem-solving and audience engagement.)
• Brand Adaptation: "How would you approach designing a new menu or social media campaign for The Hangout, considering its established brand identity?" (Research The Hangout's current branding and be ready to articulate how you'd align your design with their existing aesthetic while bringing fresh ideas.)
• Problem-Solving: "Describe a time you faced a creative challenge or a tight deadline. How did you overcome it and what was the outcome?" (Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result, focusing on your problem-solving skills and resilience.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Brand Understanding: "What do you know about The Hangout and its brand? What excites you about designing for a venue like this?" (Show genuine interest and research their offerings, target audience, and current marketing efforts.)
• Teamwork: "How do you prefer to collaborate with marketing and other teams? How do you handle constructive criticism on your designs?" (Emphasize communication, openness to feedback, and a team-oriented approach.)
• Innovation Interest: "We have a dedicated 'Special Projects' day. How would you utilize this time to benefit yourself and the company?" (Highlight your interest in exploring new tools, skills, or innovative design concepts relevant to the industry.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Storytelling: For each project in your portfolio, have a 1-2 minute narrative ready that covers the objective, your creative solution, and the impact.
• Highlight Key Skills: Point out specific projects that demonstrate your proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, your ability to work with brand guidelines, and any experience with motion graphics or video.
• Showcase Versatility: Ensure your presented work reflects the breadth of your skills across print and digital mediums.
• Engage and Discuss: Be prepared for questions about your design choices, your process, and how you'd approach future projects for The Hangout.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the company's emphasis on innovation and a unique "Special Projects" day, be prepared to discuss your proactive learning habits and interest in emerging technologies like AI.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your resume and a link to your online portfolio through the ADP application portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features work relevant to the hospitality/entertainment industry and demonstrates a strong grasp of both print and digital design principles. Tailor your project selection to align with The Hangout's brand aesthetic.
• Resume Optimization: Highlight your proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and any experience with video editing, motion graphics, or AI design tools. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Designed social media graphics that increased engagement by 15%").
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, brand understanding, and how you would contribute to The Hangout's visual identity. Be ready to discuss your portfolio and your approach to the "Special Projects" day.
• Company Research: Thoroughly investigate The Hangout's website, social media presence, and any recent marketing campaigns to understand their current brand voice and visual style.

⚠️ 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.