Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer Company: VP Racing Fuels Inc Location: San Antonio, Texas, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Marketing / Creative & Media / Art & Design Date Posted: September 27, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the creation and execution of high-impact visual designs that embody the VP Racing brand's speed, precision, and passion.
• Develop targeted designs across a wide range of mediums, including web, social media, print, and packaging, supporting both B2B and B2C markets.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to produce campaign assets and engaging visual content that drives brand engagement and supports business objectives.
• Own and evolve the visual brand architecture, including packaging and product label strategy, ensuring consistent application of brand standards across diverse product lines and subsidiary brands.
• Provide creative direction and mentorship to internal designers, freelancers, and vendors, while staying current with design trends and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Graphic Designer within the job description, indicating a mid-level to senior individual contributor role with significant autonomy and leadership in creative execution. The emphasis on "leading the development" and "providing creative direction" suggests responsibilities beyond basic design tasks, aligning with a mid-to-senior level expectation.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and execution of creative projects from initial brief to final delivery across web, print, packaging, and digital platforms.
• Develop compelling, targeted visual designs tailored for diverse audiences, including racers, motorsport fans, distributors, and automotive enthusiasts, while strictly adhering to brand guidelines.
• Spearhead the ownership and evolution of the visual brand architecture, encompassing packaging design, product labels, and overall brand identity across multiple product lines and subsidiary brands.
• Design a comprehensive suite of materials, including logos, infographics, brochures, event signage, presentations, social media graphics, and digital advertisements.
• Guide and coordinate visual strategies for social media content calendars, digital marketing campaigns, and website initiatives, ensuring cohesive brand messaging.
• Collaborate effectively with internal marketing, product development, and sales teams to define project objectives, understand audience needs, and ensure strategic alignment with overarching business goals.
• Oversee production and printing processes, liaising with vendors to guarantee the highest visual quality and unwavering brand fidelity in all physical assets.
• Provide creative direction, constructive feedback, and mentorship to junior designers, freelancers, and external vendors to elevate the overall quality of creative output.
• Maintain, update, and expand design systems, comprehensive brand guidelines, and reusable visual templates to ensure consistency and efficiency.
• Proactively research and stay abreast of emerging design trends, innovative tools, and evolving best practices to ensure brand visuals remain fresh, relevant, and competitive.
• Manage a concurrent portfolio of multiple creative projects, prioritizing tasks effectively to meet demanding deadlines without compromising design quality or brand integrity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on design role with significant strategic input, particularly in brand architecture and creative direction. The expectation to "own and evolve the visual brand architecture" and "provide creative direction and mentorship" suggests a level of responsibility and influence typical of a mid-level to senior designer.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, or a closely related field. Experience: A minimum of three (3) years of professional graphic design experience, with a proven track record of delivering impactful visual solutions. An equivalent combination of education, knowledge, skills, and abilities will also be considered.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, for creating and manipulating high-quality visual assets.
• Strong portfolio showcasing demonstrable expertise in branding, typography, layout design, and compelling visual storytelling across various mediums.
• Proven ability to balance creative vision with pragmatic business objectives, thriving in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Experience in developing and executing design strategies for both Business-to-Business (B2B) and Business-to-Consumer (B2C) audiences.
• Solid understanding of print production processes, packaging design principles, and the creation of effective digital assets for online platforms.
• Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to manage the logistics of multiple duties with professionalism and strong communication.
• High levels of accuracy, timeliness, and dependability in all aspects of work.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of employees and management.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with motion graphics or video editing software (e.g., Adobe After Effects, Premiere Pro).
• Familiarity with web design principles and UI/UX concepts.
• Experience in a consumer goods or automotive-related industry.
• Ability to work effectively with all levels of employees and management.
• Skill in assisting in providing solutions to challenges that arise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a Bachelor's degree and 3 years of experience, coupled with the expectation of leading projects and providing mentorship, firmly places this role at a mid-level. The emphasis on balancing creativity with business objectives and managing multiple projects points to the need for strong organizational and time-management skills, crucial for this level.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive digital portfolio is mandatory for application, showcasing a diverse range of successful design projects that demonstrate creativity, technical skill, and brand alignment.
• Projects should clearly illustrate expertise in branding, typography, layout, and visual storytelling across different media (web, print, packaging, social media).
• Evidence of ability to translate business objectives into compelling visual solutions, with a focus on B2B and B2C applications.
• Examples of packaging design and product label strategy, showing an understanding of production considerations and brand consistency.
• Case studies or project descriptions that highlight the design process, problem-solving approach, and the impact of the visual work on business goals.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to articulate their design process, from concept generation and client brief interpretation to final asset delivery and production oversight.
• The ability to document and maintain design systems and brand guidelines will be a key aspect discussed during the interview process.
• Understanding of workflow management for multiple concurrent projects, including prioritization and deadline adherence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for a "digital portfolio" and the mention of demonstrating "expertise in branding, typography, layout, and visual storytelling" are standard for design roles. The emphasis on "balancing creativity with business objectives" and showing "impact on business goals" suggests a need for portfolio pieces that go beyond aesthetics to demonstrate strategic thinking and ROI.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a mid-level Graphic Designer in San Antonio, Texas, with 3+ years of experience and advanced Adobe Creative Suite proficiency, the estimated annual salary range is approximately $60,000 to $75,000. This range accounts for the cost of living in San Antonio and the competitive market for creative talent.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans to support employee well-being.
• A full suite of supplemental insurance options for enhanced coverage.
• Robust 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match, promoting long-term financial security.
• Paid time off (PTO) for rest, rejuvenation, and work-life balance.
• A down-to-earth, casual work environment fostering collaboration and innovation.
• Positive, team-oriented company culture focused on innovation, inclusion, and success.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week, reflecting a full-time commitment. While the role is on-site, the company culture emphasizes a balance, and adherence to deadlines will be key.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on an average of industry data for Graphic Designers in San Antonio, TX, with 3-5 years of experience, considering the company's industry (automotive/performance fuels) which can sometimes command slightly higher compensation for specialized creative roles. The benefits listed are directly extracted from the job description.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Performance Fuels, Chemicals, and Automotive Aftermarket Products. VP Racing Fuels is a global leader in this specialized niche, known for high-performance products that power champions in motorsports.

Company Size: VP Racing Fuels likely operates as a medium to large enterprise, given its global reach, extensive product lines, and branded retail programs. The job description implies a structured marketing team with opportunities for mentorship.

Founded: 1975. With a history spanning nearly five decades, VP Racing Fuels has established a strong legacy and deep expertise in its market. This longevity suggests a stable company with a well-understood brand identity and established operational processes.

Team Structure: The Graphic Designer will be part of a dynamic marketing team at the Corporate Headquarters. The role involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams, including product development, sales, and potentially external agencies or vendors. The expectation of providing "creative direction and mentorship to internal designers, freelancers, and vendors" indicates a hierarchical structure within the creative function or at least a lead role for this position.

Methodology: The company culture is described as innovative, driven, and passionate, with a "work hard and play hard" mentality. They emphasize bold innovation, precision, and teamwork. The marketing approach likely involves data-driven insights to support campaigns across B2B and B2C markets, requiring designers to adapt visuals to specific audience needs and business objectives.

Company Website: https://vpracingfuels.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description highlights a strong heritage and market leadership, suggesting a professional environment that values expertise and performance. The "work hard, play hard" ethos and emphasis on innovation indicate a dynamic workplace that may appeal to proactive and energetic individuals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Graphic Designer role is positioned at a mid-level, requiring a solid foundation of 3+ years of professional experience and advanced technical skills. The responsibilities extend beyond execution to include creative leadership, brand architecture ownership, and mentorship, indicating potential for growth into senior or lead designer roles.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will report into the marketing department, likely to a Marketing Manager or Director. They will collaborate closely with various marketing team members and other internal departments, requiring strong communication and stakeholder management skills.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the VP Racing brand's market perception, customer engagement, and sales enablement. High-quality, targeted visuals are critical for effective marketing campaigns, product launches, and maintaining brand integrity across all touchpoints, thereby directly contributing to revenue generation and market share.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific design disciplines (e.g., motion graphics, UI/UX) or explore new creative technologies.
• Leadership Potential: Progression into a Senior Graphic Designer or Art Director role, with increased responsibility for creative strategy, team leadership, and project management.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gaining broader marketing and business acumen by working on diverse campaigns and collaborating with different departments.
• Brand Stewardship: Becoming a key custodian of the VP Racing brand's visual identity, with opportunities to influence its evolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description implies a clear career path for talented designers within VP Racing Fuels, moving from execution to strategic creative leadership. The focus on brand ownership and mentorship suggests a company that invests in developing its creative talent.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the Corporate Headquarters in San Antonio, TX, suggesting a professional office environment designed for collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): 10205 Oasis St, San Antonio, TX 78216. This location serves as the central hub for corporate operations.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is described as "down-to-earth, casual," yet professional, fostering a "positive, team-oriented culture."
• Collaboration is key, with expectations of working "effectively with all levels of employees and management."
• Access to necessary design tools and technology, including the full Adobe Creative Suite, is implied.
• Opportunities for interaction with marketing colleagues and other departments are inherent to the role.

Work Schedule: The position is full-time, with standard working hours of approximately 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, the emphasis on deadlines and project management suggests a need for efficient time management within the workday.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description paints a picture of a dynamic, collaborative, and somewhat informal office setting that still upholds professional standards and a focus on results, typical of a successful mid-sized company.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review, focusing on resume and mandatory digital portfolio.
• Portfolio Review & Interview: Candidates will likely present their portfolio, discussing their design process, creative rationale, and how their work aligns with VP Racing Fuels' brand and objectives. This stage will assess technical skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.
• Skills Assessment/Challenge: A practical design challenge or case study may be administered to evaluate on-the-spot problem-solving, design thinking, and adherence to brand guidelines under time constraints.
• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Discussions with hiring managers and potential team members to assess communication skills, teamwork, ability to work in a fast-paced environment, and cultural alignment with VP Racing's values.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to confirm fit and discuss role expectations further.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate your strongest, most relevant work, prioritizing projects that showcase branding, packaging, and B2C/B2B campaigns.
• For each piece, clearly articulate the brief, your design process, the challenges faced, and the measurable impact or objective achieved.
• Be prepared to discuss your proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite and other relevant design tools.
• Highlight examples that demonstrate your ability to adapt to different brand voices and market segments.
• Ensure your portfolio is easily navigable and visually appealing, reflecting your own design aesthetic and professionalism.

Challenge Preparation:

• Familiarize yourself with the VP Racing Fuels brand identity, product lines, and target audiences by thoroughly reviewing their website and marketing materials.
• Practice designing under timed conditions, focusing on quick concept generation and execution.
• Prepare to articulate your design decisions clearly and concisely, justifying your choices based on the brief and brand strategy.
• Be ready to present and defend your work, incorporating feedback constructively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and potential design challenge highlights the practical nature of this role. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not just creative talent but also strategic thinking and the ability to execute within brand constraints.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Advanced proficiency is required across Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for all core design tasks.
• Design Systems & Brand Guidelines: Experience in creating, maintaining, and adhering to established design systems and brand standards.
• Production & Printing Software: Familiarity with software and processes related to preparing files for print and production.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated as a primary tool for the designer, understanding how design impacts digital analytics (e.g., click-through rates for web graphics, engagement on social media) is beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the Graphic Designer role, but an understanding of how marketing assets are deployed through CRM or marketing automation platforms can be advantageous for context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technology requirement is clearly the Adobe Creative Suite. The mention of "design systems" and "brand guidelines" implies a need for organizational skills and attention to detail in maintaining brand consistency across various digital and print assets.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: Boldly pushing creative boundaries and exploring new design approaches to keep the brand fresh and competitive.
• Precision & Quality: A commitment to high-quality design execution, attention to detail, and unwavering brand fidelity in all visual outputs.
• Passion: A genuine enthusiasm for the VP Racing brand, its products, and the motorsport/automotive culture it represents.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams, valuing input, and contributing to a positive, team-oriented environment.
• Drive & Performance: A strong work ethic, dedication to meeting deadlines, and a desire to contribute to the company's success.

Collaboration Style:

• The team fosters a "positive, team-oriented culture built on innovation, inclusion, and long-term success."
• Collaboration is expected across various departments, requiring clear communication and the ability to integrate feedback from different stakeholders.
• The role involves a collaborative approach to campaign development, ensuring visual assets align with overall marketing strategies.
• Mentorship and guidance are part of the culture, indicating a willingness to share knowledge and support team growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values emphasize a blend of creative drive, technical excellence, and a strong team spirit, reflecting a culture that is both demanding and supportive.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Brand Consistency with Diverse Audiences: Creating visuals that appeal to distinct B2B and B2C segments while maintaining a unified brand identity.
• Fast-Paced Environment: Managing multiple project deadlines simultaneously without compromising quality or creative integrity.
• Evolving Design Trends: Staying current with the latest design tools, techniques, and visual trends to keep the brand's aesthetic modern and engaging.
• Creative Problem-Solving: Translating complex product features and business objectives into clear, impactful visual communications.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Training: Potential for specialized training in areas like motion graphics, advanced illustration, or UI/UX design.
• Brand Strategy Involvement: Deeper engagement in defining and evolving the VP Racing brand's visual language across its portfolio.
• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced marketing professionals and potentially mentor junior designers.
• Industry Exposure: Engaging with trends and best practices in the automotive and performance product sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges focus on the dynamic nature of design work within a growing company, emphasizing adaptability and continuous learning. Growth opportunities are geared towards expanding creative capabilities and taking on more strategic responsibilities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a project where you had to balance brand consistency with the needs of different target audiences (B2B vs. B2C). How did you approach it?" (Focus on your process and understanding of market segmentation.)
• "How do you stay updated on design trends, and how have you incorporated new trends into your work while respecting brand guidelines?" (Demonstrate continuous learning and brand stewardship.)
• "Walk us through a challenging design project from concept to completion. What were the key obstacles, and how did you overcome them?" (Highlight problem-solving skills, resilience, and project management.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What is your understanding of the VP Racing Fuels brand, and how do you see your design skills contributing to its visual identity?" (Showcase research and alignment with the brand's passion and performance ethos.)
• "Describe your experience working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. How do you prioritize tasks and manage your workload?" (Emphasize organizational skills and ability to perform under pressure.)
• "How do you approach receiving and incorporating constructive feedback on your designs?" (Assess collaboration and openness to iteration.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by showcasing your strongest brand-related work first.
• Storytelling: For each project, clearly outline the brief, your creative process, the problem you solved, your design rationale, and the outcome or impact. Use visuals to support your narrative.
• Technical Skills: Be ready to discuss your proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite and any other relevant tools.
• Brand Alignment: Specifically highlight projects that demonstrate your ability to work within brand guidelines and adapt to different brand voices, especially if you have examples relevant to automotive or performance industries.
• Engagement: Be prepared for interactive discussion about your work, demonstrating enthusiasm and a deep understanding of design principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of creative talent, technical proficiency, strategic thinking, and cultural fit with VP Racing Fuels' high-performance, collaborative environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Paylocity recruiting portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your digital portfolio is up-to-date, readily accessible, and tailored to highlight projects demonstrating your expertise in branding, packaging, and B2B/B2C campaigns.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your 3+ years of professional experience, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, and accomplishments in graphic design, particularly in areas relevant to VP Racing Fuels' industry and target markets.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, creative decisions, and the impact of your work. Be ready to present your portfolio and discuss your approach to challenges and collaboration. Research VP Racing Fuels thoroughly.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with VP Racing Fuels' brand, product lines, and mission. Understand their market position and target audiences to better align your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with VP Racing Fuels Inc. through their official application process or hiring team before making application decisions.