Graphic Designer II

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer II

Company: NELSON Worldwide

Location: Cincinnati, OH; Atlanta, GA; Alpharetta, GA; Philadelphia, PA; Chicago, IL; Minneapolis, MN

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Marketing Operations Support

Date Posted: March 19, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is integral to supporting NELSON Worldwide's in-house marketing team through comprehensive graphic design services, focusing on corporate graphics, brand communication, and visualization of conceptual ideas.

• The Graphic Designer II will be a key contributor in concept development, planning, designing, and executing design production across various project phases, ensuring brand consistency and visual impact.

• This position requires a strong command of design tools and an ability to translate client needs into compelling visual assets, with opportunities to contribute to Environmental Graphic Design (EGD) initiatives.

• The role emphasizes collaboration, client interaction, and mentoring junior designers, fostering a culture of shared growth and high-quality output within the design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Graphic Designer II," the responsibilities and experience requirements suggest a role that bridges creative execution with operational support for marketing initiatives. The emphasis on "corporate graphics," "brand communication," and "signage packages" indicates a need for design that aligns with broader business objectives and GTM strategies, rather than purely aesthetic or artistic design. The mention of "formatting presentations" and supporting "marketing team" further solidifies its operational support aspect.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design Concept & Execution: Participate in all project phases, from pre-design activities through design development, executing design intent for production under the direction of Senior Designers or Design Leaders.

• Brand Communication & Visualization: Develop corporate graphics, brand communication materials, and visualize conceptual ideas, ensuring accurate implementation of design tone and brand identity.

• Production & Documentation: Document and construct design files for production, maintaining high standards for graphic production and documentation processes.

• Client & Vendor Interaction: Professionally interact and communicate with clients, co-workers, and vendors regularly, handling confidential information with discretion.

• Mentorship & Team Support: Actively mentor Graphic Designer I, co-ops, and interns, contributing to the development of junior talent within the design department.

• Presentation Support: Coordinate and execute the development of presentation materials, including boards and files, based on input from senior team members.

• File Management: Actively maintain file server space and adhere to all file storage procedures, ensuring organized and accessible project assets.

• Image Strategy Development: Assist in creating image strategies for projects as directed by Senior Designers or Design Leaders, contributing to the visual narrative.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design tasks and operational duties related to project management, client relations, and team development. The emphasis on "production," "documentation," and "file management" points to a need for structured workflows and attention to detail, crucial for operations-adjacent roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in the design field, with exceptional knowledge of large-scale print, signage, and wayfinding.

Required Skills:

• Design Software Proficiency: Intermediate proficiency within the Adobe Creative Suite; specifically InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop.

• Visual Design Fundamentals: Strong understanding of typography, color, scale, and acute attention to detail.

• Process Adherence: Basic knowledge of graphic production and documentation processes, with the ability to organize and prioritize tasks within identified timeframes.

• Communication & Collaboration: Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, and work effectively with diverse personalities in a team environment.

• Problem-Solving: Resourceful, well-organized, with good reasoning abilities and the capacity to work independently and demonstrate strong follow-through.

• Deadline Management: Excellent time management skills and a strong orientation towards meeting deadlines.

Preferred Skills:

• Multimedia Experience: Experience with motion graphics (Adobe AfterEffects) and web UX design tools (Figma).

• 3D Design Tools: Familiarity with Sketchup, CAD Tools, and MAC Operating Systems.

• Industry Software: Basic proficiency in Deltek Vision / Vantagepoint.

• Integrated Design: Detailed knowledge of design systems, materiality, and integrated design principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Required Knowledge and Skills" section is robust, emphasizing not just creative software but also process adherence, client interaction, and time management. The inclusion of "Deltek Vision / Vantagepoint" is a significant indicator of operations-focused tools, suggesting the company uses project management and financial software common in A&E or design-build firms.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Production Showcase: Demonstrate a portfolio with examples of large-scale print, signage, and wayfinding projects, highlighting your role and contributions.

• Brand Consistency Examples: Include case studies that illustrate your ability to implement and maintain design tone and brand identity across various applications.

• Process Documentation Samples: Present examples of how you document and construct design files for production, showcasing organizational skills and adherence to best practices.

• Client-Facing Project Examples: Showcase projects where you successfully collaborated with clients or stakeholders, demonstrating communication and presentation skills.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Evidence of understanding and contributing to design workflows from concept through final production.

• File Management Practices: Demonstrate a structured approach to organizing and managing digital assets for design projects.

• Production Readiness: Highlight examples of preparing design files that are production-ready, minimizing errors and ensuring efficient manufacturing or printing.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio should go beyond just static visuals. It needs to showcase the applicant's understanding of the design-to-production pipeline, their ability to manage project assets, and their experience with client-facing communication. Demonstrating familiarity with project management tools like Deltek Vision (though listed as preferred) would be a significant advantage.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Retirement Savings: 401(K) plan with a company match to support long-term financial planning.

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Full health benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance.

• Wellness Initiatives: Participation in a wellness program that offers rewards for healthy activities, promoting employee well-being.

• Additional Perks: Pet Insurance and opportunities for professional development, including support and reimbursement for registrations, certifications, and professional organization memberships.

• Work-Life Balance: Paid time off, holiday pay, paid parental leave, and flexible working schedules with potential for work-from-home options based on client needs.

• Career Growth: Opportunities for career advancement within the organization.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are expected, typically around 40 hours per week. The role description mentions "Flexible working schedules and work from home options based on client’s needs," suggesting a degree of flexibility to accommodate project demands and work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on location, experience, and industry standards for a Graphic Designer II role with a significant emphasis on production and client support. The benefits listed are comprehensive and reflect a company that invests in employee well-being and professional growth. The mention of "flexible working schedules" is a key differentiator in today's work environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Interior Design, and Branding (NELSON Worldwide operates in the integrated design industry, focusing on creating innovative spaces and brand experiences.)

Company Size: The LinkedIn company size is not provided in the input. However, based on the multiple office locations and the breadth of services offered, NELSON Worldwide appears to be a medium to large-sized firm with a significant national presence.

Founded: Founded in 1977, NELSON Worldwide has a long history in the design industry, suggesting stability and a deep understanding of market evolution.

Team Structure:

• Design Department: The Graphic Designer II will be part of a broader design team, likely including Senior Designers, Design Leaders, and potentially other specialized roles.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: The role requires collaboration with project teams, which may include architects, interior designers, brand strategists, and project managers. This interdisciplinary approach is common in integrated design firms.

• Marketing Support Focus: A significant portion of the role involves supporting the in-house marketing team, indicating a direct line of communication and collaboration with marketing professionals.

Methodology:

• Integrated Design Approach: NELSON emphasizes an integrated approach, combining expertise across various design disciplines to deliver holistic solutions.

• Client-Centric Focus: The culture values directness, respect, and authenticity, with a strong emphasis on owning outcomes and delivering high-quality service to clients.

• Growth Mindset: The company culture encourages continuous improvement, learning, and development, fostering an environment where employees can grow with purpose.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding NELSON's "Guiding Principles" (Go All In, Be Direct. Be Respectful. Be Authentic., Grow with Purpose., Think Bold. Execute Smart., Make Space for Everyone.) is crucial for cultural fit. These principles highlight a results-oriented, collaborative, and growth-focused environment, which should be reflected in how candidates present themselves and their experience.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a "Graphic Designer II," indicating an intermediate level of expertise. It suggests the individual is beyond an entry-level position but works under the guidance of Senior Designers, while also mentoring junior staff. This level is crucial for operational efficiency, as it represents a skilled individual capable of independent work on core tasks and supporting the team's overall output.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer II reports to a Senior Designer or Design Leader. They, in turn, mentor Graphic Designer I, co-ops, and interns, demonstrating a clear hierarchy and a multiplier effect on team productivity.

Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer II's impact is felt through their contribution to:

• Brand Consistency: Ensuring all visual communications consistently represent NELSON's brand and client brands, which is vital for marketing effectiveness and client perception.

• Project Delivery Efficiency: Producing high-quality design assets and documentation promptly, which directly impacts project timelines and client satisfaction.

• Marketing Support: Providing essential visual collateral that supports marketing campaigns, lead generation, and brand awareness efforts.

• Team Development: Mentoring junior designers enhances the overall skill level and capacity of the design team, contributing to long-term operational strength.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas like Environmental Graphic Design (EGD), motion graphics, or web UX, based on interest and company needs.

• Leadership Development: Progression to Senior Designer roles, with increased project leadership, client management, and mentorship responsibilities.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gaining exposure to and potentially contributing to other design disciplines within NELSON, fostering a broader understanding of integrated design.

• Professional Development: Access to training, certifications, and professional organization memberships to continuously enhance skills and industry knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "II" designation in Graphic Designer II signifies a mid-level role that is critical for operational efficiency. These individuals are expected to execute tasks reliably, support senior staff, and contribute to team development. Their growth path is often into senior or specialized roles, impacting the firm's capacity and expertise.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: NELSON Worldwide operates multiple physical office locations (Cincinnati, Atlanta, Alpharetta, Philadelphia, Chicago, Minneapolis). The "Hybrid" work arrangement indicates that employees are expected to work from the office for a portion of the week, balancing in-office collaboration with remote flexibility.

Office Location(s):

• Cincinnati, OH (45202)

• Atlanta, GA (30309)

• Alpharetta, GA (30009)

• Philadelphia, PA (19106)

• Chicago, IL (60603)

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The hybrid model suggests an environment that values in-person collaboration for brainstorming, design charrettes, and team meetings. Office spaces are likely equipped to support these interactions.

• Technology Integration: Access to standard design tools (Adobe Creative Suite) and potentially project management software (Deltek Vision/Vantagepoint) is expected, supporting efficient design production and communication.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with Senior Designers, Design Leaders, marketing teams, and other project stakeholders, fostering a dynamic and communicative work environment.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours/week) are expected. The "Flexible working schedules and work from home options based on client’s needs" indicate a degree of autonomy and adaptability, allowing employees to manage their time effectively while meeting project deliverables and client expectations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of this role is a key aspect of the work environment, implying a need for strong self-management skills when working remotely and effective communication when in the office. The company's commitment to flexibility, balanced with client needs, is a significant factor for candidates to consider.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and fit.

• Technical/Skills Assessment: Likely involves a portfolio review where you'll discuss your projects, design process, and technical skills (Adobe Creative Suite, etc.). This may include a presentation of specific case studies.

• Behavioral/Situational Interviews: Questions designed to assess your fit with NELSON's culture (Guiding Principles), teamwork abilities, problem-solving skills, and how you handle client interactions and deadlines.

• Team/Manager Interviews: Discussions with potential colleagues and the hiring manager to evaluate collaboration potential and role alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Production & Process: Emphasize projects that demonstrate your ability to manage design from concept to production, including file preparation and documentation. Showcase your understanding of large-scale print, signage, and wayfinding.

• Showcase Brand Consistency: Present examples where you successfully maintained brand tone and visual identity across different project elements.

• Quantify Impact (where possible): If you can, mention how your designs contributed to project success, client satisfaction, or marketing objectives.

• Tailor to NELSON: Select projects that align with NELSON's integrated design approach and client types. If you have experience with EGD or supporting marketing teams, highlight these.

• Be Prepared to Discuss Tools: Be ready to talk about your proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite and any experience with Sketchup, CAD, Deltek Vision, or Figma.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Challenge: You might be given a hypothetical design brief to assess your conceptual thinking, design execution, and ability to work within constraints. Focus on clear communication of your process and rationale.

• Process Scenario: Be prepared for questions about how you would handle specific design production challenges, client feedback, or prioritize tasks under pressure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for a design role with operational components will likely scrutinize both creative output and the ability to manage the design process efficiently. A portfolio that clearly articulates the "how" and "why" behind the designs, in addition to the "what," will be highly valued.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential. This includes advanced proficiency in InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop.

• Design Production Software: Knowledge of Sketchup, CAD Tools, and MAC Operating Systems is preferred.

• Project Management/Financial Software: Basic proficiency in Deltek Vision / Vantagepoint is preferred, indicating a need to understand project budgets and schedules.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Client Relationship Management: Experience interacting with clients suggests familiarity with client communication tools and possibly CRM systems, although specific CRM software is not listed.

• Workflow Automation: The emphasis on "production and documentation process" hints at an appreciation for streamlined workflows, though specific automation tools are not detailed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Adobe Creative Suite, Sketchup, CAD, and Deltek Vision/Vantagepoint highlights the technical requirements. Proficiency in these tools, particularly those related to project management and production, will be critical for success and efficiency in this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Own the Outcome: Demonstrated through taking responsibility for design projects from start to finish, ensuring quality and timely delivery.

• Be Direct. Be Respectful. Be Authentic.: Applied in clear, honest communication with team members, clients, and vendors, fostering trust and efficient collaboration.

• Grow with Purpose: Commitment to continuous learning, skill development (e.g., new design software, EGD principles), and seeking opportunities for professional advancement.

• Think Bold. Execute Smart.: Balancing creative ambition with practical execution, ensuring designs are both innovative and feasible for production and client needs.

• Make Space for Everyone: Fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and junior designers are mentored and supported.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working collaboratively within a design team and across various disciplines (architecture, interior design, marketing) to achieve integrated project goals.

• Process-Oriented Feedback: Openness to critique and feedback during design charrettes and team reviews, contributing to a culture of continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively mentoring junior designers and sharing expertise to elevate the team's overall capabilities and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Guiding Principles" are the core of NELSON's culture. Candidates should align their experiences and communication with these values, demonstrating how they embody them in their daily work and project execution.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Operational Demands: Effectively translating creative concepts into production-ready assets while adhering to project timelines, budgets, and client specifications.

• Managing Multiple Projects & Priorities: Juggling diverse design tasks for different projects simultaneously, requiring strong organizational and time management skills.

• Client Communication & Feedback Integration: Navigating client expectations and feedback loops, ensuring designs meet requirements while maintaining creative integrity.

• Staying Current with Design Trends & Technology: Continuously learning and adapting to new design software, techniques, and industry best practices in a rapidly evolving field.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized areas like Environmental Graphic Design (EGD), motion graphics, or UX/UI through internal training or external courses.

• Industry Engagement: Support for participation in industry conferences, workshops, and professional organizations to network and stay abreast of trends.

• Mentorship and Leadership: Developing leadership skills through mentoring junior designers and potentially progressing into senior design or team lead roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Identifying potential challenges and how candidates plan to overcome them, along with their interest in growth opportunities, provides insight into their problem-solving abilities and long-term potential within the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process & Rationale: "Walk me through a complex project from your portfolio. What was your role, what challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them? How did you ensure the design met production requirements?" Focus on articulating your decision-making process and how you managed the workflow.

• Brand Application: "How do you ensure brand consistency across diverse design outputs, especially for large-scale projects like signage?" Be prepared to discuss your understanding of brand guidelines and their practical application.

• Tools & Technology: "Describe your experience with the Adobe Creative Suite, particularly InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop. Do you have experience with Sketchup, CAD, or Deltek Vision?" Be ready to demonstrate your proficiency and discuss how you leverage these tools for efficiency.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Guiding Principles Alignment: "Which of NELSON's Guiding Principles resonates most with you, and how do you apply it in your work?" Prepare examples that demonstrate your alignment with their values.

• Collaboration & Mentorship: "How do you approach collaboration with senior designers and marketing teams? Describe a time you mentored a junior designer." Highlight your teamwork and leadership potential.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent the requirements (large-scale print, signage, brand consistency, production readiness).

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the client's objective, your role, the design process, challenges, solutions, and the final outcome. Emphasize your contribution to production and any impact on client goals.

• Showcase Technical Skills: Be prepared to discuss the software used and any specific techniques or workflows employed.

• Highlight Production Readiness: Clearly explain how your final files were prepared for print or production, demonstrating attention to detail and understanding of the manufacturing process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just creative talent but also operational efficiency, client-facing skills, and cultural fit. Candidates should be ready to articulate their design process in a structured, logical manner, mirroring the operational precision expected in the role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer II position:

• Submit your application through the provided Ultipro link: https://recruiting.ultipro.com/NEL1004/JobBoard/93f88d2e-48c3-8a67-e70e-f096e2992db4/OpportunityDetail?opportunityId=005cc402-65cc-4b94-9958-272793d0d8fb

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your 5+ years of experience, focusing on large-scale print, signage, wayfinding, corporate graphics, and brand communication. Quantify achievements where possible and ensure keywords like "Adobe Creative Suite," "InDesign," "Illustrator," "Photoshop," and "production" are prominent.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select projects that best showcase your skills in concept development, design production, brand implementation, and file preparation for print. Organize it logically for easy review and be ready to present your process and rationale.

• Prepare for Interviews: Research NELSON Worldwide's "Guiding Principles" and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their culture. Practice articulating your design process and technical skills for both creative and operational aspects of the role.

⚠️ 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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