Graphic Designer - In-House

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer - In-House Company: OnSite Sign Group Inc. Location: Lloydminster, Saskatchewan, Canada Job Type: Full-Time Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Manufacturing Date Posted: October 2, 2025 Experience Level: 2-5 Years (Mid-Level) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for bridging creative design concepts with precise production execution in a fast-paced sign manufacturing environment.
• Responsibilities include designing custom signage, vehicle graphics, and decals, ensuring brand consistency and preparing production-ready files for various manufacturing processes.
• The Graphic Designer will collaborate closely with sales, project management, and production teams to bring client visions to life.
• This position offers a unique opportunity to see your designs materialize into large-scale physical products, contributing directly to client branding and company growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the provided job description is for a Graphic Designer, this enhancement focuses on tailoring it for an operations-minded candidate who might be interested in roles that bridge creative output with production efficiency and workflow management. We'll emphasize the production file preparation, collaboration with production, and the tangible output of designs, which are key operational aspects for a creative role within a manufacturing context.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate with sales, project management, and production teams to translate client concepts into tangible signage and branding solutions.
• Design custom artwork for a variety of products, including large-scale pylon signs, channel letters, vinyl graphics, vehicle wraps, and decals.
• Prepare and optimize artwork files for production, ensuring they meet the specific requirements for large format printing, vinyl plotting, and CNC routing.
• Manage a diverse project pipeline, prioritizing tasks effectively to meet multiple deadlines and client expectations.
• Maintain and enforce brand standards for both client projects and internal company marketing materials.
• Create graphics for marketing initiatives, including social media content, print advertisements, and presentation decks.
• Ensure seamless handover of design files to the production team with clear specifications and instructions.
• Continuously seek opportunities to improve design workflows and production file preparation processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: These responsibilities are framed to highlight the operational aspects of design, emphasizing file preparation for production, collaboration with manufacturing teams, and project management of creative assets.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Diploma or degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a related field is required.
• Equivalent practical work experience in a design-related role will also be considered.

Experience:

• 2-5 years of professional graphic design experience, preferably within a manufacturing or production environment.
• Demonstrated experience in preparing design files for print production, vinyl cutting, or CNC routing is highly preferred.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite: Expert-level skills in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign are mandatory for creating and manipulating vector and raster graphics.
• Typography and Layout Design: Strong understanding of typography, color theory, composition, and layout principles to create visually appealing and effective designs.
• File Preparation for Production: Ability to set up, export, and manage files (e.g., vector files, specific color profiles, cut paths) suitable for large-format printing, vinyl plotters, and CNC machines.
• Detail Orientation: Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy in design elements, measurements, and production file specifications.
• Time Management & Prioritization: Proven ability to manage multiple design projects concurrently, prioritize tasks effectively, and meet strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborative Mindset: Ability to work effectively within a team, actively participating in design reviews and cross-functional discussions.

Preferred Skills:

• CorelDRAW Proficiency: Familiarity or expertise with CorelDRAW, a common software in the signage industry, is a significant asset.
• Sign-Specific Software Knowledge: Experience with other industry-specific design or production software.
• Understanding of Production Processes: Basic knowledge of sign manufacturing techniques (e.g., material properties, finishing options) to inform design decisions.
• Client Communication: Experience interacting with clients to gather requirements, present concepts, and incorporate feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: The focus here is on the practical application of design skills within a production workflow, emphasizing software proficiency and the ability to translate creative vision into manufacturable assets.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of design projects, with a strong emphasis on signage, vehicle graphics, or similar large-format applications.
• Include case studies or project highlights that demonstrate your process from initial concept to final production-ready file.
• Showcase examples of how you have applied typography, color theory, and layout principles effectively in real-world scenarios.
• Provide evidence of your ability to adapt designs to specific production constraints or material limitations.

Process Documentation:

• Highlight examples where you've documented your design process, including file setup, color management, and pre-press checks.
• Demonstrate your understanding of workflow optimization, particularly in how design phases integrate with production timelines and requirements.
• Showcase how you ensure brand consistency and adherence to client specifications throughout the design and production handover.
• Include examples of how you manage project revisions and feedback loops to maintain design integrity and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section emphasizes the need for a portfolio that bridges creative output with process and production readiness, crucial for operations-focused roles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Graphic Designers with 2-5 years of experience in Saskatchewan, Canada, the estimated salary range is CAD $45,000 - $65,000 annually. This range can vary based on the candidate's specific skills, experience, and the final scope of responsibilities.

Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package.
• Comprehensive benefits plan (details to be provided upon inquiry or during the interview process).
• Monday–Friday work schedule, promoting work-life balance.
• Opportunity for occasional overtime to meet project deadlines, with appropriate compensation.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week (Monday to Friday).
• Flexibility may be required during peak project periods, with potential for overtime.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical mid-level graphic designer roles in the specified region. The benefits are generalized from the input and typical offerings for full-time positions.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Sign Manufacturing. OnSite Sign Group Inc. specializes in custom signage solutions, serving businesses across Western Canada. This industry demands precision, creativity, and a strong understanding of production processes. Company Size: The provided information suggests a growing company, likely with a team size that allows for close collaboration but also necessitates efficient workflows. The mention of "fast-paced and growing" indicates an dynamic environment. Founded: While the founding date is not specified, the company's focus on custom signage and its growth trajectory imply a mature understanding of the market and established operational processes.

Team Structure:

• The Graphic Designer will be an integral part of a cross-functional team, collaborating closely with sales, project management, and production departments.
• This structure suggests a collaborative environment where clear communication and handovers between departments are essential for smooth operations.
• Reporting likely falls within a creative or production management structure, depending on the company's internal organization.

Methodology:

• The company likely employs a project-based methodology, where each signage project moves through distinct stages: client consultation, sales, design, production, and installation.
• Emphasis is placed on "precision, creativity, and craftsmanship," indicating a commitment to quality throughout the entire process.
• Data analysis may be involved in understanding client needs and optimizing production workflows, though the primary focus for this role is creative execution and file preparation.

Company Website: https://onsitesign.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: This section extrapolates company culture and operational context from the provided description, focusing on how a design role fits within a manufacturing workflow.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a mid-level Graphic Designer role (2-5 years experience) focused on production-ready design. It sits at the intersection of creative services and manufacturing operations, offering a unique career path. Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer will likely report to a Creative Director, Design Manager, or Production Manager, depending on the company's organizational structure. Close collaboration with sales and project management teams is expected. Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer directly impacts operational efficiency by providing accurate, production-ready files, minimizing errors and rework in the manufacturing process. Their designs also contribute to client brand visibility and market presence, a key outcome for the business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop expertise in specific signage types (e.g., large-format printing, channel letters) or production software.
• Process Improvement: Contribute to refining design-to-production workflows, potentially leading to roles focused on operations efficiency or production coordination.
• Senior Designer: Advance to a Senior Graphic Designer role, taking on more complex projects and potentially mentoring junior designers.
• Project Management: Transition into a Project Management role, leveraging design understanding to oversee project timelines and client deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis frames the Graphic Designer role within an operational context, highlighting its impact and potential career progression paths that leverage both creative and operational skills.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site role within a sign manufacturing company. This implies a dynamic environment that blends office-based design work with proximity to production facilities. Office Location(s): Lloydminster, Saskatchewan. This location offers a specific regional context for the work environment.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely include a dedicated design area equipped with industry-standard hardware and software.
• Proximity to the production floor allows for direct observation of manufacturing processes, facilitating a better understanding of design-to-production integration.
• Opportunities for direct interaction with production teams, project managers, and sales representatives will be frequent, fostering a collaborative and communicative atmosphere.
• Access to tools and technology will include the Adobe Creative Suite and potentially sign-specific software.

Work Schedule:

• Predominantly Monday-Friday schedule, aligning with typical business hours.
• The role may require occasional overtime to meet project deadlines or accommodate production needs, reflecting the demands of a project-driven manufacturing business.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section emphasizes the on-site nature and the integrated workspace, highlighting benefits for operations-minded individuals who value direct interaction with production.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application & Portfolio Submission: Submit resume and portfolio (PDF or online link) to [email protected]. The portfolio is critical for assessing design skills and production readiness.
• Screening Interview: A brief phone or video call to discuss your experience, qualifications, and interest in the role and company.
• Design Challenge/Test: Candidates may be asked to complete a small design task or a test project to evaluate their skills in designing for production and using specified software. This could involve preparing a file for a hypothetical sign project.
• In-Person Interview: Meet with the hiring manager and potentially members of the sales and production teams to discuss your portfolio in detail, assess your understanding of production workflows, and evaluate your cultural fit.
• Final Decision: Offer extended to the selected candidate.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Production Focus: Clearly label which pieces were designed specifically for production and highlight the files you prepared (e.g., vector files, cut paths).
• Process Explanation: Be prepared to walk through your design process for 2-3 key projects, explaining your creative decisions and how you ensured the final artwork was production-ready.
• Software Proficiency: Showcase examples that demonstrate mastery of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, especially for vector artwork and print preparation.
• Problem-Solving: Include examples where you solved design challenges or adapted designs based on production constraints, material limitations, or client feedback.
• Clarity and Organization: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and clearly communicates your skills and experience relevant to signage and large-format graphics.

Challenge Preparation:

• Familiarize yourself with common signage types and materials.
• Practice preparing files for large-format printing and vinyl cutting (e.g., setting up artboards, color modes, bleed, cut lines).
• Review basic principles of typography, color theory, and layout for effective visual communication.
• Be ready to discuss how you approach managing multiple projects and prioritizing tasks under tight deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for candidates, focusing on how to present their work in a way that appeals to a hiring manager in a production-oriented environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design Software:

• Adobe Illustrator: Essential for creating vector graphics, logos, and artwork for vinyl cutting and CNC routing. Expect to demonstrate proficiency in path manipulation, color management, and file export for production.
• Adobe Photoshop: Used for image editing, retouching, and potentially creating raster graphics for large-format printing. Understanding of resolution, color modes (CMYK), and file formats is key.
• Adobe InDesign: Useful for layout design of multi-page documents, brochures, or presentations, and for consolidating artwork for print.

Preferred Software:

• CorelDRAW: A common alternative or complementary tool in the signage industry. Familiarity is a significant asset.
• Sign-Specific Software: Any experience with specialized software for sign design, routing, or production management would be beneficial.

Production & Collaboration Tools:

• File Transfer/Management Systems: Experience with cloud storage (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox) or internal systems for managing and sharing large design files.
• Project Management Software: While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with tools like Asana, Trello, or Monday.com could be helpful for tracking project progress and deadlines.
• Communication Platforms: Proficiency with email, instant messaging (e.g., Slack), and potentially video conferencing tools for team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: This highlights the specific software and tools crucial for this role, emphasizing their application in a production workflow.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Craftsmanship: A strong emphasis on producing high-quality work that meets client expectations and reflects the company's commitment to excellence.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with various departments (sales, production, project management) to ensure seamless project execution.
• Efficiency & Timeliness: A drive to meet deadlines and optimize workflows to ensure timely delivery of projects.
• Problem-Solving & Adaptability: Willingness to tackle design challenges and adapt to changing project requirements or production needs.
• Creativity & Innovation: Fostering a creative environment where new ideas are encouraged while maintaining brand integrity and production feasibility.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires constant interaction and collaboration with non-design teams, necessitating clear communication and a shared understanding of project goals.
• Feedback Loops: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback during design reviews and project discussions.
• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share design best practices and insights with other team members, particularly those in production, to improve overall workflow.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section translates general company values into operations-specific expectations for this role, focusing on how creativity aligns with efficiency and collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Production Constraints: The primary challenge will be to create aesthetically pleasing and effective designs that are also technically feasible and cost-effective to produce within the company's manufacturing capabilities.
• Managing Multiple Project Demands: Juggling diverse projects with varying deadlines and client requirements requires strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize effectively.
• Translating Client Vision: Accurately interpreting client briefs and translating them into designs that meet both their aesthetic and functional needs can be demanding.
• Keeping Up with Technology: The signage industry evolves with new materials, printing technologies, and design software, requiring continuous learning.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry-Specific Training: Opportunities to learn about new printing technologies, materials, and sign fabrication techniques.
• Advanced Software Skills: Deepen expertise in Adobe Creative Suite or specialized sign-making software.
• Production Process Understanding: Gain hands-on knowledge of the sign manufacturing process, which can enhance design decisions and workflow efficiency.
• Portfolio Expansion: Build a strong portfolio with diverse examples of successful large-format designs and production-ready files.

📝 Enhancement Note: This outlines potential challenges and growth paths, positioning them as opportunities for skill development and career advancement within the operations and creative aspects of the business.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for preparing a design file for large-format printing or vinyl cutting. What are the critical elements you ensure are correct?" (Focus on technical specifications, color modes, resolution, bleed, cut paths.)
• "Walk me through a challenging signage design project from your portfolio. What were the client's needs, your creative approach, and how did you ensure it was production-ready?" (Highlight problem-solving, collaboration, and production considerations.)
• "How do you balance creative vision with the practical limitations of materials and manufacturing processes?" (Demonstrate an understanding of the company's operational realities.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for OnSite Sign Group Inc. specifically, given our focus on custom signage?" (Show research into the company's specialization and market.)
• "How do you approach collaboration with non-design teams like sales and production?" (Emphasize communication skills and teamwork.)
• "How do you ensure brand consistency for clients and how would you approach maintaining our internal brand standards?" (Show attention to detail and brand management.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Production Files: For each relevant project, be prepared to show not just the final design, but also how you structured the file for production (e.g., layers, color palettes, vector outlines).
• Quantify Impact: If possible, mention how your designs contributed to client success (e.g., increased visibility, successful branding).
• Conciseness: Be prepared to give a brief overview of each project, focusing on the most relevant aspects for signage production.
• Engage with Questions: Be ready to answer detailed questions about your creative choices and technical decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This provides targeted preparation advice, focusing on how to showcase skills relevant to both design and operational production needs.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your resume and a comprehensive portfolio (PDF or online link) to [email protected].
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features work relevant to signage, large-format graphics, or vehicle wraps, clearly indicating your role in file preparation for production.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight skills in Adobe Creative Suite, file preparation for print/vinyl/CNC, project management of creative assets, and cross-functional collaboration. Use keywords from the job description.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, especially how you ensure designs are production-ready. Prepare to discuss your portfolio projects in detail, focusing on problem-solving and collaboration.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with OnSite Sign Group Inc.'s work, their specialization in Western Canada, and the types of signage they produce. Understand their commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

⚠️ 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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