Loungefly - Graphic Designer at Funko

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer
Company: Funko
Location: Burbank, California, United States
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Creative Operations / Product Design
Date Posted: July 28, 2025
Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years implied)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Designs innovative, on-brand graphics for Loungefly's diverse range of accessories and apparel, requiring a strong understanding of pop culture and licensing.
Executes product design projects from initial concept through to final completion, managing multiple projects concurrently with meticulous attention to detail.
Collaborates closely with Creative Directors and the Product Development team, translating creative direction and feedback into tangible product designs.
Conducts thorough trend research to inform design direction and creates original artwork when licensed assets are unavailable, ensuring brand relevance and market appeal.
Plays a key role in the product development lifecycle, considering bag construction and price point restrictions to ensure design feasibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while under the "Creative Operations" umbrella due to its process-driven nature and collaboration with product development, focuses heavily on the visual design output for a specific brand (Loungefly) within a larger company (Funko). The emphasis on "design projects from concept to finish" and "revisions" highlights operational execution within a creative function.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

Design and develop graphics for up to five (5) weekly product development projects for Loungefly accessories and apparel, from initial concept to final execution, under the guidance of the Creative Director.
Implement and manage product design revisions based on feedback from Buyers and Licensors, ensuring all stakeholder requirements are met efficiently.
Collaborate closely with the Creative Director to interpret and apply feedback on design concepts, ensuring alignment with brand vision and project objectives.
Partner with the Product Development team to integrate knowledge of bag construction and understand price point restrictions, ensuring designs are both aesthetically appealing and commercially viable.
Create original artwork and graphics for all accessory categories, and as needed for apparel, when pre-existing assets are not provided by licensors.
Conduct comprehensive trend research across the retail and pop culture landscape to identify and incorporate the latest design trends into Loungefly's product offerings.
Actively participate in team brainstorming sessions and design challenges to foster creativity and contribute to a collaborative design environment.
Prepare and present retail and licensor presentations, showcasing design concepts and product lines effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a structured product design process with defined weekly output expectations ("up to five (5) weekly product development projects"). This implies a need for strong project management and workflow efficiency, typical of operations-focused roles within creative departments. The emphasis on revisions and stakeholder feedback highlights the operational aspect of managing the design pipeline.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design, Communication Design, Fine Arts, Illustration, or a related creative field.
Equivalent experience will be considered, demonstrating a strong foundational understanding of design principles.

Experience:

Minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in graphic design, with a focus on product design for accessories, apparel, or licensed goods.
Proven ability to manage multiple design projects simultaneously, ensuring high-quality output and adherence to deadlines.

Required Skills:

Graphic Design Software Proficiency: Highest proficiency in Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator, with the ability to demonstrate advanced techniques and potentially train others.
Artistic Versatility: Ability to create a diverse range of art styles and designs to cater to various customer preferences and brand collaborations.
Trend Analysis: Demonstrated ability to identify and interpret current retail and pop culture trends, translating them into marketable design concepts.
Project Management: Strong organizational skills with the capacity to manage multiple projects concurrently, maintain attention to detail, and meet tight deadlines independently.
Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration with internal teams, buyers, and licensors.
Pop Culture & Licensing Acumen: A genuine interest in pop culture and a solid understanding of the licensing landscape, enabling effective design within established brand guidelines.

Preferred Skills:

Experience with other design software relevant to apparel or accessory design (e.g., Adobe InDesign, CorelDRAW).
Familiarity with product development workflows and manufacturing considerations for accessories and apparel.
Experience in creating original illustrations for commercial use.
Portfolio showcasing a range of design styles and successful product collaborations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "highest proficiency in both Photoshop and Illustrator with the ability to teach others" suggests the need for a senior-level designer who can not only execute but also mentor. The "ability to manage multiple projects at a time while maintaining attention to detail" and "able to meet tight deadlines and self-manage projects" are critical operational competencies for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Showcase a minimum of five (5) distinct product design projects, demonstrating the full design lifecycle from concept ideation to final artwork.
Include examples of original artwork creation, illustrating versatility across different styles and themes relevant to pop culture and licensed properties.
Present case studies of design revisions, highlighting the process of incorporating buyer or licensor feedback and the resulting improvements.
Demonstrate proficiency in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator through complex design examples, such as intricate patterns, character illustrations, or detailed graphics.
Feature work that reflects an understanding of how graphics are applied to physical products (accessories/apparel), considering material and construction limitations.

Process Documentation:

Evidence of workflow management, illustrating how multiple design projects are tracked, prioritized, and executed efficiently to meet weekly targets.
Examples of trend research methodologies and how findings were integrated into design outcomes.
Documentation or visual representation of collaboration processes with Creative Directors and Product Development teams, showing how feedback is incorporated.
Display of ability to work within brand guidelines and licensing agreements, ensuring all designs adhere to specific contractual requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a "portfolio requirement," the core responsibilities and skills necessitate a portfolio that demonstrates operational efficiency in design execution. This includes managing multiple projects, incorporating feedback, and adhering to specific constraints (licensing, construction, price point), which are all hallmarks of strong process orientation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated base salary range for this position in Burbank, California is $68,000 - $82,000 annually.
Compensation may vary based on candidate qualifications, skills, competencies, experience, and location. This base pay is part of a broader Total Rewards Package.

Benefits:

Comprehensive Full Benefits package.
401(K) Plan with matching contributions from the company.
Eligibility for additional discretionary bonuses and incentives.

Working Hours:

This is a full-time position. While specific hours are not detailed, a standard 40-hour work week is implied.
The role requires a 4-day commitment to being in the office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and aligns with mid-level graphic design roles in a high cost-of-living area like Burbank, California. The inclusion of a 4-day in-office commitment is a crucial detail for understanding the work arrangement and its impact on daily operations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Pop Culture Licensed Collectibles & Merchandise. Funko operates within the dynamic entertainment and collectibles market, specializing in stylized vinyl figures, apparel, and accessories that celebrate a vast array of fandoms. Company Size: Funko is a significant player in its industry, suggesting a well-established corporate structure with dedicated departments for creative, product development, marketing, and licensing. This implies opportunities for specialized roles and cross-functional collaboration. Founded: Funko was founded in 1998, indicating a company with a long history and a proven track record in the collectibles market. This longevity suggests a stable environment with established processes and a deep understanding of its target audience.

Team Structure:

The Graphic Designer will likely be part of the Loungefly Creative team, reporting to a Creative Director.
This team collaborates closely with Product Development, Merchandising, and Licensing departments to bring products to market.
The structure encourages cross-functional interaction, requiring effective communication and coordination to meet project timelines and deliver on licensing agreements.

Methodology:

Data-Driven Design: While creative-led, designs are informed by market trends, licensor requirements, and buyer feedback, suggesting a blend of creative intuition and data-informed decision-making.
Agile Product Development: The expectation of designing multiple projects weekly indicates an agile approach to product development, prioritizing rapid iteration and timely delivery.
Collaborative Workflow: The emphasis on working with Creative Directors, Buyers, and Licensors highlights a collaborative methodology where feedback loops are integral to the design process.

Company Website: Funko Website URL

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding Funko's position as a leader in pop culture collectibles is key. The Loungefly brand specifically targets a fashion-forward, fandom-engaged demographic. This context informs the type of creative output and the importance of staying ahead of trends within these specific niches.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a Mid-Senior level within the creative operations framework, demanding significant independent design execution and project management capabilities. It requires a strong foundation in design principles and software, coupled with the ability to manage a consistent output of creative assets. Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer reports to the Creative Director for Loungefly, with a dotted line of accountability to Product Development and Merchandising teams for project-specific needs and feedback. This structure emphasizes direct collaboration with creative leadership and cross-functional partners. Operations Impact: The Graphic Designer's work directly impacts product appeal, brand representation, and ultimately, sales revenue for the Loungefly brand. Successful designs drive consumer engagement, meet licensor expectations, and contribute to the overall profitability of the product lines by translating creative concepts into commercially viable merchandise.

Growth Opportunities:

Senior Graphic Designer/Art Director: Progression to a more senior role involves leading design projects, mentoring junior designers, and having greater input on creative strategy and direction.
Specialization: Opportunity to specialize in specific product categories (e.g., apparel graphics, specific accessory types) or licensed properties.
Cross-Functional Movement: Potential to move into roles within Product Development, Merchandising, or Brand Management by leveraging design expertise and understanding of the product lifecycle.
Skill Development: Continuous learning opportunities through workshops, industry events, and exposure to diverse licensing partnerships to broaden design capabilities and market knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "5 years' experience" and requirement to "teach others" suggest a clear path towards more senior or lead roles. Growth is likely tied to the ability to manage more complex projects, influence creative direction, and potentially lead design initiatives for key product lines or collaborations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Burbank, California, a hub for entertainment and creative industries. The work environment is likely a modern office space designed to foster creativity and collaboration. Office Location(s): Burbank, California. Specific details regarding office accessibility or amenities would need to be confirmed directly.

Workspace Context:

Collaborative Hub: Expect a dynamic workspace that encourages interaction with Creative Directors, Product Developers, and other design team members.
Creative Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite) and potentially advanced hardware and digital tools for design creation.
Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and project reviews, fostering a connected and communicative team environment.

Work Schedule:

The position is full-time and requires a mandatory 4-day commitment to being in the office. This implies a hybrid or primarily on-site work arrangement with one day potentially remote or flexible, though the company emphasizes being in-office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The 4-day in-office requirement is a significant factor for candidates considering the work arrangement. It suggests a structured environment where in-person collaboration and team presence are valued.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications for basic qualifications and experience.
Portfolio Review: Candidates will be asked to submit a portfolio showcasing relevant design work. This is a critical step for assessing design skills, style, and ability to meet project requirements.
Skills Assessment/Design Challenge: Candidates may be given a design exercise or a case study to assess their problem-solving abilities, creative thinking, and proficiency in required software under timed conditions.
Interviews with Hiring Team: This will likely include interviews with the Creative Director and potentially members of the Product Development team to evaluate creative fit, collaboration skills, and understanding of the Loungefly brand and pop culture trends.
Final Interview: Potentially with higher-level management to assess overall cultural fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Curate Selectively: Showcase 5-7 of your strongest, most relevant projects that demonstrate versatility in style, experience with licensed properties, and product application (accessories/apparel).
Highlight Process: For each project, briefly explain the brief, your role, the design process (including any revisions or feedback incorporation), and the final outcome. Use clear, concise language.
Demonstrate Software Proficiency: Include examples that clearly showcase your mastery of Photoshop and Illustrator, such as complex illustrations, detailed patterns, or intricate graphic layouts.
Showcase Trend Awareness: Include projects that demonstrate your ability to identify and apply current trends effectively within a brand's aesthetic.
Quantify Impact (if possible): If any designs led to successful product launches or positive feedback, mention it briefly.

Challenge Preparation:

Understand Loungefly's Aesthetic: Familiarize yourself deeply with Loungefly's current product lines, brand voice, and the types of pop culture licenses they represent.
Practice Design Exercises: Rehearse creating graphics under time constraints, focusing on theme interpretation, visual appeal, and technical execution.
Prepare for Software-Based Tasks: Be ready to demonstrate your skills in Photoshop and Illustrator, potentially involving asset manipulation, illustration, or pattern creation.
Articulate Your Process: Be prepared to explain your design decisions, how you approach feedback, and how you manage your workload efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific software proficiency and the need to "teach others" suggests that the interview process might include a practical demonstration or a technical assessment of these skills. The portfolio review will be paramount, requiring candidates to clearly articulate their design process and problem-solving approach.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

Adobe Creative Suite: Highest proficiency required in Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator for graphic creation, illustration, and asset manipulation.
Adobe InDesign: Potentially used for presentations and retail/licensor materials.

Analytics & Reporting:

While not explicitly mentioned as a primary tool for this role, data on trend research and sales performance of previous designs would likely inform design decisions. Familiarity with how creative assets contribute to business metrics is beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

Not directly relevant to this design role, but understanding how design assets are managed within a PDM (Product Data Management) or PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) system could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core tools are heavily focused on graphic design software. The "ability to teach others" implies a deep, almost expert-level command of Photoshop and Illustrator, which should be evident in portfolio work and technical discussions.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

Creativity & Innovation: A drive to produce fresh, compelling designs that resonate with pop culture fans.
Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with diverse teams (Creative, Product Development, Licensing) to achieve shared goals.
Attention to Detail: Meticulousness in design execution, ensuring accuracy in artwork, branding, and technical specifications.
Efficiency & Timeliness: Ability to manage workloads effectively and deliver high-quality designs within project deadlines.
Passion for Pop Culture: A genuine enthusiasm for the fandoms and properties Funko represents, driving authentic and engaging designs.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Integration: Designers are expected to work seamlessly with Product Development to understand construction and pricing, and with Licensing to adhere to specific brand guidelines.
Feedback-Driven Improvement: Openness to receiving and incorporating feedback from Creative Directors, Buyers, and Licensors to refine designs and ensure market fit.
Knowledge Sharing: Participating in team brainstorms and design challenges fosters a culture of shared learning and creative problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's culture is built around celebrating fandom and bringing joy through collectibles. For a designer, this translates to a work environment that values creativity, collaboration, and a good understanding of the pop culture landscape. Efficiency and attention to detail are crucial operational aspects within this creative context.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

Balancing Creative Vision with Brand/Licensor Constraints: Harmonizing personal creative style with the specific requirements and limitations set by licensors and brand guidelines.
Managing Multiple Project Pipelines: Efficiently juggling design tasks for numerous products and licenses simultaneously, ensuring each receives adequate attention.
Staying Ahead of Trends: Continuously researching and integrating emerging trends in fashion, art, and pop culture to keep Loungefly products relevant and desirable.
Meeting Tight Deadlines: Consistently delivering high-quality designs under pressure, common in fast-paced product development cycles.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Exposure to Diverse Licenses: Working with a wide array of popular entertainment franchises offers continuous learning about different brand aesthetics and fan bases.
Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to refine illustration techniques, explore new design styles, and potentially learn about different product application methods.
Industry Insights: Gaining a deeper understanding of the collectibles market, retail presentation, and the business of licensed merchandise.
Mentorship: Learning from experienced Creative Directors and collaborating with a talented product development team provides valuable on-the-job training.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge for this role is operationalizing creativity – translating a high volume of diverse creative briefs into market-ready products efficiently and effectively. Growth opportunities are tied to mastering this operational aspect and expanding creative influence.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

"Can you walk me through your process for designing a new accessory graphic, from initial concept to final artwork, especially when working with a licensed property?" (Focus on methodology, tools, and collaboration)
"Describe a time you received critical feedback on a design from a licensor or buyer. How did you incorporate that feedback, and what was the outcome?" (Assesses adaptability, communication, and problem-solving)
"How do you stay current with trends in pop culture, fashion, and accessory design, and how do you integrate these trends into your work?" (Evaluates trend research skills and market awareness)
"Given our product pipeline, how would you prioritize your weekly design projects to ensure all deadlines are met while maintaining quality?" (Tests project management and prioritization skills)

Company & Culture Questions:

"What attracts you to Loungefly and Funko, and what are your favorite pop culture franchises that we represent?" (Assesses passion and cultural fit)
"How do you approach collaboration with cross-functional teams like Product Development and Merchandising?" (Evaluates teamwork and communication)
"Describe your experience working with brand guidelines and ensuring design consistency across different products." (Tests understanding of brand integrity)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Storytelling: For each project, tell a brief story: the challenge, your approach, the tools used, the collaborative process, and the successful outcome.
Highlight Key Skills: Ensure your presentation clearly demonstrates your proficiency in Photoshop and Illustrator, your ability to create diverse art styles, and your understanding of product application.
Focus on Process: Emphasize how you manage multiple projects, incorporate feedback, and meet deadlines, showcasing your operational efficiency as a designer.
Engage and Interact: Be prepared to answer questions about your design choices and process during the presentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expect questions that probe not just your creative talent but also your ability to execute within a structured, deadline-driven environment. Demonstrating a clear understanding of the Loungefly brand and the pop culture landscape is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer position:

Submit your application through the provided link on jobs.jobvite.com/funko.
Portfolio Preparation: Curate a portfolio that showcases 5-7 of your best, most relevant design projects. Ensure these highlight your Photoshop and Illustrator skills, ability to adapt styles, and experience with licensed properties or product applications.
Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your 5+ years of design experience, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, project management skills, and any experience with pop culture, licensing, or accessory/apparel design. Quantify achievements where possible.
Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your design process, how you handle feedback, and your approach to managing multiple projects under deadlines. Practice presenting your portfolio and articulating your design rationale clearly and concisely.
Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Loungefly's product lines, brand aesthetic, and current pop culture collaborations. Understanding Funko's overall mission and values will also be beneficial.

⚠️ 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.

Loungefly - Graphic Designer