Jr Graphic Designer (On-site in Athens, TN)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Jr Graphic Designer

Company: Midlab, Inc.

Location: Athens, Tennessee, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Manufacturing / Marketing

Date Posted: 2026-08-14

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This entry-level Graphic Designer role focuses on supporting the creation and refinement of visual assets for a manufacturing company, with a strong emphasis on product packaging and labeling.

• The position requires hands-on experience with core Adobe Creative Suite applications to produce print-ready and digital design files aligned with established brand guidelines.

• Key responsibilities include assisting senior designers, managing design files, and ensuring accuracy and quality control for production across various departments.

• Ideal candidates will possess a foundational understanding of design principles, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a production-oriented environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for a Junior Graphic Designer in a manufacturing setting, requiring a blend of creative skills and production-level execution. The emphasis on "on-site" and manufacturing context suggests a need for designers who can adapt to industrial processes and collaborate closely with production teams.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Assist in the conceptualization and execution of designs for product packaging, labels, and marketing collateral, ensuring alignment with brand identity and campaign objectives.

• Create, update, and meticulously maintain graphic design files, ensuring version control and adherence to established templates and specifications.

• Apply and uphold strict brand standards and visual style guidelines across all design outputs to maintain brand consistency and integrity.

• Develop and modify product labels and packaging artwork, incorporating technical information and product specifications accurately.

• Prepare production-ready artwork files for both print and digital applications, ensuring all technical requirements for vendors are met.

• Conduct thorough reviews of artwork to guarantee accuracy, consistency, and overall quality prior to final production and release.

• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams including the creative department, marketing, product development, and production to ensure seamless project execution.

• Manage a dynamic workload, prioritizing multiple design projects and deadlines simultaneously while maintaining a high level of accuracy and detail.

• Receive and integrate feedback constructively from senior designers and leadership to enhance design quality and professional development.

• Stay informed about emerging design trends, software advancements, and best practices relevant to graphic design and production.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a focus on production-level design work within a manufacturing context, emphasizing accuracy, adherence to templates, and collaboration with technical teams, rather than purely conceptual or campaign-driven design.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Associate’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a closely related field is required.

• A Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or a related field is strongly preferred, indicating a desire for candidates with a more comprehensive design education. Experience:

• 1–2 years of professional graphic design experience is required.

• Internships, significant school projects, and a robust portfolio demonstrating relevant skills will be considered as valuable experience. Required Skills:

• Adobe Illustrator: Advanced proficiency for creating vector graphics, logos, and detailed artwork for packaging and labels.

• Adobe Photoshop: Strong skills in image editing, manipulation, and creating compelling visual assets for marketing materials.

• Adobe InDesign: Expertise in layout design for multi-page documents, brochures, and print collateral.

• Packaging Design: Demonstrated ability to design functional and visually appealing packaging solutions.

• Label Design: Experience in creating clear, informative, and compliant product labels.

• Brand Standards Adherence: Proven ability to follow and apply established brand guidelines consistently.

• Print Production Preparation: Understanding of pre-press requirements, file formats, and color management for print output.

• Attention to Detail: Exceptional accuracy in reviewing artwork for errors, inconsistencies, and adherence to specifications.

• Time Management & Organization: Proven ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines effectively in a fast-paced environment.

• Visual Communication: Strong aptitude for translating technical information and brand messaging into effective visual designs.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with digital design applications and their specific requirements.

• Familiarity with manufacturing environments and their unique design challenges.

• Basic understanding of typography and layout principles for effective communication.

• Ability to receive and implement constructive criticism from senior team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific Adobe Creative Suite programs and practical design skills like packaging and label design, coupled with the 1-2 year experience requirement, positions this as a role for designers ready to apply their foundational knowledge in a production-focused corporate setting.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase of Packaging & Label Designs: A dedicated section highlighting at least 2-3 distinct examples of packaging or label design projects, detailing the problem, your design process, and the final outcome.

• Print Production Readiness Examples: Include mock-ups or case studies demonstrating your ability to prepare files for print, showcasing understanding of bleed, trim, color modes (CMYK), and resolution.

• Brand Guideline Application: Present a project where you successfully applied or adapted existing brand guidelines, illustrating your ability to maintain consistency while being creative.

• File Management & Organization: Be prepared to discuss how you organize your design files and assets, demonstrating efficiency and attention to detail in file naming conventions and folder structures.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Be ready to discuss your typical design workflow from brief to final delivery, including steps for concept development, revision rounds, and production handoff.

• Collaboration & Feedback Integration: Prepare to explain how you incorporate feedback from stakeholders and senior designers into your design process, demonstrating adaptability and a collaborative spirit.

• Problem-Solving Case Studies: Select one or two projects that presented a unique design challenge (e.g., complex technical information, tight deadline, specific material constraint) and explain your approach to finding a creative and effective solution.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on production and packaging, the portfolio should strongly emphasize practical application, adherence to constraints, and readiness for manufacturing. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their workflow and how they handle feedback in a structured environment.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The estimated salary range for a Jr Graphic Designer in Athens, TN, with 0-2 years of experience, is typically between $38,000 - $50,000 annually. This estimate is based on regional cost of living, industry benchmarks for entry-level creative roles in manufacturing, and common compensation structures for similar positions in the Southeastern United States. Factors such as specific skills, portfolio strength, and the final negotiation will influence the exact offer. Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to support employee well-being.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay to ensure work-life balance.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Access to a 401(k) plan with potential company matching contributions.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training and advancement within the design and manufacturing fields.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Support services for personal and work-related challenges.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position, typically requiring 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. Standard business hours are expected, with potential for occasional overtime during peak production periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on industry standards for entry-level graphic design roles in the specified region and experience level. Benefits are typical for a full-time position in a manufacturing company of this size.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Manufacturing (Professional Cleaning Products). Midlab operates within the business-to-business (B2B) sector, supplying cleaning solutions to various industries. This context means design work will often be functional, product-focused, and aimed at professional buyers rather than general consumers.

Company Size: Midlab is part of the larger Midlab, Inc. organization. While exact employee numbers aren't provided, the description suggests a well-established company with multiple departments, indicating a medium to large enterprise structure where clear processes and roles are maintained.

Founded: Midlab has a history of delivering innovative cleaning solutions, implying a company culture that values both tradition and forward-thinking product development. This blend can translate into a design culture that respects established brand identity while embracing new creative approaches.

Team Structure:

• The Junior Graphic Designer will join a dedicated Graphics team, suggesting a collaborative environment where designers work together on projects.

• This team likely reports to a Design Manager or Creative Director, with a clear hierarchy for feedback and project assignment.

• Close collaboration with Marketing, Product Development, and Production departments is crucial, highlighting a cross-functional operational model. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: While creative, design decisions in manufacturing often rely on technical specifications, production constraints, and market research to ensure product effectiveness and compliance.

• Process Optimization: Emphasis on efficient workflows, template utilization, and preparation of production-ready files to streamline the design-to-production pipeline.

• Quality Control: Rigorous review processes to ensure accuracy, brand consistency, and adherence to regulatory or technical requirements in all visual outputs.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on manufacturing cleaning products implies a practical, results-oriented culture. Design within this context is heavily tied to product functionality, compliance, and clear communication of technical features, rather than purely aesthetic or conceptual exploration.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an "entry-level" or "junior" position, specifically catering to individuals with 0-2 years of professional experience. It serves as a foundational role within the design function, offering hands-on experience in a corporate manufacturing environment.

Reporting Structure: The Junior Graphic Designer will report to senior members of the Graphics team, such as a Senior Graphic Designer or the Design Manager. This structure provides direct mentorship and oversight, essential for developing practical design skills.

Operations Impact: While not directly involved in sales operations or revenue generation, the Junior Graphic Designer's work has a significant impact on Midlab's market presence and product perception. High-quality, accurate, and on-brand packaging and marketing materials directly influence customer purchasing decisions, brand recognition, and overall product success in the B2B market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Potential to develop expertise in specific areas like packaging design, label compliance, or print production management within the manufacturing sector.

• Advancement: Progression to Graphic Designer, Senior Graphic Designer, or potentially a specialized role like Packaging Specialist or Production Artist as experience and skills grow.

• Cross-Functional Learning: Opportunities to gain exposure to marketing strategies, product development cycles, and manufacturing processes, broadening overall business acumen.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced designers and creative leadership, fostering professional development and skill refinement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth opportunities are framed within the context of a manufacturing company's design department. Advancement is likely tied to mastering production-level design skills and understanding the specific needs of the cleaning products industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position located at Midlab's facility in Athens, TN. The work environment is situated within a manufacturing company, suggesting a professional office setting that interfaces closely with production and operational areas.

Office Location(s): The role is based at 140 Private Brand Way, Athens, TN 37303-1401. This location is specific to Midlab's operational headquarters.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The workspace will likely be part of an open or semi-open plan office where the design team collaborates, shares ideas, and provides peer feedback.

• Technology-Rich: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite) and hardware (computers, monitors) necessary for design tasks.

• Cross-Functional Interaction: Opportunities to interact with colleagues from marketing, product development, and production teams, fostering an understanding of the entire product lifecycle.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is Monday to Friday, typical for a full-time position. Given the on-site nature, employees are expected to be present during core business hours, contributing to the team's daily operations and collaborative efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in a manufacturing facility implies a structured work environment where punctuality, adherence to office protocols, and direct collaboration are key aspects of the daily experience.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Screening of resumes and portfolios against the specified requirements, looking for proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and relevant design experience.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, walking through key projects, explaining their design process, and highlighting how they addressed specific design challenges and production requirements.

• Skills Assessment: A practical design test, possibly involving a short design exercise or critique of existing work, to evaluate technical skills and problem-solving abilities.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Questions focused on teamwork, communication, ability to take feedback, and suitability for a manufacturing environment.

• Final Interview: Discussion with hiring manager or department lead to finalize assessment and discuss role expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate for Relevance: Prioritize packaging, label, and marketing material designs that align with Midlab's industry and product types.

• Showcase Process: For each project, briefly explain the brief, your creative process, challenges encountered, solutions implemented, and the final outcome.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Demonstrate proficiency in Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign through detailed examples. If possible, show how you prepared files for print.

• Emphasize Accuracy & Brand Adherence: Include examples that show meticulous attention to detail and a strong understanding of maintaining brand consistency.

• Be Prepared to Discuss: Think about how you handle feedback, manage deadlines, and collaborate with others.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for a design challenge that may involve adapting existing artwork, creating a new label based on specifications, or critiquing a piece of marketing collateral.

• Focus on demonstrating your understanding of the brief, your creative approach, and your ability to produce a production-ready output within a given timeframe.

• Practice articulating your design choices clearly and concisely, explaining the rationale behind your creative decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus heavily on practical design skills, the ability to work within established brand and production constraints, and a candidate's capacity to learn and adapt within a manufacturing context.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Illustrator: Essential for vector graphics, logo creation, and detailed artwork for packaging and labels. Expect to use tools for path manipulation, typography, and complex vector illustrations.

• Adobe Photoshop: Crucial for image editing, retouching, creating mock-ups, and designing digital assets. Proficiency in layers, masks, color correction, and photo manipulation is expected.

• Adobe InDesign: The primary tool for layout design of marketing materials, brochures, and any multi-page documents. Understanding master pages, text flow, and print-specific features is key.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary function for this role, understanding how design impacts marketing analytics (e.g., click-through rates on digital ads, brand recall) may be beneficial for context. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the Junior Graphic Designer role, but awareness of how design assets are managed and distributed within the company's systems might be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on the core Adobe Creative Suite. Proficiency in these tools is non-negotiable and will be a primary focus during the assessment of candidates.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Accuracy: A strong emphasis on producing error-free work that meets technical specifications and brand standards, crucial in a manufacturing setting.

• Efficiency & Productivity: The ability to work effectively and meet deadlines is paramount, as design output directly impacts production timelines.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A culture that encourages mutual support, constructive feedback, and shared responsibility within the design team and across departments.

• Continuous Improvement: A willingness to learn new software features, design techniques, and adapt to evolving brand or production needs.

• Professionalism: Maintaining a professional demeanor and work ethic, especially when interacting with internal stakeholders and external vendors.

Collaboration Style:

• Constructive Critiques: The team likely engages in regular design reviews where feedback is provided and received constructively to improve project outcomes.

• Cross-Functional Partnership: Designers are expected to work closely with marketing, product development, and production teams, requiring clear communication and a problem-solving approach.

• Knowledge Sharing: An environment where team members share best practices, tips, and tricks for using design software and achieving efficient workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values practical application, precision, and a collaborative spirit essential for a manufacturing environment. Designers are expected to be team players who can contribute to the overall efficiency and quality of the company's visual communications.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Constraints: A primary challenge will be to produce creative and engaging designs while adhering strictly to brand guidelines, technical specifications, and production limitations inherent in manufacturing.

• Managing Multiple Deadlines: Juggling numerous projects from different departments, each with its own timeline and priorities, will require strong organizational and time-management skills.

• Adapting to Technical Information: Translating complex product specifications or technical data into clear, visually appealing designs for labels and packaging can be demanding.

• Receiving and Implementing Feedback: Learning to professionally accept and integrate feedback from various stakeholders, including those with less design expertise, is a key developmental challenge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mastering Production Design: Deepen expertise in preparing files for commercial printing and understanding various production methods.

• Industry-Specific Design: Gain specialized knowledge in designing for the cleaning products industry, understanding regulatory requirements and consumer/professional perceptions.

• Software Proficiency: Enhance skills in advanced features of Adobe Creative Suite and potentially explore new design software or plugins.

• Cross-Departmental Exposure: Learn about marketing campaigns, product development cycles, and manufacturing processes, providing a broader business perspective.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are centered around the practical application of design skills in a production environment, while growth opportunities focus on deepening expertise relevant to the company's industry and operational needs.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for designing a new product label, from receiving the brief to final file delivery." (Focus on steps, approvals, and accuracy checks.)

• "How do you ensure brand consistency across different design projects and materials?" (Highlight understanding of brand guidelines and systematic approach.)

• "Walk us through a project where you had to incorporate technical specifications or complex information into your design. What was the challenge, and how did you overcome it?" (Emphasize problem-solving and clarity.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about designing for the cleaning products industry and Midlab specifically?" (Research Midlab's products and market position.)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your designs, especially from non-designers?" (Demonstrate professionalism and adaptability.)

• "Describe a time you had to manage multiple design projects with competing deadlines. How did you prioritize?" (Showcase organizational and time-management skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type (packaging, marketing, digital) or by showcasing your strongest, most relevant work first.

• Storytelling: For each key project, clearly articulate the objective, your role, the challenges, your design process, and the successful outcome. Use visuals effectively.

• Technical Detail: Be prepared to discuss the software and techniques you used, and how you ensured the final output was production-ready.

• Conciseness: Present your work efficiently, focusing on the most impactful examples and being mindful of the interviewer's time.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical design skills, understanding of production requirements, ability to work within constraints, and a collaborative, professional attitude suitable for a corporate manufacturing setting.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Jr Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the recruiting.paylocity.com platform.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight your experience with Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and specifically any packaging or label design projects. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Designed 50+ product labels," "Contributed to a marketing campaign that increased engagement by X%").

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your degree, years of experience, and proficiency in the required software. Use keywords from the job description such as "packaging design," "label design," "print production," and "brand standards."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving approaches, and ability to work collaboratively. Prepare specific examples that demonstrate your attention to detail and time management skills.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Midlab, Inc., their product lines, and their market presence. Understanding their business will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest during the interview process.

⚠️ 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.