Junior Graphic Designer (18 Month FTC)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Graphic Designer (18 Month FTC)

Company: SC Johnson

Location: Frimley, Surrey, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-Time, Temporary

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Marketing

Date Posted: April 27, 2026

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

Remote Status: Hybrid (1 day remote per week)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a fantastic opportunity for an emerging artworker to build expertise in packaging production within a fast-paced FMCG environment.

• The Junior Graphic Designer will be responsible for transforming approved creative concepts into polished, print-ready files for multiple markets and formats.

• Key focus areas include ensuring accuracy, adherence to regulatory requirements, and understanding printer specifications for flawless execution.

• The position offers valuable exposure to technical foundations of packaging design, working alongside experienced professionals and contributing to real projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for an 18-month Fixed-Term Contract (FTC), indicating a project-based need or a temporary capacity fill. The "Internal Job Title: Associate, Graphics" suggests a more junior level within SC Johnson's broader structure, aligning with the "Junior" title and the 0-2 year experience expectation. The "Marketing Operations Manager" as the People Leader implies that while the function is Creative Studio, there's a strong link to marketing operational execution and process.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Create, adapt, and finalize print-ready packaging artwork across multiple SKUs, variants, and formats with a high degree of precision and consistency.

• Translate master designs into production-ready files, meticulously ensuring accurate layout, alignment, and formatting for flawless print execution.

• Apply essential technical elements such as cutter guides, die lines, finishes, layers, trapping, and emboss/deboss features, adhering to all print production requirements.

• Maintain brand and artwork consistency across product ranges and diverse markets by strictly following established brand guidelines and artwork frameworks.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including marketing, legal, and regulatory, to accurately incorporate claims, ingredients, mandatory copy, and all necessary pack updates.

• Liaise directly with print vendors and suppliers to gather precise specifications, resolve technical queries, and ensure all print expectations are met.

• Conduct thorough artwork checks, including colour accuracy, barcode validation, content verification, and pre-press compliance, managing version control throughout the full review and approval cycle.

• Deliver accurate, compliant, and high-quality artwork within deadlines in a dynamic, fast-paced FMCG setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on technical execution in packaging artwork. The need to work with "cutter guides, die lines, finishes, layers, trapping, emboss/deboss" and "pre-press compliance" indicates a role that bridges creative design with manufacturing realities. The collaboration with "print vendors and suppliers" and "cross-functional teams" underscores the importance of communication and stakeholder management in ensuring successful product launches.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, candidates are expected to possess a foundational understanding of design principles and production processes, likely acquired through relevant vocational training, a diploma, or a degree in Graphic Design, Fine Art, or a related creative field.

Experience: A minimum of 0-2 years of experience in artwork, packaging production, or a related design/print environment is required, with a demonstrable interest in developing deeper technical expertise in packaging.

Required Skills:

• Working knowledge of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, with a preference for some packaging-focused exposure.

• Basic understanding of print and production requirements, including the technical preparation of artwork for various printing methods.

• Ability to work with and understand cutter guides, die lines, and building blocks, with a willingness to learn and receive training.

• Exceptional attention to detail and a strong desire to learn, with the capacity to absorb feedback and rapidly grow technical skills.

• Strong organizational skills, enabling effective management of multiple artwork tasks and deadlines.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with artwork management systems such as Figma, Esko, Workfront, or Wrike.

• Prior exposure to packaging artwork for FMCG products.

• Understanding of regulatory compliance specific to consumer packaging.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level, coupled with the "basic understanding" and "ability to work with" certain technical elements, suggests that the company is open to training candidates who demonstrate strong foundational skills and a willingness to learn. The emphasis on Adobe Creative Suite is standard, but the specific mention of packaging-focused exposure and preferred artwork management systems points to areas where candidates can differentiate themselves.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 distinct projects demonstrating proficiency in creating print-ready artwork, ideally within packaging.

• Include examples that highlight the application of technical elements such as die lines, colour separations, and adherence to brand guidelines.

• Projects should illustrate the ability to adapt existing creative assets into various formats and SKUs.

• Demonstrate meticulous attention to detail in layout, typography, and accuracy of information.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal workflow for preparing artwork from initial brief to final file delivery.

• Be ready to explain how they ensure accuracy and manage version control throughout the artwork lifecycle.

• Demonstrate an understanding of how to incorporate technical print specifications and regulatory requirements into the design process.

• Be able to articulate how they would collaborate with cross-functional teams and external vendors for feedback and approvals.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a formal "portfolio requirement" in the listing, for a role focused on "artwork creation" and "packaging production," a portfolio is implicitly essential. The instructions focus on demonstrating practical skills and process understanding, crucial for an artworker role. The emphasis on "print-ready files" and "technical elements" means the portfolio should lean towards production-ready work rather than purely conceptual design.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Junior Graphic Designer/Artwork Assistant in the Frimley, Surrey area with 0-2 years of experience, the estimated salary range is approximately £22,000 - £28,000 per annum. This estimate considers the competitive nature of the FMCG sector and the fixed-term contract aspect, which may influence the offering.

Benefits:

• Competitive pay and benefits package.

• Complimentary breakfast and snacks provided on-site.

• Generous annual leave entitlement of 25 days.

• Pension scheme contribution.

• Life cover provided.

• Health insurance benefits.

• Opportunity to participate in volunteering days.

• Season ticket loan available for commuters.

• Wellness days allocated for employee well-being.

• Free Ecover refills, reflecting the company's commitment to sustainability.

Working Hours: This is a full-time role, typically aligning with standard business hours. The description mentions 40 hours per week as an AI-derived value, which is a common benchmark for full-time employment in the UK. The role also offers the flexibility of remote work one day per week for eligible employees.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is an estimate based on UK market data for entry-level creative roles in the specified location. The provided benefits are comprehensive and align with typical offerings for established companies in the UK FMCG sector, with a notable emphasis on employee well-being and sustainability. The hybrid work arrangement (1 day remote) is a key benefit for work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: SC Johnson operates within the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, specifically in household cleaning, home storage, air care, pest control, and shoe care products. The Lifestyle Brands division (Method®, Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day®, Babyganics®, Ecover®) focuses on a more premium, design-conscious, and sustainability-driven segment of this market. This dual focus allows for a blend of established corporate practices with a more agile, purpose-driven brand ethos.

Company Size: SC Johnson is a large, family-owned global manufacturer. The Lifestyle Brands division itself comprises 650 employees across multiple locations, indicating a significant operational scale with a dedicated team for its distinct brands. This size offers stability and resources while maintaining a focused operational environment within the LSB.

Founded: SC Johnson was founded in 1886, bringing over a century of experience and a strong legacy to its operations. The Lifestyle Brands division represents a more recent strategic expansion, aiming for "bold, transformative growth" and a focus on positive impact.

Team Structure:

• The Junior Graphic Designer will be part of the Marketing – Creative Studio function, reporting to the Marketing Operations Manager. This structure suggests a close integration between creative output and marketing operational efficiency.

• The team likely comprises experienced designers, artworkers, and potentially project managers who oversee the creative development and production pipeline.

Methodology:

• The LSB emphasizes a "force for bold, transformative growth" and "doing good while doing business," suggesting a culture that values innovation, sustainability, and impact.

• The creative studio operates within an FMCG context, requiring a balance between creative excellence and the rigorous demands of production, regulatory compliance, and speed-to-market.

• Processes will likely be structured to ensure brand consistency, accuracy, and efficient delivery of print-ready assets, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and feedback loops.

Company Website: https://www.scjohnson.com/ (SC Johnson Global) and specific brand websites like https://methodhome.com/, https://www.mrsmeyers.com/, https://www.babyganics.com/, https://us.ecover.com/ for Lifestyle Brands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture description highlights a commitment to both business growth and positive impact, which is a significant differentiator for SC Johnson and its Lifestyle Brands. Understanding this duality is key for candidates. The reporting structure under "Marketing Operations Manager" is a critical insight, suggesting that efficiency, process adherence, and operational excellence are as important as creative output for this role.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level or junior associate level within the Creative Studio, specifically focused on the technical execution of graphic design for packaging. It's an "earning while learning" opportunity, designed for individuals at the beginning of their careers in artwork and packaging production. The 18-month FTC structure suggests it could be a pathway to gain foundational experience before moving into more senior artworker or specialized design roles.

Reporting Structure: The Junior Graphic Designer reports to the Marketing Operations Manager. This managerial oversight suggests a focus on process, timelines, and operational efficiency within the creative output. The manager will likely guide the candidate on best practices, project management, and the integration of creative work into broader marketing operations.

Operations Impact: While not a direct "revenue operations" role, the Junior Graphic Designer's work has a tangible impact on the business by ensuring that product packaging is visually appealing, compliant with regulations, and correctly produced. Errors in artwork can lead to costly delays, rejections, or brand damage, making this role critical for the successful launch and ongoing sale of products in a competitive FMCG market. Accurate and timely artwork directly supports sales and marketing efforts.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop deep technical expertise in packaging production, print processes, and specialized artwork software (e.g., Esko, potentially 3D rendering for packaging).

• Career Advancement: Progress to a mid-level Graphic Designer, Senior Artworke, or Packaging Production Specialist roles within SC Johnson or the Lifestyle Brands division.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain experience working with various departments (marketing, product development, supply chain) and understanding the broader business context of product creation.

• Project Ownership: Over time, potentially take on more responsibility for specific projects or product lines, managing artwork from concept to final print.

• Industry Knowledge: Become an expert in FMCG packaging trends, sustainability initiatives, and regulatory landscapes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities are framed around developing specialized technical skills in packaging production, which is a distinct and valuable career path within the broader design and marketing fields. The FTC nature means candidates should be clear about potential long-term employment prospects, though the experience gained is highly transferable. The reporting to "Marketing Operations" is a strong indicator that career progression might also involve understanding and optimizing marketing workflows.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Frimley, Surrey, UK, and is described as hybrid. This means a combination of on-site work at the SC Johnson office and remote work. The "1 day remote per week" for eligible employees indicates a structured hybrid model.

Office Location(s): The primary office location for this role is Frimley, Surrey, United Kingdom. This area is a common hub for businesses in the South East of England, offering good transport links.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: As part of the Creative Studio, the Junior Graphic Designer will work alongside other designers and artworkers, fostering a collaborative atmosphere for creative development and problem-solving.

• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite) and potentially specialized packaging production tools will be provided. The office environment will likely be equipped for creative work and team interaction.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with colleagues, the Marketing Operations Manager, and cross-functional teams will be a standard part of the day-to-day, facilitating knowledge sharing and project coordination.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, with standard working hours. The hybrid arrangement offers some flexibility, allowing for one day of remote work per week, which can aid in focused work or personal commitments. This structure supports the need for both collaborative on-site work and focused, individual task completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work arrangement is a significant aspect of the work environment, offering a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility. For operations-focused roles like this, understanding the balance between team synergy and focused individual work is key. The mention of "free breakfast & snacks" and "wellness days" points to a supportive office culture.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of CV and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and creative output.

• First Interview: May be with the Marketing Operations Manager or a senior member of the Creative Studio. Focus on understanding your background, technical skills (Adobe Suite, basic print knowledge), and enthusiasm for packaging production.

• Technical Assessment/Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, explaining their process, design choices, and technical execution for specific projects. A practical design or artworking exercise may be included to assess skills in real-time.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a broader hiring panel, including other marketing or creative leads, to assess cultural fit, communication skills, and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Production Readiness: Prioritize examples that demonstrate your ability to create print-ready files, including clear examples of die lines, colour management, and correct file setup.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Ensure your portfolio clearly shows your proficiency with Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, especially in the context of packaging.

• Detail Your Process: For each project, be prepared to walk through your workflow from brief to final artwork, explaining your decisions and problem-solving steps.

• Demonstrate Detail Orientation: Emphasize projects where meticulous attention to detail was crucial, such as ensuring accurate copy, correct barcode placement, and adherence to brand guidelines.

• Include "Bonus" Skills: If you have experience with Figma, Esko, Workfront, or Wrike, highlight these projects.

Challenge Preparation:

• Artwork Adaptation Task: Be prepared for a task that requires you to adapt an existing design onto a new SKU or format, incorporating specific claims or regulatory text.

• Print Specification Understanding: Brush up on common print terms and processes (CMYK, spot colours, bleeds, trapping, resolution).

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would handle conflicting feedback, tight deadlines, or technical challenges with print files.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is geared towards assessing technical proficiency in artwork and production. The portfolio review is critical, and candidates should tailor it to showcase the specific skills mentioned in the job description, particularly those related to print-ready files and packaging. The emphasis on "Marketing Operations Manager" as the hiring manager suggests that the interview will also touch upon efficiency, process adherence, and project management aspects.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign is a core requirement. Candidates should be comfortable using these tools for detailed artwork creation, image manipulation, and layout.

• Specialized Packaging Software (Preferred): Familiarity with systems like Esko (for packaging design and proofing), and potentially 3D visualization tools, would be advantageous.

• Artwork Management Systems (Preferred): Experience with platforms like Figma (for collaborative design), Workfront, or Wrike (for project management and workflow tracking) is a plus.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role's core functions, but an understanding of how marketing assets are deployed and managed within broader marketing automation or CRM systems might be a tangential benefit.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on design and production software. The emphasis on Adobe Creative Suite is expected, but the "preferred" mention of Esko and artwork management systems like Workfront/Wrike indicates areas where candidates can demonstrate advanced readiness and a proactive approach to learning industry-specific tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Detail-Oriented Excellence: A strong emphasis on accuracy, precision, and meticulous execution in all artwork creation and production tasks.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: A culture that values working together, sharing feedback constructively, and supporting colleagues to achieve shared goals.

• Sustainability and Impact: Aligning with SC Johnson's broader mission, the team likely values environmentally conscious practices and contributing to positive change through their work.

• Continuous Learning: An environment that encourages professional development, skill enhancement, and staying updated with industry best practices in design and print production.

• Brand Integrity: A commitment to upholding brand standards and ensuring all creative output is consistent and aligned with brand identity.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The team works closely with marketing, product development, and regulatory departments to ensure all project requirements are met.

• Vendor Partnerships: A professional and collaborative approach to working with external print vendors and suppliers, fostering strong working relationships.

• Feedback-Driven Improvement: An open exchange of feedback among team members and with stakeholders to refine artwork and processes.

• Process-Oriented: A structured approach to project management and workflow, ensuring efficiency and quality in the creative production pipeline.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values highlight a blend of creative execution with operational rigor. The emphasis on "sustainability and impact" is a key differentiator for SC Johnson and its Lifestyle Brands, suggesting a purpose-driven work environment. The collaborative style is crucial for a role that interfaces with many different teams and external partners.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Speed and Accuracy: In an FMCG environment, there's constant pressure to deliver artwork quickly while maintaining impeccable accuracy and quality.

• Managing Multiple Projects: Juggling numerous SKUs, variants, and market-specific requirements simultaneously can be demanding.

• Technical Print Demands: Understanding and applying complex print specifications, color management, and pre-press requirements can be a steep learning curve.

• Incorporating Evolving Regulations: Keeping up-to-date with and accurately implementing changing claims, ingredients, and regulatory copy on packaging.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Packaging Training: Access to internal or external training focused on advanced packaging design, print technologies, and artwork production techniques.

• Mentorship: Guidance from experienced artworkers and designers within the Creative Studio.

• Exposure to Diverse Brands: Working across different Lifestyle Brands offers varied creative challenges and exposure to different market approaches.

• Industry Events: Potential opportunities to attend industry-specific conferences or workshops related to packaging design and print production.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for an artworker role in a fast-paced consumer goods company. The growth opportunities are framed around deepening technical expertise and gaining broad exposure, which are ideal for an entry-level position. The FTC nature means candidates should be mindful of how these opportunities align with their long-term career goals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Walk me through your process for preparing a piece of packaging artwork from brief to final print-ready file." (Be prepared to detail each step, including checks and collaborations.)

• "Describe a time you had to incorporate complex regulatory information or claims onto packaging. How did you ensure accuracy?" (Focus on your attention to detail and verification methods.)

• "How do you manage multiple design tasks with competing deadlines?" (Highlight your organizational skills and prioritization strategies.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working with Lifestyle Brands like Method and Ecover, and what do you know about our commitment to sustainability?" (Research the brands and SC Johnson's sustainability initiatives.)

• "How do you approach receiving and incorporating feedback on your creative work?" (Demonstrate an open and collaborative attitude.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Production: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your ability to create print-ready files. Highlight technical details like die lines, colour palettes, and layout accuracy.

• Tell the Story: For each project, explain the brief, your process, challenges faced, and the final outcome. Emphasize your role and contributions.

• Highlight Detail: Point out specific elements in your work that demonstrate your meticulous attention to detail.

• Be Ready for Technical Questions: Anticipate questions about software usage, print processes, and file preparation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview questions are designed to assess both technical aptitude and cultural fit. Candidates should prepare specific examples from their experience that align with the responsibilities and desired skills. The portfolio presentation is paramount, and candidates should be ready to speak confidently about their technical execution and process.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the SC Johnson careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to specifically highlight your packaging artwork experience, demonstrating proficiency with Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign. Include examples of print-ready files, die lines, and adherence to brand guidelines.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your experience in artwork creation, packaging production, and any relevant software proficiency. Use keywords from the job description such as "packaging production," "print-ready files," "Adobe Illustrator," and "attention to detail."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, technical skills, and problem-solving abilities. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail and answer questions about your understanding of print production and brand consistency.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with SC Johnson, the Lifestyle Brands (Method, Ecover, Mrs. Meyer's, Babyganics), their product lines, and their commitment to sustainability and innovation. Understand the company's values to better articulate your fit during the interview.

⚠️ 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.