Junior Graphic Designer (all genders) // Elternzeitvertretung für 1 Jahr

ARMEDANGELS
Full-time€36k-42k/year (EUR)Cologne, Germany

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Graphic Designer (all genders) // Parental Leave Replacement for 1 Year

Company: ARMEDANGELS

Location: Thebäerstraße 17, 50823 Köln, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany

Job Type: Temporary (Befristet)

Category: Marketing Operations / Creative Design

Date Posted: 2026-08-17

Experience Level: Junior (0-2 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

  • Design and execution of engaging graphics and layouts for both digital and print channels, ensuring visual storytelling and brand coherence.

  • Creation of CRM assets, including marketing, automated, and transactional emails, to support customer engagement strategies.

  • Collaboration with cross-functional teams (CRM, Marketing, Product, E-commerce) to deliver timely and impactful design solutions.

  • Maintaining and evolving visual consistency with brand guidelines while contributing fresh ideas for visual development.

  • Staying current with design trends, tools, and software to infuse innovation into the company's visual language.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a temporary, 1-year parental leave replacement, which is crucial for candidates to understand regarding job security and long-term career planning. The hybrid work arrangement suggests a need for candidates comfortable with a mix of remote and in-office collaboration.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Develop and create compelling graphics and layouts for digital platforms, including social media, website elements, and digital advertisements.

  • Produce print-ready assets for marketing collateral, such as brochures, flyers, and point-of-sale materials, adhering to quality standards.

  • Design and implement visually appealing newsletters and CRM-specific assets to enhance customer communication and retention efforts.

  • Assist the Art Direction & Graphic Design team in brainstorming sessions and campaign concept development, contributing creative input.

  • Ensure all design outputs align with ARMEDANGELS' sustainability values and brand narrative, translating these core principles into visual representations.

  • Manage multiple design projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks effectively to meet deadlines for various internal teams.

  • Conduct research on emerging design trends and technologies to propose innovative visual solutions and enhance the company's aesthetic.

  • Collaborate closely with marketing teams to translate campaign objectives into effective visual communication strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for a graphic designer with a strong understanding of marketing and CRM functions, emphasizing the integration of design with business objectives. The focus on sustainability is a key differentiator, requiring candidates to be passionate about and capable of visually representing these values.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, or a completed vocational training (Ausbildung) in a related field, or equivalent qualification.

Experience:

  • Entry-level to 2 years of professional experience in graphic design.

  • Demonstrated experience in creating digital and print assets.

  • Previous exposure to CRM marketing assets is advantageous. Required Skills:

  • Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.

  • Strong graphic design skills with a keen eye for detail, composition, and aesthetics.

  • Excellent understanding of brand guidelines and ability to maintain visual consistency across all platforms.

  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively within a team environment.

  • Outstanding time management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.

  • Fluent in both English and German (written and spoken). Preferred Skills:

  • Experience designing for social media platforms.

  • Familiarity with marketing automation platforms and email marketing best practices.

  • Basic understanding of UI/UX principles for web design elements.

  • Passion for sustainability and the fashion industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for fluency in both English and German is critical for communication within the team and with broader stakeholders. The emphasis on "initial professional experience" suggests that internships or significant academic projects showcasing design capabilities will be considered.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse design projects that demonstrate proficiency across digital and print mediums.

  • Include examples of CRM assets, such as email templates or campaign graphics, if available.

  • Highlight projects that required adherence to strict brand guidelines or involved visual storytelling.

  • Demonstrate experience with the Adobe Creative Suite through the quality and complexity of the provided work.

  • Include case studies or brief explanations for key projects, detailing the brief, your role, the process, and the outcome. Process Documentation:

  • Ability to document design processes and workflows for future reference or team knowledge sharing.

  • Understanding of how design assets are integrated into marketing and CRM workflows.

  • Experience in adapting design processes based on feedback and evolving project requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is paramount for this role. Candidates should curate their submissions to highlight projects that best align with ARMEDANGELS' brand, sustainability focus, and the specific responsibilities outlined, particularly those involving digital marketing and CRM assets.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: An estimated annual salary range of €36,000 - €42,000, depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits:

  • Inspirierendes Arbeitsumfeld: Work in an innovative and sustainable company setting new standards in the industry.

  • Flexibility: Trust-based working hours and the option for hybrid work arrangements.

  • Team Spirit: Vibrant company events, a welcoming office environment, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.

  • Employee Perks:

    • ARMEDANGELS shopping vouchers.
    • Attractive employee discounts.
    • Subsidized public transport pass (Deutschlandticket) or bicycle leasing program (Jobrad).
    • Company pension scheme.
  • Support Services: Access to the Employee Assistant Program for confidential guidance in various life situations.

  • Work Culture: "Come as you are" policy with no strict dress code.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility based on trust.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on junior graphic design roles in Germany, considering the specified experience level and the cost of living in Cologne. Benefits are comprehensive, with a strong emphasis on employee well-being and work-life balance, aligning with the company's sustainable and people-centric ethos.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Sustainable Fashion & Lifestyle. ARMEDANGELS is a pioneer in the European sustainable fashion market, committed to ethical production and environmental responsibility. This industry context means design must not only be appealing but also communicate these core values effectively.

Company Size: Approximately 190 employees, indicating a medium-sized enterprise that balances established processes with a dynamic, evolving culture. For operations professionals, this size often means opportunities for broad impact and direct interaction with various departments.

Founded: 2007. ARMEDANGELS has a strong history and established presence, evolving from a small idea into a leading sustainable lifestyle label. This longevity suggests stability and a well-defined brand identity.

Team Structure:

  • The graphic design team is part of a larger Art Direction & Graphic Design department, likely working collaboratively with marketing, CRM, product, and e-commerce teams.

  • Reporting structure likely involves a lead designer or Art Director, with direct communication channels to project stakeholders across departments.

  • Cross-functional collaboration is a key aspect, requiring designers to integrate their work with broader marketing campaigns and customer engagement strategies. Methodology:

  • Data-Driven Design: While not explicitly stated, a modern fashion company likely uses data from CRM and e-commerce to inform design choices for marketing assets.

  • Agile Collaboration: The need to work closely with multiple teams suggests an agile approach to project management and asset delivery.

  • Brand Consistency: A strong emphasis on brand guidelines ensures a unified visual message across all touchpoints.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's strong commitment to sustainability is a defining characteristic. Candidates should be prepared to articulate how their design approach supports and communicates these values. The "all genders" in the job title reflects a commitment to inclusivity.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Junior Graphic Designer. This role is an entry-level position focused on execution and support within the design function. It's an excellent opportunity to gain foundational experience in a mission-driven company.

Reporting Structure: The Junior Graphic Designer will report to the Art Direction & Graphic Design team, likely under the guidance of an Art Director or Senior Designer. They will also work closely with CRM, Marketing, Product, and E-commerce teams on specific projects.

Operations Impact: The role's impact is primarily on visual communication, brand consistency, and the effectiveness of marketing and CRM campaigns. High-quality design contributes directly to brand perception, customer engagement, and ultimately, sales conversions.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in digital design, email marketing graphics, or social media content creation within the fashion industry.

  • Brand Knowledge: Develop a strong understanding of brand storytelling and visual communication within the sustainable fashion sector.

  • Cross-Functional Experience: Gain exposure to various business functions, enhancing understanding of how design supports broader business objectives.

  • Potential for Permanent Role: While this is a temporary position, strong performance could lead to future opportunities within the ARMEDANGELS team or within the broader network.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a stepping stone. The growth potential lies in mastering core design skills within a specific industry and potentially expanding into more strategic design roles with continued experience and demonstrated impact.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model, combining remote work with in-office presence. The office is described as having "a lot of history," suggesting a characterful and potentially inspiring workspace. It's also dog-friendly.

Office Location(s): Thebäerstraße 17, 50823 Köln, Germany. This location in Cologne provides a central base for hybrid work and team collaboration.

Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model necessitates strong communication and collaboration tools and practices, both for remote and in-office interactions.

  • Creative Tools: Access to Adobe Creative Suite and potentially other design software and hardware necessary for graphic design tasks.

  • Team Interaction: Opportunities for in-person brainstorming, feedback sessions, and team-building activities with colleagues. The dog-friendly office adds a unique, relaxed element.

Work Schedule: Trust-based working hours, with a standard expectation of around 40 hours per week. This flexibility allows for better work-life integration, accommodating personal needs while ensuring project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature and dog-friendly office are significant cultural elements. Candidates should be comfortable with this setup and understand the importance of proactive communication in a hybrid team.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Application Review: Screening of CV, cover letter (mentioning pronouns/preferred name, earliest start date, salary expectations), and portfolio.

  • Portfolio Presentation/Discussion: A likely step where candidates present their portfolio, discussing specific projects, their design process, and how their skills align with ARMEDANGELS' needs and values.

  • Team/Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion focused on design philosophy, collaboration style, problem-solving approaches, and cultural fit. Questions may delve into sustainability and fashion industry interest.

  • Potential Practical Exercise: A small design task or case study might be assigned to assess practical skills and problem-solving abilities under timed conditions.

  • Final Interview: Possibly with a senior leader to discuss the role, company vision, and final terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your skills in digital design, particularly for web, social media, and email marketing. Include examples that reflect a strong understanding of brand guidelines and visual storytelling.

  • Highlight Sustainability: If you have projects related to sustainability or ethical brands, feature them prominently. Explain how you translated ethical messages into compelling visuals.

  • Showcase Process: For each project, briefly explain the brief, your creative process, the tools used, and the impact or outcome. This demonstrates your problem-solving approach.

  • Tailor to ARMEDANGELS: Review ARMEDANGELS' current branding and marketing materials to understand their aesthetic and messaging, and ensure your portfolio reflects an understanding of their style.

  • Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and visually appealing.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Design Principles: Be ready to discuss fundamental design principles and their application.

  • Brand Alignment: Prepare to explain how you would ensure design consistency with ARMEDANGELS' brand guidelines.

  • Problem-Solving: Anticipate questions about how you would approach a design brief for a specific marketing campaign or CRM initiative.

  • Sustainability Messaging: Think about how to visually communicate sustainability in the fashion context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application instructions emphasize personality and motivation ("why you really want to start with us"). This suggests that beyond technical skills and portfolio, cultural fit and genuine enthusiasm for ARMEDANGELS' mission are highly valued.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Adobe Creative Suite:

    • Photoshop: For image editing, manipulation, and digital asset creation.
    • Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, icons, and illustrations.
    • InDesign: For layout design of newsletters, brochures, and other print/digital collateral.
  • CRM & Email Marketing Platforms: Familiarity with platforms for creating and deploying CRM assets (e.g., Mailchimp, HubSpot, or similar), though specific tool names are not mentioned.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • Understanding of how design impacts metrics (e.g., click-through rates for emails, engagement on social media) is beneficial, though direct analytics tool proficiency might not be required for this junior role. CRM & Automation:

  • Experience creating assets that integrate seamlessly with CRM systems and marketing automation workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is a non-negotiable requirement. While specific CRM tools aren't named, understanding the principles of designing for these platforms is crucial for creating effective CRM assets.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Sustainability: A core value deeply embedded in the company's DNA, influencing all aspects of operations and design.

  • Responsibility: Commitment to ethical production and environmental stewardship.

  • Innovation: Driving forward the sustainable fashion movement with new ideas and approaches.

  • Transparency: Openness in production processes and business practices.

  • Inclusivity: Reflected in the "all genders" job title and the "come as you are" policy.

Collaboration Style:

  • Team-Oriented: Emphasis on working together, especially within the Art Direction & Graphic Design team and cross-functionally with other departments.

  • Open Communication: Encouraged through trust-based working hours and a collaborative environment.

  • Feedback Culture: Implicit in the collaborative process, where design ideas are brainstormed and refined together.

  • Proactive Engagement: Candidates are encouraged to bring "mut" (courage) and "drive" to tackle tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should demonstrate an alignment with ARMEDANGELS' mission and values, particularly sustainability. The culture appears to be collaborative, progressive, and supportive, valuing individual contribution within a team framework.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Balancing Brand and Sustainability: Visually communicating both the fashion appeal and the core sustainability message without compromising either.

  • Fast-Paced Environment: Working within a dynamic fashion company, especially in a temporary role, may require adaptability and quick turnaround times.

  • Hybrid Work Dynamics: Effectively collaborating and maintaining strong communication and design quality within a hybrid work setting.

  • Evolving Trends: Keeping pace with both graphic design trends and the fast-moving sustainable fashion industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Industry Exposure: Gain deep insight into the sustainable fashion industry and its unique design challenges and opportunities.

  • Practical Skill Development: Enhance proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and learn best practices for digital marketing and CRM asset creation.

  • Brand Building: Understand how graphic design contributes to building and maintaining a strong, values-driven brand.

  • Networking: Connect with professionals across marketing, e-commerce, and product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The temporary nature of the role presents a unique challenge and opportunity. It requires candidates to be highly productive and impactful from the outset, while also offering a focused period to gain specific industry experience.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "How would you approach designing a newsletter for ARMEDANGELS that effectively communicates our new sustainable collection and encourages clicks to the website?" (Assesses understanding of CRM assets, brand messaging, and call-to-action design.)

  • "Describe a time you had to adhere to strict brand guidelines for a design project. How did you ensure consistency while still bringing your creative input?" (Evaluates adherence to brand identity and creative problem-solving.)

  • "Imagine we're launching a new social media campaign focused on our commitment to fair labor. What visual elements would you propose to convey this message effectively?" (Tests ability to translate complex, value-driven concepts into visual language.) Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What interests you specifically about ARMEDANGELS' mission for sustainability in fashion?" (Assesses passion for the company's core values.)

  • "How do you envision contributing to our team culture, especially in a hybrid work environment?" (Evaluates collaboration skills and understanding of hybrid work dynamics.)

  • "How do you stay updated on design trends and incorporate them into your work while respecting brand identity?" (Probes approach to continuous learning and brand stewardship.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Storytelling: For each project, tell a concise story: the challenge, your solution, the tools used, and the outcome.

  • Focus on Relevance: Highlight projects that demonstrate skills directly applicable to ARMEDANGELS' needs (digital assets, CRM, brand consistency, sustainability communication).

  • Showcase Process: Be prepared to walk through your creative process, including initial sketches, iterations, and final refinements.

  • Metrics (if applicable): If you have data on the impact of your designs (e.g., higher engagement rates), present it to demonstrate effectiveness.

  • Enthusiasm: Convey genuine excitement about the brand and the opportunity to contribute.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will likely assess not only technical design skills but also enthusiasm for ARMEDANGELS' mission, collaborative spirit, and ability to thrive in a hybrid, values-driven environment. Be prepared to articulate your passion for sustainability and fashion.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Junior Graphic Designer position:

  • Submit your application online via the provided application button.

  • Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature digital design work, CRM assets (if possible), and projects that demonstrate strong adherence to brand guidelines. Ensure it reflects an understanding of ARMEDANGELS' aesthetic and sustainability focus.

  • Resume Optimization: Clearly highlight your experience with Adobe Creative Suite, any relevant design education or training, and any experience in marketing or CRM-related design. Mention your fluency in English and German.

  • Cover Letter Clarity: In your cover letter, include your pronouns and preferred name, your earliest possible start date, and your salary expectations. Articulate clearly why you are excited about ARMEDANGELS and this specific role.

  • Company Research: Familiarize yourself with ARMEDANGELS' current brand messaging, recent campaigns, and sustainability initiatives. Understand their visual identity and how your design skills can contribute to their goals.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

You should hold a degree or completed training in graphic design and possess initial professional experience. Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite and a strong eye for detail are essential for this role.