Junior Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Graphic Designer

Company: Compass Group (Levy Restaurants)

Location: Chicago, IL

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Design / Hospitality Marketing

Date Posted: May 15, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on creating visually impactful design collateral and brand identity systems for Levy Restaurants, a leader in sports and entertainment hospitality.

• The Junior Designer will be instrumental in developing branding campaigns for diverse applications, including signage and 3D environmental graphics, to enhance guest experiences.

• A key aspect of this position involves collaborating with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to integrate user needs and design research into all creative outputs.

• The role requires a strong understanding of design thinking methodologies and the ability to translate concepts into compelling visual narratives across various media.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Junior Graphic Designer," the responsibilities and experience requirements (2-3 years, design firm/agency experience, knowledge of print/digital production, Adobe Creative Suite) suggest this is an entry-level to early-career position within a specialized design function, rather than a typical junior role that might have broader, less defined tasks. The emphasis on "experience design" and "hospitality" within the sports and entertainment industry is a critical differentiator.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute highly visual and impactful collateral design strategies that inspire consumer purchase decisions and enhance brand perception within Levy's portfolio.

• Create robust identity systems for a range of internal Levy programs and external client needs, ensuring brand consistency and visual appeal.

• Execute design strategies effectively within the framework of existing branding campaigns, while also contributing to the development of new branding concepts.

• Develop compelling branding campaigns specifically applicable for signage and other 3D environmental graphics, bridging digital and physical experiences.

• Craft persuasive layouts for design programs and new business initiatives, effectively communicating design proposals and supporting sales efforts.

• Collaborate closely with the design team and other stakeholders to ensure processes, presentations, and interactions are consistently collaborative, engaging, and enlightening for all parties.

• Ensure that user needs and design research findings directly inform and impact all design outputs and related processes, championing the end-user perspective.

• Support the Senior Director of Design in developing tools, collaboration models, and training modules that effectively promote Levy and partner brands.

• Build enthusiasm and understanding for Experience Design approaches in all interactions with the Creative and Production Services team, the Core Solutions group, Operations, and External Clients.

• Reflect graphic design excellence and best practices in all presentations and design artifacts, maintaining a high standard of quality.

• Continuously advise, train, and mentor operational team members on graphic design technologies, processes, applications, and best practices to elevate the overall design competency within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on not just execution but also on strategic thinking, cross-functional influence, and mentorship, which is typical for roles within established operations or creative services departments of larger organizations. The emphasis on "experience design" and "design thinking" suggests a modern approach to creative problem-solving.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a related field is typically expected for roles with 2-3 years of professional experience.

Experience: 2-3 years of professional design experience, preferably within a design firm, consultancy, or agency setting. Experience working within a multi-disciplinary team of designers and design thinkers is highly valued.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency and extensive knowledge of the Adobe Creative Suite (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Demonstrated ability to create high-impact visual collateral and compelling layouts.

• Strong understanding of visual communication principles and graphic storytelling.

• Experience in developing and executing branding and identity systems.

• Familiarity with print and digital production processes and their technical nuances.

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively.

• Ability to think and design across various media and applications.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with environmental graphics and signage design.

• Knowledge of user research and integrating user needs into design processes.

• Familiarity with sports, entertainment, or hospitality industries.

• Experience in training or mentoring junior team members or operational staff on design best practices.

• Portfolio demonstrating a range of design projects, including branding and collateral.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize both technical design skills (Adobe Suite, production knowledge) and soft skills (collaboration, communication, Design Thinking). The "passion" for design and storytelling is a recurring theme, indicating a desire for creative individuals who can connect with target audiences.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a strong portfolio showcasing a range of graphic design projects, with a clear emphasis on visual impact and effective communication.

• Include examples of branding and identity system development, highlighting the process from concept to final execution.

• Present case studies of collateral design for internal programs or external clients, detailing the strategy and outcome.

• Showcase experience with designing for diverse media, including print, signage, and digital applications, illustrating adaptability and technical understanding.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process, including how they approach concept development, ideation, and execution.

• Demonstrate familiarity with workflow management for design projects, from brief to final delivery, including timelines and stakeholder communication.

• Be ready to articulate how design research and user insights are documented and integrated into the workflow.

• Showcase an understanding of production workflows for both print and digital assets, including pre-press considerations and digital asset management.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a design role, a portfolio is paramount. The emphasis here is on demonstrating not just aesthetic skill but also strategic thinking, process adherence, and the ability to translate business objectives into visual solutions, particularly within the context of experience design and hospitality marketing.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $60,000 - $65,000 Annually

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.

• Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance.

• Disability Insurance (short-term and long-term).

• Retirement Plan (e.g., 401(k) with potential company match).

• Flexible Time Off Plan, offering autonomy in managing personal leave.

• Paid Parental Leave for new parents.

• Holiday Time Off, varying by site/state.

• Personal Leave options.

• Associate Shopping Program with employee discounts.

• Health and Wellness Programs to support employee well-being.

• Discount Marketplace for various services and products.

• Identity Theft Protection services.

• Pet Insurance options.

• Commuter Benefits to assist with transportation costs.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care expenses.

Working Hours: The role implies a standard full-time work week, likely around 40 hours, with potential for occasional overtime due to project demands or events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided, and the benefits package is extensive, covering health, financial, work-life balance, and wellness aspects, which is typical for a large organization like Compass Group/Levy. The mention of specific state laws regarding paid time off suggests transparency and compliance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Hospitality, Food & Beverage Services, Sports & Entertainment Venue Management. Levy Restaurants, as part of Compass Group, operates at the intersection of these dynamic sectors, focusing on delivering premium experiences.

Company Size: Compass Group is a global leader with a very large employee base (tens of thousands worldwide), and Levy operates numerous high-profile venues and events, indicating a significant operational scale. This means ample resources and structured environments, but also a need for clear processes and communication.

Founded: Levy Restaurants was founded in 1975, and Compass Group has a longer history dating back to 1941. This signifies a company with established practices, a deep understanding of the hospitality market, and a track record of innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Junior Designer will likely be part of a centralized Creative or Marketing department within Levy's Core Solutions group, potentially reporting to a Senior Designer or Creative Director.

• The team structure emphasizes collaboration with other designers, marketing specialists, project managers, and operational teams across various venues and events.

Methodology:

• Levy emphasizes a data-driven approach, utilizing research and insights to inform design decisions and measure impact.

• The company champions Design Thinking methodologies, focusing on empathy, ideation, prototyping, and testing to create innovative solutions.

• Workflow optimization and process improvement are key, with a focus on efficiency, quality, and consistency across all design outputs.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is characterized by a commitment to diversity, innovation, and creating exceptional experiences. For a designer, this means working in a fast-paced, high-visibility environment with a focus on both creative excellence and business impact within the unique context of sports and entertainment hospitality.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Junior Graphic Designer role is positioned at an entry-level to early-career stage within the design function. It offers foundational experience in professional design, particularly within the specialized niche of hospitality and entertainment. The role is about learning and applying established processes and creative standards.

Reporting Structure: The Junior Designer will likely report to a Senior Designer or Creative Director, who provides guidance, mentorship, and project oversight. This structure facilitates learning and skill development under experienced professionals.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role, the design output directly impacts the guest experience, brand perception, and revenue generation through effective marketing collateral, signage, and environmental graphics. The role contributes to the overall operational success by enhancing the customer journey and brand presence.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific design areas such as branding, environmental graphics, or digital design within the hospitality sector.

• Career Advancement: Potential to progress to a Graphic Designer, Senior Graphic Designer, or Art Director role within Levy or Compass Group, managing larger projects and teams.

• Industry Exposure: Gain invaluable experience working with high-profile clients and events (Super Bowl, Olympics, major sports leagues), building a strong portfolio and industry network.

• Mentorship & Training: Access to training programs and mentorship from senior design professionals, fostering continuous learning and development in design thinking and execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a designer in a large organization like Compass Group/Levy involves advancing technical skills, strategic thinking, and project management capabilities, with opportunities to specialize or move into leadership roles within the creative services domain.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site in Chicago, IL, suggesting a professional office environment within Levy's corporate or regional headquarters. This environment is designed for collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): Chicago, Illinois, with a specific postal code noted (60611-4501). This implies proximity to major business and cultural hubs.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, encouraging interaction with design team members, project managers, and other departments.

• Access to necessary design tools and technology, including the Adobe Creative Suite and potentially specialized hardware, will be provided.

• Opportunities for team interaction will be frequent, fostering a dynamic and creative atmosphere where ideas are shared and developed.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is anticipated, with potential for flexibility and occasional weekend or evening work to meet project deadlines, especially for high-profile events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the value placed on in-person collaboration, team synergy, and spontaneous creative exchange, which are often crucial in design roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of resume and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and creative style.

• Portfolio Presentation/Interview: Candidates will likely present their portfolio to the hiring manager and/or design team, discussing their process, rationale, and how their skills align with Levy's needs. This is a critical step to evaluate design thinking and communication.

• Skills Assessment/Design Challenge: A practical exercise or design challenge may be given to assess problem-solving skills, creativity, and ability to work under pressure with specific constraints.

• Final Interview: Meeting with key stakeholders or department heads to assess cultural fit, long-term potential, and alignment with company values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase your strongest, most relevant work. Focus on projects that demonstrate your skills in branding, collateral design, and visual storytelling.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your approach, your role, the process you followed (especially Design Thinking), and the outcome or impact.

• Highlight Relevance: Emphasize projects that align with hospitality, sports, entertainment, or large-scale event design, if possible.

• Showcase Process: Include sketches, mood boards, user research insights, and iterations to demonstrate your design thinking and problem-solving methodology.

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

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a design challenge that may involve creating a concept for a specific Levy event or venue, or refreshing existing collateral.

• Practice articulating your design decisions clearly and concisely, justifying your choices based on brand strategy, target audience, and business objectives.

• Focus on demonstrating your understanding of Levy's brand and the unique demands of the hospitality and entertainment industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a design role heavily relies on the portfolio. Candidates must be prepared to not only show their work but also to "sell" their design process, strategic thinking, and ability to collaborate within a corporate environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for this role, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Proficiency in these tools is a core requirement.

• Other Adobe CC Apps (Potentially): After Effects, Premiere Pro, XD, or Figma for motion graphics, video editing, or UI/UX design could be beneficial depending on project scope.

• Presentation Software: Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides for creating compelling design presentations.

Analytics & Reporting: While not a primary focus for this design role, understanding how design impacts metrics (e.g., engagement, conversion on digital assets) is valuable. Familiarity with analytics dashboards is a plus.

CRM & Automation: Not directly relevant to the core design tasks, but awareness of how marketing materials integrate with CRM and marketing automation platforms is beneficial for understanding campaign context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement is mastery of the Adobe Creative Suite. The role is design-execution focused, rather than data analysis or system administration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality, impactful design work that meets and exceeds client expectations.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing diverse perspectives and working together to achieve common goals, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

• Innovation & Creativity: Encouraging original thinking, embracing new ideas, and pushing creative boundaries to deliver unique experiences.

• Guest Focus: Prioritizing the guest experience in all design decisions, ensuring that visuals enhance enjoyment and engagement.

• Passion: A genuine enthusiasm for design, hospitality, and the brands they represent, driving motivation and dedication.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engaging with marketing, operations, and client teams to ensure design solutions are aligned with broader business objectives and practical realities.

• Feedback-Oriented: Open to constructive criticism and adept at incorporating feedback to refine designs and improve outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share expertise, mentor junior colleagues, and contribute to a learning culture within the design department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on collaboration, guest focus, and passion aligns with the high-touch, experience-driven nature of the hospitality and entertainment industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Brand Constraints: Effectively translating Levy's strong brand identity and client requirements into innovative designs that adhere to established guidelines.

• Managing Multiple Projects and Deadlines: Juggling various design requests from different venues and events simultaneously, requiring strong organizational and time management skills.

• Adapting to Diverse Client Needs: Designing for a wide array of clients and venues, each with unique brand identities, target audiences, and operational contexts.

• Staying Current with Design Trends and Technology: Continuously learning and adapting to new design software, techniques, and visual trends relevant to the industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Opportunities to attend workshops or online courses focused on specific design software, techniques, or industry trends.

• Mentorship: Learning directly from senior designers and creative directors within Levy's experienced team.

• Exposure to High-Profile Projects: Working on designs for major sporting events, concerts, and venues provides unparalleled real-world experience and portfolio-building opportunities.

• Industry Networking: Potential to connect with professionals across the sports, entertainment, and hospitality sectors through project collaborations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a junior designer in a large, fast-paced organization, emphasizing the need for adaptability, strong organizational skills, and a proactive approach to learning.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a project where you had to balance a client's specific brand guidelines with your creative vision. How did you approach it?" (Focus on demonstrating understanding of brand stewardship and negotiation.)

• "Walk us through your design process for creating a new identity system. What steps do you take from brief to final delivery?" (Prepare to detail your use of Design Thinking, research, and ideation.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Levy Restaurants and the hospitality/entertainment industry specifically?" (Research Levy's venues, events, and brand values. Connect your passion for design with their mission.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with non-designers, such as operations teams or marketing managers?" (Emphasize your communication skills, empathy, and ability to translate design concepts for different audiences.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Prioritize Impact: Start with your strongest, most relevant projects.

• Explain Your 'Why': For each piece, clearly articulate the objective, your thought process, the tools/techniques used, and the outcome.

• Showcase Process: Don't just show final products; include sketches, mood boards, and rationale to demonstrate your design thinking.

• Tailor to Levy: Highlight how your skills and experience align with the specific needs of Levy and the sports/entertainment hospitality sector.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, technical skills, and ability to work within a team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for not only design talent but also a candidate who understands the business context, can collaborate effectively, and is passionate about contributing to Levy's unique brand experience.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Junior Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the official application portal via the provided link.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a digital portfolio that prominently features your best work in graphic design, branding, and collateral design. Ensure it clearly demonstrates your proficiency with the Adobe Creative Suite and your design thinking process.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience, skills (especially Adobe Suite and design thinking), and accomplishments that align with the job description's requirements, using keywords like "graphic design," "branding," "visual communication," and "experience design."

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Levy Restaurants and Compass Group. Understand their brand identity, key venues, recent campaigns, and company culture to better tailor your application and prepare for interview questions.

• Practice Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio and discussing your design process, focusing on clear communication, strategic rationale, and enthusiasm for the role.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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