Junior Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Graphic Designer

Company: SAMYANG AMERICA INC

Location: Brea, CA, US

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design

Date Posted: 2026-09-03

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Support the creative development and execution of packaging, branding, and visual design projects for a leading Gen Z food brand.

• Collaborate with senior designers and cross-functional teams to bring innovative design concepts to life.

• Manage multiple design tasks and revisions efficiently in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

• Contribute to the visual identity and marketing efforts of iconic food products.

• Develop and maintain organized design files, ensuring accuracy and proper version control.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically within the CPG (Consumer Packaged Goods) and food industry, focusing on visual design for packaging and brand assets. The "Junior" designation, combined with the 1-3 years of experience requirement, indicates an entry-level to early-career position. The emphasis on "Gen Z brand" and "food culture" suggests a need for understanding current visual trends and a dynamic, creative approach.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Assist senior designers in conceptualizing and executing packaging designs that align with brand identity and market trends.

• Develop and refine 2D packaging mockups and concept visuals using existing templates and brand guidelines.

• Support the creation and modification of brand assets, marketing collateral, and digital graphics.

• Manage design revisions with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and minimizing errors across all deliverables.

• Collaborate effectively with marketing, regulatory, and product development teams to ensure design integrity and project completion.

• Maintain a well-organized system for design files, ensuring proper version control and accessibility for team members.

• Proactively research and present emerging design trends, particularly within the food and CPG sectors, to inform creative direction.

• Contribute creative ideas and participate in brainstorming sessions to foster innovation within the design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on packaging design, a key area for CPG companies. The need to manage revisions and maintain version control points to a structured design workflow. Collaboration with marketing and regulatory teams is crucial for product launches and compliance.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, or a closely related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience: 1-3 years of professional graphic design experience, with a preference for experience in packaging design or within the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry.

Required Skills:

• Graphic Design Software Proficiency: Expert-level command of Adobe Creative Suite, specifically Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, for creating and editing design assets.

• Packaging Design Fundamentals: Understanding of packaging dielines, print production processes, and material considerations for consumer goods.

• Visual Design Principles: Strong grasp of typography, color theory, layout, and composition to create visually appealing designs.

• Attention to Detail: Exceptional accuracy in reviewing and implementing revisions, ensuring brand consistency and error-free artwork.

• Organizational Skills: Proven ability to manage multiple design projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and maintain meticulous file organization.

• Adobe Illustrator: Specific proficiency in vector graphics creation for logos, illustrations, and packaging elements.

• Adobe Photoshop: Skill in image manipulation, retouching, and creating digital mockups.

• Adobe InDesign: Competency in layout design for marketing materials and print collateral.

Preferred Skills:

• CPG Branding Experience: Familiarity with developing and maintaining brand guidelines for consumer products.

• 2D Mockup Creation: Experience in generating realistic 2D mockups for packaging concepts and presentations.

• Trend Analysis: Ability to research and identify current design and cultural trends relevant to the Gen Z demographic and food industry.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to work effectively with non-design teams (e.g., marketing, regulatory) to achieve project goals.

• Basic Understanding of Print Production: Familiarity with pre-press requirements and working with print vendors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Adobe Creative Suite is critical. The mention of "CPG brands" and "packaging design" as a plus indicates that candidates with this specific experience will be highly favored. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are paramount given the need for frequent revisions and file management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated selection of design projects showcasing versatility across different mediums, with a strong emphasis on packaging design.

• Visual examples of 2D packaging mockups and concept visuals, demonstrating an understanding of form and function.

• Case studies or examples that highlight your involvement in design revisions and how you managed feedback.

• Demonstrations of branding projects, showing an ability to create cohesive visual identities.

• Projects that illustrate strong typography, color application, and layout skills. Process Documentation:

• The portfolio should implicitly demonstrate your design process, from initial concept to final asset.

• For packaging projects, showcase an understanding of the design lifecycle, including concept development, refinement, and consideration for production.

• Include examples that highlight your approach to managing multiple projects and adhering to deadlines.

• Be prepared to discuss your workflow, how you handle revisions, and your methods for maintaining file organization and version control.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a junior designer role, the portfolio is key to demonstrating practical skills. The emphasis should be on the quality and diversity of design work, particularly packaging, and the ability to articulate the design process, especially how revisions are handled.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $28.00 - $33.00 per hour.

Benefits:

• Performance-Based Compensation: Eligible for an annual incentive bonus, reflecting company and individual performance.

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Includes medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Life Insurance: Provided to offer financial security.

• Flexible Time Off: Combines Paid Time Off (PTO) and Flexible Time Off (FTO) for work-life balance.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with a company match, supporting long-term financial planning.

Working Hours: Standard 40 hours per week, full-time.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided as an hourly rate for a full-time position. The benefits package is comprehensive, covering health, financial security, and retirement planning, which are standard for full-time roles in the US. The mention of "actual compensation will depend on a variety of factors" is a common disclaimer for salary ranges.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food & Beverage, specifically focused on innovative and trend-setting products targeting the Gen Z demographic. Samyang America aims to lead food culture through unique flavors and viral trends.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the use of ADP for HR indicates a company of moderate to large size, likely with established HR processes. It suggests a structured environment but also room for growth.

Founded: The founding date is not provided, but the company positions itself as a leader in shaping "future of food culture" and being a "boldly shaping the future" brand, implying a forward-thinking and dynamic organizational ethos.

Team Structure:

• The Junior Graphic Designer will report to senior design staff, likely a Design Manager or Lead Designer.

• Collaboration is expected with marketing, regulatory, and potentially product development teams.

• The team operates in a "fast-paced environment" that values "innovation, collaboration, and a shared love for bold flavor experiences."

• The culture encourages "fresh ideas, energetic spirit, and the courage to lead trends." Methodology:

• Design projects are executed under senior guidance, with a focus on supporting packaging, branding, and marketing materials.

• Emphasis on iterative design processes, including frequent revisions and maintaining version control.

• A proactive approach to staying current on design and packaging trends is encouraged.

• Collaboration with cross-functional teams is a key operational method for project execution.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Samyang America's culture is defined by its focus on innovation, trend-setting, and targeting Gen Z consumers. This implies a vibrant, potentially fast-paced, and creative work environment. The "food culture" aspect suggests a passion for the product and its impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an entry-level to early-career "Junior Graphic Designer." It's an opportunity to build foundational skills in packaging and brand design within the consumer packaged goods (CPG) sector. The role involves supporting senior designers, implying a learning and mentorship structure.

Reporting Structure: The Junior Graphic Designer will likely report to a Senior Graphic Designer, Design Lead, or Creative Manager. This structure provides direct mentorship and oversight, crucial for skill development at this level.

Operations Impact: While not a direct "operations" role in the traditional sense (like RevOps or SalesOps), the Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the company's market presence, brand perception, and product appeal. Effective packaging design is critical for driving sales and consumer engagement in the CPG industry. Strong visual assets are essential for marketing campaigns, contributing to overall Go-To-Market (GTM) success by making products attractive to the target demographic.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in packaging design, CPG branding, and specific Adobe Creative Suite functionalities.

• Trend Leadership: Potential to become a go-to person for understanding and applying Gen Z and food culture design trends.

• Project Ownership: As experience grows, the designer may take on more independent projects and lead smaller design initiatives.

• Career Progression: A successful Junior Graphic Designer can advance to roles such as Graphic Designer, Senior Graphic Designer, or Art Director within the company or in the broader CPG industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a stepping stone. The "impact" is through visual communication and brand representation, which are critical components of a successful GTM strategy. Growth will be driven by mastering design skills and understanding the CPG market.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The job is listed as "On-site," indicating a traditional office-based work environment. This suggests a collaborative setting where designers work alongside team members and other departments.

Office Location(s): Brea, California, US (92821). This location in Orange County offers access to a vibrant business and creative community.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The on-site nature allows for direct interaction, brainstorming, and immediate feedback with senior designers and cross-functional teams.

• Tools & Technology: Access to standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite) and potentially specialized hardware or software for 2D mockups and design production.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular team meetings, design critiques, and informal discussions that foster a creative and supportive atmosphere.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time schedule of 40 hours per week is expected, typical for an on-site role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is important for roles that benefit from in-person collaboration and immediate feedback, common in creative fields like graphic design. Brea, CA, is part of the greater Los Angeles area, known for its creative industries.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and design aesthetic.

• Portfolio Review & Discussion: A more in-depth discussion about your portfolio, focusing on specific projects, your design process, and how you handled challenges and revisions. Expect to walk through your work.

• Skills Assessment/Design Challenge: Potentially a small design task or a hypothetical scenario to evaluate problem-solving skills, design thinking, and proficiency in required software. This might involve creating a quick mockup or concept.

• Team/Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion about cultural fit, collaboration style, understanding of the brand, and career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Packaging: Ensure your portfolio prominently features packaging design examples, especially any CPG-related work.

• Showcase Process: For key projects, briefly explain your thought process, challenges, and how you arrived at the final design.

• Demonstrate Software Skills: Be ready to discuss your proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, and how you used them in your projects.

• Include Revisions: If possible, show how a design evolved through revisions, demonstrating your adaptability and ability to incorporate feedback.

• Tailor to Samyang: If you can, include a conceptual piece or a project that aligns with Samyang's brand aesthetic and target audience (Gen Z, food culture).

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brand: Research Samyang America, its products, target audience, and current marketing campaigns.

• Familiarize with Trends: Be aware of current graphic design, packaging, and Gen Z trends in the food industry.

• Practice Software: Ensure you are comfortable with the core functions of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, especially for quick tasks.

• Prepare Questions: Have thoughtful questions ready about the team, projects, design challenges, and company culture.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is the most critical element for this role. Candidates should be prepared to "walk through" their work and explain their design decisions and process, especially concerning revisions and packaging.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:

  • Adobe Illustrator: Essential for vector graphics, logo creation, and packaging artwork.
  • Adobe Photoshop: Crucial for image editing, retouching, creating digital mockups, and raster graphics.
  • Adobe InDesign: Used for layout design of marketing collateral, print materials, and potentially presentation decks.

• 2D Packaging Mockup Tools: While not specified, this could include specialized software or advanced Photoshop techniques for creating realistic mockups.

Analytics & Reporting: Not directly applicable to this design role, but an understanding of how design impacts sales or brand perception through marketing analytics might be beneficial.

CRM & Automation: Not directly applicable to this design role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Illustrator and Photoshop for packaging, is non-negotiable. The ability to create 2D mockups is a specific requirement that candidates should be able to demonstrate.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Trendsetting: A core value is shaping "food culture" and leading trends, particularly with Gen Z. This implies a culture that encourages creativity and forward-thinking.

• Boldness & Individuality: The brand celebrates "bold individuality," suggesting a culture that supports unique ideas and creative expression.

• Collaboration: Working closely with senior team members and cross-functional departments is essential.

• Passion for Food & Flavor: A shared enthusiasm for the product and creating "unforgettable moments" is likely a unifying factor.

• Efficiency & Detail: The need for managing revisions and maintaining organized files points to an underlying value of operational efficiency and meticulous execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Supportive & Mentorship-Driven: As a junior role, there's an expectation of a supportive environment where senior designers guide and mentor.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Designers are expected to work closely with marketing, regulatory, and other teams, requiring strong communication and teamwork.

• Agile & Responsive: The "fast-paced environment" suggests a need for adaptability and the ability to respond quickly to project demands and feedback.

• Creative Exchange: Regular interaction and feedback loops within the design team are likely encouraged to foster idea generation and continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is deeply tied to its brand identity – energetic, trend-focused, and innovative, especially within the food space. This means candidates should demonstrate a passion for design and an understanding of the target demographic.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Trend Cycles: Keeping pace with fast-changing Gen Z trends and translating them into effective packaging designs.

• Balancing Creativity with Constraints: Integrating creative vision with practical requirements like brand guidelines, regulatory compliance, and production limitations.

• Managing Revisions: Efficiently handling multiple rounds of feedback and revisions while maintaining design integrity and project timelines.

• Fast-Paced Environment: Adapting to a dynamic workflow where priorities can shift quickly.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mentorship: Direct guidance from senior designers to hone technical skills and understand industry best practices.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining experience in the CPG and food industry, understanding market dynamics and consumer preferences.

• Portfolio Enhancement: Building a robust portfolio with professional packaging and branding projects.

• Trend Spotting: Developing an eye for emerging design and cultural trends relevant to a key demographic.

• Cross-Functional Understanding: Learning how design integrates with marketing, sales, and product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary growth opportunity lies in mastering the practical aspects of CPG packaging design and becoming adept at responding to market trends and client feedback within a structured workflow.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you received critical feedback on a design. How did you incorporate it, and what was the outcome?" (Assesses adaptability and handling revisions)

• "How do you stay current with graphic design and packaging trends, especially those relevant to the Gen Z demographic?" (Evaluates trend awareness and proactivity)

• "Walk me through your process for creating a 2D packaging mockup. What are the key considerations?" (Tests practical skills and understanding of the design lifecycle)

• "How do you prioritize tasks when managing multiple design projects with competing deadlines?" (Assesses project management and organizational skills) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about Samyang America as a brand, and how do you see your design skills contributing to our mission?" (Gauges brand alignment and passion)

• "Describe your ideal work environment and how you collaborate with a team." (Assesses cultural fit and teamwork)

• "How do you approach working with cross-functional teams like marketing or regulatory?" (Evaluates collaboration and communication skills) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each project, briefly explain the objective, your role, the challenges, your creative solution, and the final outcome.

• Highlight Packaging: Dedicate significant time to showcasing your packaging design work, detailing the thought process and technical execution.

• Demonstrate Revisions: If possible, show a "before and after" or explain how a design evolved through feedback.

• Showcase Software Proficiency: Be ready to discuss the specific tools and techniques used within Adobe Creative Suite.

• Conciseness: Keep explanations clear and to the point, respecting the interviewer's time.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a combination of technical skill (demonstrated in the portfolio), adaptability (handling revisions), and cultural fit (enthusiasm for the brand and collaborative spirit).

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Junior Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP link.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio is up-to-date and prominently features your strongest packaging design work, ideally including CPG-related examples. Tailor your presentation to highlight skills relevant to Samyang's brand and target audience.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly list your proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) and any experience with packaging design or CPG brands. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, especially how you handle revisions and manage multiple projects. Prepare to discuss your understanding of Samyang America's brand and its target market.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Samyang America's product lines, brand messaging, and recent marketing initiatives. Understand their positioning as a #1 Gen Z brand and their focus on food culture.

⚠️ 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.