Junior Graphic Designer – Football Equipment

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Graphic Designer – Football Equipment

Company: Zelus Sport

Location: Hilversum, North Holland, Netherlands

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Marketing & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-05-08

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Support the design and development of graphics for football equipment and accessories, ensuring alignment with brand identity and product strategy.

• Translate creative concepts and mood boards into tangible design outputs for a range of products, including bags, headwear, and balls.

• Develop and execute placement graphics, patterns, and prints across diverse materials, maintaining brand consistency and aesthetic appeal.

• Collaborate closely with product development and product management teams to integrate design elements effectively into the product lifecycle.

• Conduct research into emerging trends within sports, fashion, and youth culture to inform design direction and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within a marketing and design operations function, focusing on the visual execution of product branding for sports equipment. The emphasis is on translating brand guidelines into tangible product graphics.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and execute graphics for football equipment and accessories, including bags, shin guards, water bottles, balls, and caps.

• Create compelling artwork for various product types, ensuring visual appeal and brand relevance.

• Translate design concepts, mood boards, and brand direction into effective visual outputs for product application.

• Develop and apply placement graphics, patterns, and prints across a range of materials and substrates.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with product development, product management, and marketing teams to ensure design integrity and timely execution.

• Maintain strict adherence to brand guidelines and visual identity standards across all equipment product lines.

• Assist in the creation of detailed technical packs and product specification sheets for manufacturing.

• Research and analyze current trends in sports, fashion, and youth culture to identify new design opportunities and maintain market relevance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design execution and operational collaboration, crucial for bringing product concepts to market efficiently. The focus on technical packs and trend research indicates a need for both artistic skill and market awareness.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

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

Experience: Minimum of 1 year of experience in graphic design, encompassing internships, freelance work, or significant academic projects.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop for design creation and manipulation.

• Demonstrated creativity and strong design thinking capabilities, evidenced through a portfolio.

• Understanding of print techniques and production processes relevant to apparel and accessories.

• Meticulous attention to detail in layout, typography, and overall design accuracy.

• Ability to clearly communicate design ideas and collaborate effectively within a team environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with creating technical packs and product sheets.

• Familiarity with pattern design and textile printing processes.

• Knowledge of current trends in sports, fashion, and youth culture.

• Basic understanding of 3D rendering or prototyping software.

• Experience working with licensed brands or in a fast-paced consumer goods environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize practical design skills using industry-standard software and a foundational understanding of production. The inclusion of "interest in sports" and "youth culture" suggests a need for cultural relevance in design choices.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 1 year of design work, including internships or academic projects, demonstrating practical application of design principles.

• Highlight projects that translate brand identity and creative briefs into visual assets for manufactured products.

• Include examples of print design, pattern creation, and graphic application on accessories or apparel.

• Demonstrate proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop through the complexity and quality of submitted designs.

Process Documentation:

• Illustrate the process of translating mood boards and concepts into final design artwork.

• Detail the workflow for creating and refining placement graphics, patterns, and prints.

• Show how brand consistency is maintained across different product types and materials.

• Explain collaboration steps with product development and management teams during the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: A robust portfolio is critical, not just for showcasing creativity but also for demonstrating the candidate's ability to navigate product design workflows and adhere to brand standards within a commercial context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: €28,000 - €38,000 annually (estimated). This range is based on industry benchmarks for Junior Graphic Designers in the Netherlands with 0-2 years of experience, considering the cost of living in Hilversum and the specific requirements of a design role within a licensed global brand partner.

Benefits:

• Strong Benefits package, likely including health insurance, pension contributions, and paid time off.

• Opportunities for professional growth and development within a dynamic sports apparel company.

• Exposure to a globally recognized sports brand partner (Nike Inc. licensee).

• Collaborative and inclusive company culture.

• Potential for involvement in international product lines.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with potential for hybrid work arrangements. Specific on-site days will be determined by team needs and project collaboration requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on Dutch market data for junior design roles, adjusted for experience level and the specialized nature of working for a Nike licensee. Benefits are inferred from typical offerings in similar companies and the provided description.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Sports Apparel & Equipment, specifically as Nike Inc.'s exclusive global licensee for teamwear. This positions Zelus at the intersection of sports performance, fashion, and brand licensing.

Company Size: While exact numbers are not provided, the description implies a growing, professional organization with established processes and international reach, likely ranging from 50-250 employees.

Founded: The company's founding date is not specified, but its role as an exclusive licensee suggests a mature operational structure capable of supporting global partnerships.

Team Structure:

• The design team likely consists of senior designers, product managers, and potentially specialized roles in graphics and print.

• This Junior Graphic Designer will report to a Senior Designer or Design Manager, working closely with product development teams.

Methodology:

• Design processes will likely involve trend research, concept development, mood board creation, and iterative design refinement.

• Emphasis will be placed on maintaining brand consistency and translating Nike's brand identity into unique equipment graphics.

• Collaboration will involve regular feedback sessions, technical pack creation, and close communication with manufacturing partners.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Zelus operates within a competitive sports industry, leveraging a major brand partnership. The culture is likely fast-paced, design-centric, and focused on delivering high-quality, market-relevant products.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level to junior position (0-2 years experience). It's a foundational role for aspiring designers in the sports apparel and equipment sector, offering hands-on experience with product design and brand integration.

Reporting Structure: The Junior Graphic Designer will report to a more senior member of the design team, such as a Senior Graphic Designer or Design Manager, who will provide guidance and oversight.

Operations Impact: The role's impact is primarily on the visual appeal and brand integrity of football equipment. Successful designs contribute to product desirability, brand recognition, and ultimately, sales performance by ensuring products resonate with target athletes and teams.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Develop expertise in graphic design software, print production techniques, and trend forecasting within the sports industry.

• Specialization: Potential to specialize in specific product categories (e.g., football equipment) or design disciplines (e.g., pattern design, branding).

• Leadership Potential: With proven performance and skill development, opportunities may arise to take on more complex projects, mentor junior designers, or move into a Senior Graphic Designer role.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a stepping stone. Growth will depend on the individual's initiative in skill development, ability to contribute creatively, and effectiveness in cross-functional collaboration.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment, indicating a mix of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility. The Hilversum office is likely a professional creative studio space designed for design and product development teams.

Office Location(s): Hilversum, Netherlands. This location places the company within a key European hub for sports and business, offering good connectivity.

Workspace Context:

• Expect a collaborative workspace where designers interact closely with product managers and other creative professionals.

• Access to industry-standard design software and hardware will be provided.

• The environment is expected to be dynamic, reflecting the fast-paced nature of the sports industry and product development cycles.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time working hours (approx. 40 hours/week), with flexibility offered through the hybrid model. This allows for dedicated focus time on design tasks while also facilitating in-person collaboration and team meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model suggests a need for self-management and strong communication skills to maintain productivity and collaboration across different work settings.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess foundational design skills and experience.

• Design Challenge/Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely present their portfolio, discussing their design process, creative choices, and problem-solving approaches. A practical design exercise related to football equipment graphics may be assigned.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Conversation with hiring manager and potential team members to evaluate collaboration skills, enthusiasm for sports, and alignment with Zelus's culture.

• Final Interview: May involve discussions on career aspirations and broader company alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in graphic design, pattern creation, and product application, ideally with a focus on sports or lifestyle products.

• Showcase Process: For each project, explain your creative journey – from initial brief and research to concept development, iteration, and final output. Highlight challenges and how you overcame them.

• Emphasize Software Proficiency: Clearly demonstrate your command of Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop through the technical execution of your designs.

• Highlight Brand Understanding: If possible, include projects where you had to adhere to specific brand guidelines or adapt designs for a particular brand's aesthetic.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): While difficult for junior roles, if you have examples of designs that led to positive outcomes (e.g., positive feedback, successful product launch), mention them.

Challenge Preparation:

• Familiarize yourself with Nike's brand aesthetic and current trends in football equipment and teamwear.

• Practice articulating your design decisions clearly and concisely, focusing on the "why" behind your creative choices.

• Be prepared to discuss your understanding of print production and material limitations in relation to design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount. Candidates should focus on demonstrating practical design application, brand awareness, and a clear, collaborative design process.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Illustrator: Essential for vector graphics, logo creation, and detailed artwork for product application.

• Adobe Photoshop: Crucial for raster image editing, mock-up creation, and digital asset manipulation.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Monday.com) that teams might use for workflow tracking is advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. Any additional exposure to product design software or project management tools will be a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: Encouraging fresh ideas and pushing design boundaries within brand constraints.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams to achieve shared product goals.

• Quality & Detail: Commitment to high standards in design execution and product output.

• Passion for Sport: Genuine enthusiasm for sports, apparel, and the athlete experience.

• Brand Integrity: Upholding the reputation and visual identity of Nike and Zelus.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Close working relationships with product development, marketing, and management teams.

• Feedback-Driven: Openness to constructive criticism and iterative design processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing insights on trends, techniques, and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely values both creative expression and rigorous execution, driven by a shared passion for sports and brand excellence.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Brand Consistency with Creativity: Working within the strict brand guidelines of Nike while still producing fresh, innovative designs.

• Translating Concepts to Physical Products: Understanding material limitations and manufacturing processes to ensure designs are feasible and look good on the final product.

• Pace of the Sports Industry: Keeping up with rapidly changing trends in sports, fashion, and youth culture.

• Managing Multiple Projects: Juggling various design tasks for different product lines simultaneously.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Design Training: Access to workshops or online courses focused on advanced techniques in Adobe Suite, pattern design, or sports branding.

• Industry Exposure: Opportunities to attend industry events, trade shows, or workshops related to sports apparel and design.

• Mentorship: Guidance from experienced designers on creative direction, technical skills, and career progression within the sports industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a significant opportunity to learn the intricacies of design within a major sports brand ecosystem, preparing candidates for advanced roles in sports product design.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance creative vision with strict brand guidelines. How did you approach it?" (Prepare a specific example from your portfolio or academic work.)

• "How do you stay updated on trends in sports, fashion, and youth culture? Can you give an example of a trend you've recently observed and how it might apply to football equipment?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about working with a Nike licensee like Zelus, and what do you admire about Nike's brand identity?"

• "How do you approach collaboration with non-design team members, such as product developers or marketers?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each project, craft a narrative that explains the problem, your creative solution, and the outcome.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your presentation is clean, professional, and easy to follow, with high-quality images of your work.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your key projects within a set timeframe, focusing on the most impactful aspects.

• Enthusiasm: Convey your passion for design, sports, and the opportunity to contribute to Zelus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your design philosophy, your technical skills, and your understanding of branding within the sports sector. Demonstrating cultural fit and genuine interest in sports is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Junior Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the Zelus Sport careers portal.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio clearly showcases your graphic design skills, particularly in areas like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Select projects that demonstrate your ability to create product graphics, patterns, or brand-aligned visuals.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight any relevant experience, internships, or academic projects that align with the responsibilities and qualifications listed. Emphasize your proficiency in design software and any experience with sports or apparel.

• Prepare Your Narrative: Be ready to discuss your design process, inspiration, and how you approach creative challenges. Practice articulating your ideas concisely and enthusiastically.

• Research Zelus & Nike: Understand Zelus's role as a Nike licensee and familiarize yourself with Nike's brand aesthetic and current product lines in football equipment.

⚠️ 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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