Production Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Production Graphic Designer

Company: Gallery Dept.

Location: Los Angeles, California, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Retail / Manufacturing

Date Posted: July 30, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in translating creative concepts into production-ready graphics for apparel and accessories, demanding a strong understanding of fashion, art, and the brand's community.

• Requires advanced proficiency in industry-standard design software to prepare files for diverse production methods such as screen printing, embroidery, and heat transfers.

• Involves meticulous file management, art sheet creation, and coordination with internal teams and external vendors to ensure seamless product development and production timelines.

• Success in this position hinges on exceptional attention to detail, problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to adapt quickly in a demanding, fast-paced creative environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description emphasizes a demanding and high-ownership culture, suggesting this role is for individuals who thrive in challenging environments and are proactive in problem-solving and continuous learning. This is characteristic of roles in design-led, fast-paced fashion or art-focused companies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute original graphic designs for apparel and accessories, ensuring all artwork is production-ready for screen printing, embroidery, heat transfers, trims, labels, and other application methods.

• Create and meticulously maintain art sheets, detailing artwork size, placement, color specifications, and required techniques for each design.

• Accurately adapt artwork placement and scale across a variety of garment styles and construction types, ensuring visual consistency and brand integrity.

• Generate garment CADs (Computer-Aided Designs), placement mockups, perform color separations, and design repeat patterns and all-over prints.

• Critically review strike-offs and garment samples, providing clear and actionable revision callouts to vendors to achieve desired aesthetic and quality.

• Act as a key liaison between internal departments (design, production, merchandising) and external vendors, managing file transfers, updates, and approval processes efficiently.

• Systematically organize and maintain the central Graphic Library, update line sheets, and manage project trackers to ensure all design assets and project statuses are current.

• Juggle multiple design projects concurrently, consistently meeting critical development and production deadlines in a dynamic environment.

• Undertake additional duties as assigned to support the broader design and production teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a crucial intersection of creative design and technical production knowledge. The emphasis on "production-ready files," "color separations," "strike-offs," and coordination with "vendors" points to a role that requires not just artistic talent but also a deep understanding of manufacturing processes within the apparel industry.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While specific degrees are not mandated, a strong portfolio demonstrating equivalent practical experience and artistic foundation is essential.

• Preferred background in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, or a related creative field. Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in a graphic design role, with a significant focus on apparel production.

• Proven track record of successfully preparing artwork for various print and embellishment techniques common in the fashion industry. Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency and demonstrable expertise in Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop are non-negotiable.

• Strong understanding of screen printing processes, including ink types, mesh counts, and setup requirements.

• Expertise in illustration techniques, typography, color theory, and creating production-ready artwork files.

• Proven experience in designing placement graphics, seamless repeat patterns, and all-over prints for textiles.

• Demonstrated ability to effectively prioritize diverse tasks, manage multiple concurrent projects, and consistently meet demanding deadlines.

• High degree of flexibility and adaptability to pivot quickly in response to evolving project needs and business priorities.

• Dependability, exceptional organizational skills, and a collaborative team-player attitude.

• Meticulous attention to detail with a strong emphasis on accurate file organization and management.

• Clear, concise, and effective written and verbal communication skills for internal and external stakeholder interactions. Preferred Skills:

• Freehand illustration and advanced typography skills.

• Familiarity or experience with PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for tracking and data management.

• Experience with photo editing software beyond Adobe Photoshop.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "advanced proficiency" in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, coupled with specific knowledge of "screen printing, ink types, and other apparel print techniques," clearly positions this as a technical production design role. The preference for illustration and typography skills suggests a need for both technical execution and creative flair.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive online portfolio is mandatory, showcasing a diverse range of graphic design work specifically relevant to apparel and accessories.

• Include examples demonstrating production-ready artwork files, highlighting the technical specifications and preparation for various printing methods (screen print, embroidery, heat transfer).

• Showcase case studies of projects where artwork was adapted for different garment styles, sizes, and constructions, illustrating problem-solving and scalability.

• Feature examples of repeat patterns, all-over prints, and garment CADs, demonstrating proficiency in these specific design applications.

• Quantify impact where possible, illustrating how your design contributions led to successful product launches, improved production efficiency, or met specific brand objectives. Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to articulate their process for creating and preparing artwork for production, detailing steps from initial concept to final file delivery.

• Be prepared to discuss how you manage feedback, revisions, and approvals from internal teams and external vendors.

• Demonstrate an understanding of workflow optimization, particularly in managing multiple projects and meeting tight deadlines, potentially illustrating with examples from your portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: A portfolio is explicitly required. The emphasis on "production-ready files," "screen printing," and "adapt artwork placement and scale for different garment styles" means the portfolio must showcase technical capability in preparing files for manufacturing, not just aesthetic design.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated annual salary range: $75,000 - $90,000 USD. Benefits:

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Comprehensive benefits package (details to be provided by the company) Working Hours:

• Full-time position, typically 40 hours per week, with the expectation of working longer days when needed to meet production deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on the experience level (5+ years), location (Los Angeles, a high cost-of-living area for creative professionals), and the specialized nature of the role (Production Graphic Designer in apparel). The stated benefits include PTO, with further details to be confirmed. The job description mentions "work long days when needed," indicating a demanding schedule common in fashion production cycles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Fashion / Art / Retail / Apparel Manufacturing. Gallery Dept. operates within a unique niche, blending high-fashion apparel with an artistic, community-driven ethos. This suggests a culture that values creativity, authenticity, and a hands-on approach to product development, often seen in independent or artisanal brands.

Company Size: The provided data does not specify company size, but the nature of the role and the detailed description of responsibilities suggest a focused, potentially growing team where individual contributions are highly visible and impactful. Roles are likely specialized, requiring deep expertise.

Founded: Founded in 2017, Gallery Dept. has a relatively recent but impactful presence, known for its unique aesthetic and collaborative spirit. This implies a dynamic, evolving company culture that is likely fast-paced and innovative, with a strong emphasis on brand identity and artistic expression.

Team Structure:

• The role likely sits within a design or production team, possibly collaborating closely with merchandising, product development, and external manufacturing partners.

• Reporting structure is not explicitly defined but suggests direct interaction with senior design or production management, given the "ownership is required" and "honest feedback" culture.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close work with teams responsible for product realization from concept to finished garment. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is implied through the need for "problem-solving" and "metrics" in portfolio presentations, though the primary focus is on creative execution and technical production.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, given the mention of "managing multiple projects" and "meeting development and production deadlines."

• Automation is likely achieved through efficient use of design software and potentially PLM systems, rather than extensive coding or IT infrastructure.

Company Website: https://gallerydept.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's explicit statement "THIS IS NOT AN EASY PLACE TO WORK" and emphasis on "EXCELLENCE IS DEMANDING," "CURIOSITY IS EXPECTED," and "OWNERSHIP IS REQUIRED" strongly points to a high-performance culture. For a design role, this translates to a demanding creative environment where individuals are expected to be self-starters, highly skilled, and deeply invested in the brand's mission.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the graphic design and production pipeline. It requires specialized technical skills and significant experience (5+ years), indicating a level of autonomy and responsibility beyond entry-level design roles. The focus is on execution and problem-solving within established creative and production frameworks.

Reporting Structure: The Production Graphic Designer likely reports to a Design Director, Creative Director, or Head of Production. The emphasis on "ownership" and "independent thinking" suggests a flat hierarchy where direct communication and proactive contribution are valued.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is directly tied to the successful creation and timely delivery of all graphic elements for Gallery Dept.'s apparel and accessories. This includes ensuring brand consistency, achieving desired aesthetic outcomes, and enabling efficient manufacturing processes, all of which are critical for product quality, sales, and brand reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific apparel print techniques, advanced illustration, or pattern design.

• Leadership: Potentially move into a Lead Production Designer role, overseeing junior designers or specific project streams.

• Cross-functional Development: Gain broader exposure to product development, merchandising, or brand marketing through collaborative projects.

• Skill Expansion: Develop proficiency in additional design software or systems (e.g., PLM systems, 3D design tools) that could enhance efficiency and creative output.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not a traditional "operations" role in the sense of revenue or sales operations, this position requires significant operational discipline within the creative and production lifecycle. Growth opportunities would likely involve increasing responsibility for complex projects, leading specific design initiatives, or mentoring junior talent within the design team.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site in Los Angeles, indicating a physical workspace environment. Given the company's artistic and community-focused brand, the office might feature a creative studio atmosphere, potentially with elements of a workshop or showroom.

Office Location(s): Los Angeles, California, 90007. This location suggests proximity to a vibrant creative and fashion hub.

Workspace Context:

• Expect a collaborative environment where interaction with other designers, production staff, and potentially even brand leadership is common.

• Access to necessary design hardware and software (Adobe Creative Suite) is assumed. The role requires a dedicated workspace conducive to detailed design work.

• Opportunities for brainstorming, design critiques, and feedback sessions are likely integral to the workflow.

Work Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours per week, with the expectation of flexibility and extended hours during peak production periods or critical deadlines. This requires a robust time management approach to balance workload effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and mention of "physical mobility" and "standing for long periods" suggest a work environment that may involve some hands-on aspects beyond typical desk work, perhaps related to sample handling or studio organization, common in apparel design settings.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and mandatory portfolio submission. Candidates without a relevant portfolio will not be considered.

• Portfolio Review: A deep dive into submitted work, focusing on technical execution, creative problem-solving, and relevance to apparel production. Be prepared to discuss specific projects in detail.

• Skills Assessment: Potential technical test or detailed discussion on Adobe Illustrator/Photoshop capabilities, screen printing knowledge, and file preparation workflows.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Discussion centered on the company's demanding culture, emphasis on ownership, problem-solving, and adaptability. Expect questions probing how you handle feedback, pressure, and ambiguity.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership to discuss overall fit and long-term contribution potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best demonstrate your proficiency in preparing production-ready artwork for apparel, including examples of screen printing, embroidery, and CADs.

• Showcase Process: For key projects, briefly explain your design process, the challenges you faced (technical or creative), and how you overcame them.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Emphasize your command of Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, color separations, and scaling for different garment types.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, include metrics or outcomes related to your design work (e.g., successful product launches, efficient production turnaround).

• Brand Alignment: Ensure your portfolio reflects an understanding of the fashion/art world and Gallery Dept.'s unique aesthetic.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach a specific design challenge, such as creating a graphic for a new product line, adapting artwork for a complex garment, or troubleshooting a print issue.

• Prepare to articulate your problem-solving methodology and how you would ensure quality and efficiency under pressure.

• Practice explaining complex technical design concepts clearly and concisely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process heavily emphasizes the portfolio as a primary screening tool. Candidates must ensure their portfolio directly addresses the technical requirements of production-ready artwork for apparel, not just general graphic design aesthetics.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Illustrator: Essential for vector graphics, typography, and creating production-ready artwork. Expect advanced usage for line art, color separations, and pattern creation.

• Adobe Photoshop: Crucial for raster graphics, photo manipulation, mockups, and preparing artwork for certain print methods.

• Screen Printing Software: Familiarity with software used for color separation and pre-press for screen printing is highly beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus, proficiency in organizing project data and potentially using Excel for tracking is mentioned. CRM & Automation:

• PLM Systems (Preferred): Familiarity with Product Lifecycle Management systems is a plus, indicating a need for understanding how design assets integrate into broader product development workflows.

• Project Management Tools: Implicit need for tools or methods to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively, even if not explicitly named.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "Advanced proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop" is critical. The requirement for "strong understanding of screen printing, ink types, and other apparel print techniques" suggests that knowledge of pre-press software and processes related to these techniques is also highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Demanding Standards: A core value focused on achieving high quality in all aspects of design and production. This means meticulous work and a commitment to superior output.

• Curiosity & Continuous Learning: An expectation to be inquisitive, explore new techniques, and adapt to evolving design trends and production methods.

• Ownership & Accountability: Individuals are expected to take full responsibility for their work, from initial concept through to final delivery, and to proactively solve problems.

• Honest Feedback & Challenge: A culture that encourages direct communication and uses constructive criticism as a tool for growth and improvement.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive & Independent: While collaboration is key, the emphasis on "think independently" and "ownership" suggests a style where individuals contribute significantly on their own initiative before seeking or offering input.

• Cross-functional Integration: Close partnerships with design, production, and potentially external vendors are necessary for seamless workflow execution.

• Process-Oriented: A focus on efficient workflows, clear communication, and structured processes to manage complex projects and deadlines effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's explicitly stated values ("EXCELLENCE IS DEMANDING," "CURIOSITY IS EXPECTED," "OWNERSHIP IS REQUIRED") are the primary drivers of the team's culture. For a designer, this translates to a high-pressure but potentially rewarding environment where creativity is paired with rigorous execution and accountability.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• High-Demand Environment: Meeting tight deadlines and managing a high volume of complex design projects in a fast-paced fashion industry.

• Balancing Creativity and Production: Effectively translating artistic vision into technically sound, production-feasible graphics that meet brand standards and manufacturing constraints.

• Adapting to Evolving Needs: Quickly pivoting design direction or execution based on feedback, market trends, or production requirements.

• Navigating Ambiguity: Working within a culture that values independent thinking and problem-solving may present challenges if clear directives are not always provided, requiring proactive initiative.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Proficiency: Gaining deeper expertise in specialized apparel print techniques, software capabilities, and pre-press workflows.

• Industry Insight: Enhanced understanding of the fashion and art market, client base, and brand positioning through close collaboration.

• Process Improvement: Contributing to the optimization of design and production workflows, potentially leading to greater efficiency and effectiveness.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced designers and production leads within a dynamic creative team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary growth opportunity lies in mastering the intersection of high-level creative design with the rigorous demands of apparel production, developing resilience and adaptability in a challenging creative sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Philosophy & Process: Be prepared to discuss your approach to creating graphics for apparel, specifically how you balance artistic vision with production constraints. Use examples from your portfolio to illustrate your workflow, problem-solving techniques, and adaptability.

• Technical Proficiency: Expect questions that probe your deep understanding of Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, color separations, and the technical aspects of screen printing and other apparel embellishments. You may be asked to explain specific file preparation steps.

• Problem-Solving & Adaptability: Discuss situations where you had to overcome design or production challenges, adapt to sudden changes, or manage multiple high-priority projects simultaneously. Highlight how you applied the company's values of curiosity and ownership.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Cultural Fit: Research Gallery Dept.'s brand, aesthetic, and mission thoroughly. Be ready to articulate why you are drawn to their demanding culture and how your work ethic aligns with their values of excellence, curiosity, and ownership.

• Handling Feedback: Prepare examples of how you receive and implement constructive criticism, especially in a high-pressure environment.

• Independent Work: Discuss how you take initiative, manage your workload independently, and proactively seek solutions to problems.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Production: Select portfolio pieces that clearly demonstrate your ability to create production-ready artwork for apparel. Highlight technical details rather than just aesthetic appeal.

• Show, Don't Just Tell: For each project, explain the brief, your creative process, the technical challenges, and the final outcome, emphasizing how you met production requirements.

• Be Concise and Clear: Present your work efficiently, focusing on the most relevant examples. Be ready to answer detailed questions about your files and processes.

• Demonstrate Brand Understanding: Showcase how your work aligns with or can be adapted to the Gallery Dept. brand aesthetic.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, assessing not only design skills but also the candidate's resilience, problem-solving abilities, and fit with the company's demanding culture. A strong, technically focused portfolio is paramount.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Production Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the Gallery Dept. careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features high-quality examples of production-ready artwork for apparel, specifically highlighting your skills in screen printing, embroidery, and adaptation for various garment types. Include detailed case studies where possible.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your 5+ years of experience in graphic design for apparel, advanced proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, and any experience with production techniques or PLM systems. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, technical skills, and problem-solving approaches using concrete examples from your portfolio. Prepare to discuss how you embody the company's values of excellence, curiosity, and ownership.

• Company Research: Deeply understand Gallery Dept.'s brand, aesthetic, and culture. Be ready to explain why you are a good fit for their high-demand, ownership-driven environment.

⚠️ 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.