Senior Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Graphic Designer

Company: HARDMAN SIGNS LP

Location: Houston, Texas, United States (9980 Bammel North Houston Rd., Houston, TX 77086)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Creative & Design Operations

Date Posted: September 01, 2026

Experience Level: Senior (10+ years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the design and technical execution of large-scale architectural signage and wayfinding systems, ensuring seamless integration with complex architectural environments.

• Provide senior-level technical oversight, translating conceptual designs into precise, fabrication-ready shop drawings and specifications for manufacturing.

• Act as a key mentor and technical resource for junior and mid-level designers, fostering departmental growth and elevating design standards.

• Optimize design files for advanced manufacturing processes, including CNC routers and Zund cutters, with a focus on material efficiency and waste reduction.

• Independently manage high-priority client accounts and projects from initial discovery through final technical documentation, demonstrating exceptional project leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a critical technical and creative lead within the design team, emphasizing expertise in architectural signage and wayfinding. The "specialized layer" of expertise implies a need for deep industry knowledge, particularly in the Houston market, and the ability to handle complex, high-value projects that require meticulous attention to detail and regulatory compliance.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic development and implementation of comprehensive wayfinding systems for complex environments like medical campuses, ensuring intuitive navigation and impactful visual communication.

• Provide senior technical oversight by translating intricate architectural concepts into precise, fabrication-ready shop drawings, including detailed material callouts, mounting instructions, and electrical requirements.

• Mentor junior and mid-level designers, acting as a subject matter expert to establish design standards, refine workflow efficiencies, and promote best practices within the department.

• Maintain an expert-level understanding of sign construction and manufacturing processes, optimizing complex design files for CNC routers, Zund cutters, and large-format production to minimize material waste.

• Independently manage the highest-priority accounts and projects, guiding them from initial bid/discovery through final technical documentation with minimal supervision.

• Serve as the internal subject matter expert on ADA compliance, municipal zoning regulations, and permit requirements, ensuring all design packages meet necessary standards.

• Conduct site walks and field surveys (estimated up to 25% of time) to assess architectural conditions and confirm installation feasibility for high-complexity projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic design thinking, deep technical expertise in fabrication, and leadership/mentorship. The emphasis on "buildable" signage and regulatory compliance suggests a role that is not just creative but also highly practical and grounded in manufacturing realities and legal requirements.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Architecture, Fine Arts, or a related field. An MFA is preferred.

Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in the sign industry, with a strong preference for specialized experience within the Houston signage market.

Required Skills:

• Expert-level proficiency in CorelDRAW and the Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Demonstrated expertise in technical design software for creating fabrication-ready shop drawings.

• Proven ability to develop and execute complex, large-scale wayfinding systems.

• Deep understanding of sign construction, manufacturing processes, and material properties.

• Strong knowledge of ADA compliance, municipal zoning, and permitting requirements.

• Excellent leadership and mentorship capabilities, with a track record of guiding junior design staff.

• Ability to conduct thorough site walks and field surveys for complex projects.

• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple high-priority projects independently. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with 3D rendering software for visualizing environmental graphics.

• Familiarity with environmental graphics design principles and application.

• In-depth knowledge of LED illumination techniques and applications.

• Expertise in various structural mounting methods and their implications for design.

• Background in leading design workflows or managing design teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The combination of a Bachelor's degree and 10+ years of specialized experience, or 15 years in the Houston market, points to a senior-level role requiring deep practical knowledge rather than solely academic qualifications. The emphasis on "buildable" architectural signage and wayfinding in the portfolio is a critical differentiator.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio demonstrating a strong track record of designing "buildable" architectural signage projects, showcasing technical feasibility alongside aesthetic appeal.

• Detailed examples of large-scale wayfinding systems developed for complex environments, illustrating strategic planning and user-centric design.

• Case studies highlighting projects where technical specifications were meticulously translated for manufacturing, with clear outcomes related to fabrication efficiency or material optimization.

• Evidence of understanding and applying ADA compliance and municipal zoning regulations in design solutions.

• Examples of design optimization for manufacturing processes, such as CNC routing or Zund cutting, demonstrating an awareness of waste reduction and production workflow. Process Documentation:

• Showcase instances of developing and documenting design standards, workflow efficiencies, and best practices for a design department.

• Present examples of managing the full design lifecycle for complex projects, from initial client consultation and bid/discovery to final technical documentation and handoff for manufacturing.

• Illustrate the process of collaborating with manufacturing and engineering teams to ensure designs are optimized for production and installation.

• Provide examples of leading site walks and field surveys, documenting findings and translating them into actionable design adjustments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio requirements are heavily focused on practical application, technical execution, and problem-solving within the context of architectural signage manufacturing. Candidates are expected to prove their ability to design not just creatively but also practically, ensuring designs are manufacturable, compliant, and efficient.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the senior level (10+ years experience), specialized expertise, and location in Houston, TX, a competitive salary range is estimated between $85,000 - $120,000 annually. This estimate is derived from industry benchmarks for senior graphic designers in manufacturing and signage, considering the advanced technical and leadership requirements of the role.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with company match: Provides financial security and long-term savings opportunities.

• Paid time off (PTO): Offers flexibility and work-life balance.

• Comprehensive Medical Insurance: Covers essential healthcare needs.

• Dental Insurance: Supports oral health.

• Vision Insurance: Addresses eye care needs.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week, aligned with manufacturing facility operations. While the role is onsite, there may be occasional flexibility required for critical project deadlines or site visits.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on industry data for senior-level design roles with specialized technical requirements in a major metropolitan area like Houston. The benefits package is standard for a full-time position and addresses key employee needs.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architectural Signage & Graphics Manufacturing. Hardman Signs operates within the construction and manufacturing sectors, providing critical visual identification and branding solutions for commercial properties. This industry demands precision, reliability, and a deep understanding of materials, fabrication, and installation processes.

Company Size: The provided data does not specify company size, but the "LP" designation suggests a partnership structure. As a national leader with a manufacturing facility, it is likely a medium to large-sized enterprise, indicating established processes and a structured environment for operations.

Founded: The founding date is not specified, but the company is described as a "national leader," suggesting a significant history and established presence in the market. This implies a stable company with a developed operational framework.

Team Structure:

• The design team likely comprises junior, mid-level, and senior designers, with the Senior Graphic Designer acting as a technical lead.

• Reporting structure will likely involve the Senior Graphic Designer reporting to a Design Manager or Director of Operations, and in turn, mentoring junior staff.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, with close partnerships between design, sales, project management, engineering, and manufacturing departments. Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights are crucial for understanding client needs, site conditions, and material performance.

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies are paramount to ensure efficient project progression from concept to installation, minimizing lead times and costs.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely employed in design file preparation for manufacturing (e.g., CAM integration with CNC machines) and project management.

Company Website: [Hardman Signs Website - domain_derived: hardmansigns.com]

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the company's focus on architectural signage and manufacturing, the culture likely values precision, technical accuracy, collaboration, and a strong work ethic. The "national leader" status suggests a commitment to quality and client satisfaction.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior-level position within the design operations function. It requires not only advanced technical design skills but also leadership, mentorship, and strategic input into departmental processes and standards. The role is pivotal in bridging creative vision with manufacturing realities and ensuring the technical integrity of all signage projects.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Graphic Designer will report to a higher-level manager within the design or operations department (e.g., Design Manager, Director of Operations). They will, in turn, be responsible for mentoring and guiding junior designers, establishing a clear leadership hierarchy within the design team.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the company's ability to deliver high-quality, technically sound, and profitable signage solutions. By ensuring designs are manufacturable, compliant, and efficiently produced, the Senior Graphic Designer minimizes costly errors, improves production timelines, and enhances client satisfaction, thereby contributing significantly to the company's revenue and reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specialized areas such as advanced wayfinding strategy, complex structural engineering for signage, or emerging fabrication technologies.

• Leadership Development: Potential to transition into a Design Manager or Director of Operations role, taking on broader strategic and team management responsibilities.

• Succession Planning: The role is explicitly mentioned as part of the company's succession plan, indicating a pathway for long-term career development and influence within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of succession planning and mentoring junior staff suggests a company that invests in internal talent development and sees this role as a critical part of its future leadership pipeline.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a manufacturing facility in Houston, TX. This environment is likely a blend of office space for design and project management teams and the active production floor for manufacturing operations.

Office Location(s): 9980 Bammel North Houston Rd., Houston, TX 77086. This location is specific and implies a dedicated facility for Hardman Signs' operations.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely facilitate close collaboration between designers, project managers, and production staff, fostering a hands-on, problem-solving atmosphere.

• Designers will have access to industry-standard software and potentially advanced fabrication equipment for testing or understanding production capabilities.

• Opportunities for interaction with the manufacturing team will be frequent, allowing designers to gain practical insights into material handling, fabrication processes, and installation challenges.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, onsite, with standard working hours (approximately 40 hours per week) typical for a manufacturing environment. While onsite presence is mandatory, the nature of design work might allow for some flexibility in task management to meet project deadlines, though core hours will be expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within a manufacturing facility means the environment is likely fast-paced and production-oriented. Designers need to be comfortable in a setting where creativity meets the realities of industrial production.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess experience, technical skills, and alignment with the role's requirements, especially regarding buildable architectural signage and wayfinding.

• Technical Interview: This stage will likely involve a deep dive into your portfolio, discussing specific projects, your design process, technical challenges overcome, and your expertise in CorelDRAW, Adobe Suite, ADA compliance, and fabrication. Expect to present case studies of complex projects.

• Leadership/Mentorship Discussion: An evaluation of your experience in mentoring junior staff, establishing design standards, and contributing to workflow efficiencies. Behavioral questions will assess your leadership style and team collaboration capabilities.

• On-site Visit/Final Interview: Potentially a visit to the manufacturing facility to understand the environment, meet key team members (production, engineering), and discuss how your skills can integrate with their operations. This may include a design challenge or a more in-depth portfolio presentation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight "Buildable" Designs: Emphasize projects where your design directly translated into successful, efficient manufacturing and installation. Show how you considered structural integrity, materials, and production constraints.

• Showcase Wayfinding Strategy: For wayfinding projects, articulate the strategic thinking behind your design choices, focusing on user flow, environmental context, and clarity of communication.

• Detail Technical Specifications: Include examples of shop drawings or technical documentation you've created, demonstrating your precision and understanding of fabrication requirements (e.g., material callouts, mounting details, electrical specifications).

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, quantify the impact of your work. For example, mention material savings achieved through optimized designs, reduced fabrication errors, or successful completion of complex projects within tight deadlines.

• Demonstrate ADA & Regulatory Knowledge: Select projects that clearly show your understanding and application of ADA compliance and municipal zoning requirements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a potential design challenge that might involve adapting a concept to manufacturing constraints, developing a wayfinding solution for a specific scenario, or optimizing a design file for production.

• Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving approach, and the rationale behind your technical decisions clearly and concisely.

• Familiarize yourself with Hardman Signs' existing work and client types to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process will heavily scrutinize the candidate's practical design and technical execution capabilities, alongside their leadership potential. A strong, project-focused portfolio that demonstrates an understanding of the entire signage lifecycle from concept to manufacturing is paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CorelDRAW: Expert-level proficiency is mandatory for technical design and file preparation in the signage industry.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Expert proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign is required for various design tasks, from conceptualization to final artwork.

• Technical Design Software: Proficiency in software used for creating precise shop drawings, technical specifications, and potentially CAD/CAM integration (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar for detailed fabrication plans).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly an analytics role, understanding how design impacts production efficiency will require familiarity with reporting tools used in manufacturing or project management (e.g., ERP systems, production tracking software) to understand waste, timelines, and costs.

• Ability to interpret site survey data and architectural plans is critical. CRM & Automation:

• Experience with CRM systems (like Salesforce, if used by sales) to understand project scope and client requirements.

• Familiarity with project management software (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, MS Project) for tracking project progress and managing workflows.

• Understanding of CAM software (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) for optimizing designs for CNC routers and Zund cutters.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on CorelDRAW and Adobe Creative Suite, along with technical design software and CAM integration, points to a need for highly specialized skills directly applicable to signage manufacturing.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision & Accuracy: A core value in manufacturing and design where technical details directly impact product quality and safety.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Essential for bridging the gap between design, sales, and production, ensuring smooth project execution.

• Innovation & Efficiency: Driving improvements in design processes, material usage, and manufacturing techniques to stay competitive.

• Client Focus: Delivering high-impact signage solutions that meet client needs and enhance their brand presence.

• Problem-Solving: A proactive approach to identifying and resolving technical and design challenges.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Designers are expected to work closely with sales for bid/discovery, project managers for timelines, engineers for structural feasibility, and production for fabrication insights.

• Process Review Culture: Openness to feedback from manufacturing and installation teams to refine designs and improve future processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture where experienced designers share expertise with junior staff, fostering continuous learning and skill development across the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture likely balances creative excellence with the pragmatic demands of manufacturing. A collaborative spirit and a commitment to technical accuracy are key to success in this environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Manufacturing Constraints: Ensuring designs are not only visually compelling but also practical, cost-effective, and feasible to manufacture and install.

• Managing Complex Projects: Overseeing high-priority, large-scale projects (e.g., medical campuses) that involve intricate wayfinding systems and stringent regulatory requirements.

• Mentoring Diverse Skill Levels: Effectively guiding and developing junior designers with varying levels of experience and skill sets.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Adapting to new fabrication technologies, materials, and design software to maintain a competitive edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Signage Technology: Opportunities to gain deeper knowledge of advanced fabrication techniques, new materials, and LED illumination systems.

• Advanced Wayfinding Design: Developing expertise in complex UX/UI principles as applied to environmental graphics and navigation systems.

• Project & Team Leadership: Formal or informal training in project management methodologies and team leadership skills, preparing for future management roles.

• Industry Certifications: Potential to pursue certifications related to ADA compliance, project management, or specific design software.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a senior design role in a manufacturing context, emphasizing problem-solving and continuous learning. The growth opportunities are clearly linked to advancing within the operations and design leadership track.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex architectural signage project you led from concept to fabrication. What were the key technical challenges, and how did you ensure the design was 'buildable' and compliant?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and technical execution).

• "How do you approach developing a wayfinding system for a large, multi-building campus? Walk us through your methodology and how you ensure intuitive navigation." (Focus on strategic thinking, user experience, and comprehensive planning).

• "Imagine a scenario where a design you created encounters a significant manufacturing issue. How would you collaborate with the production team to find a solution that meets both technical and aesthetic requirements?" (Focus on collaboration, problem-solving, and communication). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Hardman Signs and our position in the architectural signage market? How does your experience align with our focus on national leadership and high-impact solutions?" (Demonstrate research and genuine interest).

• "Describe your experience mentoring junior designers. What is your philosophy on team development and knowledge sharing within a design department?" (Highlight leadership and team-building skills).

• "How do you ensure your designs meet ADA compliance and municipal zoning requirements? Can you provide an example of a project where this was particularly critical?" (Showcase regulatory expertise). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type (e.g., Wayfinding, Architectural Signage, Environmental Graphics) or by complexity.

• Storytelling: For each key project, tell a story: the client's challenge, your strategic approach, the design process, the technical considerations, the manufacturing/installation outcome, and the impact.

• Visuals: Use high-quality images and mockups. Include close-ups of technical details, shop drawings, or installation photos where possible.

• Quantify: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate success (e.g., "reduced material waste by X%", "completed project Y% ahead of schedule," "successfully navigated Z municipal codes").

• Technical Depth: Be ready to discuss the specific software, materials, and fabrication methods used, and why you made those choices.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of creative vision, deep technical expertise, strong problem-solving skills, and leadership potential, all within the context of architectural signage manufacturing.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Paycom link.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to specifically highlight "buildable" architectural signage and large-scale wayfinding projects. Include examples demonstrating ADA compliance, municipal zoning knowledge, and optimized designs for CNC/Zund cutting.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your 10+ years of sign industry experience, expert-level proficiency in CorelDRAW and Adobe Creative Suite, and any experience in mentorship or leading design workflows. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, technical problem-solving skills, and leadership approach using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare to walk through your portfolio with a focus on technical execution and impact.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Hardman Signs LP, understanding their market position, project types, and company values. Prepare questions that show your engagement and interest in contributing to their continued success.

⚠️ 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.