Senior Graphic Designer - Shaw Contract
๐ Job Overview
Job Title: Senior Graphic Designer - Shaw Contract
Company: Shaw Industries
Location: Cartersville, GA, United States
Job Type: Full time
Category: Creative & Design Operations
Date Posted: August 19, 2026
Experience Level: 5-10 Years
Remote Status: Hybrid (Minimum 3 days/week in office)
๐ Role Summary
-
Drive new creative concepts and support existing strategic direction for the Shaw Contract brand, a global leader in commercial flooring.
-
Collaborate closely with the Creative Director to develop "big ideas" from concept through production for marketing collateral and global creative assets.
-
Serve as a hands-on creative conceptual thinker and maker, ensuring the Shaw Contract global visual identity is consistently developed and maintained across all touchpoints.
-
Partner with marketing and product design teams to ensure integrated campaign execution across all communication and sales channels, maintaining brand identity.
๐ Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a creative team that functions as the central hub for brand strategy and visual identity for Shaw Contract. The emphasis on "big ideas" and "hands-on maker" suggests a blend of strategic conceptualization and execution, requiring a designer who can both ideate and produce. The "octopus" analogy highlights the need for versatility and adaptability across various creative disciplines.
๐ Primary Responsibilities
-
Conceptualize and develop creative solutions that propel the Shaw Contract brand forward, aligning with global visual identity and market needs.
-
Collaborate with the Creative Director and cross-functional teams (marketing, product design) on 'Go-To-Market' product launch campaigns, from initial conceptualization to final design execution.
-
Create and manage a wide range of creative assets, including print design, advertisements, social media campaigns, space design concepts, photo art direction, video direction, and electronic marketing materials.
-
Provide art direction and guidance to junior designers, copywriters, and production specialists to ensure high-quality output and consistent brand messaging.
-
Ensure timely execution of all creative assets, adhering to project timelines and production schedules for global delivery.
-
Adapt and evolve creative approaches to meet customer needs and market demands, demonstrating flexibility and a customer-centric mindset.
๐ Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a senior-level role requiring both strategic thinking and hands-on execution. The emphasis on "Go-To-Market" campaigns and "global visual identity" suggests a need for understanding integrated marketing strategies and maintaining brand consistency across diverse platforms and regions.
๐ Skills & Qualifications
Education: Graphic Design degree required.
Experience: 8+ years of experience in graphic design and art direction. A strong portfolio is mandatory.
Required Skills:
-
Expert proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
-
Strong conceptual thinking and the ability to generate innovative ideas.
-
Exceptional aesthetic sense with an intuitive command of design principles.
-
Excellent eye for layout and typography.
-
Proven ability in both print and web design for integrated campaigns.
-
Knowledge of various media, including print, digital, and spatial design.
-
Ability to understand and execute on the Shaw Contract brand identity. Preferred Skills:
-
Experience in commercial interiors or the commercial flooring industry.
-
Working knowledge of Figma.
-
Familiarity with HTML and CSS.
-
Motion graphics and video production experience (After Effects, Premiere) is a strong plus.
๐ Enhancement Note: The distinction between required and preferred skills highlights the core technical and conceptual abilities necessary for immediate contribution, while preferred skills indicate areas where further development or specialized knowledge would be highly beneficial and may align with future team needs or project scope.
๐ Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
-
A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a minimum of 8 years of graphic design and art direction experience.
-
Demonstrated ability to develop creative solutions from concept through production, with a focus on driving brand forward.
-
Examples of integrated campaigns across print, digital, and potentially spatial design.
-
Case studies illustrating conceptual thinking and problem-solving in design challenges.
-
Evidence of understanding and executing established brand identities, specifically showcasing work that aligns with or adapts to brand guidelines. Process Documentation:
-
Showcase a clear process for conceptualization and ideation, demonstrating how "big ideas" are generated.
-
Illustrate collaboration with cross-functional teams (marketing, product design) on 'Go-To-Market' initiatives.
-
Provide examples of how design direction is given to junior team members or production specialists.
-
Document the workflow for asset creation from brief to final delivery, highlighting timeliness and quality control.
-
Present examples of how creative solutions were adapted to meet specific customer needs or market demands.
๐ Enhancement Note: For a Senior Graphic Designer role, the portfolio is critical. It should not only display aesthetic quality but also demonstrate strategic thinking, process, and impact. The emphasis on "concept through production" and "Go-To-Market" campaigns requires the portfolio to tell a story of project lifecycle management and successful campaign execution.
๐ต Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Graphic Designers with 8+ years of experience in the Atlanta metropolitan area, the estimated salary range is $85,000 - $110,000 annually. This range considers the hybrid work model and the senior level of the position.
Benefits:
-
Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
-
Life Insurance and Disability Coverage for peace of mind.
-
Tuition Reimbursement to support ongoing professional development.
-
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support.
-
Health Savings Account (HSA) for healthcare expense management.
-
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) to ensure work-life balance.
-
Parental Leave to support new parents.
-
401K and Retirement Plans for long-term financial planning.
-
Employee Product Discounts on Shaw products.
-
Adoption Assistance to support families growing through adoption.
-
Access to Shaw Family Health Center at GA locations for convenient healthcare.
Working Hours: Standard 40-hour work week, typically an 8-hour non-rotating shift. Specific start times will be AM, with flexibility managed within the hybrid work structure.
๐ Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on data from reputable compensation resources for similar roles in the Cartersville, GA area, factoring in the experience level and the hybrid work arrangement. The benefits package is extensive, reflecting Shaw Industries' commitment to employee well-being and professional growth.
๐ฏ Team & Company Context
๐ข Company Culture
Industry: Commercial Flooring and Surface Solutions (Manufacturing). Shaw Contract is a global design leader within this sector, focusing on workplace, healthcare, hospitality, and education markets.
Company Size: Shaw Industries is a large organization with over 18,000 associates worldwide and annual sales exceeding $5 billion, operating as a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, Inc.
Founded: Shaw Industries was founded in 1946. The company's long history emphasizes stability, operational excellence, and a deep understanding of its markets.
Team Structure:
-
The Senior Graphic Designer will be part of an in-house Creative team, working closely with a Creative Director.
-
This team is described as "nimble" and provides the creative strategy and look/feel for all projects.
-
Collaboration is expected with marketing, product design, and potentially other production specialists.
-
The role involves providing guidance, suggesting an element of leadership or mentorship within the team. Methodology:
-
Design is central to the company's ethos, described as "the fiber that connects everything we do."
-
A strong emphasis is placed on sustainability, innovation, and customer experience.
-
The team operates with a "big idea thinker + hands-on maker" mentality, valuing both strategic conceptualization and execution.
-
The "octopus" analogy suggests a culture that embraces flexibility, intelligence, and adaptability.
Company Website: https://shawinc.com/
๐ Enhancement Note: Understanding Shaw Industries' scale and its position as a leader in commercial flooring is crucial. The "design is the fiber" motto and the "octopus" analogy provide insights into the company's creative culture, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and adaptability.
๐ Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Graphic Designer role, indicating a mid-to-senior level position within the creative function. It requires significant experience, independent work, and the ability to guide or mentor others. The role is crucial for shaping the brand's visual identity and supporting go-to-market strategies.
Reporting Structure: The Senior Graphic Designer will report directly to the Creative Director, working collaboratively within the in-house Creative team. This structure allows for direct mentorship and alignment with senior creative leadership.
Operations Impact: The Senior Graphic Designer's work directly impacts the visual representation of the Shaw Contract brand, influencing customer perception, market positioning, and the success of product launches. Their creative output is key to driving brand awareness, engagement, and ultimately, sales across diverse market segments.
Growth Opportunities:
-
Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like spatial design, motion graphics, or digital campaign strategy, aligning with preferred skills.
-
Leadership: Potential progression to Art Director or Creative Director roles, managing larger teams and strategic initiatives.
-
Cross-functional Exposure: Gain broader understanding of marketing, product development, and sales processes through close collaboration on go-to-market campaigns.
-
Industry Expertise: Develop specialized knowledge within commercial interiors and flooring design, becoming a subject matter expert.
๐ Enhancement Note: The Senior Graphic Designer role offers a clear path for growth within a large, established organization. The emphasis on "big ideas" and collaboration suggests opportunities to influence brand strategy and lead creative projects, fostering career advancement within the design and marketing functions.
๐ Work Environment
Office Type: The role is hybrid, requiring a minimum of 3 days per week in the Cartersville, GA office. This suggests a blend of in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility.
Office Location(s): The primary office location is Shaw Plant CX, 230 Douthit Ferry Road, Cartersville, GA 30120 USA. This facility likely offers a professional corporate environment.
Workspace Context:
-
The office environment is expected to be collaborative, facilitating close work with the Creative Director and other team members.
-
Access to necessary design tools and technology, including the Adobe Creative Suite and potentially Figma, will be available.
-
Opportunities for interaction with marketing, product design, and potentially other operational teams will be present, fostering a holistic understanding of business initiatives.
Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, typically an 8-hour shift, starting in the AM. While adherence to core hours is expected for collaboration, the hybrid model may offer some flexibility in managing the remaining work time.
๐ Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key aspect of this role's work environment, balancing the need for in-person collaboration and creative synergy with the flexibility of remote work. The Cartersville location likely provides a well-equipped corporate setting.
๐ Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
-
Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and alignment with the Senior Graphic Designer role.
-
Creative Director Interview: Discussion focused on design philosophy, conceptual thinking, and experience with art direction and campaign development. Portfolio walkthrough and discussion of past projects.
-
Cross-functional Interview: Meeting with marketing or product design representatives to assess collaboration skills and understanding of go-to-market strategies.
-
Final Interview: Potentially with a higher-level manager or HR, focusing on cultural fit, communication, and overall suitability for the role and company.
Portfolio Review Tips:
-
Curate Selectively: Showcase 5-7 of your strongest, most relevant projects that demonstrate your expertise in graphic design, art direction, and integrated campaign development.
-
Highlight Process: For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your role, the creative process, the challenges faced, and the solutions implemented. Use visuals to support your narrative.
-
Quantify Impact: Where possible, include metrics or outcomes that demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., increased engagement, successful product launch).
-
Brand Consistency: Include examples that show your ability to work within and adapt to established brand guidelines, particularly for brands similar in scope to Shaw Contract.
-
Technical Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss your proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite and any other relevant tools mentioned (Figma, motion graphics software).
Challenge Preparation:
-
Be ready for a potential design challenge that assesses your ability to conceptualize quickly and execute within brand parameters. Prepare to present your rationale clearly and concisely.
-
Practice articulating your design decisions, focusing on how they align with business objectives and target audience needs.
-
Familiarize yourself with Shaw Contract's current branding and marketing efforts to understand their visual language and strategic direction.
๐ Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is paramount for this role. Candidates should prepare to not only showcase their best work but also articulate the strategy, process, and impact behind each project. The interview process will likely involve assessing both creative talent and collaborative capabilities.
๐ Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
-
Adobe Creative Suite: Expert knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign is a mandatory requirement for all design execution and asset creation.
-
Figma: Working knowledge is preferred, indicating its increasing use for collaborative design and prototyping within the team.
-
Motion Graphics & Video Software: Familiarity with After Effects and Premiere is a strong plus, given the company's video content production.
Analytics & Reporting: While not explicitly listed as a required tool for the designer, understanding how design impacts engagement metrics (e.g., website analytics, social media engagement) would be beneficial. The role supports marketing campaigns, so awareness of performance indicators is advantageous.
CRM & Automation: The role will interact with marketing and sales teams, implying indirect exposure to CRM systems (like Salesforce, though not specified) and marketing automation platforms used for campaign deployment. The focus is on creating assets that these systems will utilize.
๐ Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement is mastery of the Adobe Creative Suite. Preferred tools like Figma and video editing software indicate a forward-thinking creative team that values versatility and modern design workflows.
๐ฅ Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
-
Build Trusting Relationships: Emphasized as a core competency, suggesting a collaborative environment where strong interpersonal skills are valued.
-
Deliver Compelling Communications: Aligns with the creative nature of the role, requiring the ability to translate ideas into visually impactful messages.
-
Plan and Organize: Essential for managing multiple projects, deadlines, and creative assets in a fast-paced environment.
-
Demonstrate Good Judgement: Crucial for making sound creative decisions that align with brand strategy and business objectives.
Collaboration Style:
-
Highly collaborative, working closely with the Creative Director, marketing, and product design teams.
-
A "hands-on maker" and "big idea thinker" approach suggests a culture that values both individual contribution and collective ideation.
-
The "octopus" analogy points to a flexible, adaptable, and multi-talented team environment.
๐ Enhancement Note: The explicitly listed competencies (Build Trusting Relationships, Deliver Compelling Communications, Plan and Organize, Demonstrate Good Judgement) are key indicators of the expected cultural fit and behavioral expectations for this role within Shaw Industries.
โก Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
-
Balancing Creative Vision with Brand Consistency: Ensuring "big ideas" align with the established Shaw Contract global visual identity and market segment needs.
-
Managing Multiple Projects & Deadlines: Effectively prioritizing and delivering high-quality creative assets for diverse projects (print, digital, spatial, video) under tight timelines.
-
Adapting to Evolving Design Trends & Technologies: Staying current with industry best practices and tools (e.g., Figma, motion graphics) to maintain a competitive edge.
-
Collaborating Across Diverse Teams: Effectively communicating and integrating creative concepts with marketing, product design, and potentially sales teams to achieve unified campaign goals.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
-
Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in preferred tools like Figma, After Effects, or Premiere Pro.
-
Industry-Specific Design Knowledge: Gaining specialized understanding of commercial interiors, spatial design, and material aesthetics within the flooring industry.
-
Creative Leadership Development: Potential to mentor junior designers and take on more strategic roles in campaign conceptualization and art direction.
-
Cross-functional Project Involvement: Learning about market launches, product development cycles, and marketing strategy through direct collaboration.
๐ Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a senior creative role in a large organization, requiring a blend of technical skill, strategic thinking, and collaborative ability. The growth opportunities are clearly linked to skill development and career progression within the creative field.
๐ก Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
-
"Describe a time you had to balance a highly conceptual creative idea with strict brand guidelines. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Assesses conceptual thinking and brand adherence)
-
"Walk me through your process for developing a 'big idea' for a product launch campaign. What are the key stages, and how do you ensure it translates across different media?" (Assesses creative process and integrated campaign thinking)
-
"How do you approach providing art direction to junior designers or other creative professionals to ensure a unified vision?" (Assesses leadership and communication skills) Company & Culture Questions:
-
"What excites you about Shaw Contract's mission and its role in commercial interiors?" (Assesses research and alignment with company values)
-
"How do you embody the 'octopus' analogy in your work โ being adaptable, intelligent, and having multiple skills?" (Assesses cultural fit and self-awareness)
-
"How do you ensure your designs contribute to business objectives, such as driving sales or enhancing brand perception?" (Assesses impact-orientation) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
-
Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the problem, your solution, your role, and the results.
-
Highlight Key Skills: Explicitly point out examples that demonstrate your expertise in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, conceptual thinking, and art direction. If you have Figma or motion graphics experience, showcase it.
-
Showcase Brand Versatility: Include projects that demonstrate your ability to work with diverse brand identities, especially those that require a sophisticated aesthetic.
-
Prepare for Q&A: Be ready to elaborate on your design choices, technical processes, and how you handled challenges or feedback.
๐ Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just creative talent, but also strategic thinking, collaborative ability, and a deep understanding of the brand and its market. The portfolio is the primary tool for showcasing these capabilities.
๐ Application Steps
To apply for this Senior Graphic Designer position:
-
Submit your application through the provided Workday link.
-
Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your 8+ years of graphic design and art direction experience, emphasizing achievements in developing creative concepts and executing integrated marketing campaigns. Integrate keywords like "art direction," "brand identity," "print design," "digital design," and specific software proficiencies.
-
Curate Your Portfolio: Select 5-7 of your strongest projects that best represent your conceptual thinking, hands-on execution, and ability to work across various media (print, digital, spatial). Ensure it clearly demonstrates your process and impact.
-
Prepare Your Portfolio Presentation: Be ready to walk through your selected projects, articulating your role, creative process, and the outcomes achieved. Practice explaining how your designs align with brand strategy and business objectives.
-
Research Shaw Contract: Familiarize yourself with Shaw Contract's brand, its market segments (workplace, healthcare, hospitality, education), and its recent marketing initiatives to understand their visual language and strategic direction.
โ ๏ธ 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.
Application Requirements
Candidates must hold a Graphic Design degree and possess 8+ years of experience in graphic design and art direction. Expert proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and strong conceptual thinking skills are required.