Production Graphic Designer

Role Overview

The Production Graphic Designer is a technical, pre-press-focused role responsible for translating creative intent into accurate, production-ready files for large-format print production. This position partners closely with Print Leadership, Design, and Project Management to ensure all files are properly structured, optimized for Pink Sparrow’s print equipment, and aligned with production schedules, material constraints, and installation requirements. The role reports to the Associate Director of Print Operations and evolves alongside the growth of Pink Sparrow’s print capabilities.

Role Responsibilities:

- Prepare and process incoming design files for print production, including:
- File cleanup and organization
- Scaling, up-sizing, bleed setup, tiling, and panelizing
- Layer and path setup for print, cut, and mask operations
- Pantone matching and inserting PMS & spot colors into artwork files
- Own pre-press standards, templates, file naming conventions, and version control across projects
- Ensure files meet technical requirements for printers, cutting tables, and installers
- Create digital proofs for Project Management and client approvals
- Collaborate with Project Managers to align file delivery with production schedules, resolve file issues, and create installation guides
- Assist Design Department with asset layouts as needed (secondary responsibility)
- Maintain organized file structures and naming conventions across projects
- Handling difficult, messy, or inherited files with ease

Project Planning & Communication:

- Proactively identify and resolve technical production risks (scale, resolution, seams, color, substrate, equipment constraints) to ensure files are fully aligned with print and installation requirements before release
- Maintain clear documentation and communication between departments
- Support ongoing development of print department standards and templates
- Working efficiently and accurately under real production timelines
- Optimize file setup and layout decisions to support material efficiency, production speed, and cost-conscious execution.

Organizational Alignment & Accountability:

- Actively support company-wide initiatives, operational improvements, and strategic growth efforts as Pink Sparrow continues to evolve.
- Uphold all company policies, safety standards, and production best practices, contributing to a disciplined, accountable, and high-performing environment.
- Demonstrate flexibility, ownership, and a team-first mindset by taking on additional responsibilities as needed to ensure successful project execution and overall company performance.

The ideal candidate will have:

- 3+ years experience in production graphics, pre-press, or large-format output
- Proven expert knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator and Photoshop) with strong technical skills in prepress file preparation
- Understanding of large-format printing, cutting, and finishing constraints
- Graphics production and installation knowledge and/or experience is a plus
- Ability to read and understand shop drawings and blueprints
- High attention to detail and strong technical problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work independently and collaborate cross-departmentally
- Excellent time-management skills and ability to prioritize under tight deadlines and within an evolving production environment