Job Title: Graphic Design Manager
Reports To: Executive Leadership
Industry: Manufacturing
Salary: $60,000 – $70,000
Location: on site – Des Plaines, IL
Job Type: Full-time

Position Overview
We’re seeking a Design Operations Manager who combines creative vision with operational rigor. This full-time role will lead our in-house graphic design and production art team—guiding creative quality, optimizing daily operations, and mentoring a team of at least two direct reports.
You’ll work hands-on with tools like Adobe Illustrator (critical) and support both high-volume production and high-impact visual innovation. Print experience is strongly preferred.

Key Responsibilities

• Team Leadership: Manage and mentor a team of 2+ production artists; create a culture of ownership, quality, and continuous improvement.
  

• Creative Direction: Stay ahead of design trends to ensure the company’s visual products remain fresh, relevant, and competitive.
  

• Workflow Management: Oversee the art workflow from order intake through print-readiness, reducing errors and increasing efficiency.
  

• Quality Assurance: Ensure files meet production standards through rigorous review and QA processes.
  

• Performance Tracking: Set team goals, track KPIs, and drive accountability through clear performance metrics.
  

• Cross-Department Collaboration: Work with Sales, Procurement, and Customer Service to ensure seamless execution and issue resolution.
  

• Tool & Process Leadership: Champion best practices in Adobe Creative Suite (especially Illustrator) and signage design for print.
  

• Creative Innovation: Offer input on layout, materials, and design enhancements to elevate the customer experience.

What You Bring

• 5+ years in graphic production, prepress, or signage design
  

• 2+ years of experience in a leadership or management role
  

• Expert proficiency in Adobe Illustrator (Photoshop a plus)
  

• Strong understanding of CMYK, RGB, spot color, and print production standards
  

• Experience in fast-paced, deadline-driven creative environments
  

• Skilled at implementing workflow systems and team KPIs
  

• Clear communicator and team-first mindset
  

• Experience in the signage or large-format printing space is a major plus

Compensation & Schedule

• Salary: $60,000 – $70,000 annually (based on experience)
  

• Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8-hour shift (some flexibility available)
  

• Hours: 40 hours/week

Benefits

• 401(k) with 4% company match (Voya)
  

• Medical & Dental Insurance (Aetna)
  

• Vision Insurance (VSP)
  

• Life and Disability Insurance
  

• Leadership Development Opportunities

Paid Time Off (PTO):

• Year 1: 11 days (5 upfront, 6 accrued)
  

• Years 2–4: 14 days (accrued)
  

• Year 5+: 20 days (accrued)

Paid Holidays (9 Days):

• New Year’s Day
  

• Memorial Day
  

• Independence Day
  

• Labor Day
  

• Thanksgiving Day
  

• Day After Thanksgiving
  

• Christmas Eve
  

• Christmas Day
  

• New Year’s Eve

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