Print Production Designer

Print Production Designer (Posting) Company Overview Cushing & Co. is the leading Graphic Imaging & Construction Printing service in Chicago. Based in Chicago for 95 years, we are a close-knit, family run business with self-starting, multi-tasking professionals who are open to new technology, learning new skills, and working in a team atmosphere. We excel at complex design-print-install projects but also offer a wide variety of digital and graphics services. Check out our website for a more comprehensive look. Job Summary This role requires working on projects with attention to detail, sense of urgency, and an eye for quality and craftsmanship. The Print Production Designer is responsible for the intake and review of graphic files, proofing and proper preparing for print, and supplementary graphic design support as assigned or available. You would be working in the design division of our entire team at Cushing & Company, led by the Design Director, in tandem and underneath the Managing Designer. We are only as good as the support we provide each other and often would be collaborating on projects together and expected to participate in internal critique and feedback sessions. This work can be fast-paced and our world revolves around meeting deadlines. At any given time, there may be multiple projects in multiple stages that you would have a hand in, and would be working closely with clients, project managers, fabricators, and account managers to communicate needs and tasks. Duties & Responsibilities • Become an expert in our order processing system, self-assigning projects, and completing all required steps in the software. • Communicate with the Production Manager about material inventory needed for projects. • Assess proofing needs, create production documents using standardized templates and facilitate all back-and-forth communication with the client (including phone calls and emails) to reach full approval. • Set up and fully prepare print-ready files for press. Creating custom instruction/installation instruction sets in tandem. • Provide supplementary graphic design and assist with concept brainstorming for projects as assigned, under guidance of the Project Lead/Managing Designer. • Assist the Managing Designer/Project Lead with the design support including edits and revisions, both large and small scale. Submit your work for critique and participate in collaborative review. • Be present at (in-person or video) client intake/review meetings, take notes, and translate design feedback and intention into design work. • Works with sales team and asks appropriate questions when an order is translated from a client/sales team led-project to a technical print project. Job Qualifications • 2-4 years’ experience in printing and/or the graphic design industry • Degree in a related field preferred, but not required. • Experience in customer service is a huge plus. This role requires you to be client-facing, and understanding how to speak professionally and be able to effectively communicate is essential. • Proficient in design software, including Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and Acrobat. Familiarity with stock image source sites and basic AI resources. • Understand image resolution and upscaling, recognize proper use of vector vs. raster imaging, and know how to properly process various files types for print. • Must work well both independently and with a team. • Ability to take the initiative and own your own tasks, as well as connecting with others where group project work is necessary; • Must be able to lead with flexibility and adapt to project pivots, which may happen frequently. • Technical knowledge of printing equipment and fabrication processes a plus, but training will be provided. • Ability to work in an active print shop environment and maintain focus, and also be comfortable remaining stationary (at a computer) for long periods of time is expected. Job Type • Full-Time • In person required • Ability to Commute- Chicago, IL 60610 Pay • $22 – $26/hour • Bonus opportunities Schedule Monday through Friday, during business hours, occasional overtime opportunities. Benefits: • 401(k) • 401(k) matching • Dental insurance • Employee assistance program • Employee discount • Health insurance • Health savings account • Paid time off • Parental leave • Referral program • Retirement plan • Tuition reimbursement • Vision insurance Job Type: Full-time Pay: $22.00 - $26.00 per hour Benefits: • 401(k) • 401(k) matching • Dental insurance • Employee discount • Health insurance • Paid time off • Parental leave • Tuition reimbursement • Vision insurance Application Question(s): • How many years of customer service experience do you have? • Do you have experience with design software, such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and Acrobat? • Do you have experience in the printing or graphics industry? Work Location: In person