FASTSIGNS needs a graphic designer

FASTSIGNS West Orlando – Orlando, FL

JOB DESCRIPTION

Under general direction, the Graphic Designer has a dual role working in the design room and production room. This position is responsible for creating computer generated vinyl and/or full color graphics output that can be weeded, cut and applied or printed and mounted to a substrate. This may involve various levels of artistic creativity and will ultimately lead to the complete or modified design from customer drawings, files, or exact output of customer-provided design for output to media.

In the production room, this position is responsible for all aspects of the physical construction and assembling of signs from computer cut vinyl and wide format full color printouts. Sign assembly includes preparing substrates and applying vinyl or other media according to written instructions. Also, mounting and/or laminating prints and operating and setting up the laminator for over-laminating, encapsulation, or mounting of digital imaged products is required. Proofreading signs and conducting quality assurance to ensure the accuracy of signs is required.

DESIGN ROOM RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prioritize each day to efficiently and cost-effectively schedule the workflow.
• Determine the best output method based on the customer’s need.
• Read and interpret a Work Order.
• Work with co-workers and customers with file transfers, FTP access, photo library options, online proofs, etc.
• Determines size and arrangement of illustrative material and copy, select style and size of type, and arrange layout based upon available space, aesthetic design, and production requirements.
• Prepare comprehensive illustrations, sketches, layouts, and copy for print reproduction according to instructions of client or supervisor.
• Allocate appropriate amount of time to each work order.
• Inspect jobs for accuracy before sending them to the plotter or printer. Ensure correct material is used for each job and output devise settings are accurate.
• Customer logo maintenance and sourcing: scanning, editing, using the FASTSIGNS Digital Asset Library, etc.; convert graphic files.
•  Image Sourcing: locate photos, understand copyright laws and release/usage requirements, knowledge of resources to buy stock images, work with service bureaus to create output beyond store capability, and understand resolution options and optimal enlargement specifications from image vendors and image originals.
• Provide proofs as necessary, using the FASTSIGNS online proofing system, for customer approval.
• Purchase all materials and supplies needed for maintaining printers and plotters ensuring that appropriate inks and roll media are always on hand.
• Reconcile invoices to purchase orders and submit invoices for payment. Negotiate better, more favorable pricing from vendors, especially for larger projects.
• Maintain all equipment plotters and printers (latex printers, solvent ink printers, etc.). Calibrate, test and monitor machines regularly for the best color quality and accuracy according color matching systems and customer files.
• Establish relationships with printer technicians and others in maintaining printers and plotter.
• Assist with new employee on-boarding: set up new email accounts, set up computer and order uniforms for all staff

PRODUCTION ROOM RESPONSIBILITIES

• Follow a layout to place computer-generated vinyl or full color graphic image(s) on a pre-determined substrate or medium.
• Prepare substrates for application. This may include cutting, painting, laminating, cleaning and maintaining the substrates for application.
• Weed excess vinyl from computer cut images. Weeding techniques vary with size, type of vinyl and complexity of image. Know how and when to use each technique.
• Perform quality assurance measures pre- and post-construction by accurately reading and interpreting a Work Order and then proofing for errors or unacceptable standards (bubbles, rough edges, loose seams).
• Perform finishing operations such as laminating, encapsulating, and/or mounting of printed pieces.
• Install simple signs as needed.
• Operate the laminator while maintaining proper fit and settings. Thread laminating or encapsulating material onto the machine, set temperature, pressure, and side guides for proper feeding of material.
• Help unload raw materials; clean and maintain storage areas. Match packing slips with purchase orders to ensure that all items are accounted for.
• Work on different projects simultaneously.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Communicate with other employees in a calm and professional manner; express self verbally and listen well.
• Increase knowledge of computer graphic design and sign making through reading trade publications and independent study.
• Keep the center neat and clean and organized.
• Participate in and practice the FASTSIGNS sales mentality of “Everybody Sells”. Constantly be looking for sales opportunities for the center.
• Serve as a backup for answering the phone if the others are unavailable assisting other customers. Assist at the front counter as needed. Understand the sales process enough to consult with customers to determine project needs and solutions.

INTERESTED CANDIDATES SHOULD EMAIL THEIR RESUMES TO:

Susan Fortini

FASTSIGNS®  of West Orlando| Owner | susan.fortini@fastsigns.com