Associate Designer, Collaborations
An associate-level graphic and packaging designer at Claire's in Rosemont, IL who develops packaging concepts, CADs, die lines, and production-ready artwork across a high-SKU accessory assortment, coordinating with Design, Merchandising, Production, and overseas vendors using Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
- Compensation
- $70K / yr
- Location
- Rosemont, IL, USA
- Work setup
- Not specified
- Seniority
- Junior
- Employment
- Not specified
- Experience
- 2+ years
- Category
- Design
- Posted
Skills
Must have
- Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Packaging Design, Visual Communication, or a related field, or equivalent experience
- 2-4 years of experience in graphic design, packaging design, product design, or print production
- Strong proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign
- Working knowledge of packaging production, including die lines, print specifications, color separation, proofing, and production artwork
- Experience developing production-ready artwork and communicating with printers, manufacturers, factories, or vendors
- Strong understanding of typography, layout, color, composition, and graphic design fundamentals
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail
Nice to have
- Experience working with overseas vendors/factories
Full description
About the Role
The Associate Designer, Collaborations supports the development of compelling graphic and packaging designs from concept through production. You’ll work closely with the Design, Merchandising, Production, and Product Development teams to bring creative ideas to life across a high-volume assortment.
This role combines creative design, packaging development, print production, and strong vendor communication. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly organized, comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, and able to manage multiple projects and deadlines while maintaining a high level of design quality and accuracy.
Key Responsibilities Design & Develop Across Graphic and Packaging
- Support the development of graphic design and packaging concepts across multiple product categories and seasonal collections.
- Create packaging, print graphics, layouts, CADs, die lines, and color specifications.
- Translate creative direction, brand guidelines, trends, and product concepts into engaging graphic and packaging solutions.
- Develop production-ready artwork and technical files for packaging and printed materials.
- Contribute creative ideas during brainstorming, concept development, seasonal refreshes, and new product initiatives.
- Help ensure designs are visually cohesive across products, packaging, and presentations.
Manage Production & Execute at Scale
- Prepare and maintain accurate production files, technical specifications, die lines, and vendor-ready artwork.
- Review proofs, color matches, samples, and material submissions to ensure designs meet specifications.
- Make revisions and troubleshoot artwork or production issues throughout the development process.
- Manage multiple projects and SKUs simultaneously while meeting established deadlines and ship dates.
- Maintain organized design files and ensure artwork is accurately updated throughout the development process.
Communicate with Vendors & Overseas Factories
- Communicate clearly and professionally with overseas factories, packaging suppliers, printers, and vendors regarding artwork, specifications, revisions, samples, and production requirements.
- Clearly communicate design intent and technical requirements to vendors and factory partners.
- Review and provide detailed feedback on factory and vendor submissions.
- Work through production challenges with vendors to identify practical solutions while protecting the integrity of the design.
- Follow up proactively on open artwork, sample, and production issues to keep projects moving forward.