Graphic Designer

smartdept. is searching for a Graphic Designer for a consumer packaged goods client in Chicago, IL. The ideal candidate will come with 3-5+ years of experience. This is a full-time, hybrid (Tues-Thurs in office), contract-to-hire opportunity. Compensation for this position is expected to be $28/hr - $32/hr depending on experience level and fit. 

The Graphic Designer will be responsible for creating a variety of print and digital projects, including house-branded and private-label packaging, infographics, trade show graphics, banner ads, emails, website content, social media content, and more. This role will report to the Art Director.

What You’ll Do: 

• Demonstrate strong layout and design skills with attention to detail, accuracy, and creativity.
• Experience maintaining brand consistency across all brand assets
• Ability to edit, recolor, and composite images in Photoshop
• Work with overseas and domestic partners to obtain project deadlines, mockups, samples, translations, and photography
• Create high-impact packaging and display design,s maintaining consistent brand esthetic across all deliverables
• Experience using customer style guides to create private label packaging designs, display,s and master carton labeling
• Prepare packaging BOM, detailing all artwork components for a given project
• Create original vector line art, illustrations, and unique pattern designs for product application and packaging
• Identify color, packaging, display,y and design trends to enhance product innovation in the marketplace
• Collaborate with Digital Marketing team to create a variety of assets for website and social media projects
• Daily collaboration with internal cross-functional teams
• Manage and maintain consistent naming/filing structure of collateral and images with department standards on server
• Perform daily project management, with the ability to prioritize and organize workload to ensure deadlines are met and quality is consistent.

What You’ll Need: 

• BA or BFA preferred in Graphic Design or Communication Design.
• Proficient knowledge of Adobe programs: Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
• Illustration ability is a plus.
• Solid organizational skills, detail-oriented, time management skills, and ability to juggle priorities.
• Strong relationship-building skills; ability to collaborate and work cross-functionally within the organization.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet tight deadlines under shifting priorities.
   
• Previous experience using Asana for project management and Adobe Dimension for 3D
  renderings a plus