Production Designer – Large Format & Retail Print (Freelance)
Employment Type: Freelance
Hours: 5–20 hours per week
Schedule: Flexible; evenings and weekends are acceptable
Overview
Our client is hiring a freelance Production Designer to support high-volume convenience retail marketing. This role is execution-focused and centered on print production, not concepting. You’ll be responsible for translating existing brand and campaign assets into accurate, production-ready files for large-format signage and in-store retail materials used across convenience-store locations.
This is a great fit for someone who is detail-obsessed, understands how files move from layout to press to store, and has hands-on experience producing retail print at scale.
What You’ll Do
- Build and adapt production-ready mechanicals for large-format signage including windows, wall graphics, exterior signage, and forecourt displays.
- Produce print-ready files for in-store POP/POS such as shelf talkers, pump toppers, menu boards, counter displays, cooler clings, and hanging signs.
- Lay out promotional retail materials including posters, flyers, banners, and other printed collateral using established brand guidelines.
- Apply existing brand standards consistently across all assets (logos, color, typography, imagery, legal copy).
- Set up files for digital, offset, and large-format printing, including bleeds, folds, dielines, crop marks, and safe zones.
- Preflight and QA files for size, resolution, color space, and overall print accuracy.
- Version artwork for multiple store formats, price points, and regional or promotional variations.
- Package and deliver final artwork to printers with linked assets, fonts (as permitted), and clear production notes.
- Collaborate with internal teams and external print vendors to confirm specs, troubleshoot issues, and hit deadlines.
- Make fast, accurate updates to existing templates as promotions or pricing change.
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience as a Print Production Designer, Production Artist, or similar role focused on retail print.
- Portfolio demonstrating large-format signage and in-store POP/POS for retail environments (convenience, QSR, big-box, or similar).
- Strong understanding of print production standards, including CMYK vs. spot color, resolution, file formats, and finishing.
- High attention to detail with a track record of error-free mechanicals.
- Comfortable working within existing templates and brand systems.
- Able to manage multiple small projects and versions under tight timelines.
- Available for 5–20 hours per week, with flexibility for evenings or weekends when deadlines require.
