Print Production Designer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of booming print media, the focus on print production designers has never been greater.

As visual communication continues to evolve, the demand for innovative minds who can craft, enhance, and preserve our visual design landscape grows exponentially.

But what does it truly mean to be a print production designer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager shaping up the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of print design,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable print production designer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Print Production Designer Duties and Responsibilities

Print Production Designers are responsible for developing, creating and managing all printed materials for a company, including brochures, catalogs, direct mail pieces, banners, and signage.

They work closely with the marketing and creative teams to ensure that all materials reflect the company’s brand and message.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Meeting with clients or art directors to discuss the business objectives and requirements of the job
• Interpreting the client’s business needs and developing a concept to suit their purpose
• Estimating the time required to complete the work and providing quotes for clients
• Developing design briefs by gathering information and data through research
• Thinking creatively to produce new ideas and concepts
• Using innovation to redefine a design brief within the constraints of cost and time
• Presenting finalized ideas and concepts to clients or account managers
• Working with a wide range of media, including photography and computer-aided design (CAD)
• Proofreading to produce accurate and high-quality work
• Contributing ideas and design artwork to the overall brief
• Working on layouts and artworking pages ready for print
• Keeping abreast of emerging technologies in new media, particularly design programs such as InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat and Flash
• Working as part of a team with printers, copywriters, photographers, other designers, account executives, web developers and marketing specialists

 

Print Production Designer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a skilled Print Production Designer to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the entire process of defining requirements, visualizing and creating graphics including illustrations, logos, layouts and photos for print production.

You’ll be the one to shape the visual aspects of our marketing materials, product packaging, exhibitions and more.

Your graphics should capture the attention of those who see them and communicate the right message.

 

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize visuals based on requirements
• Create engaging and on-brand graphics for a variety of media
• Work closely with the marketing team to produce final design
• Test graphics across various media and amend designs after feedback
• Ensure final graphics and layouts are visually appealing and on-brand
• Prepare files for print production, including packaging, collateral, and retail displays
• Review and approve designs, artwork, graphics developed by other team members
• Work with external printers on a regular basis to ensure deadlines are met and material is printed to the highest quality

 

Qualifications

• Proven graphic designing experience
• A strong portfolio of illustrations or other graphics
• Familiarity with design software and technologies (such as InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop)
• A keen eye for aesthetics and details
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to work methodically and meet deadlines
• Degree in Design, Fine Arts or related field is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Print Production Designer
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. May be required to visit printing facilities.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Creative Director or Design Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $80,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and your portfolio to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Print Production Designer Do?

Print Production Designers work primarily in advertising, publishing, and marketing industries.

They can also operate as independent contractors or freelancers.

Their main role is to design and manage the production of printed materials such as brochures, advertisements, catalogs, and packaging.

They work closely with clients, creative directors, and print vendors to ensure the print materials are produced accurately and to the highest quality.

They are responsible for preparing and finalizing designs for print, ensuring that the final product adheres to the brand guidelines, and meets the client’s objectives.

They might also have to adjust designs according to budget constraints or printing limitations.

The Print Production Designer is also tasked with reviewing and proofreading design materials to ensure the accuracy of color, text, and images.

They also manage the production process, checking proofs or initial versions, correcting any issues, and supervising the final print run.

Their job also involves staying up-to-date with the latest printing technologies and graphic design trends to create efficient and effective print designs.

In addition, they need to communicate effectively with clients, understanding their vision and translating it into tangible print products.

 

Print Production Designer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient print production designer should have the skills and qualifications that meet the demands of your job description, such as:

• Expertise in graphic design software such as Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop to create and edit designs.
• Strong understanding of print production processes, including proofing, pre-press, print, and finishing to deliver a high-quality product.
• Detail-oriented and exceptional organizational skills for managing multiple projects concurrently and meeting deadlines.
• Ability to conceptualize and implement design solutions based on creative briefs or client meetings.
• Good communication skills to understand client needs, provide regular project updates, and present final designs for approval.
• Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot design or print issues and provide innovative solutions.
• Knowledge of color management, print standards, and file preparation to ensure accurate output.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team, often coordinating with print vendors, clients, and other design professionals.
• Keeping up-to-date with industry trends, technology, and software to continuously improve design and production skills.

 

Print Production Designer Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for a Print Production Designer role should ideally have 1 to 2 years of experience in the field.

This experience can be obtained through internships, part-time roles, or education programs focused on graphic design, printing technology, or a related field.

A strong understanding of print production processes, including pre-press, printing, finishing and binding is vital.

Candidates with more than 2 to 3 years of experience should have a firm understanding of design principles, color theory, typography, and have extensive knowledge of print production processes.

They may also have worked in roles such as Graphic Designer, Art Director, or a similar role in a print-related industry.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are typically highly proficient with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, and have strong project management skills.

They may have also taken on leadership roles, overseeing the work of junior designers and coordinating with print vendors and clients to ensure the successful execution of print projects.

In addition to these professional experiences, a Print Production Designer must also have a keen eye for detail, ability to work under tight deadlines, and excellent communication skills to interpret and deliver on client briefs.

 

Print Production Designer Education and Training Requirements

Print Production Designers typically have a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, visual communications, or a related field.

They need a strong understanding of design principles and must be proficient in design software such as Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, or Photoshop.

In addition to technical skills, they must have strong creative abilities and a keen eye for detail to ensure high-quality print production.

Knowledge of typography, color theory, and print layout is critical for this role.

Experience with digital printing and familiarity with print production processes, such as prepress procedures, paper types, and binding techniques, are also crucial.

Some positions may require Print Production Designers to have a certification in graphic design or a related field, which demonstrates their expertise and dedication to the profession.

Further, participating in ongoing training or workshops can help them stay updated with the latest design trends and print technologies.

Advanced degrees or courses in marketing or communications can also be beneficial for understanding the broader context in which their designs are used.

 

Print Production Designer Salary Expectations

A Print Production Designer earns an average salary of $51,346 (USD) per year.

This wage can differ based on factors such as industry experience, education, and the city or region in which the designer works.

 

Print Production Designer Job Description FAQs

What are the key skills required for a Print Production Designer?

A Print Production Designer should have strong technical design skills with advanced knowledge in graphic design software such as Adobe Creative Suite.

They should possess excellent attention to detail, good understanding of color theory, typography, and have a solid understanding of print processes and specifications.

It is also beneficial if they have good project management skills, are able to meet strict deadlines, and possess strong communication and teamwork skills.

 

Do Print Production Designers need a degree?

Although not always required, most employers prefer Print Production Designers who have a bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts or a related field.

Some also prefer candidates who have hands-on experience in print production.

However, a solid portfolio showcasing a range of print design work can sometimes substitute for formal education.

 

What should you look for in a Print Production Designer’s portfolio?

A Print Production Designer’s portfolio should demonstrate a strong understanding of print design principles, color theory, and typography.

It should contain a range of print work, including brochures, magazines, flyers, and packaging.

The portfolio should show the designer’s ability to work with different print formats and specifications, as well as their proficiency in design software.

 

What qualities make a good Print Production Designer?

A good Print Production Designer is detail-oriented, as even a small mistake can result in costly print errors.

They should have a strong aesthetic sense and a good understanding of how to use design elements to communicate a message effectively.

Good time management skills are important, as they often work on multiple projects with tight deadlines.

They should also be good team players, as they often work closely with other designers, printers, and clients.

 

Is it difficult to hire Print Production Designers?

The difficulty in hiring Print Production Designers often depends on the specific skills and experience you require.

For more specialized roles or high-level positions, it may be more challenging to find the right candidate.

However, by offering competitive salaries, a positive work environment, and opportunities for growth and development, you can attract top talent in the field.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a glimpse into the life of a print production designer.

Surprised?

It’s not just about creating designs.

It’s about visualizing the concepts, one design element at a time.

With our handy print production designer job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for creating detail-oriented listings or fine-tuning your portfolio to perfection.

Remember:

Every design is a piece of a larger canvas.

Let’s paint that picture. Together.