Production Artist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s digital landscape, the demand for production artists is on the rise.

As the realm of visual content and graphic design expands, the need for skilled individuals who can create, refine, and optimize our visual content becomes increasingly paramount.

But let’s unpack this a bit: What are the real expectations for a production artist?

Whether you are:

A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
A hiring manager drafting the profile of the perfect candidate,
Or simply fascinated by the intricate world of graphic production,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable production artist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive in.

Contents show

Production Artist Duties and Responsibilities

Production Artists are integral to the creation and finalization of digital and print design.

They utilize their skills in software and design to ensure that the finished product meets the client’s expectations and specifications.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

Collaborate with design teams to understand project scope and objectives
Work with designers to execute artistic concepts
Manage production of all print and digital materials, ensuring quality and consistency
Create and edit images, graphics, layouts, and typography
Ensure all graphics and text are in line with brand standards and style guides
Prepress files for print production to ensure the highest quality output
Oversee the printing process, including color management and proofing
Assist with photo retouching and enhancements
Manage and prioritize multiple projects within design specifications and budget restrictions
Archive produced images and graphics
Keep up-to-date with trends in graphic design techniques and software

Production Artist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a meticulous and talented Production Artist to manage creative projects, ensuring they meet our company’s needs.

Production Artist responsibilities include understanding project requirements, finalizing graphic material, and checking prints for errors.

Knowledge of traditional art media and digital editing software is a must.

Our ideal candidates are detail-oriented, creative and have experience in a production environment.

Ultimately, the role of the Production Artist is to refine designs, ensuring they meet company standards and to deliver high-quality and on-brand graphics.

Responsibilities

Understand project requirements and concepts
Use various techniques to create drafts, models and prototypes
Produce final design solutions (like logos, banners, interfaces)
Pitch creative ideas that enhance projects
Collaborate with team members to launch projects
Take on special design tasks (e.g. color correction)
Use feedback from other designers to improve
Ensure final graphics and layouts are visually appealing and on-brand

Qualifications

Proven work experience as a Production Artist, Graphic Designer or similar role
Portfolio of completed design projects
Hands-on experience with image editing software, like Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator
Proficient in design software (e.g. InDesign and Balsamiq)
Strong aesthetic skills with the ability to combine various colors, fonts and layouts
Attention to visual details
Ability to meet deadlines and collaborate with team members
BSc degree in Design, Visual Arts or relevant qualification

Benefits

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

Additional Information

Job Title: Production Artist
Work Environment: Office setting with flexibility for remote work. May need to visit printing or production sites as needed.
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Art Director or Creative Director.
Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 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, portfolio and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

What Does a Production Artist Do?

Production Artists, also known as Graphic Production Artists, work predominantly in the advertising and marketing sectors, but are also found in various industries such as publishing, print media, and packaging companies.

Their primary responsibility is to ensure the design team’s concepts are executed correctly and are print or digital-ready.

This involves reviewing final designs, making necessary edits, and checking for any inaccuracies or design inconsistencies.

They are proficient in design software like Adobe Creative Suite, and they utilize these tools to create, modify, and finalize designs.

They also perform color corrections and ensure the design aligns with the brand’s aesthetic and guidelines.

Production Artists often liaise with printers or other production vendors to confirm the final product meets the desired specifications.

They may also be involved in resizing, reformatting, or converting files as required for different platforms or media.

In some cases, Production Artists might also assist in the conceptual stages of design, offering input and ideas, although their main focus remains in the final stages of design production.

Production Artist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Production Artist should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

Strong computer skills for using design software, such as Adobe Creative Suite, to create and edit designs.
Excellent attention to detail for reviewing and adjusting designs to ensure they meet client specifications.
Good time management skills to effectively handle multiple projects and meet deadlines.
Robust understanding of design principles and techniques to create engaging and effective visual content.
Communication skills for effectively collaborating with design teams and for understanding and implementing client feedback.
Problem-solving skills to identify and correct issues in design layouts and final products.
Knowledge of the latest design trends, consumer preferences and cultural nuances to design relatable and up-to-date content.
Creativity to develop unique and innovative design concepts.
Knowledge of pre-press production and understanding of print production process to ensure designs are ready for print.

Production Artist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Production Artists typically have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships, part-time roles, or even freelance work in the field of design.

These professionals can gain vital on-the-job experience in roles such as Graphic Designer, Junior Production Artist, or other related roles in advertising and publishing agencies.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have honed their technical skills in programs like Adobe Creative Suite, and have a solid understanding of design principles, typography, and layout.

They might have worked in roles such as Senior Production Artist or Graphic Designer, where they were responsible for creating and finalizing designs.

Production Artists with more than 5 years of experience may have comprehensive experience in print and digital production.

These candidates might also have some leadership experience, overseeing projects or mentoring junior staff members.

They may be ready for roles such as Lead Production Artist or Art Director, where they can guide the visual direction of projects and manage a team.

Production Artist Education and Training Requirements

Production Artists typically need a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, digital media or a related field.

These programs expose students to various aspects of commercial art and design, such as typography, color theory, digital graphics and layout design.

Some courses may also cover marketing strategies and business principles.

A strong knowledge in various digital art software such as Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign is necessary for this role.

Knowledge of other technologies such as HTML, CSS, and other web design tools can also be beneficial.

Some positions may require Production Artists to have a master’s degree in a related field, particularly if the role involves management or strategic planning.

In addition to formal education, Production Artists often gain practical experience through internships or entry-level positions.

Certifications in graphic design or particular software applications can also be beneficial and demonstrate a commitment to the field and ongoing learning.

Furthermore, a portfolio showcasing their design work is typically required during the job application process.

This portfolio displays their creativity, skills, and ability to execute professional-level design work.

Production Artist Salary Expectations

A Production Artist makes an average of $47,561 (USD) per year.

The salary of a Production Artist can vary significantly depending on experience, the complexity of the projects they work on, and the region in which they are based.

Production Artist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a production artist need?

Production artists should have a keen eye for detail, high-level technical skills in various design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, and a good understanding of the production process.

They should also have strong organizational skills, be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines, and have the ability to problem-solve and make design corrections when needed.

Do production artists need a degree?

Most employers prefer production artists who have a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, art, or a related field.

However, equivalent experience in the field can also be acceptable.

Important is the knowledge of design fundamentals and proficiency in design software.

What should you look for in a production artist’s resume?

A production artist’s resume should showcase their proficiency in design software like Adobe Creative Suite.

It should also highlight their experience in print and digital production, as well as any specific industry experience relevant to the job, such as advertising or publishing.

Look for examples of problem-solving, ability to meet deadlines, and attention to detail.

What qualities make a good production artist?

A good production artist is meticulous, with a strong eye for detail to spot and fix errors in designs.

They are technically proficient, keeping updated with the latest design software and tools.

Good production artists are also problem solvers, able to troubleshoot design issues and find creative solutions.

They should also be good communicators, able to work well in a team and coordinate with designers and printers.

Is it difficult to hire production artists?

Hiring production artists can be challenging due to the combination of technical skills and creative abilities required for the role.

It can also be difficult to find candidates who are familiar with both print and digital production processes.

However, with a clear and detailed job description, and a thorough interview process, it is possible to find talented production artists.

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve illuminated the dynamic role of a production artist.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about creating art.

It’s about orchestrating visual magic, one design at a time.

With our handy production artist job description template and real-world examples, you’re primed and ready for action.

But why halt your momentum?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step towards crafting pinpoint accurate job listings or refining your resume to sheer perfection.

Always remember:

Every design, every detail, contributes to the broader canvas.

Let’s create that visual magic. Together.

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