Production Artist

Aquent, a leading talent solutions partner, is thrilled to connect you with an exceptional opportunity at a globally recognized leader in athletic apparel and footwear. This company is renowned for pushing the boundaries of innovation, inspiring athletes worldwide, and creating products that define performance and style. Joining their team means contributing to a legacy of excellence and making a tangible impact on highly visible, iconic products.

Imagine shaping the aesthetic and functional integrity of athletic apparel graphics for iconic products that inspire athletes globally! We are seeking a visionary and technically precise individual to join a dynamic design team, where your expertise will directly bring innovative designs to life, particularly within the exciting realm of team sports. This is your chance to be a pivotal resource, refining graphic details and delivering impeccable, production-ready files that set new industry standards. You'll navigate complex projects, champion new methodologies, and maintain an unwavering focus on detail, driving innovation and efficiency throughout the product creation lifecycle. If you thrive on technical challenges, love collaborative environments, and are passionate about transforming design concepts into impactful, tangible products, this role offers a platform to significantly influence the future of athletic apparel.

What You'll Do

• Elevate graphic design by delivering flawless, production-ready files for apparel.
• Craft detailed and accurate graphic schematics, ensuring precision and strict adherence to brand standards.
• Act as a primary graphic production resource, leading production art efforts within assigned categories, actively participating in meetings, and identifying critical action items.
• Mentor and guide peers in adopting cutting-edge tools and efficient workflows.
• Oversee multiple projects concurrently in a fast-paced environment, maintaining momentum and accuracy.
• Engage in close collaboration with cross-functional partners including Apparel Design, Graphic Design, Product Management, Technical Development, and Material Development.
• Utilize 2D and 3D tools to create and finalize graphic details across various product levels.
• Develop comprehensive documentation for downstream partners and conduct thorough reviews of strike-offs.
• Track and maintain updates on all relevant files to ensure accuracy through final approval.
• Champion and implement efficiencies across the entire product creation lifecycle.

What You'll Bring

Must-Have Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in graphic design or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 5 years of experience in a design and/or production art environment, specifically for apparel.
• Proven experience with licensed apparel, visual systems, and micro branding.
• A strong portfolio showcasing experience working on licensed products, including technical schematics for logos and trims, and clear examples of process ownership.
• Proficient knowledge of Adobe Illustrator and the broader Adobe Creative Suite.
• Advanced understanding of graphic applications, including ink types and trim substrates.
• Understanding of the product lifecycle and key deliverables.
• Expert-level listening, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proven ability to support and lead peers in new tools and ways of working.
• Ability to navigate ambiguity effectively while maintaining strong collaboration.
• Exceptional attention to detail, with a laser focus on critical elements.
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Curiosity for learning and a passion for building a strong design community.

Nice-to-Have Qualifications

• Experience or interest in athletic team sports, particularly understanding team and league demographics.
• Experience working on cut-and-sew apparel and T-shirts.
• Experience in 3D apparel programs such as CLO or Lotta.
• Familiarity with project management and collaboration tools like Smartsheet, Airtable, and Miro.
• A passion for sports is a bonus, but a love for design is essential.
• Previous industry experience is a plus.