Lead Graphic Designer Job at smartdept. inc. in Bolingbrook

smartdept. is searching for a Lead Graphic Designer for a manufacturing industry client located in Bolingbrook, IL. The ideal candidate will come with 5+ years of experience. This is a full-time, onsite direct hire opportunity. Compensation for this position is expected to be 75-80K

The Lead Graphic Designer will oversee and execute a wide range of creative projects, supporting marketing, communications, events, and internal initiatives. This role blends hands-on design work with project management and team leadership, ensuring brand consistency and high standards across all deliverables.

What You'll Do:

• Design custom literature, including flyers, presentations, slide decks, spec sheets, comparison charts, and one-off items for internal needs
• Create and manage email campaigns using Constant Contact
• Develop packaging design and social media graphics
• Contribute to blog creation and proof copy/layouts for team members
• Design trade show and event graphics/materials
• Oversee the corporate apparel program: source vendors, secure pricing, coordinate samples, ordering, and distribution
• Manage corporate swag items: sourcing, pricing, samples, ordering, and distribution
• Interface with internal departments, clients, partners, and vendors
• Support event planning and execution for both internal company events and external customer events
• Maintain brand consistency and visual identity across all platforms and materials
• Mentor junior designers and provide constructive feedback
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring deadlines and quality standards are met

What You'll Need:

Education/Experience:

• Associate's degree in design and/or certificate in graphic design required
• 5+ years of professional graphic design experience

Core Design Skills:

• Mastery of Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
• Strong layout, composition, and typography skills
• Experience in branding and maintaining visual identity
• Print design expertise, including pre-press requirements
• Digital design experience-web, UI/UX, and online assets
• Original illustration and motion graphics skills
• Social media platform expertise (LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, etc.)
• Understanding of color theory and its impact on design
• Ability to embrace AI tools as creative assistants
• Proficiency in Office365 and Teams

Project Management & Leadership:

• Experience managing multiple projects, meeting deadlines, and working within budgets
• Team leadership and mentoring abilities
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Creative problem-solving and time management

Other Important Skills:

• Meticulous attention to detail and consistency
• Strong portfolio showcasing a range of design work (please include examples of email campaigns-standalone and as part of larger campaigns)
• Creativity and innovation; ability to think outside the box
• Adaptability to changing trends and client needs

Attributes:

• Resilience and enthusiasm for adapting to changing priorities
• Proactive attitude and willingness to explore new ideas
• Strong organizational and productivity focus
• High integrity, ethics, and inclusivity
• Flexibility and commitment to professional development