Graphic Design Associate

Job Overview & Purpose

The Graphic Design Associate is responsible for creating and preparing accurate print-ready files for assigned shows, signage, and other design tasks. This role directly supports the production pipeline by adhering to company standards, coordinating proofing and revisions, and ensuring timely delivery of creative assets. The Associate functions as the sole designer on assigned shows unless project scope or scheduling requires collaboration. They also support company branding, visual consistency, and marketing efforts as needed.

Reports to: Graphic Design Manager

Key Responsibilities & Duties

Primary Responsibilities

• Design and prepare all assigned show signage and graphic deliverables following internal processes and SOPs.
• Cross-reference floorplans, sign lists, and production schedules to ensure design accuracy and completeness.
• Coordinate file handoff to production and vendors, ensuring proper format, specs, and naming conventions.
• Participate in production and design meetings to align on priorities, feedback, and scheduling.
• Support physical and digital proofing processes by preparing files for review and implementing changes as directed.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of design deliverables, updates, and approvals.
• Monitor show load dates and escalate timing risks to the Graphic Design Manager.

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist with internal projects including marketing collateral, presentations, or social media design content as assigned.
• Support the creation and organization of graphic templates and SOP documentation.
• Provide backup support to other designers during peak workload periods or when collaboration is required.
• Help maintain visual consistency across platforms by following established brand standards.
• Participate in team huddles and contribute to continuous improvement discussions.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

This position is full-time and in-person, requiring occasional on-site support at trade show events and across Heritage facilities, including occasional overnight travel and extended work hours based on project needs.

Frequent sitting, standing, walking, typing, grasping, and repetitive hand motion. Occasional bending, reaching, twisting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and lifting of up to 25 lbs.

Heritage Exposition Services is a DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE and requires pre-employment drug and background screenings.

Required Skills & Qualifications

Required:

• Experience in graphic design, prepress, or signage production
• Proficiency in:
• Adobe Creative Cloud (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign)
• Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel
• Google Docs
• Strong file preparation, layout, and quality control skills
• Ability to work independently and manage deadlines on assigned shows

Preferred:

• Familiarity with Boomer or similar job tracking software
• Exposure to trade show or environmental graphics workflows
• Understanding of signage materials, substrates, and production specs

At Heritage Exposition Services, we require all team members to uphold our H-Hour Service commitment, ensuring that every client receives the highest quality experience—no exceptions. Our team is dedicated to excellence, responsiveness, and professionalism in every interaction, maintaining the standards that set us apart in the industry.

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401(k)) with employer match when applicable
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) – eligible employees participate in the company’s long-term growth and success
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Paid Holidays)
• Training & Professional Development
• Career growth opportunities within a nationwide, employee-owned organization

Heritage Exposition Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under applicable laws. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.